Clear Prong Project Final Environmental Impact Statement

Boise National Forest Cascade Ranger District Valley County, Idaho

Lead Agency: Responsible Official: For More Information USDA-Forest Service Boise National Forest Supervisor, Contact: Keith Dimmett Boise National Forest Cecilia R. Seesholtz Cascade R.D. (208) 382-7400

July 2010

Abstract

FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT CLEAR PRONG PROJECT

Cascade Ranger District Boise National Forest Valley County, Idaho July 2010

Lead Agency: USDA Forest Service

Responsible Official: Cecilia R. Seesholtz Forest Supervisor Boise National Forest 1249 South Vinnell Way Boise, Idaho 83709 (208) 373-4100

ABSTRACT: This Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) documents the analysis for the Clear Prong Project. One action alternative evaluates activities designed to achieve the project’s objectives. Although a number of concerns were noted during scoping and the analysis, no significant issues that would have necessitated development of a second action alternative were identified.

The preferred alternative is Alternative B (Proposed Action) because it best meets the purpose and need identified for the project and would result in negligible effects to resources of concern. In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), Alternative B would accelerate development of stand conditions that could provide old forest habitat in the future. Alternative B would result in a slight increase in the number of acres in the large tree size class in years 2012 and 2031 and would move stand canopy covers of large tree size class stands toward desired conditions. Implementation of Alternative B would increase the percentage of ponderosa pine trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in those PVGs where it was thought to be abundant historically and would increase the annual growth rate of retained trees. Although Alternative B would accelerate movement of stands toward desired conditions, it will likely take many decades for stands to develop all of the desired attributes necessary to provide old forest habitat.

Alternative B would comply with Forest Plan standards and guidelines, including those associated with the Selected Alternative identified in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated Record of Decision. Alternative B would also be consistent with the intent of the TMDL of reducing sediment, the pollutant of concern.

Alternative B would have no effect on Spiranthes diluvialis; no effect on bull trout; no effect on northern Idaho ground squirrel, and; may affect but is not likely to adversely affect Canada lynx. Alternative B may impact individuals or habitat but would not likely contribute to a trend toward Federal listing or cause a loss of viability to the population or species of Botrychium lineare, white-headed woodpecker, American three-toed woodpecker, boreal owl, fisher, flammulated owl, great gray owl, northern goshawk, wolverine, gray wolf, and Columbia spotted frog. Alternative B would have no impacts or beneficial impacts on other sensitive species.

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), Alternative B would decrease pileated woodpecker source habitat in both the short and long term. However, like Alternative A, the amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient by year 2031 to provide for one or possibly two pileated woodpecker home ranges. Alternative B would also decrease source habitat for black-backed woodpecker in both the short and long term, but source habitat would continue to be relatively abundant. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would provide for multiple black-backed woodpecker home ranges in years 2012 and 2031. Alternative B would maintain the current population trends of these two management indicator species at the Forest scale.

Alternative B would increase source habitat for white-headed woodpecker in both the short and long term. Although source habitat in year 2031 would approach the average size of a white-headed woodpecker home range, the combination of the scattered patches of source habitat would not be sufficient to provide for a single home range in the project area in year 2012 or 2031.

Alternative B would decrease source habitat for flammulated owl in both the short and long term, but the existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would provide for an estimated 20 to 30 flammulated owl home ranges in year 2012 and 35 to 45 home ranges in year 2031.

For further information contact Keith Dimmett, Project Leader, Cascade Ranger District, P.O. Box 696, Cascade, Idaho 83611 (208) 382-7400.

Abstract-1 Contents

CONTENTS

CONTENTS...... ……………………... 1

LIST OF TABLES…………………...... ……………………... 3

LIST OF FIGURES...... …………………...... ……………………... 3

CHAPTER 1 - PURPOSE AND NEED...... ……………………... 1-1 1.1 Introduction...... …………………. 1-1 1.2 Project History...... ……………………………..… 1-1 1.3 Project Area Description...... ………………… 1-2 1.4 Proposed Action………………...... ………………… 1-2 1.5 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Action...... …...... … 1-2 1.6 Decisions to be Made………………………………...…...... …………………. 1-7 1.7 Forest Plan Direction Relative to the Project Area…...... …………….…… 1-7 1.8 Regulatory Requirements and Required Coordination...... ………………… 1-8 1.9 Public Involvement...... …...... …….……………… 1-12 1.10 Identification of Issues...... …...... ……...... ………………… 1-12 1.11 Document Organization……………………………………………………………………….. 1-13

CHAPTER 2 - ALTERNATIVES...... ……………………... 2-1 2.1 Introduction...... …………………. 2-1 2.2 Development of Alternatives...... ………………….. 2-1 2.3 Alternatives Eliminated from Detailed Study...... ………………… 2-1 2.3.1 Prescribed Fire Only………………………………………...………………….…….…… 2-1 2.3.2 No Road Construction/More Road Decommissioning……………………………..…… 2-1 2.4 Alternatives Considered in Detail...... …………………. 2-2 2.4.1 Silvicultural Treatments...... ………………... 2-2 2.4.2 Design Features Common to All Action Alternatives...... ….....…………..…… 2-6 2.4.3 Description of Alternatives...... ………………… 2-11 2.5 Summary Comparison of Alternatives...... …………………. 2-14 2.5.1 Project Objective Indicators……...... ………………… 2-14 2.5.2 Forest Plan Consistency/Other Key Items…………………...... ………………... 2-17 2.5.3 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species…………………………... 2-19 2.5.4 Sensitive Species...... ………………………………....………………….. 2-19 2.5.5 Management Indicator Species……………...... ……...………………... 2-19 2.6 Identification of the Preferred Alternative...... ……………. 2-20

CHAPTER 3 - AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES…... 3-1 3.1 Introduction...... …………………. 3-1 3.2 Vegetation...... …………………… 3-1 3.2.1 Potential Vegetation Groups...... …... 3-1 3.2.2 Tree Size Class...... ………. 3-4 3.2.3 Canopy Cover…...... ……… 3-11 3.2.4 Species Composition...... …………………………………… 3-17 3.2.5 Annual Growth...... ………… 3-19 3.2.6 Forest Insects and Diseases...... …... 3-21 3.2.7 Created Openings...... …...... …. 3-24 3.2.8 Aspen & Reforestation Potential...... ……………….….…. 3-25 3.2.9 Snags...... …...... …………...……... 3-26 3.2.10 Noxious Weeds...... …….…… 3-29 3.2.11 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate, Sensitive, and Watch Plants..….….. 3-30 3.3 Wildfire Susceptibility...... ……………… 3-34 3.4 Air Quality……………...... ……………… 3-37 3.5 Roadless Resource...... …………………………...... …………………. 3-40 3.5.1 Wilderness Attributes...... …...... …… 3-40 3.5.2 Roadless Area Characteristics...... ….. 3-45 3.6 Recreation...... ………...... ………………….. 3-48 3.7 Scenic Environment...... …...... ……….……….…………. 3-53 3.8 Cultural Resources...... …………...... …….…..………….. 3-56 3.9 Range Resource………...... …………...... ………...………….. 3-57 3.10 Financial Assessment...... ….….…………………. 3-58

1 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.11 Watershed/Soils...... ………...……….…………... 3-59 3.11.1 Water Quality………...... ….………..…….. 3-60 3.11.2 Water Yield...... ……………….…………… 3-68 3.11.3 Slope Stability...... ……..…..….…………… 3-69 3.11.4 Long Term Soil Productivity...... ………….. 3-73 3.11.5 Wetlands and Floodplains...... …...………… 3-79 3.12 Fisheries…...... …..……....………….….…… 3-82 3.13 Wildlife...... ……….….………….…….... 3-97 3.13.1 Old Forest Habitat…...... …... 3-98 3.13.2 Family 1 – Low Elevation Old Forest……………...... …... 3-100 3.13.3 Family 2 – Broad Elevation Old Forest……..………...... …... 3-103 3.13.4 Family 3 – Forest Mosaic………..……...... …... 3-119 3.13.5 Family 4 – Early-seral and Lower Montane……………...... …... 3-125 3.13.6 Family 5 – Forest and Range Mosaic……………...... …... 3-126 3.13.7 Family 6 – Forests, Woodlands, and Montane Shrub……………...... …... 3-130 3.13.8 Family 7 – Forests, Woodlands, and Sagebrush……………...... …... 3-130 3.13.9 Family 8 – Rangeland and Early and Late-seral Forests……………...... …... 3-132 3.13.10 Family 9 – Woodlands……………...... …... 3-132 3.13.11 Family 10 – Range Mosaic……………...... …... 3-132 3.13.12 Family 11 – Sagebrush……………...... …... 3-133 3.13.13 Family 12 – Grassland and Open Canopy Sagebrush……………...... …... 3-133 3.13.14 Family 13 – Riverine Riparian and Wetland……………...... 3-135 3.13.15 Family 14 – Non-riverine Riparian and Wetland……………...... …... 3-137 3.13.16 Summary of Effects Determinations……………...... …... 3-138 3.14 Irreversible and Irretrievable Effects……………………………………………….………… 3-138 3.15 Probable Environmental Effects that Cannot be Avoided……………….……….……….… 3-139 3.16 Relationship Between Short Term Use and Long Term Productivity…………..…….….… 3-140 3.17 Potential Conflicts with Plans and Policies of Other Jurisdictions……………….……….… 3-140 3.18 Specifically Required Disclosures…………………………….…………………………..…… 3-141

CHAPTER 4 - CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION...... ……………………... 4-1 4.1 Introduction...... …………………. 4-1 4.2 List of Primary Preparers...... ………………… 4-1 4.3 Summary of Scoping, Public Involvement, and Comments...... …………………. 4-1 4.4 Changes Made to the Draft EIS in Preparation of the Final EIS………………………….…. 4-2 4.5 List of Those Receiving Copies of the Final EIS and Record of Decision……………..…..…. 4-3 4.6 Responses to Comments Received on the Draft EIS……………………………………..……. 4-3

GLOSSARY INDEX BIBLIOGRAPHY APPENDIX A – Details of Cumulative Effects Analyses

2 Contents

LIST OF TABLES Table # Name of Table Page # Table 2-1 Smoke Management Constraints………………………………………………. 2-8 Table 2-2 Coarse Woody Debris Desired Conditions…………………………………….. 2-10 Table 2-3 Alternative B – Proposed Action………………………...………….………….. 2-12 Table 2-4 Comparison of Activities and Effects………………………...………….…….. 2-14 Table 3-1 Potential Vegetation Groups in the Analysis Area…………...……………….. 3-4 Table 3-2 Existing Tree Size Classes in the Analysis Area…………………………….…. 3-6 Table 3-3 Tree Size Classes in the Analysis Area in Year 2012………………………….. 3-7 Table 3-4 Tree Size Classes in the Analysis Area in Year 2031………………………….. 3-8 Table 3-5 Existing Stand Canopy Covers in the Analysis Area…………………..……… 3-11 Table 3-6 Existing Stand Canopy Covers of Large Tree Size Class Stands…………….. 3-11 Table 3-7 Stand Canopy Covers in the Analysis Area in Years 2012 and 2031……...…. 3-13 Table 3-8 Stand Canopy Covers of Large Tree Size Class Stands in Year 2012……...... 3-14 Table 3-9 Stand Canopy Covers of Large Tree Size Class Stands in Year 2031……...... 3-14 Table 3-10 Existing Percent Ponderosa Pine in the 5,457 Acre Analysis Area…...……… 3-17 Table 3-11 Percent Ponderosa Pine in the 5,457 Acre Analysis Area in 2012 and 2031… 3-18 Table 3-12 Existing Quadratic Mean Diameter of Trees >8 Inches DBH…………..…..... 3-19 Table 3-13 Quadratic Mean Diameter of Trees >8 Inches DBH in Year 2031…………... 3-20 Table 3-14 Existing Snag Densities and Desired Conditions in the Analysis Area……..... 3-26 Table 3-15 Smoke Sensitive Areas…...... ……………………………………………… 3-38 Table 3-16 Existing Roads in the Analysis Area…………………………………………… 3-50 Table 3-17 Visual Quality Objectives for the Analysis Area……………………………… 3-53 Table 3-18 Financial Comparison……………………………………………….………….. 3-59 Table 3-19 BOISED Modeled Percent Over Natural Sediment Yield……….…..……….. 3-64 Table 3-20 Existing Coarse Woody Debris (CWD) by PVG…….…….………………….. 3-74 Table 3-21 Summary of Effects on WCIs for the 6th Field Analysis Area…………….….. 3-95 Table 3-22 Wildlife Species Considered in this Analysis………………….……..…….….. 3-98 Table 3-23 Summary of Effects Determinations for Wildlife Species…………..…….….. 3-138

LIST OF FIGURES Figure # Name of Figure Page # Figure 1-1 Vicinity Map………………………………………………………….………….. 1-3 Figure 1-2 Clear Prong Project Area……………………...... …………. 1-4 Figure 1-3 Management Prescription Categories………………………………………….. 1-9 Figure 2-1 Stand Receiving the Commercial Thin Prescription...... 2-3 Figure 2-2 Stand Receiving the Sanitation/Improvement Prescription...... 2-4 Figure 2-3 Stand Receiving the Individual Tree Selection Prescription...... 2-5 Figure 2-4 Alternative B – Proposed Action...... ……….…….…...….. 2-13 Figure 3-1 Clear Prong Project Area……………………………….………………………. 3-2 Figure 3-2 Potential Vegetation Groups…………………………………...……………….. 3-3 Figure 3-3 Existing Tree Size Classes……………..………………………………………... 3-5 Figure 3-4 Alternative A Tree Size Classes in Year 2031……………………...………….. 3-9 Figure 3-5 Alternative B Tree Size Classes in Year 2031……………………...………….. 3-10 Figure 3-6 Existing Canopy Covers………………...………………………………………. 3-12 Figure 3-7 Alternative A Canopy Covers in Year 2012…………..………….……………. 3-15 Figure 3-8 Alternative B Canopy Covers in Year 2012…………..………….……………. 3-16 Figure 3-9 Inventoried Roadless Areas…………………………...………………………... 3-41 Figure 3-10 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area….………………………..……………... 3-44 Figure 3-11 Travel Routes in the Analysis Area….……………………..…………………... 3-49 Figure 3-12 Upper Clear Creek Subwatershed…………………..………………….……… 3-61 Figure 3-13 Fisheries Analysis Area…..……………………...…………...…………………. 3-83 Figure 3-14 East Mountain Lynx Analysis Unit (LAU)…..……………………...…………. 3-122

SUMMARY

Summary

SUMMARY

S.1 Introduction

This Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) discloses the temporary, short and long term, direct, indirect, irretrievable, irreversible, and cumulative environmental impacts of a proposed action and alternative actions for timber harvest, temporary road construction, road maintenance, road decommissioning, thinning of sub-merchantable trees, and prescribed fire on the Cascade Ranger District of the Boise National Forest in Valley County, Idaho.

This document has been prepared pursuant to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA, 40 CFR 1500-1508), the National Forest Management Act (NFMA implementing regulations of 2000, including the transition provisions clarified by the 2004 interpretative rule), and the Boise National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan). In addition, this analysis reflects management direction, findings, and conclusions in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated Record of Decision. This Final EIS is the first (Phase 1) of four assessments to be completed for the comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (WCS) for the Boise National Forest. Phase 1 of the WCS focuses on the forested biological community and integration of pertinent direction into the Forest Plan.

The long term goal of the WCS is to maintain or effectively restore a representative and resilient network of habitats across the Forest sufficient to support the desired diversity of native and non-native vertebrate wildlife species consistent with overall multiple-use objectives. The short term goal of the WCS for the remainder of this planning period (7 to 8 years) is restoration of habitats associated with species believed to be of greatest conservation concern, such as low to mid-elevation ponderosa pine forests and white-headed woodpeckers. As a result of this emphasis in the short term, not all habitats needing restoration will be addressed equally. However, with the long term vegetative and aquatic restoration strategies in place, opportunities to restore vegetation and related habitats for species of lesser concern will be integrated into projects in the short term where efficient to do so.

The WCS was developed in the context of the Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project (ICEBMP) and complements the Idaho State Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (IDFG 2005). The Idaho State Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy and assessments supporting the ICBEMP found that, in comparison to historic conditions, some specific habitats for wildlife species have declined substantially in geographic extent. As a result, conservation of many of the wildlife species dependent upon these habitats is a concern. The underlying philosophy of the science and related conservation concepts supporting the ICBEMP and the WCS is that restoration of historic vegetative conditions (i.e. desired conditions) and emulation of their inherent disturbance processes would conserve the vast majority of these species (Haufler et al 1996; Hunter et al 1988; Noss 1987; Raphael et al 2000; McComb and Duncan 2007; Wisdom et al 2000).

The Clear Prong Draft Environmental Impact Statement distributed in March of 2010 assumed that changes to the 2003 Forest Plan reflected in the USDA Forest Service 2009 Draft EIS as the Preferred Alternative had already occurred. The Clear Prong Draft Environmental Impact Statement disclosed that, should the Preferred Alternative be modified or not selected, the Proposed Action and alternatives disclosed in the Clear Prong Draft Environmental Impact Statement would be modified accordingly, and if the Responsible Official determined a need, supplements to the Clear Prong Draft Environmental Impact Statement would be prepared.

The USDA Forest Service 2010 Final EIS amending the Forest Plan and its associated Record of Decision disclose that, with the exception of minor corrections and clarifications, the Selected Alternative is nearly identical to the Preferred Alternative presented in the 2009 Draft EIS. Therefore the Responsible Official determined there was no need to supplement the Clear Prong Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Instead, any pertinent corrections, updates, and/or clarifications have been presented in this environmental impact statement. Reference Chapter 4 for a summary of changes made to the Clear Prong Draft Environmental Impact Statement in preparation of the Clear Prong Final Environmental Impact Statement.

Chapter S-1 Clear Prong Final EIS

Planning for this project was initiated in the winter of 2004/2005 with the Roads Analysis Report for the Clear Prong Project. A Final EIS and Record of Decision were distributed in July of 2006. Due to unforeseen complications with the Forest Plan, that decision was subsequently withdrawn prior to implementation. However, most of the thinning of sub-merchantable trees included in the 2006 decision has been addressed with another environmental analysis and implementation completed.

The Clear Prong Project Area is located in the Clear Creek drainage on the Boise National Forest, 10 miles east of Cascade, Idaho (Figure S-1). The project area includes 11,056 acres of National Forest System lands (Figure S-2). The entire project area is located in watersheds that drain into Clear Creek, which in turn drains into the North Fork of the Payette River downstream of Cascade Reservoir.

An estimated 2,194 acres of the Peace Rock Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA) and an additional 252 acres of the Stony Meadows IRA lie within the Clear Prong Project Area. With the exception of a small portion of the prescribed fire, none of the activities associated with the Proposed Action would occur within either IRA.

S.2 Proposed Action

The Proposed Action would implement silvicultural activities, including thinning of sub-merchantable trees, prescribed fire, and aspen enhancement on 2,190 acres. An estimated 9.5 MMbf of wood products would be removed using tractor/off-road jammer, skyline, and helicopter yarding systems. The Proposed Action would employ a variety of silvicultural prescriptions including commercial thin, commercial thin with prescribed fire, sanitation/improvement, sanitation/improvement with prescribed fire, individual tree selection, thinning of sub-merchantable trees, prescribed fire to abate natural fuels, and aspen enhancement activities.

The Proposed Action would improve an estimated 0.8 miles of the #409 road through maintenance activities to reduce sedimentation. Specifically, gravel would be applied to the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit. In addition, 12 under-sized culverts along the #409 road would be replaced with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event, and designed to allow fish passage where habitat exists upstream. Roughly 1.1 miles of temporary road would be constructed to facilitate harvest activities. An estimated 4.4 miles of existing road (#405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1) not needed for the long term management of the area would be decommissioned to reduce future maintenance needs and to reduce sedimentation. Decommissioned sections of these five roads would be removed from the transportation system.

S.3 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Action

The lower elevations of the 11,056 acre project area are dominated by warm, dry habitat types that, prior to man’s influence, typically experienced frequent, low intensity wildfires (Agee 2002). These frequent disturbance events resulted in relatively open stands of large diameter ponderosa pine which provided wildlife habitat for a host of species (Mehl and Haufler 2004). The exclusion of fire, as well as a variety of management-related activities, has resulted in species compositions, stand densities, and stand structures unrepresentative of historic conditions. Species compositions within these warm, dry habitat types are now trending toward shade tolerant species such as grand fir, subalpine fir, and Douglas-fir. Tree species less resistant to the effects of wildfire, such as lodgepole pine, are also increasing in abundance. The absence of fire has also resulted in uncharacteristically high stand densities due to the relative abundance of trees in the smaller diameter classes. Stand data also suggests that, due primarily to harvest activities in the 1930s, large diameter ponderosa pine are currently underrepresented relative to historic conditions.

Chapter S-2 Summary

Figure S-1 Vicinity Map

Chapter S-3 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure S-2 Clear Prong Project Area

Chapter S-4 Summary

The exclusion of fire from these sites has had a similar effect as described above. Species compositions within these cooler and/or moister habitat types now reflect an abundance of shade tolerant species in comparison to historic conditions. The absence of fire has resulted in uncharacteristically high stand densities due to the relative abundance of small diameter grand fir and subalpine fir, and large diameter ponderosa pine and/or Douglas-fir are currently underrepresented relative to historic conditions.

The parasitic plant dwarf mistletoe (Archeuthobium spp.) is present in both Douglas-fir and lodgepole pine throughout the project area, with heavily infected trees occurring in many stands. Due to its ability to use host nutrients, dwarf mistletoe weakens trees and reduces their growth rates and life expectancy (Hawksworth and Wiens 1996; Hadfield et al 2000). Significant tree height and diameter reductions often occur in heavily infected trees. Seed from the dwarf mistletoe plants can fall and infect the regeneration of host species or spread into adjacent trees. The absence of fire and the uncharacteristic stand densities have likely facilitated the current heavy infection levels. Although impossible to quantify, the professional opinion of local experts who have worked in these forest types for many years is that the level of dwarf mistletoe infection in some Douglas-fir trees either has, or will, prevent many stands from achieving their desired conditions.

Activities associated with the Proposed Action would emphasize retention of the larger diameter trees appropriate for the particular habitat type, while simultaneously reducing stand densities and inter-tree competition for limited moisture, nutrients, and sunlight. Proposed activities would discriminate against shade tolerant species, which are generally less resistant to the effects of wildfire. The Proposed Action would also discriminate against trees exhibiting heavy levels of dwarf mistletoe infection where deemed necessary to move stands toward larger tree size classes. The combination of these actions would enhance growth of retained trees, accelerate movement of affected stands toward the next larger tree size classes, and move species compositions and stand densities toward the historic condition. Since it is generally accepted that forested habitats within historic conditions are more likely to provide for the diversity and persistence of wildlife species (McComb and Duncan 2007), these actions would also result in movement toward restoration of habitat for several wildlife species of concern.

As inferred above, prior to man’s influence the warm, dry habitat types typically experienced frequent low intensity wildfires which kept fuel loads, ladder fuels, and stand densities at levels that perpetuated such low intensity events (Agee 2002). Human intervention, particularly fire suppression over the last 100 years, has interrupted the natural frequency of these disturbance events and resulted in unnaturally high and continuous fuel loads and abundant ladder fuels within many of these stands. Due to the undulating nature of the topography and the intermixed cooler and/or moister habitat types, large contiguous blocks of these warm, dry habitat types are uncommon within the project area. This undulating topography reduces the probability of a large, high intensity wildfire, but also limits the use of prescribed fire as a practical management tool at a broad scale. The one exception consists of a 700 acre block of contiguous warm, dry habitat types in the southeast portion of the project area. Using prescribed fire to reduce the existing fuel loads and ladder fuels within this area, as prescribed under the Proposed Action, would emulate historic stand conditions more indicative of those seen 100 years ago.

Aspen clones occur throughout the project area but are generally limited in size to less than one acre where some previous disturbance has occurred. However, two stands located in the northeast portion of the project area provide an opportunity to create relatively large acreages dominated by aspen. These two stands consist primarily of brush species such as mountain maple, chokecherry, and willow with only an occasional conifer tree. Scattered throughout these brush fields are individual aspen trees of various ages, as well as numerous small aspen clones. The Proposed Action would cut or girdle competing conifer species, cut or girdle older decadent aspen trees, and cut competing brush species within these stands. The combination of these actions would release existing aspen trees, encourage sprouting of aspen, and promote the overall health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen in the project area.

Chapter S-5 Clear Prong Final EIS conditions, potentially affected acres are identified in the Forest Plan as part of the suited timber base. Making wood products available through implementation of the Proposed Action would further the accomplishment of Forest Plan goal TRGO02 and objective TROB03.

The entire project area drains into Clear Creek which is listed in the Department of Environmental Quality Working Principles and Policies for the 2008 Integrated (303[d]/305[b]) Report (IDEQ 2009) with sediment identified as the pollutant of concern. Although numerous sediment reduction activities have been implemented in the project area over the last decade, roads continue to be the primary contributor of management-induced sediment. Graveling 0.8 miles of the #409 road under the Proposed Action would have an immediate beneficial effect on sediment delivery to Clear Creek. Following completion of this activity, the entire length of the #409 road on Forest Service administered lands would have a gravel surface. In addition, the Proposed Action would replace the 12 known under-sized culverts on the #409 road with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event. Replacing these 12 culverts would reduce the risk of these culverts becoming clogged with debris and precipitating a road prism failure and the associated sediment delivery to streams.

The Roads Analysis Report for the Clear Prong Project (2010) evaluated the numerous roads within the project area and concluded that all, or portions of, Roads #405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1 are not needed for the long term management of the Forest. Decommissioning these 4.4 miles of road under the Proposed Action may result in a temporary sediment increase, but would ultimately reduce sediment production from these roads to near natural rates. In addition, decommissioning these 4.4 miles of road would reduce future maintenance needs associated with these routes.

Seven objectives have been identified for the project:

1) Move toward restoration of desired vegetative conditions identified in the Forest Plan by manipulating the forest structure, density, and species composition in order to accelerate development of larger tree size class stands and old forest habitat.

2) Consistent with Objective #1, reduce the level of heavy dwarf mistletoe infection in Douglas-fir trees where deemed necessary to accelerate development of larger tree size class stands and old forest habitat.

3) Move stands toward their desired conditions by reducing fuel loads and ladder fuels through the use of prescribed fire where such an action could be accomplished without substantial mortality of the overstory trees and where topographic features would make the use of prescribed fire a practical management action.

4) Improve the health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen clones by reducing competing conifer and brush species.

5) Utilize wood products created by restoration treatments to support local and regional economies as an outcome of pursuing Objectives #1 and #2 above.

6) Reduce management-induced sediment and recurring maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by graveling road surfaces and replacing under-sized culverts.

7) Reduce the potential for sedimentation and future maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by decommissioning roads not needed for the long term management of the Forest.

Activities associated with the Proposed Action would further the accomplishment of all, or portions of, the following Forest Plan goals and objectives:

Forest-wide VEGO01 - The diversity of plant community components, including species composition, size classes, canopy cover, structure, snags, and coarse woody debris fall within the desired range of conditions described in Appendix A and contribute to achievement of Forest Plan multiple-use objectives.

Chapter S-6 Summary

Forest-wide VEGO03 - Vegetation conditions reduce the frequency, extent, severity, and intensity of uncharacteristic or undesirable disturbances from wildfire, insects, and pathogens.

Forest-wide VEOB08 - On a decadal basis, schedule and complete at least 215,000 acres of treatments designed to maintain or restore desired vegetative and associated wildlife source habitat conditions. Focus treatments in vegetative and wildlife habitat priority watersheds displayed on the combined Vegetative and Wildlife Habitat Restoration Strategy Map. Within these watersheds, emphasize treatments in forest stands in the non-lethal and mixed-1 fire regime able to attain the range of desired conditions for the large tree size class or old forest habitat within the short-term (<15years).

Forest-wide TROB01 - On a decadal basis: a) Harvest timber, other than by salvage, on at least 90,000 acres, b) Reforest at least 20,000 acres, and c) Complete timber stand improvement activities on at least 55,000 acres. This objective contributes to the accomplishment of VEOB08 and FMOB04.

Forest-wide TROB02 - On a decadal basis, make available an estimated 282 million board feet of timber which will contribute to Allowable Sale Quantity (ASQ).

Forest-wide SWGO08 - Manage water quality to meet requirements under the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act, with special emphasis on de-listing water quality limited water bodies under Section 303(d) and supporting state development and implementation of TMDLs.

Forest-wide FRGO01 - Provide and maintain a safe, efficient Forest transportation system that meets resource management and access needs, while mitigating degrading resource effects.

S.5 Decisions to be Made

Based on the analysis documented in the Final EIS the Forest Supervisor will make decisions on this project. The decisions to be made include:

Should vegetation be managed within the project area at this time, and if so, which stands should be treated and what silvicultural systems applied?

Should temporary roads be built at this time, and if so, how many miles should be built and where should they occur within the project area?

Should existing authorized roads within the project area receive maintenance activities to reduce sedimentation, and if so, where within the project area?

Should portions of roads #405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1 be decommissioned consistent with the minimum road system identified in the Roads Analysis Report for the Clear Prong Project?

What design features, mitigation measures, and/or monitoring should be applied to the project?

S.6 Identification of Issues

Through the scoping process the public and other agencies raised numerous concerns in response to the Proposed Action. Identification of issues included review of written and verbal comments, input from Forest Service resource specialists, review of the Forest Plan, and comments from state and other federal agencies. Comments identified during scoping were evaluated against the following criteria to determine whether or not the concern would be a major factor in the analysis process.

Has the concern been addressed in a previous site-specific analysis, such as in a previous Environmental Impact Statement or through legislative action?

Chapter S-7 Clear Prong Final EIS

Is the concern relevant to and within the scope of the decision being made and does it pertain directly to the Proposed Action?

Can the concern be resolved through mitigation (avoiding, minimizing, rectifying, reducing or eliminating, or compensating for the proposed impact) in all alternatives?

Can the issue be resolved through project design in all alternatives?

S.6.1 Significant Issues and/or Concerns

Significant issues are points of unresolved conflict with the Proposed Action (Alternative B) identified during internal and external scoping efforts. Although a number of concerns were noted during scoping and the analysis, no significant issues were identified.

S.7 Alternative Development

The Proposed Action (Alternative B) was developed by the Interdisciplinary Team and was reviewed and approved by the Responsible Official prior to scoping. No significant issues were identified during internal or external scoping. Further, as documented in Chapter 3 and this project’s planning record, the Proposed Action (Alternative B) would not result in unacceptable impacts on any given resource and the Proposed Action would be consistent with applicable laws, rules, regulations, and Forest Plan standards and guidelines. Therefore only two alternatives were considered in detail.

S.7.1 Alternative A - No Action

This is a required "no action" alternative that provides a baseline against which impacts of the various action alternatives can be measured and compared. Under this alternative, no new management activities would occur. Obstructions on trails #099 and #106 would continue to be removed annually. Roads currently open in the project area would continue to be maintained for motorized traffic during the snow-free season. General maintenance on these roads would occur as needed and/or as funding allows. Suppression of wildfires would continue to occur within the project area. All other currently authorized activities (e.g. dispersed recreation, current travel management restrictions, etc.) would continue in the area.

S.7.2 Alternative B - Proposed Action

This alternative was developed to meet the project’s purpose and need stated in Chapter 1. It represents the Forest Service's best recommendation prior to detailed analysis of the environmental effects. In addition to the custodial maintenance activities described in Alternative A, the Proposed Action (Figure S-3) would implement silvicultural activities, including thinning of sub-merchantable trees, prescribed fire, and aspen enhancement on 2,190 acres. An estimated 9.5 MMbf of wood products would be removed using tractor/off-road jammer, skyline, and helicopter yarding systems. This alternative would employ a variety of silvicultural prescriptions including commercial thin, commercial thin with prescribed fire, sanitation/improvement, sanitation/improvement with prescribed fire, individual tree selection, thinning of sub-merchantable trees, prescribed fire to abate natural fuels, and aspen enhancement activities.

Alternative B would improve an estimated 0.8 miles of the #409 road through maintenance activities to reduce sedimentation. Specifically, gravel would be applied to the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit. In addition, 12 under-sized culverts along the #409 road would be replaced with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event, and designed to allow fish passage where habitat exists upstream. Roughly 1.1 miles of temporary road would be constructed to facilitate harvest activities.

Chapter S-8 Summary

An estimated 4.4 miles of existing road (#405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1) not needed for the long term management of the area would be decommissioned to reduce future maintenance needs and to reduce sedimentation. The following treatments would be applied to the #405B2 road and that portion of the #405B road beyond the intersection with the #405B1:

Access would be prevented by placement of boulders or construction of earthen dikes on the #405B near the intersection with the #405B1. Decommissioned road segments would be removed from the transportation system.

Existing log stringers and any other culverts not previously identified would be removed by hand and the natural streamcourses reestablished. Fill slopes that are encroaching on the streambanks or are eroding would be reshaped and revegetated.

The following treatments would be applied to the #417HX1, that portion of the #405C beyond the intersection with the #405C1, and a small portion of the #405D road.

Access would be prevented by placement of boulders or construction of earthen dikes. Decommissioned road segments would be removed from the transportation system.

Road surfaces would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches and available woody material distributed to cover an estimated 30 percent of the road surface.

Culverts would be removed and the natural streamcourse reestablished. Fill slopes that are encroaching on the streambanks or are eroding would be reshaped and revegetated.

Cut and fill slopes bare of vegetation or unstable would be reshaped and revegetated with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, shrubs, and/or trees.

Fill slopes below the first 300 feet of the #409C road would be stabilized by planting trees, shrubs, and/or grasses.

The streambanks where the culvert was pulled on the #409C3 road would be stabilized by planting trees, shrubs, and/or grasses.

Those portions of roads #409B and #409B1, which are currently closed to motorized use, would be opened to facilitate harvest and closed year-round with a gate following completion of post-harvest activities.

The single under-sized culvert on that section of the #409 road that would be graveled would be replaced through the timber sale contract. Replacement of the remaining 11 under-sized culverts on the #409 road would be accomplished with other monies rather than connected with any timber sale receipts resulting from this alternative.

Conifers would be planted on an estimated 358 acres where small openings result due to removal of Douglas-fir heavily infected with dwarf mistletoe or removal of pockets of undesirable species such as grand fir/subalpine fir, and/or within small openings created by broadcast burning of harvest-related slash.

Table S-1 and Figure S-3 display the amounts and locations of proposed activities associated with this alternative.

Chapter S-9 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table S-1 Alternative B – Proposed Action Total Acres Treated – 2,190 ac. Road Maintenance – 0.8 mi. Temporary Road Construction – 1.1 mi. Road Decommissioning – 4.4 mi. Harvest Methods (acres) Helicopter – 372 Skyline - 236 Tractor/Off-Road Jammer – 856 Silvicultural Prescriptions (acres) Commercial Thin - 161 Commercial Thin w/Prescribed Fire - 87 Sanitation/Improvement – 1,063 Sanitation/Improvement w/Prescribed Fire - 24 Individual Tree Selection - 129 Thinning of Sub-merchantable Trees - 190 Prescribed Fire Only - 502 Aspen Enhancement - 34 Post-harvest Activities (acres) Lop Activity Fuels – 548 Whole Tree Yard – 909 Broadcast Burn Activity Fuels – 119 Tree Planting - 358 Temporary Road Construction (miles) 417H Temp – 0.1 417E Temp – 0.2 409 Temp – 0.7 407 Temp – 0.1 Road Maintenance (miles) 409 – 0.8 Decommissioning of Existing Roads (miles) 417HX1 – 0.8 405C – 1.6 405B2 – 0.1 405D – 0.4 405B – 1.5

Chapter S-10 Summary

Figure S-3 Alternative B – Proposed Action

Chapter S-11 Clear Prong Final EIS

S.8 Summary Comparison of Alternatives

Table S-2 presents a comparative summary of principle activities and the environmental effects for the alternatives being considered in detail. The summary is limited to the effects on project objectives, significant issues or concerns, Forest Plan standards, and other resources the Interdisciplinary Team deemed important for an informed decision. A brief discussion of the similarities and differences between the alternatives follows the table.

Table S-2 Comparison of Activities and Effects Project Objective Indicators Alt. A Alt. B Development of Larger Size Classes and Old Forest Accelerated? No Yes Dwarf Mistletoe Reduced in Douglas-fir? No Yes Fuel Loads and Ladder Fuels Reduced? No Yes Aspen Vigor and Sustainability Enhanced? No Yes Wood Products Made Available? No Yes Management-induced Sediment Reduced? No Yes Forest Plan Consistency/Other Key Items Alt. A Alt. B Activities Result in the Development of any IRA? No No Activities Comply with Detrimental Disturbance Standard? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Total Soil Resource Commitment Standard? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Visual Quality Objectives Standards? Yes Yes Activities Comply with TMDL? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Large Tree and Medium Tree Standard? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Old Forest Habitat Standard? Yes Yes Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Species Alt. A Alt. B Wildlife Species NE NE/NLAA Plant Species NE NE Fish Species NE NE Sensitive Species Wildlife Species NI NI/BI/MIIH Plant Species NI NI/MIIH Fish Species NI NI Management Indicator Species Alt. A Alt. B Pileated Woodpecker Population Trend Maintained Maintained Black-backed Woodpecker Population Trend Maintained Maintained Bull Trout Population Trend Maintained Maintained NE = No Effect; NLAA = May affect, but not likely to adversely affect; NI = No Impact; BI = Beneficial Impact; MIIH = May impact individuals or habitat but would not likely contribute to a trend towards Federal listing or a loss of viability. Reference discussions below and in Chapter 3 for detailed information.

S.8.1 Project Objective Indicators

S.8.1.1 Move toward restoration of desired vegetative conditions identified in the Forest Plan by manipulating the forest structure, density, and species composition in order to accelerate development of larger tree size class stands and old forest habitat.

Under Alternative A, approximately 3,555 acres would be in the large tree size class in year 2012 and 5,474 acres by year 2031. Following Alternative B, roughly 3,604 acres would be in the large tree size class in year 2012 and 5,549 acres by year 2031, or an increase of an additional 49 acres in year 2012 and 75 acres in year 2031. The lack of any major shift of tree size classes following Alternative B is explained, in part, by the fact that this alternative would treat less than 20 percent of the 11,056 acre analysis area because of inventoried roadless areas, riparian conservation areas, and other resource concerns. The lack of any dramatic shift into the large tree size class is also reflective of the relatively slow rate at which retained trees (i.e. large diameter trees) would be expected to grow over the next 19 years (Section 3.2.2).

Chapter S-12 Summary

Stand densities and canopy covers would continue to increase under Alternative A. By year 2031 roughly 14 percent of the large tree size class stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 47 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 39 percent a high stand canopy cover. Alternative B would result in a decrease in stand densities and canopy covers. By year 2031 roughly 31 percent of the large tree size class stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 39 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 30 percent a high stand canopy cover. Although Alternative B would convert a number of acres in the large tree size class to a low stand canopy cover in year 2012, none of these affected acres would approach the lower limit of 10 percent but would instead range from a low of 19 percent to a high of 39 percent, with an average of around 29 percent stand canopy cover (Section 3.2.3).

Following Alternative A, ponderosa pine would comprise 31 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and 32 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in year 2031 in those PVGs where it was thought to be abundant historically (i.e. PVGs 2, 3, 5, and 6). With the exception of thinning of sub-merchantable trees in riparian habitats, all silvicultural prescriptions applied under Alternative B would favor retention of seral species like ponderosa pine and move toward restoration of desired species compositions. By year 2031 ponderosa pine would comprise 33 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and 34 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in PVGs 2, 3, 5, and 6 after Alternative B (Section 3.2.4).

Silvicultural activities associated with Alternative B would reduce competition for nutrients, moisture, and sunlight, and would discriminate against those Douglas-fir trees exhibiting heavy dwarf mistletoe infection levels. As a result, annual growth rates on affected acres would increase in comparison to Alternative A. Based on projections with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), by year 2031 the average weighted quadratic mean diameter of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh for the analysis area as-a-whole would be about 14.4 inches under Alternative A in comparison to 15.1 inches after Alternative B (Section 3.2.5).

In summary, like Alternative A (No Action), none of the large tree size class stands within the analysis area would provide old forest habitat in year 2012 or 2031 following Alternative B. However Alternative B would accelerate development of stand conditions that could provide old forest habitat in the future. As reflected above, Alternative B would result in a slight increase in the number of acres in the large tree size class in years 2012 and 2031 (Section 3.2.2). Alternative B would also reduce the number of large tree size class stands with a high stand canopy cover which would reflect movement toward desired conditions on all affected PVGs (Section 3.2.3). Implementation of Alternative B would increase the percentage of ponderosa pine trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in those PVGs where it was thought to be abundant historically (Section 3.2.4) and would increase the annual growth rate of retained trees (Section 3.2.5). Although Alternative B would accelerate movement of stands toward desired conditions, it will likely take many decades for stands to develop all of the desired attributes necessary to provide old forest habitat (Section 3.13.1).

S.8.1.2 Consistent with Objective #1, reduce the level of heavy dwarf mistletoe infection in Douglas-fir trees where deemed necessary to accelerate development of larger tree size class stands and old forest habitat.

Alternative A would have no effect on stand susceptibility to dwarf mistletoe. In year 2031 Douglas-fir would reflect a high or moderate susceptibility to this forest pathogen on approximately 4,354 acres, or 39 percent of the analysis area (Section 3.2.6).

All harvest prescriptions under Alternative B would discriminate against heavily infected trees, thus reducing the rating for dwarf mistletoe in Douglas-fir from moderate or high down to low on 426 acres. In year 2031 Douglas-fir would reflect a high or moderate susceptibility to this forest pathogen on approximately 3,928 acres, 36 percent of the analysis area. Removal of heavily infected trees within proposed units would improve the overall vigor and growth rate on affected acres (Section 3.2.6).

Chapter S-13 Clear Prong Final EIS

S.8.1.3 Move stands toward their desired conditions by reducing fuel loads and ladder fuels through the use of prescribed fire where such an action could be accomplished without substantial mortality of the overstory trees and where topographic features would make the use of prescribed fire a practical management action.

Alternative A would have no effect on stand densities, ladder fuels, fuel loads, or wildfire susceptibility within the project area. At the landscape level, there would continue to be a low to moderate likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large fire (Section 3.3).

Similarly, at the landscape level there would continue to be a low to moderate likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, intense fire following implementation of Alternative B. In general, survival rates following a moderate intensity wildfire would be characteristic of the fire regimes present in the analysis area. Although Alternative B would not change this fact, reducing densities of the overstory and understory trees on 1,654 acres and the associated treatments of created slash would reduce the expected fire intensity and enhance tree survival in managed stands should a wildfire ignition occur (Section 3.3).

Under Alternative B, a low to moderate intensity/severity prescribed fire would be implemented in the 613 acre block of warm, dry habitat types in the southeast portion of the project area. This prescribed fire would reduce the probability of crown fire development by reducing ground fuels and also by reducing the abundance of ladder fuels. Following implementation, the Fire and Fuels Extension to the Forest Vegetation Simulator (Reinhardt and Crookston 2003) indicates that a wildfire ignition under typical weather conditions in mid-August would result in flame lengths of about four feet on these 613 acres. Such an event would be similar to those seen in the Non-lethal and Mixed1 Fire Regimes prior to man’s influence and would likely result in limited tree mortality on affected acres. In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), a wildfire under these conditions would be easier to suppress and should pose less of a threat to the health and safety of firefighters and the general public (Section 3.3).

S.8.1.4 Improve the health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen clones by reducing competing conifer and brush species.

Alternative B would cut or girdle most competing conifer species, cut or girdle older decadent aspen trees, and cut competing brush species across an estimated 34 acres. The combination of these actions would release existing aspen trees, encourage sprouting of aspen, and promote the overall health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen in the project area (Section 3.2.8).

S.8.1.5 Utilize wood products created by restoration treatments to support local and regional economies as an outcome of pursuing Objectives #1 and #2 above.

Alternative A would not result in the harvest of any wood products (Section 3.10).

Alternative B would harvest an estimated 9.5 MMbf of timber and generate an estimated appraised value of $139,000. Sawlogs and other wood products, as well as employment opportunities associated with this alternative, would help sustain economies in Valley County and adjacent counties (Section 3.10).

S.8.1.6 Reduce management-induced sediment and recurring maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by graveling road surfaces and replacing under-sized culverts.

Alternative A does not propose any new management activities in the analysis area and therefore would have no direct or indirect effects on erosion or sedimentation. Sediment yield for the 6th field analysis area, as modeled by BOISED, would remain about 25 percent over natural (ON) into the foreseeable future (Section 3.11.1).

Chapter S-14 Summary

Following implementation of Alternative B, sediment yield for the 6th field analysis area, as modeled by BOISED, would increase to a peak of 29 percent over natural (ON) and gradually decrease to 24 percent ON by year 2020. Although BOISED reflects a temporary and near short term increase in sedimentation, the modeled output does not reflect the benefits of many design features incorporated into Alternative B. Proper application of these design features would be expected to decrease the likelihood of sediment delivery to streams in quantities sufficient to impact water quality conditions in the temporary and near short term, and would result in a slight short and long term decrease (Section 3.11.1).

As disclosed in Section 3.11.1, many of the road-related sediment sources on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area were addressed in 2002. Under Alternative B an additional 0.8 miles of the #409 road would be improved through maintenance activities to enhance hydrologic conditions and reduce sedimentation. Specifically, gravel would be applied to the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit. Graveling 0.8 miles of the #409 road, which lies adjacent to the headwaters of Clear Creek, would have an immediate beneficial effect and would decrease direct sediment delivery to streams in the temporary, short, and long term (Section 3.11.1).

In addition, Alternative B would replace the 12 known under-sized culverts on the #409 road with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event. Replacing the 12 under-sized culverts would reduce the risk of these culverts becoming clogged with debris and precipitating a road prism failure and the associated sediment delivery to streams (Section 3.11.1).

S.8.1.7 Reduce the potential for sedimentation and future maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by decommissioning roads not needed for the long term management of the Forest.

Under Alternative B an estimated 4.4 miles of existing road (#405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1) would be decommissioned to reduce future maintenance needs and/or to reduce sedimentation. Ripping and distributing slash on 2.8 miles of road (#405C, #405D, and #417HX1) would result in a temporary sediment increase, but ultimately would reduce the sediment production from these roads to near natural rates (Harr and Nichols 1993; Potyondy et al 1991). That portion of the #405B road beyond the intersection with the #405B1 and the #405B2 road would also be decommissioned under this alternative. Given that these roads are currently well vegetated with small conifers, decommissioning in this case would consist of removing the existing log stringers and any other culverts by hand and reestablishing and revegetating the streamcourses. Decommissioned roads would be a potential source of sediment until vegetation is established and the disturbed areas stabilize. However in the temporary, short, and long term, this action would allow establishment of vegetation on disturbed sites, eliminate five stream crossings, and reduce the potential of unauthorized motorized use and its associated impacts on sediment delivery (Section 3.11.1).

S.8.2 Forest Plan Consistency/Other Key Items

The Forest Plan Consistency Checklist, contained in the project’s planning record, lists all applicable standards and guidelines and discloses that all action alternatives would comply with those standards and guidelines. As noted in Chapter 1, this project has been determined to be consistent with standards and guidelines associated with the Selected Alternative identified in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated Record of Decision. In addition, the Interdisciplinary Team identified other items considered important in making an informed decision. The following discussions summarize the effects of the alternatives relative to those standards and/or guidelines and other items identified by the Interdisciplinary Team as key in this assessment.

Chapter S-15 Clear Prong Final EIS

S.8.2.1 Inventoried Roadless Areas

Alternative A does not propose any activities within the Peace Rock or Stony Meadows IRAs and therefore would have no direct or indirect effects on the wilderness attributes or roadless area characteristics (Section 3.5).

With the exception of 110 acres of prescribed fire in the Peace Rock IRA, Alternative B does not propose any activities within the boundaries of either IRA. Alternative B would have a temporary impact (5 to 7 weeks) on solitude in portions of the Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs, primarily as a result of noise associated with helicopter operations. This alternative would not have any other direct or indirect effects on the IRAs, nor would it result in the development of any portion of either IRA. These IRAs in their entireties would remain suitable for wilderness designation by Congress (Section 3.5).

S.8.2.2 Detrimental Soil Disturbance

Alternative A would have no effect on detrimental soil disturbance (Section 3.11.4).

With the exception of one 12 acre unit (Unit #93) harvested with a tractor yarding system in 1992, none of the activity areas of concern have existing levels of detrimental disturbance. Unit #93 was surveyed on-the-ground in the summer of 2005 to determine the existing level of detrimental disturbance. Based on that field review, it was determined that roughly three percent of this unit is currently considered detrimentally disturbed. Following implementation of Alternative B, roughly eight percent of Unit #93 would be detrimentally disturbed, with detrimental disturbance ranging from 0 to 11 percent in the other activity areas depending upon the yarding system. Alternative B would be consistent with Forest Plan direction to maintain detrimental disturbance below 15 percent within the activity areas (Section 3.11.4).

S.8.2.3 Total Soil Resource Commitment (TSRC)

Alternative A would maintain the existing TSRC of 2.6 percent for the 11,056 acre activity area. Following implementation of Alternative B, TSRC for the 11,056 acre activity area would increase from the existing 2.6 percent to 2.9 percent. However, the Forest Plan standard for TSRC would be met (Section 3.11.4).

S.8.2.4 Visual Quality Objectives

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on the vegetation or the visual quality of the analysis area. Implementation of Alternative B would result in some subtle changes in the viewsheds, but Forest Plan Visual Quality Objectives (VQOs) would be met (Section 3.7).

S.8.2.5 Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)

Alternative B would not contribute additional sediment in amounts that would prevent the attainment or maintenance of instream objectives, nor would this alternative have a measurable effect on the identified beneficial uses. Alternative B would comply with existing management direction including Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, and the Clean Water Act. In addition, this alternative would be consistent with the intent of the TMDL of reducing sediment, the pollutant of concern. A number of activities (i.e. restorative BMPs) have already been implemented in the project area to reduce management-related sediment. Even though this alternative would reflect only a slight improving trend, it does include additional restorative BMPs to further reduce sediment in the drainage (Section 3.11.1).

S.8.2.6 Large Tree and Medium Tree Size Classes

Alternative B would not convert any stand currently in the medium or large tree size class to a smaller size class (Section 3.2.2), nor would this alternative result in the loss of any stand currently

Chapter S-16 Summary

meeting the definition of old forest habitat (Section 3.13.1). As noted above, Alternative B would accelerate development of stand conditions that could provide old forest habitat in the future. Alternative B would result in a slight increase in the number of acres in the large tree size class in years 2012 and 2031 (Section 3.2.2). Alternative B would also reduce the number of large tree size class stands with a high stand canopy cover which would reflect movement toward desired conditions on all affected PVGs (Section 3.2.3). Implementation of Alternative B would increase the percentage of ponderosa pine trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in those PVGs where it was thought to be abundant historically (Section 3.2.4) and would increase the annual growth rate of retained trees (Section 3.2.5). Although Alternative B would accelerate movement of stands toward desired conditions, it will likely take many decades for stands to develop all of the desired attributes necessary to provide old forest habitat (Section 3.13.1).

S.8.2.7 Old Forest Habitat

Based on stand examination data, none of the stands within the project area currently meet the Forest Plan definition of old forest habitat. Therefore neither alternative would result in the loss of existing old forest habitat. Further, none of the effects resulting from Alternative B would preclude affected stands from developing into old forest habitat in the future (Sections 3.2 and 3.13.1).

S.8.3 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species

Alternative A would have no effect on any threatened, endangered, proposed, or candidate species.

Alternative B would have no effect on Spiranthes diluvialis (Section 3.2.11); no effect on bull trout (Section 3.12), and; would have no effect on northern Idaho ground squirrel and may affect but is not likely to adversely affect Canada lynx (Section 3.13.16).

S.8.4 Sensitive Species

Alternative A would have no impacts on any sensitive species or any Forest watch plants.

Alternative B may impact individuals but would not likely contribute to a trend toward Federal listing or cause a loss of viability to the population or species of Botrychium lineare, and; would have no impact on any other sensitive plant species (Section 3.2.11).

Alternative B would have no impact on mountain quail, peregrine falcon, rocky mountain bighorn sheep, spotted bat, greater sage grouse, bald eagle, and common loon; would have a beneficial impact on Townsend’s big-eared bat, and; may impact individuals or habitat but would not likely contribute to a trend towards Federal listing or cause a loss of viability to the population or species for white-headed woodpecker, American three-toed woodpecker, boreal owl, fisher, flammulated owl, great gray owl, northern goshawk, wolverine, gray wolf, and Columbia spotted frog (Section 3.13.16).

Alternative B would have no impact on westslope cutthroat trout (Section 3.12).

S.8.5 Management Indicator Species

Pileated Woodpecker - Currently, pileated woodpecker source habitat within the 11,056 acre analysis area is limited to about 866 acres. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat is not likely sufficient to provide a single home range. Under Alternative A, source habitat would increase to around 1,917 acres in year 2012 and 3,153 acres by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient by year 2031 to provide for one or possibly two pileated woodpecker home ranges (Section 3.13.3.8).

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), Alternative B would decrease pileated woodpecker source habitat in both the short and long term. Roughly 1,431 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 2,489 acres of source habitat by year 2031. However, like Alternative A,

Chapter S-17 Clear Prong Final EIS

the amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient by year 2031 to provide for one or possibly two pileated woodpecker home ranges (Section 3.13.3.8).

Both Alternatives A and B would maintain the current population trend of pileated woodpecker at the Forest scale (Section 3.13.3.8).

Black-backed Woodpecker - Roughly 5,948 acres of black-backed woodpecker source habitat currently exists within the 11,056 acre analysis area. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat could provide for multiple black-backed woodpecker home ranges. Following Alternative A, source habitat would increase to around 6,173 acres in year 2012 and 7,239 acres by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat would provide for multiple home ranges in years 2012 and 2031 (Section 3.13.3.2).

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), Alternative B would decrease source habitat in both the short and long term, but source habitat would continue to be relatively abundant. Roughly 5,410 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 6,404 acres of source habitat by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would provide for multiple black-backed woodpecker home ranges in years 2012 and 2031 (Section 3.13.3.2).

Both Alternatives A and B would maintain the current population trend of black-backed woodpecker at the Forest scale (Section 3.13.3.2).

Bull Trout - As previously mentioned, Alternative A and B would have no effect on bull trout and would therefore maintain the current population trend of this species at the Forest scale (Section 3.12).

S.9 Identification of the Preferred Alternative

Alternative B, Proposed Action, is the Responsible Official’s preferred alternative.

Chapter S-18

CHAPTER 1

PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR ACTION

Purpose and Need

CHAPTER 1 - PURPOSE AND NEED

1.1 Introduction

This document has been prepared pursuant to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA, 40 CFR 1500-1508), the National Forest Management Act and its implementing regulations, and the Boise National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan). In addition, this analysis reflects management direction, findings, and conclusions in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated Record of Decision. This Final EIS is the first (Phase 1) of four assessments to be completed for the comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (WCS) for the Boise National Forest. Phase 1 of the WCS focuses on the forested biological community and integration of pertinent direction into the Forest Plan.

Chapter 1-1 Clear Prong Final EIS

1.2 Project History

1.3 Project Area Description

The Clear Prong Project Area is located in the Clear Creek drainage on the Boise National Forest, 10 miles east of Cascade, Idaho (Figure 1-1). The project area includes 11,056 acres of National Forest System lands (Figure 1-2). The entire project area is located in watersheds that drain into Clear Creek, which in turn drains into the North Fork of the Payette River downstream of Cascade Reservoir.

1.4 Proposed Action

1.5 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Action

Chapter 1-2 Purpose and Need

Figure 1-1 Vicinity Map

Chapter 1-3 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 1-2 Clear Prong Project Area

Chapter 1-4 Purpose and Need

Because of the undulating nature of the topography and the frequent changes in aspect, a variety of habitat types occur within the project area. As a result, the warm, dry habitat types discussed above are generally interspersed with sites dominated by cooler and/or moister habitat types where the fire return interval was less frequent. Although ponderosa pine was historically present within some of these habitat types, it was often found in association with large diameter Douglas-fir, or was completely absent. The exclusion of fire from these sites has had a similar effect as described above. Species compositions within these cooler and/or moister habitat types now reflect an abundance of shade tolerant species in comparison to historic conditions. The absence of fire has resulted in uncharacteristically high stand densities due to the relative abundance of small diameter grand fir and subalpine fir, and large diameter ponderosa pine and/or Douglas-fir are currently underrepresented relative to historic conditions.

Chapter 1-5 Clear Prong Final EIS

Regional sawmills process the majority of wood products harvested from the Cascade Ranger District. Commercial timber sales and their associated activities benefit local communities through employment opportunities. Indirect benefits occur as these sectors transact additional business with other sectors. Although the primary reason for removal of wood products would be to restore vegetation to its desired conditions, potentially affected acres are identified in the Forest Plan as part of the suited timber base. Making wood products available through implementation of the Proposed Action would further the accomplishment of goals and/or objectives identified in the Forest Plan.

Seven objectives have been identified for the project:

4) Improve the health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen clones by reducing competing conifer and brush species.

5) Utilize wood products created by restoration treatments to support local and regional economies as an outcome of pursuing Objectives #1 and #2 above.

6) Reduce management-induced sediment and recurring maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by graveling road surfaces and replacing under-sized culverts.

7) Reduce the potential for sedimentation and future maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by decommissioning roads not needed for the long term management of the Forest.

Activities associated with the Proposed Action would further the accomplishment of all, or portions of, the following Forest Plan goals and objectives:

Chapter 1-6 Purpose and Need

Forest-wide VEGO03 - Vegetation conditions reduce the frequency, extent, severity, and intensity of uncharacteristic or undesirable disturbances from wildfire, insects, and pathogens.

Forest-wide TROB02 - On a decadal basis, make available an estimated 282 million board feet of timber which will contribute to Allowable Sale Quantity (ASQ).

Forest-wide FRGO01 - Provide and maintain a safe, efficient Forest transportation system that meets resource management and access needs, while mitigating degrading resource effects.

1.6 Decisions to be Made

Based on the analysis documented in the Final EIS the Forest Supervisor will make decisions on this project. The decisions to be made include:

Should vegetation be managed within the project area at this time, and if so, which stands should be treated and what silvicultural systems applied?

Should temporary roads be built at this time, and if so, how many miles should be built and where should they occur within the project area?

Should existing authorized roads within the project area receive maintenance activities to reduce sedimentation, and if so, where within the project area?

Should portions of roads #405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1 be decommissioned consistent with the minimum road system identified in the Roads Analysis Report for the Clear Prong Project?

What design features, mitigation measures, and/or monitoring should be applied to the project?

1.7 Forest Plan Direction Relative to the Project Area

This document is tiered to the Land and Resource Management Plan for the Boise National Forest (USDA 2003), the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), and the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested

Chapter 1-7 Clear Prong Final EIS

Biological Community (USDA 2010). Information from these documents, and all associated appendices and supporting documentation, have been referenced and incorporated into this document.

The entire project area lies within Management Area 17 (North Fork Payette River) as described in the Forest Plan. Several Management Prescription Categories (MPCs) apply within this Management Area (MA). However, only MPC 4.1c and 5.1 occur within the project area (Figure 1-3). With the exception of a small portion of the prescribed fire, the Proposed Action includes management activities within MPC 5.1 only.

1.7.1 MPC 4.1c – Undeveloped Recreation: Maintain Unroaded Character with Allowance for Restoration Activities

This prescription applies to lands where dispersed recreation uses are the primary emphasis. Providing dispersed recreation opportunities in an unroaded landscape is the predominant objective. Both motorized and non-motorized recreation opportunities may be provided. Other resource uses are allowed to the extent that they do not compromise ROS settings. The area has a predominantly natural- appearing environment, with slight evidence of the sights and sounds of people. Species habitat and recreational uses are generally compatible, although recreation uses may be adjusted to protect TEPCS species.

1.7.2 MPC 5.1 – Restoration and Maintenance Emphasis within Forested Landscapes

This prescription applies to lands that are predominantly (>50 percent) forested. Emphasis is on restoring or maintaining vegetation within desired conditions in order to provide a diversity of habitats, reduced risk from disturbance events, and sustainable resources for human use. Commodity production is an outcome of restoring or maintaining the resilience/resistance of forested vegetation to disturbance events; achievement of timber growth and yield is not the primary purpose. The full range of treatment activities may be used. Restoration occurs through management activities and succession. Combinations of mechanical and fire treatments are used to restore forested areas while maintaining or improving resources such as soils, water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreation settings. The risk of temporary and short-term degradation to the environment is minimized, but impacts may occur within acceptable limits as resources are managed to achieve long-term goals and objectives.

1.8 Regulatory Requirements and Required Coordination

As part of the analysis completed for this project, the Interdisciplinary Team evaluated the various alternatives relative to pertinent laws, regulations, and requirements relating to federal natural resource management. Several of the design features presented in Chapter 2 were developed and incorporated to insure these requirements would be met. The following paragraphs summarize the results of the analysis for those concerns most often noted. Additional detail can be found in Chapters 2, 3, and/or the project planning record (P.R.).

1.8.1 Clean Air Act

Broadcast burning of created slash across 119 acres of harvest units, the use of prescribed fire on 613 acres to abate natural fuels, burning of 36 acres of landing slash, dust, and vehicle emissions would temporarily degrade air quality in the immediate vicinity of the project area. However, within the constraints of associated design features (Section 2.4.2.4), Alternative B would not noticeably affect air quality in the vicinity of any sensitive areas, population centers, or in any Class I Areas. Emission levels would remain below the NAAQS established by the Clean Air Act even when combined with average ambient pollutants (Section 3.4).

Chapter 1-8 Purpose and Need

Figure 1-3 Management Prescription Categories

Chapter 1-9 Clear Prong Final EIS

1.8.2 Clean Water Act

Although BOISED reflects a temporary and near short term increase in sedimentation, the modeled output does not reflect the benefits of many design features incorporated into Alternative B. Proper application of these design features would be expected to decrease the likelihood of sediment delivery to streams in quantities sufficient to impact water quality conditions in the temporary and near short term, and would result in a slight short and long term decrease (Section 3.11.1).

As disclosed in Section 3.11.1, many of the road-related sediment sources on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area were addressed in 2002. Under Alternative B an additional 0.8 miles of the #409 road would be improved through maintenance activities to enhance hydrologic conditions and reduce sedimentation. Specifically, gravel would be applied to the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit. In addition, Alternative B would replace the 12 known under-sized culverts on the #409 road with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event, and would be designed to allow fish passage where habitat exists upstream. Alternative B would also decommission an estimated 4.4 miles of existing road to reduce future maintenance needs and/or to reduce sedimentation (Section 3.11.1).

Alternative B would not contribute additional sediment in amounts that would prevent the attainment or maintenance of instream objectives, nor would this alternative have a measurable effect on the identified beneficial uses. Alternative B would comply with existing management direction including Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, and the Clean Water Act. In addition, this alternative would be consistent with the intent of the TMDL of reducing sediment, the pollutant of concern. A number of activities (i.e. restorative BMPs) have already been implemented in the project area to reduce management-related sediment. Even though this alternative would reflect only a slight improving trend, it would include additional restorative BMPs to further reduce sediment in the drainage (Section 3.11.1).

1.8.3 Threatened, Endangered, Sensitive, and Forest Watch Species

Alternative B would have no effect on Spiranthes diluvialis; no impact on Allium validum, Botrychium crenulatum, Botrychium multifidum, or Botrychium virginianum, and; may impact individuals but would not likely contribute to a trend toward Federal Listing or cause a loss of viability to the population or species of Botrychium lineare, Botrychium simplex, or Lewisia sacajaweana (Section 3.2.11).

Alternative B would have no effect on northern Idaho ground squirrel and may affect but is not likely to adversely affect Canada lynx (Section 3.13.16).

Alternative B would have no effect on bull trout and no impact on westslope cutthroat trout (Section 3.12).

1.8.4 Idaho Forest Practices Act

Rules pertaining to the Idaho Forest Practices Act would be implemented. In addition, logging operations and road maintenance activities would be monitored on the ground to ensure compliance with any timber sale contract.

Chapter 1-10 Purpose and Need

1.8.5 Migratory Bird Treaty Act

All alternatives would comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This project may however result in an “unintentional take” of individuals during proposed activities. However the project complies with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director’s Order #131 related to the applicability of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to federal agencies and requirements for permits for “take”. In addition, this project complies with Executive Order 13186 because the analysis meets agency obligations as defined under the January 16, 2001 Memorandum of Understanding between the Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designed to complement Executive Order 13186. Migratory bird species are also analyzed and discussed in Sections 3.13.2 through 3.13.15 of this document. If new requirements or direction result from subsequent interagency memorandums of understanding pursuant to Executive Order 13186, this project would be reevaluated to ensure that it is consistent.

1.8.6 National Forest Management Act (NFMA)

Stand examinations conducted in 1997 verified the physical suitability of lands within the project area. None of the alternatives propose harvest activities on physically unsuited lands.

Even-aged silvicultural prescriptions would occur on 248 acres under Alternative B. Even-aged management has been proposed in those stands where no other treatments would meet the project’s objectives to the same degree while protecting other resource values.

Implementation of Alternative B would assure adequate stocking of all suited timberlands in the project area following implementation. The knowledge and technology exists, and past restocking efforts on similar sites in the area have been successful with 100 percent of those areas planted being certified as stocked and established (Section 3.2.8).

The silvicultural prescriptions for Alternative B were selected based on the existing conditions of the stands and the need for treatment, the potential effects on the residual trees and adjacent stands, as well as other resource concerns and project objectives.

Alternative B would result in a slight reduction of existing management-induced sediment into area streams and would employ design features and mitigation to keep sediment from new developments to a minimum.

This project has been determined to be consistent with standards and guidelines associated with the Selected Alternative identified in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated Record of Decision.

1.8.7 National Historic Preservation Act

Alternative B would not be expected to have any direct or indirect effects on historically significant sites. Previously identified sites would be protected under this alternative through incorporated design features (Section 2.4.2.8). Contract provisions that would halt all degrading activities would be included with this alternative to prevent adverse impacts to any unknown sites discovered during implementation. The State Historic Preservation Officer has concurred with the Forest’s no adverse effect determination (Section 3.8).

1.8.8 Idaho Stream Alteration Act

Alternative B would adhere to the requirements of the Idaho Stream Alterations Act and the 404 Permit Process of the Corp of Engineers. The goals of Executive Orders 11988 and 11990 would be met (Section 3.11.5).

Chapter 1-11 Clear Prong Final EIS

1.8.9 Idaho Roadless Rule

With the exception of 110 acres of prescribed fire to reduce natural fuel loads, neither alternative proposes any activities within any inventoried roadless area. Therefore both alternatives would be consistent with the Idaho Roadless Rule (Section 3.5).

1.9 Public Involvement

Public involvement has been extensive throughout the planning and analysis process leading to this document. A Notice of Intent to prepare an EIS was published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2009. A legal notice soliciting scoping comments was published in The Idaho Statesman on October 16, 2009 and a scoping package describing the Proposed Action was mailed to 33 individuals, agencies, and/or groups on October 8, 2009. On October 26, 2009, the project was presented to the Valley County Commissioners. The proposal was discussed with tribal representatives at the November 12, 2009 scheduled Wing and Roots meeting. On November 17, 2009, the conceptual idea of this project was discussed by representatives of the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and NOAA Fisheries at a scheduled Level 1 Meeting. In response to these scoping efforts, comments were received from 13 interested parties who voiced a variety of concerns including potential impacts on water quality, wildlife resources, and recreational uses and opportunities. The planning record contains all scoping comments received relative to this project and discloses how the Interdisciplinary Team addressed those concerns.

The Draft EIS was released for a 45-day comment period in March of 2010. The Notice of Availability of the Draft EIS appeared in the Federal Register on March 19, 2010. Legal notices announcing the availability of the Draft EIS appeared in The Idaho Statesman on March 19, 2010 and in The Long Valley Advocate on March 17, 2010. In addition, hard copies of the document were mailed directly to those individuals and/or groups that had expressed an interest in the project. Ten letters were received commenting on the Draft EIS. Chapter 4 of this document discloses all comments received in response to this effort and discloses how the Interdisciplinary Team addressed those concerns.

This Final EIS does not document a decision. The purpose of this document is to disclose the effects and consequences of alternative strategies being considered in detail. Using comments received on the Draft EIS, this Final EIS was developed. Based upon information disclosed in this Final EIS, its associated planning record, and public feedback, the Forest Supervisor will make a decision. That decision will be documented in a Record of Decision (ROD).

1.10 Identification of Issues

Has the concern been addressed in a previous site-specific analysis, such as in a previous Environmental Impact Statement or through legislative action?

Is the concern relevant to and within the scope of the decision being made and does it pertain directly to the Proposed Action?

Can the concern be resolved through mitigation (avoiding, minimizing, rectifying, reducing or eliminating, or compensating for the proposed impact) in all alternatives?

Can the issue be resolved through project design in all alternatives?

Chapter 1-12 Purpose and Need

1.10.1 Significant Issues and/or Concerns

1.11 Document Organization

This document is tiered to the Final EIS and planning record supporting the 2003 Forest Plan, including documentation related to the Continuous Assessment and Planning (CAP) process described in Chapters III and IV of the Forest Plan, and the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated Record of Decision. This documentation includes monitoring reports. Documented analyses in the Forest Plan Final EIS have been referenced rather than repeated in some instances. Analyses pertaining to the Final EIS for the 2003 Forest Plan and the Final EIS for the 2010 amendments to the Forest Plan are contained in the Forest planning record located at the Forest Supervisor's Office in Boise, Idaho (USDA 2003; USDA 2003; USDA 2010). Detailed information that supports the analyses presented in this document, unless specifically noted otherwise, is contained in the project planning record which is located at the Cascade Ranger District Office.

This document consists of the following main chapters:

Chapter 1 - Purpose and Need: Describes the Proposed Action; purpose and need for the action; decisions to be made; Forest Plan direction; regulatory requirements and required coordination; public involvement efforts, and; identification of significant issues.

Chapter 2 - Alternatives: Includes design features associated with the alternatives; descriptions of the alternatives considered in detail; alternatives considered but eliminated from detailed study; a comparative summary of the environmental consequences, activities, and outputs, and; the Forest Service Preferred Alternative.

Chapter 3 - Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences: Describes the existing conditions of the resources within the analysis area and the environmental impacts of the alternatives on those resources.

Chapter 4 - Consultation and Coordination: Provides a list of the primary preparers of this document; a summary of the scoping and public involvement efforts; a summary of changes made to the Draft EIS in preparation of this Final EIS; a list of agencies, organizations, and persons who received copies of the Final EIS and Record of Decision, and; comments received on the Draft EIS and responses to those comments.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Chapter 1-13

CHAPTER 2

ALTERNATIVES

Alternatives

CHAPTER 2 - ALTERNATIVES

2.1 Introduction

This chapter describes and compares one action alternative that fully or partially meet the purpose and need identified in Chapter 1, and a No Action Alternative (Alternative A). Each alternative reflects a different response to the significant issues identified through the scoping and analysis process, and each alternative would result in different environmental effects. This chapter concludes with a comparative summary of the alternatives considered in detail. This comparison, combined with the more detailed disclosure of impacts in Chapter 3, provides the information necessary for the decision-maker to make an informed choice between alternatives.

2.2 Development of Alternatives

The Proposed Action was developed by the Interdisciplinary Team and was reviewed and approved by the Responsible Official prior to scoping. As disclosed in Chapter 1 of this document, no significant issues were identified during internal or external scoping. Further, as documented in Chapter 3 and this project’s planning record, the Proposed Action (Alternative B) would not result in unacceptable impacts on any given resource and the Proposed Action would be consistent with applicable laws, rules, regulations, and Forest Plan standards and guidelines. Therefore development of additional action alternatives was not necessary.

2.3 Alternatives Eliminated from Detailed Study

In addition to the alternatives fully evaluated in this document, other management approaches were considered by the Interdisciplinary Team in response to preliminary concerns generated from internal and external scoping of the Proposed Action. These alternatives, which were not studied in detail, are described in this section along with an explanation of why the alternatives were not considered further.

2.3.1 Prescribed Fire Only – It was suggested that an alternative that would use prescribed fire only to treat the area be analyzed in detail. As explained in Section 1.5, due to the undulating nature of the topography and the intermixed cooler and/or moister habitat types, large contiguous blocks of warm, dry habitat types are uncommon within the project area. This undulating topography reduces the probability of a large, high intensity wildfire, but also limits the use of prescribed fire as a practical management tool at a broad scale. A Prescribed Fire Only Alternative would likely result in undesirable levels of mortality in the overstory due to the abundance of grand fir, subalpine fir, and lodgepole pine. Although possible, the outcome of attempting to manipulate the abundance and/or distribution of tree size classes and stand densities with prescribed fire had enough of an inherent risk that the Interdisciplinary Team did not consider it a feasible alternative in this project area. Using prescribed fire at a broad scale, and the likelihood that more than incidental amounts of overstory trees would be killed, seemed contrary to the project objective to accelerate development of larger tree size class stands and old forest habitat.

2.3.2 No Road Construction/More Road Decommissioning – Another alternative not considered in detail would have eliminated all road construction and included more road decommissioning. As explained elsewhere is this document, none of the alternatives include construction of permanent roads and constructed temporary roads would be decommissioned upon completion of use. Chapter 3 discloses that the majority of these temporary roads would be located on or near ridges and therefore have negligible effects on water quality. Decommissioning additional roads in this area would hinder meeting Forest Plan objectives by reducing access for long term vegetation management. All roads identified in the Roads Analysis Report for the Clear Prong Project (2010) as not needed for the long term management of the area would be decommissioned under the action alternatives considered in detail.

Chapter 2-1 Clear Prong Final EIS

2.4 Alternatives Considered in Detail

This section of the document describes the proposed silvicultural treatments, design features common to all action alternatives, and those alternatives considered in detail including the No Action Alternative. The design of alternatives was based on the most current information and technology available at the time. Minor variations in the alternatives due to changed on-the-ground conditions or improved technology prior to implementation would be consistent with the intent of the original alternative.

2.4.1 Silvicultural Treatments

A variety of silvicultural treatments would be employed by the action alternative. Figures 2-1 through 2-3 are photographs reflecting the existing conditions of representative stands that would receive these prescriptions.

Commercial Thin & Commercial Thin w/Prescribed Fire (Figure 2-1) - This prescription has been proposed for immature, even-aged stands of ponderosa pine and/or Douglas-fir. Roughly 30 percent of the merchantable trees would be removed to reduce stand density and to accelerate growth of retained trees. A range of 50 to 70 trees per acre would be retained with the emphasis on retaining the largest diameter ponderosa pine and those Douglas-fir trees with lesser amounts of dwarf mistletoe. Following harvest, a low to moderate intensity/severity prescribed fire would be applied in some units to reduce fuel loads and ladder fuels.

Sanitation/Improvement & Sanitation/Improvement w/Prescribed Fire (Figure 2-2) - This prescription has been proposed for primarily immature, even-aged mixed conifer stands. About 30 percent of the merchantable trees would be removed to improve species composition and to accelerate growth of retained trees. A range of 20 to 70 trees per acre would be retained depending upon the level of dwarf mistletoe infection. The emphasis would be to retain the largest diameter ponderosa pine and those Douglas-fir trees with lesser amounts of dwarf mistletoe, and to remove shade tolerant species such as grand fir and subalpine fir. Following harvest, a low to moderate intensity/severity prescribed fire would be applied in some units to reduce fuel loads and ladder fuels.

Individual Tree Selection (Figure 2-3) - This prescription has been proposed for mature, uneven-aged mixed conifer stands. Roughly 60 percent of the merchantable trees would be removed and a range of 20 to 30 trees per acre retained. The emphasis would be to retain the largest diameter ponderosa pine and those Douglas-fir trees with lesser amounts of dwarf mistletoe, and to remove shade tolerant species such as grand fir and subalpine fir.

Thinning of Sub-merchantable Trees (i.e. less than 8 inches dbh) – The objective of this prescription, when implemented outside of riparian conservation areas (RCAs), would be to reduce stocking of the sub-merchantable trees to accelerate growth on the trees retained. When implemented within RCAs, the objective would be to accelerate growth on the trees retained, thereby enhancing long term stream shading and large woody debris recruitment. Dependent upon site characteristics, a range of 150 to 225 trees would be retained per acre. Preferred species for retention would be ponderosa pine, western larch, and Douglas-fir outside of riparian habitats, and; Engelmann spruce and Douglas-fir within riparian habitats. Felled trees would be lopped and retained on site.

Prescribed Fire Only - A low to moderate intensity/severity fire would be used to reduce existing fuel loads and ladder fuels. No mechanical treatments would occur on these acres prior to or after the prescribed fire.

Aspen Enhancement – This prescription has been proposed for those stands dominated by brush species where aspen is present. The objective would be to promote the overall health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen in relatively large contiguous areas. Under this prescription all conifers greater than two feet in height and less than 10 inches dbh would be felled and retained on site. Subalpine fir greater than or equal to 10 inches dbh would be girdled. Other conifer species greater than or equal to 10 inches dbh would not be affected. Stressed and/or decadent aspen trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh would be girdled. All brush species that are at least 10 feet in height, or are approaching ten feet in height, would be cut within 20 feet of aspen trees that are at least 10 feet in height.

Chapter 2-2 Alternatives

Figure 2-1 Existing Condition of a Stand Receiving the Commercial Thin or Commercial Thin w/Prescribed Fire Prescription

Chapter 2-3 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 2-2 Existing Condition of a Stand Receiving the Sanitation/Improvement or Sanitation/Improvement w/Prescribed Fire

Chapter 2-4 Alternatives

Figure 2-3 Existing Condition of a Stand Receiving the Individual Tree Selection Prescription

Chapter 2-5 Clear Prong Final EIS

2.4.2 Design Features Common to All Action Alternatives

In addition to Forest Plan standards and guidelines designed to mitigate impacts, the Interdisciplinary Team identified the following measures that would be applicable to all action alternatives. These design features have been incorporated to reduce or prevent undesirable effects resulting from proposed management activities. Design features specific to individual alternatives are discussed in the Description of Alternatives section of this chapter and are in addition to design features common to all action alternatives.

2.4.2.1 Vegetation

Stands requiring artificial regeneration would be planted with 150 to 350 trees per acre. Ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir would be the predominant species planted. In an effort to encourage establishment of aspen, conifers would not be planted within 50 feet of aspen clones in affected units.

The Purchaser of any timber sale would be required to ensure that prior to moving onto the Sale Area all off-road equipment, which last operated in areas known to be infested with specific noxious weeds of concern, would be free of soil, seeds, vegetative matter, or other debris that could contain or hold seeds.

Consistent with project objectives stated in Chapter 1 (Section 1.5), all existing forested stands that meet the definition of large tree size class (Forest Plan, Appendix A) or old forest habitat (Forest Plan, Appendix E) would be retained. Management actions may occur within these stands as long as they continue to meet the definitions of large tree size class and old forest habitat.

Consistent with project objectives stated in Chapter 1 (Section 1.5), management actions within large or medium tree size class stands (Forest Plan, Appendix A) that have the species composition required to achieve old forest habitat (Forest Plan, Appendix E) shall contribute to or not preclude restoration of old forest habitat.

All ponderosa pine and western larch trees meeting the definition of a legacy tree would be designated for retention during sale preparation activities.

2.4.2.2 Transportation/Access Management/Landings

Unless agreed to otherwise, hauling of logs on the #409 road would be prohibited on Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day, and weekends associated with these holidays.

Upon completion of harvest activities, all newly constructed landings would be reshaped to provide adequate drainage, ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the reshaped surface, and planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture.

Upon completion of use, all newly constructed temporary roads would have all culverts removed and:

#417E Temp would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, the first 100 feet recontoured, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the ripped and recontoured surface, and planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture.

#417H Temp would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the ripped surface, planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, and closed with earthen dikes or boulders.

Chapter 2-6 Alternatives

#407 Temp would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the ripped surface, planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, and closed with earthen dikes or boulders.

#409 Temp would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the ripped surface, planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, and closed with earthen dikes or boulders.

As soon as created slash is made available on the helicopter landing on the #409D road, a slash filter windrow would be constructed at the toe of the fill slope. JUTEMATTM or a similar material would be placed on the remainder of the fill slope and slash distributed to cover roughly half of the surface area.

Newly constructed landings and temporary roads would be constructed to prevent water from flowing over fill slopes exceeding five feet in height.

Concurrent with all temporary road and landing construction, all available construction slash would be windrowed at the toe of the fill slope.

New landing construction within streamside RCAs would be minimized to the extent practicable.

At perennial and intermittent stream crossings associated with new temporary road construction and/or road maintenance activities:

Install temporary water diversion during installation or replacement of culverts on flowing streams where sediment delivery from the action may negatively impact downstream fish habitat.

Crossing with equipment would be minimized prior to culvert installation or diversion and approved in advance by the District Engineer or their representative.

Erosion barriers such as straw bales, silt fences, or SEDIMATTM would be installed in all flowing streams prior to culvert installation or replacement and retained in the stream until the end of operations for that field season.

Following culvert installation or replacement, unvegetated cut and fill slopes would be mulched at stream crossings with straw or a similar material and seeded with a Forest Service approved seed mixture along the distance that directly contributes to the stream.

Those portions of trails #106 and #099 within proposed harvest units would be maintained free of logs and/or slash resulting from harvest activities. Ground-based skidding would not be allowed down the trails nor would created slash be piled within 25 feet of the trail treads. Should it be necessary to skid across the trails, the Purchaser would be required to reconstruct the disturbed portion of the trail tread.

Portions of trail #079 within units receiving the thinning of sub-merchantable trees prescription would be maintained free of material resulting from thinning operations. Created slash in these thinning units would be pulled back and scattered and/or hand-piled a minimum of 25 feet from the trail tread.

To prevent conflicts with snowmobile use, plowing of snow on the #409 road would not be permitted except when necessary to facilitate reforestation efforts.

Helicopter service landings would be located outside of RCAs and refueling of ground-based equipment would occur outside of RCAs.

Chapter 2-7 Clear Prong Final EIS

2.4.2.3 Wildlife

The District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified by the Sale Preparation Forester working in conjunction with the District Wildlife Biologist.

All existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units.

All trees within 100 feet of caves, cave-like structures, or abandoned mine shafts would be retained to protect potential western big-eared bat habitat.

All existing cover would be preserved to provide hiding cover around any elk wallow. Hiding cover is defined as vegetation capable of hiding 90 percent of an adult elk or deer from a human’s view at a distance equal to or less than 200 feet (Forest Plan, Glossary).

Although there are no active wolf dens within the project area, if future monitoring efforts reveal that a pack has denned within or adjacent to the project area, proposed activities within one mile of the den site would be suspended from April 1 through July 31 if those actions are determined by the wildlife biologist to be disturbing denning activities.

2.4.2.4 Air Quality

Table 2-1 describes various burning activities and the amounts of such activities that would be permissible:

Table 2-1 Smoke Management Constraints Season Broadcast Burning Landing Pile Burning Prescribed Fire (Activity Fuels) (Natural Fuels) Spring 119 acres Not Applicable 500 acres Fall 119 acres 36 acres 700 acres

Burn piles would not be allowed to smolder over a long period of time (prescribed by mop-up standards defined in the prescribed fire plan).

Prescribed fire plans, developed upon completion of sale preparation, would include a smoke management prescription for wind direction and speed, maximum acres per day, minimum fuel moistures, smoke dispersion, public notification, and monitoring.

Cautionary signs would be posted on project area access roads open to public use during burning.

Daily burning activities would be coordinated with the meteorologist/program coordinator stationed in the Monitoring Unit in Missoula Montana or other appropriate personnel.

2.4.2.5 Watershed/Fisheries

The following riparian conservation areas (RCAs) and management restrictions are common to all action alternatives. Megahan/Ketcheson modeling completed for this assessment concluded that, given incorporated design features, the RCA widths do not need to be adjusted to avoid or minimize sediment delivery (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Perennial Streams (and Intermittent Streams Providing Seasonal Rearing and Spawning Habitat) - The RCA shall consist of two site potential tree heights as determined by the stand’s potential vegetation group (PVG). No harvest or ground-based skidding would occur within these RCAs.

Chapter 2-8 Alternatives

Intermittent Streams Not Providing Seasonal Rearing and Spawning Habitat - The RCA shall consist of one site potential tree height as determined by the stand’s potential vegetation group (PVG). No harvest or ground-based skidding would occur within these RCAs.

Ponds, Lakes, Reservoirs, and Wetlands - The RCA shall consist of one site potential tree height as determined by the stand’s potential vegetation group (PVG). No harvest or ground- based skidding would occur within these RCAs.

Thinning of sub-merchantable trees (less than 8 inches dbh) within plantations and other previously managed stands would be prohibited within 30 feet of perennial and intermittent streams, ponds, lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands.

Regardless of SINMAP modeling results, the following guidelines developed from Chatwin et al (1994), Megahan (1979), Gray and Megahan (1981), and Pack et al (1998) would be used to identify landslide prone areas. No harvest or ground-based skidding would occur within these field- identified landslide prone areas.

Slopes 49 to 70 percent, uniform slope - Wet or dry terrain dissected by deeply incised gullies.

Slopes 49 to 70 percent, uniform or irregular slope - Class 7 bedrock (moist sites as indicated by vegetation or actual seeps), or soil accumulation areas below rock outcrop zones, or slopes where dominant rock joint planes dip sharply down slope or parallel to the slope.

Slopes greater than 70 percent, uniform slope - All wet or dry sites.

To maintain slope stability above all newly constructed temporary roads with cut slopes exceeding three feet, to the extent practical, all trees within one crown width of the cut slope would be marked for retention during sale preparation activities. Skid trails and skyline corridors would be minimized through these areas.

Where practical, all erosion control design features, including BMPs, would be implemented concurrently with the associated activity.

To the extent practical, minimize undercutting the cut slope at the edge of the road prism during blading and shaping of existing roads.

Broadcast burns and prescribed fires would be designed to burn at low or moderate intensities and severities with the objective of maintaining slope stability and long term soil productivity.

Fire ignition would be avoided in RCAs. Prescribed fires would be allowed to creep into the RCAs.

No mechanical fireline would be constructed within the RCAs and handline construction would be minimized.

No fireline construction would occur within any IRA in association with prescribed fires unless necessary to control an escaped fire situation.

Water drafting sites would be designated and approved by Forest Service personnel prior to use. Drafting hoses would be required to be fitted with screens with a 3/32 inch mesh.

Following completion of use, cross-ditches would be constructed at intervals of approximately 20 feet where skid trails exceed 20 percent slope. Where logs are available immediately adjacent to the skid trails, logs six inches in diameter or greater would be placed against the ground surface and diagonal to the skid trails at 20 foot intervals instead of cross-ditches being constructed. A Forest Service approved seed mixture would be applied to all skid trails. Cross-ditching and/or placement of logs on skid trails, and seeding of those skid trails, would occur prior to the first winter after construction of the skid trail.

Chapter 2-9 Clear Prong Final EIS

2.4.2.6 Visuals

Retain at least half of the trees greater than 24 inches in diameter within 300 feet of the #409 road.

In the first 200 feet of proposed units below the #433 road, retain individual trees or groups of merchantable trees to mitigate the effects of removing the downslope vegetation.

All slash accumulated at landings located on the #409 road would be piled and burned. Noticeable amounts of debris remaining at these landings following pile burning would be repiled and burned again.

Created slash in harvest units within 150 feet of the #409 road would be lopped so that the slash lies within 12 inches of the ground unless units are to be whole-tree yarded or broadcast burned.

Approximately 50 percent of the merchantable stems would be retained within 150 feet of the #106 and #099 trails. Created slash within 150 feet of these trails would be lopped so that it lies within 12 inches of the ground unless units are to be whole-tree yarded or broadcast burned.

2.4.2.7 Soil Productivity

Skid trails would be designated in all units proposed for ground-based skidding, including off-road jammer units. Use of ground-based equipment off of designated skid trails would be minimized.

The goal would be to retain coarse woody debris in the sizes and at the rates identified in the following table for the appropriate potential vegetation group (PVG). Should coarse woody debris of a required diameter not be present, material from the next smaller diameter class would be retained to account for the deficit.

Table 2-2 Coarse Woody Debris Desired Conditions Indicator PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 4 PVG 5 PVG 6 PVG 7 PVG 8 PVG 10 Dry Weight* 4 – 14 4 – 14 4 – 14 4 – 14 4 – 14 5 – 19 5 – 19 5 – 19 Percent >15” >75% >65% >65% >75% >65% >50% >25% >25% * Dry weight in tons/acre in Decay Classes I and II.

2.4.2.8 Cultural Resources

The existing helicopter landing near the intersection of roads #409 and #405 would not be ripped or scarified after use, and ground disturbance during piling of landing slash would be minimized to the extent practicable. Post-implementation monitoring of this site would be accomplished by the Forest Archaeologist and/or her representative.

Site BS-554 would be protected and avoided during implementation. Post-implementation monitoring of this site would be accomplished by the Forest Archaeologist and/or her representative.

2.4.2.9 Monitoring

Detailed monitoring plans will be developed for the selected alternative and disclosed with the project's decision document. Monitoring plans would be designed to determine the implementation and general effectiveness of best management practices (BMPs), design features, and restoration activities. Monitoring is designed to accomplish all or some of the following goals:

Determine if assumptions made for effects analyses appear correct.

Verify implementation of design features and the general degree of effectiveness.

Determine if resource objectives are being achieved.

Chapter 2-10 Alternatives

2.4.3 Description of Alternatives

2.4.3.1 Alternative A - No Action

2.4.3.2 Alternative B - Proposed Action

This alternative was developed to meet the project’s purpose and need stated in Chapter 1. It represents the Forest Service's best recommendation prior to detailed analysis of the environmental effects. In addition to the custodial maintenance activities described in Alternative A, the Proposed Action (Figure 2-4) would implement silvicultural activities, including thinning of sub-merchantable trees, prescribed fire, and aspen enhancement on 2,190 acres. An estimated 9.5 MMbf of wood products would be removed using tractor/off-road jammer, skyline, and helicopter yarding systems. This alternative would employ a variety of silvicultural prescriptions including commercial thin, commercial thin with prescribed fire, sanitation/improvement, sanitation/improvement with prescribed fire, individual tree selection, thinning of sub-merchantable trees, prescribed fire to abate natural fuels, and aspen enhancement activities.

The following treatments would be applied to the #417HX1, that portion of the #405C beyond the intersection with the #405C1, and a small portion of the #405D road.

Access would be prevented by placement of boulders or construction of earthen dikes. Decommissioned road segments would be removed from the transportation system.

Road surfaces would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches and available woody material distributed to cover an estimated 30 percent of the road surface.

Chapter 2-11 Clear Prong Final EIS

Culverts would be removed and the natural streamcourse reestablished. Fill slopes that are encroaching on the streambanks or are eroding would be reshaped and revegetated.

Cut and fill slopes bare of vegetation or unstable would be reshaped and revegetated with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, shrubs, and/or trees.

Fill slopes below the first 300 feet of the #409C road would be stabilized by planting trees, shrubs, and/or grasses.

The streambanks where the culvert was pulled on the #409C3 road would be stabilized by planting trees, shrubs, and/or grasses.

Table 2-3 Alternative B – Proposed Action Total Acres Treated – 2,190 ac. Road Maintenance – 0.8 mi. Temporary Road Construction – 1.1 mi. Road Decommissioning – 4.4 mi. Harvest Methods (acres) Helicopter – 372 Skyline - 236 Tractor/Off-Road Jammer – 856 Silvicultural Prescriptions (acres) Commercial Thin - 161 Commercial Thin w/Prescribed Fire - 87 Sanitation/Improvement – 1,063 Sanitation/Improvement w/Prescribed Fire - 24 Individual Tree Selection - 129 Thinning of Sub-merchantable Trees - 190 Prescribed Fire Only - 502 Aspen Enhancement - 34 Post-harvest Activities (acres) Lop Activity Fuels – 548 Whole Tree Yard – 909 Broadcast Burn Activity Fuels – 119 Tree Planting - 358 Temporary Road Construction (miles) 417H Temp – 0.1 417E Temp – 0.2 409 Temp – 0.7 407 Temp – 0.1 Road Maintenance (miles) 409 – 0.8 Decommissioning of Existing Roads (miles) 417HX1 – 0.8 405C – 1.6 405B2 – 0.1 405D – 0.4 405B – 1.5

Chapter 2-12 Alternatives

Figure 2-4 Alternative B – Proposed Action

Chapter 2-13 Clear Prong Final EIS

2.5 Summary Comparison of Alternatives

Table 2-4 presents a comparative summary of principle activities and the environmental effects for the alternatives being considered in detail. The summary is limited to the effects on project objectives, significant issues or concerns, Forest Plan standards, and other resources the Interdisciplinary Team deemed important for an informed decision. A brief discussion of the similarities and differences between the alternatives follows the table.

Table 2-4 Comparison of Activities and Effects Project Objective Indicators Alt. A Alt. B Development of Larger Size Classes and Old Forest Accelerated? No Yes Dwarf Mistletoe Reduced in Douglas-fir? No Yes Fuel Loads and Ladder Fuels Reduced? No Yes Aspen Vigor and Sustainability Enhanced? No Yes Wood Products Made Available? No Yes Management-induced Sediment Reduced? No Yes Forest Plan Consistency/Other Key Items Alt. A Alt. B Activities Result in the Development of any IRA? No No Activities Comply with Detrimental Disturbance Standard? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Total Soil Resource Commitment Standard? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Visual Quality Objectives Standards? Yes Yes Activities Comply with TMDL? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Large Tree and Medium Tree Standard? Yes Yes Activities Comply with Old Forest Habitat Standard? Yes Yes Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Species Alt. A Alt. B Wildlife Species NE NE/NLAA Plant Species NE NE Fish Species NE NE Sensitive Species Wildlife Species NI NI/BI/MIIH Plant Species NI NI/MIIH Fish Species NI NI Management Indicator Species Alt. A Alt. B Pileated Woodpecker Population Trend Maintained Maintained Black-backed Woodpecker Population Trend Maintained Maintained Bull Trout Population Trend Maintained Maintained NE = No Effect; NLAA = May affect, but not likely to adversely affect; NI = No Impact; BI = Beneficial Impact; MIIH = May impact individuals or habitat but would not likely contribute to a trend towards Federal listing or a loss of viability. Reference discussions below and in Chapter 3 for detailed information.

2.5.1 Project Objective Indicators

2.5.1.1 Move toward restoration of desired vegetative conditions identified in the Forest Plan by manipulating the forest structure, density, and species composition in order to accelerate development of larger tree size class stands and old forest habitat.

Chapter 2-14 Alternatives

2.5.1.2 Consistent with Objective #1, reduce the level of heavy dwarf mistletoe infection in Douglas-fir trees where deemed necessary to accelerate development of larger tree size class stands and old forest habitat.

Chapter 2-15 Clear Prong Final EIS

2.5.1.3 Move stands toward their desired conditions by reducing fuel loads and ladder fuels through the use of prescribed fire where such an action could be accomplished without substantial mortality of the overstory trees and where topographic features would make the use of prescribed fire a practical management action.

2.5.1.4 Improve the health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen clones by reducing competing conifer and brush species.

2.5.1.5 Utilize wood products created by restoration treatments to support local and regional economies as an outcome of pursuing Objectives #1 and #2 above.

Alternative A would not result in the harvest of any wood products (Section 3.10).

2.5.1.6 Reduce management-induced sediment and recurring maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by graveling road surfaces and replacing under-sized culverts.

Chapter 2-16 Alternatives

2.5.1.7 Reduce the potential for sedimentation and future maintenance needs, and address the intent of the TMDL, by decommissioning roads not needed for the long term management of the Forest.

2.5.2 Forest Plan Consistency/Other Key Items

Chapter 2-17 Clear Prong Final EIS

2.5.2.1 Inventoried Roadless Areas

2.5.2.2 Detrimental Soil Disturbance

Alternative A would have no effect on detrimental soil disturbance (Section 3.11.4).

2.5.2.3 Total Soil Resource Commitment (TSRC)

2.5.2.4 Visual Quality Objectives

2.5.2.5 Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)

2.5.2.6 Large Tree and Medium Tree Size Classes

Chapter 2-18 Alternatives

2.5.2.7 Old Forest Habitat

2.5.3 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species

Alternative A would have no effect on any threatened, endangered, proposed, or candidate species.

2.5.4 Sensitive Species

Alternative A would have no impacts on any sensitive species or any Forest watch plants.

Alternative B would have no impact on westslope cutthroat trout (Section 3.12).

2.5.5 Management Indicator Species

Chapter 2-19 Clear Prong Final EIS

the amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient by year 2031 to provide for one or possibly two pileated woodpecker home ranges (Section 3.13.3.8).

Both Alternatives A and B would maintain the current population trend of pileated woodpecker at the Forest scale (Section 3.13.3.8).

Both Alternatives A and B would maintain the current population trend of black-backed woodpecker at the Forest scale (Section 3.13.3.2).

2.6 Identification of the Preferred Alternative

Alternative B, Proposed Action, is the Responsible Official’s preferred alternative.

Chapter 2-20

CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

CHAPTER 3 - AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

3.1 Introduction

This chapter describes the existing conditions of the environment in and/or adjacent to the Clear Prong Project Area that may affect or be affected by the alternatives presented in Chapter 2. The individual discussions are organized by resource.

This chapter also discloses the effects on the environment that would occur following implementation of the alternatives presented in Chapter 2. The direct and indirect; temporary (0 to 3 years), short (>3 to 15 years), and long term (>15 years), and; cumulative effects are discussed by resource area. Section 3.14 discloses the irreversible and irretrievable effects resulting from the alternatives.

Pursuant to direction found at 40 CFR 1500.1(b) and 1500.4, the discussions presented here are summaries of the completed analyses and form the scientific and analytical basis for the alternatives' comparison at the end of Chapter 2. Unless specifically stated otherwise, additional supporting information, as well as analysis assumptions and methodologies, is contained in the project planning record (P.R.) located at the Cascade Ranger District.

The Clear Prong Project Area is located in the Clear Creek drainage on the Boise National Forest, 10 miles east of Cascade, Idaho. The project area (Figure 3-1) includes 11,056 acres of National Forest System lands in watersheds that drain into Clear Creek, which in turn drains into the North Fork of the Payette River downstream of Cascade Reservoir.

3.2 Vegetation

This section of the document describes the characteristics and patterns of the vegetation as well as the effects of the alternatives on the different components of vegetation. The 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1) was used as the analysis area for the various components of the vegetation resource.

Discussions specific to the existing characteristics of the vegetation, such as potential vegetation group, tree size class, etc., were derived from stand examination data collected and compiled in 1997 unless specifically stated otherwise. Stand examinations from 1997 were considered adequate for this assessment because no major disturbances such as large wildfires or uncharacteristic levels of insect-related tree mortality have occurred in the project area since examinations were performed. In addition, field reconnaissance of a representative sample of stands was completed in the summer of 2009 to validate that data (P.R., Vol. 2, Field Reconnaissance). That field reconnaissance indicates that, although a certain amount of tree growth and mortality has occurred, the stand data collected in 1997 still reflects the existing conditions and still represents the best available information as stipulated in the NEPA.

3.2.1 Potential Vegetation Groups

Twenty-seven different habitat types occur within the analysis area. These forested habitat types are grouped into potential vegetation groups (PVGs) based on their similar environmental characteristics, site productivities, and disturbance regimes. There are eight PVGs in the analysis area with the predominant PVGs being PVG 2, PVG 6, and PVG 7. PVGs 3 and 10 also occupy fair amounts of the analysis area. The remaining PVGs (4, 5, and 8) are not present in large quantities, with each constituting less than five percent of the 11,056 acre analysis area (P.R., Vol. 2, PVG).

Table 3-1 displays the acres and percentages of the various PVGs found within the 11,056 acre analysis area. Figure 3-2 displays the locations and juxtaposition of the various PVGs.

Chapter 3-1 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 3-1 Clear Prong Project Area

Chapter 3-2 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Figure 3-2 Potential Vegetation Groups

Chapter 3-3 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 3-1 Potential Vegetation Groups in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area Potential Vegetation Group Acres Percent of Analysis Area PVG 2 Warm Dry Douglas-fir, Moist Ponderosa Pine 2,293 21% PVG 3 Cool Moist Douglas-fir 1,299 12% PVG 4 Cool Dry Douglas-fir 272 2% PVG 5 Dry Grand Fir 207 2% PVG 6 Cool Moist Grand Fir 1,658 15% PVG 7 Warm Dry Subalpine Fir 3,733 34% PVG 8 Cool Moist Subalpine Fir 406 4% PVG 10 Persistent Lodgepole Pine 1,188 11%

3.2.1.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives considered in this analysis would have any effect on the existing quantities or distribution of forested habitat types or potential vegetation groups (PVGs) within the analysis area. Following implementation of any alternative, the quantities and distribution of PVGs would be identical to those presented in Table 3-1 (P.R., Vol. 2, PVG).

3.2.1.2 Cumulative Effects

The potential effects of any alternative on the quantities or distribution of PVGs would be limited to the project area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Given the definition of PVGs, there are no past, ongoing, or foreseeable future actions that have had, or will have, any effect on the quantities or distribution of PVGs within the cumulative effects analysis area. Since none of the alternatives would have any direct or indirect effects on the quantities or distribution of PVGs, no incremental or cumulative effects would occur under any alternative (P.R., Vol. 2, PVG).

3.2.2 Tree Size Class

Tree size class for a stand, as defined in the Forest Plan and as used in this analysis, is based on the largest diameter trees present in the stand. If the total non-overlapping canopy cover of trees greater than or equal to 20 inches in diameter at breast height (dbh) is greater than or equal to 10 percent, then the stand would be considered to be in the large tree size class. If not, then if the total non-overlapping canopy cover of trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh is greater than or equal to 10 percent, then the stand would be considered to be in the medium tree size class, and so on. Tree size class reflects the physical development stage of a forest stand. Recognition of the temporal and spatial nature of landscape patterns and the agents responsible for their creation (i.e. biotic processes, disturbance regimes, and environmental constraints) is crucial to resource planning. It has been suggested that if existing landscape patterns and disturbance regimes emulate historic conditions then biodiversity and long term site productivity will be conserved.

The following discussions describe the existing conditions of the 11,056 acre analysis area. Acreage values in parentheses in Table 3-2 reflect the acres of each PVG within the analysis area. The values presented in Table 3-2 were derived from stand examination data collected in 1997.

As reflected in Table 3-2, the grass/forb/shrub/seedling and sapling tree size classes represent relatively small percentages of the acres within the various PVGs while the small, medium, and large tree size classes generally dominate the analysis area. For the analysis area as-a-whole, roughly 1,679 acres are currently in the small tree size class; 5,616 acres in the medium tree size class, and; 3,069 acres in the large tree size class. Figure 3-3 displays the distribution and locations of the existing tree size classes (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

Chapter 3-4 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Figure 3-3 Existing Tree Size Classes

Chapter 3-5 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 3-2 Existing Tree Size Classes in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 4 PVG 5 Tree Size Class (2,293 acres) (1,299 acres) (272 acres) (207 acres) Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) <1% -- 2% -- Sapling (>0.1” dbh) 11% 1% 30% -- Small Tree (>5” dbh) 18% 24% 10% 12% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 43% 31% 13% 62% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 27% 44% 45% 26% PVG 6 PVG 7 PVG 8 PVG 10 Tree Size Class (1,658 acres) (3,733 acres) (406 acres) (1,188 acres) Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) 2% 3% -- <1% Sapling (>0.1” dbh) 1% 4% 3% 1% Small Tree (>5” dbh) 7% 12% -- 29% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 54% 54% 74% 70% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 36% 27% 23% * * PVG 10 represents stands dominated by lodgepole pine where, historically, trees greater than 20 inches dbh were not abundant and the large tree size class not present.

3.2.2.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on the existing quantities or distribution of tree size classes within the analysis area. The Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002) was used to project stand conditions in year 2012, and 19 years later in year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

As reflected in Table 3-3, assuming no uncharacteristic wildfires or major insect epidemics, stands in the smaller size classes would gradually shift to larger size classes over time as conifers put on additional growth. For the analysis area as-a-whole, in year 2012 roughly 1,548 acres would be in the small tree size class; 5,369 acres in the medium tree size class, and; 3,555 acres in the large tree size class (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

By year 2031 (Table 3-4 and Figure 3-4) the analysis area as-a-whole would reflect approximately 847 acres in the small tree size class; 4,585 acres in the medium tree size class, and; 5,474 acres in the large tree size class (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

3.2.2.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Silvicultural activities associated with this alternative would reduce competition for nutrients, moisture, and sunlight thereby enhancing growth of retained trees. However, relative to tree size classes, the effects of this alternative would be similar to those modeled for Alternative A (No Action) in years 2012 and 2031. This alternative would not convert any stand currently in the medium or large tree size class to a smaller size class (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

As reflected in Table 3-3, for the analysis area as-a-whole, in year 2012 roughly 1,548 acres would be in the small tree size class; 5,320 acres in the medium tree size class, and; 3,604 acres in the large tree size class. In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), an additional 49 acres would be in the large tree size class in year 2012 (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

By year 2031 (Table 3-4 and Figure 3-5) approximately 847 acres would be in the small tree size class; 4,511 acres in the medium tree size class, and; 5,549 acres in the large tree size class. In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), an additional 75 acres would be in the large tree size class in year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

Chapter 3-6 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

The lack of any major shift of tree size classes for the analysis area as-a-whole is explained in part by the fact that this alternative would treat less than 20 percent of the 11,056 acre analysis area because of inventoried roadless areas, riparian conservation areas, and other resource concerns. The lack of any dramatic shift into the large tree size class is also reflective of the relatively slow rate at which retained trees (i.e. large diameter trees) would be expected to grow over the next 19 years. Although Alternative B would result in a slight increase in acres in the large tree size class, it will likely take many decades to achieve the quantities of large tree size classes described in the Forest Plan as the desired condition (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

Table 3-3 Tree Size Classes in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area in Year 2012 PVG 2 PVG 3 Tree Size Class (2,293 acres) (1,299 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) <1% <1% -- -- Sapling (>0.1” dbh) 9% 9% 1% 1% Small Tree (>5” dbh) 21% 21% 24% 24% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 37% 36% 29% 29% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 33% 34% 46% 46% PVG 4 PVG 5 Tree Size Class (272 acres) (207 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) ------Sapling (>0.1” dbh) 32% 32% -- -- Small Tree (>5” dbh) 4% 4% 12% 12% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 19% 19% 62% 62% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 45% 45% 26% 26% PVG 6 PVG 7 Tree Size Class (1,658 acres) (3,733 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) 2% 2% 3% 3% Sapling (>0.1” dbh) <1% <1% 3% 3% Small Tree (>5” dbh) 7% 7% 7% 7% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 35% 35% 61% 60% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 56% 56% 26% 27% PVG 8 PVG 10 Tree Size Class (406 acres) (1,188 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) -- -- <1% <1% Sapling (>0.1” dbh) ------Small Tree (>5” dbh) 3% 3% 29% 29% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 68% 68% 70% 70% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 29% 29% * * * PVG 10 represents stands dominated by lodgepole pine where, historically, trees greater than 20 inches dbh were not abundant and the large tree size class not present.

Chapter 3-7 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 3-4 Tree Size Classes in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area in Year 2031 PVG 2 PVG 3 Tree Size Class (2,293 acres) (1,299 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) ------Sapling (>0.1” dbh) ------Small Tree (>5” dbh) 15% 15% 17% 17% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 36% 36% 14% 14% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 49% 49% 69% 69% PVG 4 PVG 5 Tree Size Class (272 acres) (207 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) ------Sapling (>0.1” dbh) 2% 2% -- -- Small Tree (>5” dbh) 13% 13% 2% 2% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 36% 36% 10% 10% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 49% 49% 88% 88% PVG 6 PVG 7 Tree Size Class (1,658 acres) (3,733 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) <1% <1% -- -- Sapling (>0.1” dbh) 2% 2% 3% 3% Small Tree (>5” dbh) 2% 2% 3% 3% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 13% 13% 56% 54% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 83% 83% 38% 40% PVG 8 PVG 10 Tree Size Class (406 acres) (1,188 acres) Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (<0.1” dbh) ------Sapling (>0.1” dbh) -- -- <1% <1% Small Tree (>5” dbh) 3% 3% 7% 7% Medium Tree (>12” dbh) 17% 17% 93% 93% Large Tree (>20” dbh) 80% 80% * * * PVG 10 represents stands dominated by lodgepole pine where, historically, trees greater than 20 inches dbh were not abundant and the large tree size class not present.

3.2.2.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on the quantities or distribution of tree size classes would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on tree size classes therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

Regardless of the existing conditions, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be an overall movement toward the larger tree size classes which is consistent with desired conditions identified in the Forest Plan (P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class).

Chapter 3-8 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Figure 3-4 Alternative A Tree Size Classes in Year 2031

Chapter 3-9 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 3-5 Alternative B Tree Size Classes in Year 2031

Chapter 3-10 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.2.3 Canopy Cover

Stand canopy cover represents the total non-overlapping cover of all trees in a stand greater than or equal to 0.1 inches dbh. Seedlings (i.e. trees less than 0.1 inches dbh) are used to reflect stand canopy cover only when they represent the only structural layer present. Stands were categorized into one of four classifications: stand initiation (canopy cover <10 percent); low (canopy cover 10 to 39 percent); moderate (canopy cover 40 to 69 percent); or high (canopy cover >70 percent).

Table 3-5 discloses the existing conditions relative to canopy cover for stands within the 11,056 acre analysis area, regardless of their tree size class. Figure 3-6 displays the distribution and locations of the various canopy covers. The values presented in Table 3-5 were derived from stand examination data collected in 1997 and calculated with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002). The results of that modeling exercise were verified by comparing with aerial photographs and corrections made as deemed appropriate based on ocular estimates. The 170 acres reflected in Table 3-5 as “Stand Initiation” are conifer plantations (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Table 3-5 Existing Stand Canopy Covers in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area Canopy Cover Acres Percent of Analysis Area Stand Initiation (<10%) 170 2% Low (10 to 39%) 3,346 30% Moderate (40 to 69%) 3,805 34% High (>70%) 3,734 34%

Table 3-6 displays the existing distribution of stand canopy covers for the large tree size class stands within the 11,056 acre analysis area. Acreage values in parentheses reflect the acres of each PVG currently within the large tree size class. As portrayed in Table 3-6, the majority of stands in the large tree size class currently exhibit a moderate or high stand canopy cover (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Table 3-6 Existing Stand Canopy Covers of Large Tree Size Class Stands in the Analysis Area PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 4 PVG 5 Canopy Cover (625 acres)^ (568 acres)^ (122 acres)^ (54 acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) 59% ------Moderate (40 to 69%) 36% 69% 51% 100% High (>70%) 5% 31% 49% -- PVG 6 PVG 7 PVG 8 Canopy Cover (592 acres)^ (1,013 acres)^ (95 acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) 27% 19% 14% Moderate (40 to 69%) 23% 54% 37% High (>70%) 50% 27% 49% ^ Acres of large tree size class within the PVG. PVG 10 represents stands dominated by lodgepole pine where, historically, trees greater than 20 inches dbh were not abundant and the large tree size class not present.

3.2.3.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on the existing quantities or distribution of canopy covers within the analysis area. Assuming no uncharacteristic wildfires or major insect epidemics, stands would gradually increase in density over time (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

The Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002) was used to project stand conditions in years 2012 and 2031. That modeling indicates that for all tree size classes present in the analysis area, in year 2012 (Table 3-7 and Figure 3-7) roughly 28 percent of the stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 36 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 34 percent a high stand canopy cover. By year 2031 (Table 3-7) roughly 15 percent of the stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 46 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 39 percent a high stand canopy cover (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Chapter 3-11 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 3-6 Existing Canopy Covers

Chapter 3-12 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Stands in the large tree size class would increase in abundance over time and would also experience increases in stand densities. In year 2012 (Table 3-8) roughly 20 percent of the large tree size class stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 44 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 36 percent a high stand canopy cover. By year 2031 (Table 3-9) roughly 14 percent of the large tree size class stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 47 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 39 percent a high stand canopy cover. Relative to desired stand canopy covers described in the Forest Plan for old forest habitat, in general, stands in the large tree size class would continue to move away from desired conditions in all PVGs except PVG 8 where a high stand canopy cover is desired (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

3.2.3.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

The Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002) was used to project stand conditions in the year immediately following implementation, assumed to be year 2012, as well as stand conditions in 2031, 19 years after implementation. As reflected in Table 3-7 and Figure 3-8, implementation of Alternative B would result in a decrease in stand densities and canopy covers across the analysis area as-a-whole. Specifically, for all tree size classes present within the 11,056 acre analysis area, in year 2012 roughly 37 percent of the stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 32 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 29 percent a high stand canopy cover. By year 2031 (Table 3-7) roughly 25 percent of the stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 42 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 33 percent a high stand canopy cover (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Table 3-7 Stand Canopy Covers in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area in Years 2012 and 2031 Alt. A Alt. B Canopy Cover Timeframe Percent of Analysis Area Percent of Analysis Area Stand Initiation (<10%) 2% 2% Low (10 to 39%) 28% 37% Year 2012 Moderate (40 to 69%) 36% 32% High (>70%) 34% 29% Alt. A Alt. B Canopy Cover Timeframe Percent of Analysis Area Percent of Analysis Area Stand Initiation (<10%) <1% <1% Low (10 to 39%) 15% 25% Year 2031 Moderate (40 to 69%) 46% 42% High (>70%) 39% 33%

Stands in the large tree size class would increase in abundance over time and, in comparison to Alternative A (No Action), would reflect decreases in stand densities in all PVGs except PVG 8. In year 2012 (Table 3-8) roughly 39 percent of the large tree size class stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 31 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 30 percent a high stand canopy cover. By year 2031 (Table 3-9) roughly 31 percent of the large tree size class stands would reflect a low stand canopy cover, 39 percent a moderate stand canopy cover, and 30 percent a high stand canopy cover. It should be noted that the increase in low and moderate canopy covers in 2031 is not because of decreasing canopy covers of existing large tree size class stands, but rather because medium tree size class stands with low and/or moderate canopy covers grow into the large tree size class, thus giving the appearance of decreasing canopy covers (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Relative to desired conditions described in the Forest Plan for large tree size class stands, decreasing acres in the moderate stand canopy cover category and increasing acres in the low category would reflect movement toward the desired conditions for PVGs 2 and 5. Decreasing acres in the high category would move PVG 3 toward its desired conditions. Increasing the abundance of stands with a low stand canopy cover would move this component of PVG 4 to within its desired range in the project area. Decreasing acres in the high category and increasing acres in the moderate category would move PVG 6 toward its desired conditions, and decreasing acres with a high stand canopy cover would move PVG 7 toward its desired conditions. Relative to desired conditions described in the Forest Plan for old forest habitat, decreasing the acres of large tree size class stands with a high stand canopy cover would reflect movement toward desired conditions for all affected PVGs (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Chapter 3-13 Clear Prong Final EIS

Although this alternative would convert a number of stands currently in the large tree size class to a low stand canopy cover in year 2012, none of the affected acres would approach the lower limit of 10 percent. Modeling reflects that stand canopy covers would instead range from a low of 19 percent to a high of 39 percent, with an average of around 29 percent stand canopy cover. This effect would not preclude affected acres from providing old forest habitat at some point in the future (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Table 3-8 Stand Canopy Covers of Large Tree Size Class Stands in Year 2012 PVG 2 PVG 3 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B (756 Acres)^ (775 Acres)^ (595 Acres)^ (595 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) 49% 66% -- 57% Moderate (40 to 69%) 47% 30% 68% 33% High (>70%) 4% 4% 32% 10% PVG 4 PVG 5 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B (122 Acres)^ (122 Acres)^ (54 Acres)^ (54 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) -- 17% -- 10% Moderate (40 to 69%) 51% 34% 100% 90% High (>70%) 49% 49% -- --% PVG 6 PVG 7 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B (923 Acres)^ (923 Acres)^ (986 Acres)^ (1,016 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) 18% 19% 20% 37% Moderate (40 to 69%) 16% 19% 49% 36% High (>70%) 66% 62% 31% 27% PVG 8 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B (119 Acres)^ (119 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) -- -- Moderate (40 to 69%) 40% 40% High (>70%) 60% 60% ^ Acres of large tree size class within the PVG.

Table 3-9 Stand Canopy Covers of Large Tree Size Class Stands in Year 2031 PVG 2 PVG 3 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B (1,131 Acres)^ (1,131 Acres)^ (894 Acres)^ (894 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) 25% 47% 17% 57% Moderate (40 to 69%) 69% 49% 53% 36% High (>70%) 6% 4% 30% 7% PVG 4 PVG 5 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B (135 Acres)^ (135 Acres)^ (182 Acres)^ (182 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) -- 15% 10% 10% Moderate (40 to 69%) 56% 41% 30% 60% High (>70%) 44% 44% 60% 30% PVG 6 PVG 7 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B (1,372 Acres)^ (1,372 Acres)^ (1,434 Acres)^ (1,509 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) 22% 26% <1% 19% Moderate (40 to 69%) 26% 31% 55% 43% High (>70%) 52% 43% 44% 38% PVG 8 Canopy Cover Alt. A Alt. B (326 Acres)^ (326 Acres)^ Low (10 to 39%) -- -- Moderate (40 to 69%) 18% 18% High (>70%) 82% 82% ^ Acres of large tree size class within the PVG.

Chapter 3-14 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Figure 3-7 Alternative A Canopy Covers in Year 2012

Chapter 3-15 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 3-8 Alternative B Canopy Covers in Year 2012

Chapter 3-16 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.2.3.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on canopy cover would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on canopy cover therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

Implementation of Alternative B in combination with previous actions would result in subtle shifts in the distribution of canopy covers within the various PVGs. The incremental effect of this alternative would be an overall movement toward stands of lesser densities, consistent with the desired conditions in the Forest Plan (P.R., Vol. 2, Canopy Cover).

3.2.4 Species Composition

It is generally believed that wildfire suppression efforts and past timber harvest activities have altered species compositions across the Forest, especially in low elevation habitat types. As a result, the Forest has experienced an increase in the abundance and distribution of shade tolerant species relative to historic conditions, and a reduction in the abundance of seral species such as ponderosa pine and particularly large diameter ponderosa pine.

For the purpose of this analysis, the percentage of ponderosa pine present in those stand types where it was thought to be abundant historically (PVGs 2, 3, 5, and 6) was used as an indicator of species composition. The percentage of ponderosa pine is discussed in two separate diameter classes; greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh. The analysis area used for this assessment consists of those stands within PVGs 2, 3, 5, and 6 totaling roughly 5,457 acres.

Based on stand examination data collected in 1997, ponderosa pine currently comprises 26 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and 29 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in the 5,457 acre analysis area. Table 3-10 displays the existing percentages of ponderosa pine by PVG for the two diameter classes (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

Table 3-10 Existing Percent Ponderosa Pine in the 5,457 Acre Analysis Area Ponderosa PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 5 PVG 6 Pine (2,293 ac.) (1,299 ac.) (207 ac.) (1,658 ac.) >12” dbh 35% 24% 16% 16% >20” dbh 38% 28% 19% 17%

3.2.4.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

Implementation of this alternative would have no effect on the existing quantities or distribution of ponderosa pine within the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

The Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002) was used to project stand conditions in years 2012 and 2031 (Table 3-11). That modeling indicates that in year 2012 ponderosa pine would comprise 26 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and 30 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in the 5,457 acre analysis area. By year 2031 ponderosa pine

Chapter 3-17 Clear Prong Final EIS

would comprise 31 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and 32 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

Table 3-11 Percent Ponderosa Pine in the 5,457 Acre Analysis Area in Years 2012 and 2031 PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 5 PVG 6 Ponderosa Timeframe (2,293 ac.) (1,299 ac.) (207 ac.) (1,658 ac.) Pine Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B >12” dbh 36% 37% 23% 28% 15% 18% 15% 16% 2012 >20” dbh 39% 40% 27% 30% 16% 16% 21% 21%

>12” dbh 43% 44% 34% 40% 17% 21% 14% 15% 2031 >20” dbh 41% 41% 34% 37% 30% 32% 19% 20%

3.2.4.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

The Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002) was used to project stand conditions in the year immediately following implementation of this alternative, assumed to be year 2012, as well as stand conditions in 2031, 19 years after implementation. With the exception of thinning of sub- merchantable trees in riparian habitats, all silvicultural prescriptions applied under this alternative would favor retention of seral species like ponderosa pine and discriminate against shade tolerant tree species such as subalpine fir and grand fir (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

As reflected in Table 3-11, in year 2012 ponderosa pine would comprise 28 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and 31 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in the 5,457 acre analysis area. By year 2031 ponderosa pine would comprise 33 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 12 inches dbh and 34 percent of the trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would begin restoration of desired species compositions in a number of stands within PVGs 2, 3, 5, and 6. As disclosed in Table 3-11, the relative abundance of ponderosa pine would increase primarily in the smaller diameter class in year 2012, with that improvement becoming more apparent in the larger diameter class in year 2031. While PVG 6 would reflect a similar improving trend in comparison to Alternative A, by year 2031 the relative abundance of ponderosa pine would reflect a decline when compared to year 2012. Since shade tolerant species would increase in abundance more quickly over the next 19 years, ponderosa pine would account for a smaller percentage of the trees present in year 2031. The lack of any major shift for the analysis area as-a-whole is explained in part by the fact that this alternative would treat less than 20 percent of the 5,457 acre analysis area because of inventoried roadless areas, riparian conservation areas, and other resource concerns (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

Thinning of sub-merchantable trees outside of riparian habitats would favor retention of ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir, while discriminating against grand fir and subalpine fir. Given the design feature to retain tree species more adapted to riparian habitats (i.e. Engelmann spruce and Douglas- fir), thinning within riparian habitats would enhance the diversity and productivity of native plant communities within these areas (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

3.2.4.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on species composition would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable

Chapter 3-18 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on species composition therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

Regardless of the effects of past activities, implementation of Alternative B would result in a slight increase in the relative abundance of seral species within the various PVGs, and an overall decrease in the abundance of shade tolerant tree species (P.R., Vol. 2, Species Composition).

3.2.5 Annual Growth

For the purposes of this analysis, the quadratic mean diameter (QMD) of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh was used as an indicator of annual growth. Currently the average weighted QMD of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh for the 11,056 acre analysis area as-a-whole is about 13.3 inches. Table 3-12 reflects the existing average weighted QMD of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh by potential vegetation group (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

Table 3-12 Existing Quadratic Mean Diameter of Trees >8 Inches DBH in the Analysis Area PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 4 PVG 5 PVG 6 PVG 7 PVG 8 PVG 10 13.5 15.1 12.1 15.1 14.1 12.5 13.4 12.3

Stand and stocking examinations conducted in conifer plantations and other previously managed stands indicate that densities of trees less than 8 inches in diameter are not currently impacting growth substantially. However, within 5 to 10 years densities of these stands will approach levels where inter- tree competition of understory trees will negatively impact growth on an estimated 190 acres, 34 acres of which occur within riparian conservation areas (RCAs). The understory trees (i.e. less than 8 inches dbh) in these stands currently have an average diameter at breast height of 2.4 inches and an average height of 12 feet. In addition, artificial regeneration associated with past harvest activities within RCAs has resulted in ponderosa pine being more abundant than would be expected following a natural disturbance event. Within affected RCAs, conifer understories would be expected to be dominated by Engelmann spruce and Douglas-fir following a natural disturbance event such as wildfire (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

3.2.5.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on annual growth of trees. Conifers present in the analysis area would continue to grow at an annual rate similar to the existing conditions. Based on projections with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), by year 2031 the average weighted quadratic mean diameter of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh for the analysis area as-a-whole would be about 14.4 inches. Table 3-13 reflects the average weighted QMD of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh by potential vegetation group in year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

No thinning of sub-merchantable trees (i.e. trees less than 8 inches dbh) would occur under this alternative. Within 5 to 10 years, stocking levels of the understory trees on roughly 190 acres would approach that level where inter-tree competition would negatively impact growth. Based on projections with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), by year 2031 the average weighted height of the understory on these 190 acres would be about 24 feet and the average diameter at breast height 4.7 inches (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

Chapter 3-19 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.2.5.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Silvicultural activities associated with this alternative would reduce competition for nutrients, moisture, and sunlight and would discriminate against those trees exhibiting heavy dwarf mistletoe infection levels. As a result, annual growth rates on affected acres would increase in comparison to Alternative A (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

Based on projections with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), by year 2031 the average weighted quadratic mean diameter of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh for the analysis area as-a-whole would be about 15.1 inches. Table 3-13 reflects the average weighted QMD of trees greater than or equal to eight inches dbh by potential vegetation group in year 2031. The lack of any major improvement for the analysis area as-a-whole is explained by the fact that this alternative would treat less than 20 percent of the 11,056 acre analysis area because of inventoried roadless areas, riparian conservation areas, and other resource concerns (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

Table 3-13 Quadratic Mean Diameter of Trees >8 Inches DBH in Year 2031 PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 4 PVG 5 Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B 15.0 16.1 16.2 17.2 14.3 14.8 15.5 17.5 PVG 6 PVG 7 PVG 8 PVG 10 Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B Alt. A Alt. B 15.3 16.0 13.4 14.1 13.9 13.9 12.6 12.8

Implementation of this alternative would include thinning of sub-merchantable trees (i.e. trees less than 8 inches dbh) on about 190 acres to stocking levels ranging from 150 to 225 trees/acre (16 to 20 foot spacing). Trees discriminated against during this operation would generally be 4 to 8 feet in height, with the emphasis on retaining disease-free trees with the fullest crowns and occupying the most advantageous position in the understory’s canopy layer. Ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir would be the preferred species for retention where thinning activities occur on upland sites (157 acres). Engelmann spruce and Douglas-fir would be selected for retention where thinning has been proposed in riparian habitats within RCAs (34 acres) provided these individual trees are disease- free, have full crowns, and occupy the most advantageous position in the understory’s canopy layer (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

Based on projections with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), by year 2031 the average height of the understory on these 190 acres would be about 37 feet and the average diameter at breast height 7.4 inches. In comparison to Alternative A, on average, trees retained on thinned acres would grow an additional 13 feet in height and 2.7 inches in diameter by year 2031. Additionally, these treatments would accelerate the development of the overstory by reducing the competition for available water and nutrients in the soil, provide a more seral tree composition, and reduce the occurrence of disease in the stands. Specific to thinning within the RCAs, this activity would accelerate the development of a larger, shade-producing canopy, continue to provide a persisting shrub/forb layer, and enhance the opportunity for long term large woody debris recruitment. Further, given the design feature to retain tree species more adapted to riparian habitats, this activity would enhance the diversity and productivity of native plant communities and riparian vegetation (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

3.2.5.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on annual growth would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Chapter 3-20 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on annual growth or mortality, therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

Implementation of Alternative B in conjunction with past management activities would improve the overall forest health of the stands within the analysis area and have a positive incremental effect on annual growth within the area (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth).

3.2.6 Forest Insects and Diseases

A variety of forest insects and diseases exist within the analysis area. The majority of these pathogens are present in low levels and are not significantly affecting forest health or vigor. Others however constitute an existing or potential threat to forest health and are discussed in detail below.

An automated rating system, Stand Susceptibility Rating System Central Idaho Forests (Roberts 2008), was used to assess the current hazards associated with insects of concern within the 11,056 acre analysis area. These susceptibility ratings do not predict outbreaks or quantify occurrence but rather provide a relative measure of predisposing conditions for damage from the agents based on stand conditions. Based on modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System approximately 7,147 acres, 65 percent of the analysis area, are considered to have a high or moderate susceptibility to damage from western spruce budworm, Douglas-fir beetle, mountain pine beetle, and/or western pine beetle. In addition, the parasitic plant dwarf mistletoe is found throughout the analysis area and is present in heavy concentrations in Douglas-fir trees in numerous stands (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Western Spruce Budworm (Choristoneura occidentalis) – This insect attacks a variety of tree species including grand fir, subalpine fir, Douglas-fir, Engelmann spruce, and western larch. Outbreaks of this defoliating insect often occur when favorable weather conditions, such as warm dry springs, coincide with highly susceptible stand conditions. Dense, multi-storied stands of host species, such as the majority of stands within the analysis area, are highly susceptible because they provide a high concentration of food, thus dispersing (dropping) larvae are more likely to contact palatable foliage. Dense stands also reduce the likelihood of predation by birds and other insects. Repeated defoliation can cause reduced annual growth, killing of tree tops, and mortality.

The most recent western spruce budworm epidemic peaked in the mid-1980s. Historically epidemics have occurred at 25 to 30 year intervals. Reconnaissance of the analysis area in the summer of 2009 indicates that populations of this insect are on the increase with evidence of defoliation prevalent throughout the area. Based on modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System approximately 6,678 acres, 60 percent of the analysis area, are considered to have a moderate susceptibility to damage from this insect (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Douglas-fir Beetle (Dendroctonus pseudotsugae) – The Douglas-fir beetle generally infests mature and overmature Douglas-fir, attacking groups of trees 80 to 120 years old exceeding 14 inches in diameter at breast height (dbh). This beetle typically attacks the largest available host species first, continuing to the smaller diameter host trees as the epidemic progresses.

The Cascade District experienced a Douglas-fir beetle epidemic starting in 1987, with the peak occurring in 1989. Older mortality resulting from this insect is evident throughout the analysis area. Based on field observations in 2009 the beetle population appears to be static within the analysis area. Modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System indicates approximately 2,962 acres, 27 percent of the analysis area, are considered to have a moderate or high susceptibility to damage from this insect (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Chapter 3-21 Clear Prong Final EIS

Mountain Pine Beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae) – This member of the bark beetle family attacks only lodgepole and ponderosa pine. Outbreaks frequently occur in stands of scattered large diameter lodgepole pine or in dense stands of pole-sized ponderosa pine. Although stands of pole-sized ponderosa pine are generally limited to plantations, large diameter lodgepole pine are common throughout the analysis area occurring as scattered individual trees as well as pure stands. If a mountain pine beetle epidemic occurs, moderate risk stands can expect 25 to 50 percent mortality. Mortality in a high risk stand can be expected to exceed 50 percent.

Similarly to the Douglas-fir beetle, the mountain pine beetle population appears to be static across the Cascade District and within the analysis area. Based on modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System approximately 2,051 acres, 19 percent of the analysis area, are considered to have a moderate or high susceptibility to damage from this insect (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Western Pine Beetle (Dendroctonus brevicomis) – This member of the bark beetle family can aggressively attack ponderosa pine of all ages and vigor classes that are six inches or larger in diameter. Group killing of trees is common in dense, overstocked stands of pure, even-aged, young ponderosa pine, but also occurs among dense clumps of pine in stagnating mixed conifer stands.

Field reconnaissance in 2009 indicates populations of this beetle remain low within the analysis area despite suitable conditions (P.R., Vol. 2, Field Reconnaissance). Based on modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System approximately 914 acres, eight percent of the analysis area, are considered to have a high or moderate susceptibility to damage from this insect (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Dwarf Mistletoe (Archeuthobium spp.) – Dwarf mistletoe plants cause stem cankers or deformities such as witches broom or stem and branch swelling of host trees. Significant tree height and diameter reductions occur in heavily infected trees. Due to its ability to use host nutrients, dwarf mistletoe weakens trees and reduces their growth rates, seed crops, and life expectancy. Based on modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System, roughly 3,668 acres, 33 percent of the analysis area, has a high or moderate susceptibility to this pathogen (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

3.2.6.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on stand susceptibility to forest insects and diseases. Susceptibility to these forest pathogens would increase over time. Based on modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System, in year 2031 approximately 8,530 acres, 77 percent of the analysis area, would have a high or moderate susceptibility to damage from western spruce budworm, Douglas-fir beetle, mountain pine beetle, and/or western pine beetle. In addition, roughly 4,354 acres, 39 percent of the analysis area, would have a high or moderate susceptibility to damage from dwarf mistletoe in the Douglas-fir (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

3.2.6.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Based on projections of post-implementation stand conditions, this alternative would reduce the susceptibility rating to forest pathogens of concern. Based on modeling with the Stand Susceptibility Rating System, in year 2031 approximately 7,610 acres, 69 percent of the analysis area, would have a high or moderate susceptibility to damage from western spruce budworm, Douglas-fir beetle, mountain pine beetle, and/or western pine beetle. Roughly 3,928 acres, 36 percent of the analysis area, would have a high or moderate susceptibility to damage from dwarf mistletoe in the Douglas-fir (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Western spruce budworm – In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would reduce susceptibility to this insect in year 2031 from a moderate rating down to a low rating on roughly 1,041 acres. Proposed silvicultural activities would reduce stand densities, the number of canopy layers, and the abundance of host species on treated acres, thereby reducing damage from and stand susceptibility to western spruce budworm (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Chapter 3-22 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Douglas-fir beetle – Removal of less vigorous Douglas-fir trees and reducing stand densities would directly reduce susceptibility to this forest insect. In comparison to Alternative A, Alternative B would reduce the susceptibility rating in year 2031 from a moderate or high rating down to low on 682 acres (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Mountain pine beetle – Reducing densities of lodgepole pine stands would greatly reduce the susceptibility to this forest insect. In addition, the removal of any trees infested at the time of implementation would directly reduce the beetle population and the amount of mortality in potential host trees. In comparison to Alternative A, implementation of Alternative B would reduce the susceptibility in year 2031 from a moderate or high rating down to low on roughly 142 acres (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Western Pine Beetle - In comparison to Alternative A, this alternative would reduce susceptibility to this insect in year 2031 from a moderate or high rating down to a low rating on roughly 250 acres. Reducing densities of pure ponderosa pine and mixed stands would greatly reduce the susceptibility to this forest insect. In addition, the removal of trees infested at the time of implementation would directly reduce the beetle population and the amount of mortality in potential host trees (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Dwarf Mistletoe - All harvest prescriptions under this alternative would discriminate against heavily infected trees. In comparison to Alternative A, this alternative would reduce the rating in year 2031 for dwarf mistletoe in Douglas-fir from moderate or high down to low on 426 acres. Removal of heavily infected trees within proposed units would improve the overall vigor and growth rate on affected acres (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Due to the presence of these forest pathogens and existing stand conditions in adjacent drainages, this alternative is not expected to have a measurable indirect effect on these disturbance factors in untreated stands within or adjacent to the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

3.2.6.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on susceptibility to forest pathogens would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effect on susceptibility to forest insects or diseases and therefore no cumulative effects (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Implementation of Alternative B in combination with past management activities would improve the overall health of the stands within the area and reduce stand susceptibility to forest insects and diseases of concern. The cumulative effect of this alternative, in comparison to No Action, would be a larger percentage of the stands' species compositions, structures, and densities reflecting conditions resistant to damage from western spruce budworm, Douglas-fir beetle, mountain pine beetle, western pine beetle, and/or dwarf mistletoe (P.R., Vol. 2, Insects and Diseases).

Chapter 3-23 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.2.7 Created Openings

The Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR 219.27) states that the maximum size limit for openings created in one harvest operation by even-aged management is 40 acres. Created openings that exceed 40 acres are subject to a 60-day public notice and review and approval by the Regional Forester, except where catastrophe exists.

The Forest Plan Glossary provides the following definition for created opening: “Related to vegetation management, openings are created only by planned, even-aged, regeneration timber harvesting. Only those even-aged timber harvest practices that reduce stocking levels to less than 10 percent create openings. Canopy cover will normally be used to determine stocking levels. Residual stands of mature trees will generally have less than 10 percent stocking when fewer than 10 to 15 trees per acre remain following harvest. Even-aged harvest practices that may result in the creation of openings include clear-cutting, reserve tree clear-cutting, seed tree cutting, shelterwood seed cutting, and overstory removal.” The Forest Plan discloses that an opening created by timber harvesting will, as a minimum, no longer be considered an opening when a new forest stand is established (i.e. certified as adequately stocked) in that opening.

Based on stand examination data collected in 1997 and the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), there are currently 21 management created openings (i.e. have less than 10 percent canopy cover) totaling 170 acres within the 11,056 acre analysis area. Of these management created openings, the largest is 34 acres in size (P.R., Vol. 2, Created Openings).

3.2.7.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not include any silvicultural prescriptions and therefore would not result in any management created openings (P.R., Vol. 2, Created Openings).

3.2.7.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

With the exception of the commercial thin prescription, this alternative does not include any even- aged silvicultural treatments that could potentially result in created openings (P.R., Vol. 2, Created Openings).

Chapter 2 of this document (Section 2.4.1) discloses that a range of 50 to 70 trees/acre would be retained under the commercial thin prescription. Modeling of the post-harvest stand conditions with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002) indicates canopy covers would range from 21 to 68 percent immediately after implementation of this prescription in year 2012. Based on this information, none of the proposed activities associated with Alternative B would result in management created openings (P.R., Vol. 2, Created Openings).

3.2.7.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on created openings would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Chapter 3-24 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Since neither Alternative A nor B would result in any additional management created openings, no incremental or cumulative effects would occur as a result of these alternatives (P.R., Vol. 2, Created Openings).

3.2.8 Aspen and Reforestation Potential

Past artificial reforestation efforts on 1,649 acres within the 11,056 acre analysis area have been very successful. Records indicate that 100 percent of those areas planted are certified as stocked and established (P.R., Vol. 2, Aspen & Reforestation).

3.2.8.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any activities and would have no effect on sustainability of aspen or reforestation potential (P.R., Vol. 2, Aspen & Reforestation).

3.2.8.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative would cut or girdle most competing conifer species, cut or girdle older decadent aspen trees, and cut competing brush species across an estimated 34 acres. The combination of these actions would release existing aspen trees, encourage sprouting of aspen, and promote the overall health, vigor, and sustainability of aspen in the project area (P.R., Vol. 2, Aspen & Reforestation).

Past artificial reforestation efforts on 1,649 acres within the 11,056 acre analysis area have been successful. Records indicate that 100 percent of those areas previously planted are certified as stocked and established. Based on review of proposed activities and professional experience in similar situations, tree planting on 358 acres under Alternative B would be expected to yield similar results (P.R., Vol. 2, Aspen & Reforestation).

3.2.8.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on these resources would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future vegetative management activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would influence this resource. One ongoing activity that could potentially affect aspen and reforestation potential within the cumulative effects area is discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Chapter 3-25 Clear Prong Final EIS

in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years. Given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within plantations, any undesirable effects on reforestation potential would be inconsequential.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on aspen sustainability or reforestation potential and therefore no cumulative effects on these resources (P.R., Vol. 2, Aspen & Reforestation).

Alternative B would not be expected to result in any cumulative effects on the reforestation success or potential within the analysis area. As explained above, given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within plantations, any undesirable effects on reforestation potential associated with this ongoing activity would be inconsequential. Relative to aspen, regardless of the effects of ongoing activities, Alternative B would result in a slight incremental enhancement of aspen within the cumulative effects area (P.R., Vol. 2, Aspen & Reforestation).

3.2.9 Snags

As used in this analysis, a snag is defined as a standing dead tree. Snags are an important component of the environment, providing not only habitat for a variety of birds and terrestrial species, but also serving as a source of coarse woody debris which plays an important role in soil productivity. Snags are known to fluctuate both spatially and temporally and are often found in clumps for a variety of reasons including insect infestations, root diseases, and/or wildfire. Appendix A of the Forest Plan discloses desired ranges of snags for individual potential vegetation groups (PVGs) and goes on to explain that those desired ranges are not meant to provide an even distribution of snags across every acre of the forested landscape, but to provide numbers that serve as a guide to approximate an average condition for an activity area (Forest Plan, Appendix A).

The following discussions compare the existing conditions of the 11,056 acre analysis area with the desired conditions portrayed in Appendix A of the Forest Plan. The snag densities presented in Table 3-14 were derived from stand examination data collected in 1997 (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). Acreage values in parentheses reflect the acres of each PVG within the analysis area.

As displayed in Table 3-14, snag densities in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group greatly exceed desired ranges in all PVGs except PVG 4, which has snag densities slightly above the desired range. Snags per acre greater than 20 inches in diameter are within the desired range for all PVGs, but near the low end of that desired range within PVGs 2 and 4 (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Table 3-14 Existing Snag Densities and Desired Conditions in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 4 PVG 5 (2,293 acres) (1,299 acres) (272 acres) (207 acres) Diameter Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Group Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition 10” – 20” 1.8-2.7 5.9 1.8-4.1 7.6 1.8-2.7 3.6 1.8-5.5 13.8 >20” 0.4-3.0 0.5 0.2-2.8 1.0 0.2-2.1 0.4 0.4-3.5 2.1 Total 2.2-5.7 6.4 2.0-6.9 8.6 2.0-4.8 4.0 2.2-9.0 15.9 PVG 6 PVG 7 PVG 8 PVG 10 (1,658 acres) (3,733 acres) (406 acres) (1,188 acres) Diameter Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Group Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition 10” – 20” 1.8-5.5 10.7 1.8-5.5 12.2 1.8-7.5 20.7 1.8-7.7 15.8 >20” 0.2-3.5 0.6 0.2-3.5 1.5 0.2-3.0 1.0 NA NA Total 2.0-9.0 11.3 2.0-9.0 13.7 2.0-10.5 21.7 1.8-7.7 16.5

3.2.9.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

Implementation of this alternative would have no effect on the existing quantities or distribution of snags within the 11,056 acre analysis area. Although some recruitment and loss of snags would

Chapter 3-26 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences occur over time through natural processes, assuming no uncharacteristic wildfires or major insect epidemics, snags densities in all PVGs would remain similar to the existing conditions portrayed in Table 3-14 (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

3.2.9.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative does not propose any new management activities on 80 percent (8,866 acres) of the analysis area and therefore would have no effect on snag densities on these untreated acres. Although some recruitment and loss of snags would occur over time through natural processes, assuming no uncharacteristic wildfires or major insect epidemics, snag densities on these untreated acres would remain similar to the existing conditions portrayed in Table 3-14. Therefore no additional discussion of these untreated acres is provided (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Design features associated with this alternative require that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable in comparison to existing snag densities (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

A range of 50 to 70 live trees per acre would be retained under the commercial thin prescription, 20 to 70 live trees per acre following the sanitation/improvement prescription, and 20 to 30 live trees per acre under the individual tree selection prescription (Section 2.4.1). These trees, which would typically be the larger diameter trees present, would provide more than enough live trees to meet future recruitment needs relative to desired snag quantities (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

The slash disposal methods of lopping created slash and whole-tree yarding (i.e. accumulating trees at the landings before limbs and tops are severed) would have no effect on snag quantities or distribution since only live trees would be harvested (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

This alternative does however include prescribed burning to treat natural fuels on 613 acres and broadcast burning to treat harvest-related fuels on 119 acres. These burning activities could result in mortality of live trees retained within units, particularly if those trees are relatively small in diameter or if thin-barked species such as grand fir or subalpine fir have been retained. In addition, burning activities could consume existing snags retained in affected units. Given that none of the other proposed activities are expected to have a measurable effect on snag densities, for the purposes of this analysis proposed units associated with these burning activities that would have the same silvicultural prescription implemented prior to the burn were assessed as separate activity areas (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

For example, since all stands proposed to receive the commercial thin prescription currently reflect similar stand characteristics and would reflect similar stand densities, species compositions, and size classes following implementation, the cumulative acres of these stands that would be burned after harvest were assessed as a single activity area. Similar activity areas were established for the individual tree selection and sanitation/improvement prescriptions if followed by burning operations. A fourth activity area was also established to assess the effects of proposed burning activities within those stands where no mechanical treatment would occur prior to the prescribed burn. Since both the prescribed burn and the broadcast burn would involve low to moderate intensity/severity fires and therefore result in similar effects, there was no need to differentiate between the two types of burning activities. The following discussions summarize the pertinent stand characteristics for the activity areas and the effects of Alternative B.

Commercial Thin followed by Prescribed Fire – This 87 acre activity area consists primarily of PVG 2 and currently has, on average, 5.5 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group and 0.1 snags/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. Following implementation of harvest activities retained live trees (50 to 70/acre) would consist primarily of Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. Although these species are generally considered to be tolerant of fire, given the immature nature of these stands some mortality would be expected in the smaller diameter live trees retained in affected units (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Chapter 3-27 Clear Prong Final EIS

Individual Tree Selection followed by Broadcast Burn – This 53 acre activity area consists primarily of PVGs 5, 6, and 7 and currently has, on average, 24.9 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group and 2.9 snags/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. Following implementation of harvest activities retained live trees (20 to 30/acre) would consist primarily of large diameter Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. Given the diameters of retained trees, their resistance to fire damage, and the low to moderate intensity of the proposed burn, mortality of retained live trees would not be expected (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Sanitation/Improvement followed by Prescribed Fire or Broadcast Burn - This activity area (90 acres) consists primarily of PVGs 3 and 10 and currently has, on average, 9.0 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group and 0.8 snags/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. Following implementation of harvest activities retained live trees (20 to 70/acre) would consist primarily of Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. However, given the species compositions in some of these stands, grand fir, subalpine fir, and/or Engelmann spruce would also be retained in some locations. Although Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine are generally considered to be tolerant of fire, given the immature nature of these stands some mortality would be expected in the smaller diameter live trees retained in affected units. The same would hold true for retained grand fir, subalpine fir, and/or Engelmann spruce, but to a greater extent (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Prescribed Fire Only - This 502 acre activity area consists primarily of PVGs 2, 7, and 10 and currently has, on average, 9.9 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group and 0.9 snags/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. This prescription does not include any mechanical treatments prior to the prescribed burn. Therefore all existing live trees would be present including both fire tolerant and intolerant species. This low to moderate intensity fire would result in a mosaic burn pattern with an estimated 40 to 70 percent of the area actually affected. Roughly half of the understory trees would be expected to die on affected acres with minimal mortality in the trees greater than eight inches in diameter (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags; Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

In summary, although burning activities under this alternative would increase the number of small diameter snags, the use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning would have little effect on overall snag densities or distributions in the preferred diameters groups (i.e. 10 to 20 inches and greater than 20 inches dbh). While it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of larger diameter grand fir, subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, and/or lodgepole pine that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Following implementation of Alternative B snag densities in the preferred diameter groups would remain similar to the existing conditions across the 11,056 acre analysis area. Snag densities in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group would continue to exceed desired ranges in all PVGs. Snags per acre greater than 20 inches in diameter would remain within the desired range for all PVGs, but near the low end of that desired range within some PVGs (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

3.2.9.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on the quantities or distribution of snags would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any snag recruitment that may have occurred since those actions. Given that the existing conditions reflect the ongoing activity of firewood cutting and that snag densities, in comparison to desired conditions, do not appear to have been greatly affected by this practice, this activity was not considered to be a relevant ongoing activity for the purposes of this assessment. There are no other ongoing or

Chapter 3-28 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on snag densities therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

The use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning associated with implementation of Alternative B would both increase and decrease snag densities slightly on affected acres. However, given that snag densities would remain similar to the existing conditions across the 11,056 acre analysis area, any undesirable or beneficial incremental effects within the cumulative effects area would be immeasurable (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

3.2.10 Noxious Weeds

Noxious weeds are defined as a state-designated plant species that causes negative ecological and economic impacts to both agricultural and other lands within the state. Noxious weeds pose a threat to native plants, often out-competing them. Habitats for these species are usually disturbed areas of compacted dry soils. Roads, powerline corridors, cutting units, burned areas, trails, and other areas associated with human activity, particularly motorized use, are likely locations for noxious weeds. Field surveys along existing roads in the 11,056 acre analysis area identified the presence of nine small populations of noxious weeds. Five of these populations are rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea) and four are spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa). Known populations of rush skeletonweed are distributed across the analysis area, while spotted knapweed is generally located in the southern portion of the analysis area along road #417H. Although only nine populations have been identified, given the existing road and motorized trail system and past timber harvest activities, noxious weeds are likely present in other unknown locations. Other noxious weeds known to be present in adjacent drainages and potentially present in the analysis area include Canada thistle (P.R., Vol. 2, Noxious Weeds).

3.2.10.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

Recreation-related introduction and distribution of noxious weeds would continue to occur adjacent to roads open to vehicles and along motorized trails in the analysis area. Noxious weed species present in the area would likely increase in population size and distribution. Significant populations of plants would continue to be addressed through the District’s noxious weed program (P.R., Vol. 2, Noxious Weeds).

3.2.10.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Proposed activities associated with this alternative would not be expected to introduce noxious weeds into the analysis area. Design features associated with this alternative (Section 2.4.2.1) require the cleaning of all off-road equipment potentially carrying noxious weed seeds prior to moving into the analysis area. This alternative may however contribute to distribution of noxious weeds already present. As noted above, existing noxious weed populations would be addressed through the District’s noxious weed program (P.R., Vol. 2, Noxious Weeds).

This alternative does not include construction of any new permanent roads and all newly constructed temporary roads would be closed to motorized traffic upon completion of use (Section 2.4.2.2).

Chapter 3-29 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.2.10.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on noxious weeds would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities. There are no foreseeable future vegetative management activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would influence noxious weeds. Two ongoing activities that could potentially affect noxious weeds within the cumulative effects area are discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Cascade Ranger District Noxious Weed Program – The District’s annual program consists of identifying and treating noxious weed infestations as funding and priorities allow. Treatments typically focus on infestations along open roads. Implementation of this program is expected to continue into the future with roughly 200 acres treated annually.

Motorized Recreation – Motorized use of existing open roads and designated trails would continue into the future. Currently 43.2 miles of road and 4.8 miles of trail are open to motorized use and susceptible to introduction and/or distribution of noxious weeds. The remainder of this cumulative effects area is closed to all off-road and off-trail motorized use except snowmobiles.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on noxious weeds

Given design features associated with Alternatives B, this alternative would not be expected to introduce noxious weeds into the analysis area. This alternative may however incrementally increase the distribution of existing noxious weeds in the area (P.R., Vol. 2, Noxious Weeds).

3.2.11 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate, Sensitive, and Forest Watch Plant Species

This section of the document describes the existing conditions, potential habitat, and effects of the alternatives on threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, sensitive, and Forest watch plants. Since the potential effects of the alternatives would be limited to the project area, the 11,056 acre project area was used as the analysis area (Figure 3-1). However where pertinent, discussions of threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, sensitive, and Forest watch plants known to occur outside of the analysis area are also provided.

The assessment disclosed in this document was initiated following review of species identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as threatened, endangered, proposed, or candidate species; the current and proposed Regional Forester's sensitive species list, and; the current Boise National Forest watch plants list. In addition, documented locations, records of previous field surveys, and Conservation Data Center records were reviewed during the course of this analysis.

Although the most recent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Species List does not identify any threatened, endangered, proposed, or candidate plant species on the Cascade Ranger District, those species with potential habitat on the Boise National Forest, or species present on adjacent national forests, were considered in this assessment.

Field surveys were conducted in the analysis area in the summer of 2004 and in the fall of 2009. However, the entire analysis area was not surveyed. Instead surveys focused on potential habitat for species that may be affected by proposed activities, with an emphasis on ground-disturbing activities (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Chapter 3-30 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

There are no documented populations of any threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, sensitive, or Forest watch plant species within the analysis area. The closest known documented site of any plant species of concern (Lewisia sacajaweana) occurs along a high elevation ridge roughly two miles north/northeast of the analysis area. Potential habitat does however exist within the analysis area for several species. Therefore the following discussions are limited to those species with potential habitat within the analysis area. Discussions of all listed, proposed, candidate, sensitive, and Forest watch plant species documented to occur, or having the potential to occur on the Cascade Ranger District, are presented in the Biological Assessment/Evaluation contained in the planning record (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Ute ladies'-tresses (Spiranthes diluvialis) – Ute ladies'-tresses is listed as a threatened species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This species is a white-flowered, perennial member of the orchid family. Habitat for this species is characterized as wetlands and riparian areas including springs, seeps, and wet meadows. Its known elevation range is 700 to 7,000 feet. The closest known site for S. diluvialis is in eastern Idaho about 250 miles from the Boise National Forest. Limited potential habitat for this orchid occurs in the analysis area with the greatest potential in the riparian, wetland, and meadow vegetation like the habitat along Clear Creek. Field surveys failed to locate any individuals or populations (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Slender moonwort (Botrychium lineare) – Slender moonwort, a small, perennial fern, has been identified by the Regional Forester as a sensitive species. Potential habitat is described as moist, grass/forb meadows, open woodlands, and montane forests. It is known to occur at elevations ranging from sea level to 10,000 feet. Vegetative associates are common species like strawberry, pussy-toes, bedstraw, snowberry, huckleberry, fescue, and a variety of conifer species and aspen. Surveying for this plant can be difficult, not only because of its size, but because it may remain dormant underground for several years. There are eleven known sites for B. lineare with the closest being on the Sawtooth National Forest. While potential habitat for this species was found in the analysis area, no individuals or populations were found during surveys (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Least moonwort (Botrychium simplex) – Least moonwort is a very small perennial fern that has been proposed for listing as a sensitive species. In appearance and habitat it is similar to its extremely rare relative Botrychium lineare. Least moonwort is known to occur in a wide variety of habitats, including meadows and forested types, usually from 4,000 to 6,000 feet in elevation. It was recently discovered on the McCall Ranger District on the Payette National Forest growing in moist, grassy openings in lodgepole pine stands. Because of the wide variety of habitats, the analysis area provides potential habitat for least moonwort. However surveys revealed no populations or individuals of this species (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Sacajawea’s bitterroot (Lewisia sacajaweana) – This species, formerly referred to as Kellogg’s bitterroot (Lewisia kelloggii), is proposed for listing as a sensitive species. This plant is found on relatively sparse upper slopes and ridge tops that may or may not have an overstory, generally of subalpine fir and whitebark pine. It usually occurs on granitic soils of fractured bedrock, near late snow banks between 5,400 and 9,500 feet in elevation. Known populations in Idaho occur in Custer, Elmore, and Valley Counties. The central Idaho populations represent a unique taxonomic entity. There are more than ten documented sites on the Boise National Forest. While no documented sites occur within the project area, one site is located approximately two miles west of Railroad Pass with another near Oro Mountain. Field surveys revealed that there are numerous locations with exposed granite rock in the analysis area that have the preferred habitat for Lewisia sacajaweana. However those surveys failed to identify any new populations or individuals (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Tall swamp onion (Allium validum) – Tall swamp onion, a Forest watch plant, is found in mid to high elevation (above 6,500 feet) swamps, lakes, and other riparian habitats in the spruce-fir vegetation zone. When in bloom in July and August, it is easily recognizable by its bright pink flowers and flat, succulent blue-green leaves. The status of tall swamp onion is considered stable on the Boise National Forest. Although limited, there is some suitable habitat in the analysis area. Surveys of potential habitat revealed no populations or individuals of this species (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Chapter 3-31 Clear Prong Final EIS

Scalloped moonwort (Botrychium crenulatum) - Scalloped moonwort, a tiny perennial fern and Forest watch plant, is noted for a wide variety of habitats including moist meadows, creek banks, shrub or tree dominated wetlands, springy spots, and wet roadside areas. The elevation range is typically from 3,900 to 8,200 feet. In the summer of 2004, several populations of Botrychium, including B. crenulatum, were discovered in a variety of habitats on the Lowman, Cascade, and Mountain Home Ranger Districts. While there is some limited habitat in the analysis area, surveys did not identify any populations or individuals of this species (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Leathery grapefern (Botrychium multifidum) - Another Forest watch plant, the evergreen species leathery grapefern is a widespread species found mainly in open meadows and fields at an elevation of sea level to 9,800 feet. Leathery grapefern has been found on the Cascade Ranger District at the edge of a grassy swale in a lodgepole pine/grouse whortleberry stand near Johnson Creek, roughly 15 miles from the analysis area. Habitat does exist for this species in the analysis area, however field surveys did not detect its presence (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Rattlesnake fern (Botrychium virginianum) - Rattlesnake fern, another Forest watch plant, is a deciduous moonwort. It is common to abundant in shaded forests and shrubby second growth, but rare or absent in arid regions. The elevation range of this plant is sea level to 4,900 feet. It is the most widespread Botrychium in North America. Habitat exists for this species in the analysis area, however field surveys did not note its presence (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

3.2.11.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any new management activities or ground-disturbance and is not expected to have any effect on threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, sensitive, or Forest watch plants (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

3.2.11.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Ute ladies'-tresses (Spiranthes diluvialis) - Habitat for this threatened plant is associated with wetlands and riparian areas that, with the exception of road-related activities, would be avoided with incorporated design features (Section 2.4.2.5). The potential impacts associated with road decommissioning and road restoration activities would be limited to the removal and/or replacement of culverts. The areas disturbed during these activities would be small and the impacts temporary. Given incorporated design features, the extent of potential effects, and the fact that field surveys did not identify this species as present, no effects would be expected (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Slender moonwort (Botrychium lineare) - Although no individual plants of this sensitive species were found during field surveys, given the wide variety of habitats within which this species occurs some unknown individuals could be present. However, any impacts resulting from implementation of this alternative would be limited to scattered individual plants, if present, and considered inconsequential (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Least moonwort (Botrychium simplex) - Similarly to Botrychium lineare, no individual plants of this proposed sensitive species were found during field surveys. Given the wide variety of habitats within which this species occurs, some unknown individuals could be present. Any impacts resulting from implementation of Alternative B would be limited to scattered individual plants, if present, and considered inconsequential (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Sacajawea’s bitterroot (Lewisia sacajaweana) - Several areas of potential habitat (i.e. relatively sparse upper slopes and ridgetops) exist within the analysis area for this proposed sensitive species. These sites are generally found near the upper elevation ridgelines where management activities would be limited. In addition, surveys of preferred habitat within the analysis area did not identify the presence of individuals or populations of this species. Nevertheless, some unknown individuals, if present, could potentially be affected by this alternative. However any impacts would be inconsequential and would not be expected to contribute to a loss of viability to the population or species (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Chapter 3-32 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Tall swamp onion (Allium validum) - Habitat for this Forest watch plant is associated with mid to high elevation (above 6,500 feet) swamps, lakes, and other riparian habitats that, with the exception of road-related activities, would be protected with incorporated design features (Section 2.4.2.5). The potential impacts associated with road decommissioning and road restoration activities would be limited to the removal and/or replacement of culverts. Given incorporated design features, the extent of potential effects, and the fact that field surveys did not identify this species as present, no impacts would be expected (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Scalloped moonwort (Botrychium crenulatum) - Habitat for this Forest watch plant is associated with a wide variety of habitats including moist meadows, creek banks, shrub or tree dominated wetlands, springy spots, and wet roadside areas that, with the exception of road-related activities, would be avoided with incorporated design features (Section 2.4.2.5). The potential impacts associated with road decommissioning and road restoration activities would be limited to the removal and/or replacement of culverts. The areas disturbed during these activities would be small and the impacts temporary. Given incorporated design features, the extent of potential effects, and the fact that field surveys did not identify this species as present, no impacts would be expected (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Leathery grapefern (Botrychium multifidum) - Habitat for this Forest watch plant is associated with open meadows and fields. While there are no fields within the analysis area, design features associated with this alternative (Section 2.4.2.5) would protect potential habitat associated with meadows. Given incorporated design features and the fact that field surveys did not identify this species as present, this alternative would not be expected to have any impacts on this species (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Rattlesnake fern (Botrychium virginianum) - Although no individual plants of this Forest watch species were found during field surveys, given the wide variety of habitats within which this species occurs, some unknown individuals could be present. However, any impacts resulting from implementation of Alternative B would be limited to scattered individual plants, if present (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

3.2.11.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, sensitive, and Forest watch plants or their habitats would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on any threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, sensitive, or Forest watch plants or their habitats (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Alternative B would not be expected to have any measurable direct or indirect effects on Spiranthes diluvialis, Allium validum, Botrychium crenulatum, Botrychium multifidum, or Botrychium virginianum. Therefore no incremental or cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Although Alternative B may impact individuals of Botrychium lineare, Botrychium simplex, or Lewisia sacajaweana, this alternative would not be expected to contribute to a trend towards Federal

Chapter 3-33 Clear Prong Final EIS

listing or cause a loss of viability to the populations or species. Therefore no incremental or cumulative effects are anticipated (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Alternative A would have no effect on Spiranthes diluvialis and no impact on any other candidate, sensitive, or Forest watch plant (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

3.3 Wildfire Susceptibility

This section describes the characteristics and patterns of the vegetation and fuel loads as they relate to wildfire susceptibility and discloses the effects of the alternatives on these components of the environment. The 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1) was used as the analysis area for this assessment. However a more intensive analysis was completed for an area encompassing 613 acres within the project area.

The analysis area does not occur within or immediately adjacent to any Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) as defined in the 2003 Forest Plan or the Valley County Wildfire Mitigation Plan. The closest residential area occurs approximately five miles to the southwest (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Summer thunderstorms typically generate in the desert area in the southern portion of the state and travel in a north to northeasterly direction following major river canyons such as the North Fork Payette River, of which Clear Creek is a tributary, and the Middle Fork Payette River. Although the probability of an ignition source being present to start a wildfire is unpredictable, records indicate that in excess of 40 ignitions have occurred within the 11,056 acre analysis area. Of these wildfires, all have been less than ten acres and most less than ¼ acre in size. One large fire in 1920 consumed slightly over 200 acres in the northeast portion of the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Vegetation across any landscape that developed historically under similar wildfire frequencies and intensities can be categorized into "fire regimes". Fire regimes are often characterized by the effects of fire on the vegetation and the frequency or return interval of those fires. Stands within the analysis area were categorized into the appropriate fire regime based on their habitat types which were collected during stand examinations completed in 1997. Based on that information roughly 21 percent of the 11,056 acre analysis area falls within the Non-lethal Fire Regime, 35 percent in the Mixed1 Fire Regime, 30 percent in the Mixed2 Fire Regime, and the remaining 14 percent in the Lethal Fire Regime (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Prior to man’s influence, stands in the Non-lethal Fire Regime typically experienced fires every 5 to 25 years. Wildfire in these stands commonly occurred as low intensity ground fires and resulted in tree mortality of 10 percent or less (Forest Plan, Appendix A). These frequent underburns kept fuel accumulations, ladder fuels, and stand densities at relatively low levels and inhibited the establishment of shade tolerant species such as subalpine fir and grand fir.

Stands in the Mixed1 Fire Regime have a typical fire return interval of 5 to 70 years and tree mortality generally ranges from 10 to 50 percent. The Mixed2 Fire Regime has a typical fire return interval of 70 to 300 years, with tree mortality ranging from 50 to 90 percent. Wildfire in these fire regimes often resulted in a wide-ranging mosaic pattern of burn intensities and mortality across the landscape (Forest Plan, Appendix A).

Stands in the Lethal Fire Regime have a typical fire return interval of 100 to 400 years and tree mortality usually exceeds 90 percent. Wildfires in this fire regime are infrequent, but are typically large, stand- replacing events (Forest Plan, Appendix A).

Chapter 3-34 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Based on professional judgment, the analysis area as-a-whole would generally reflect characteristic tree mortality rates following a moderate intensity wildfire. At a landscape level there is currently a low to moderate likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, intense fire. In many locations the presence of natural openings, topographic features (i.e. changes in aspect), and/or previously managed stands or existing roads disrupt large contiguous blocks of stands, thereby fragmenting the continuity of fuels and inhibiting the spread of wildfire. However the presence of dense understories and downed fuel accumulations in some stands could result in atypical fire intensities within localized areas (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Because of the undulating nature of the topography and the intermixed cooler and/or moister habitat types, large contiguous blocks of warm, dry habitat types are uncommon within the project area. Although this undulating topography reduces the probability of a large, high intensity wildfire, it also limits the use of prescribed fire as a practical management tool at a broad scale. The one exception consists of a 613 acre block of contiguous warm, dry habitat types in the southeast portion of the project area (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

This 613 acre block is dominated by stands in the Non-lethal and Mixed1 Fire Regimes and, based on stand data, has an average fuel load of 16 tons/acre. In contrast, a range of 6 to 10 tons/acre was believed to have occurred historically. Field reconnaissance of the area also reflects an abundance of ladder fuels in the less than three inch diameter class, and stand densities are unrepresentative of the historic conditions. The combination of these factors increases the probability of a ground fire moving into the crowns of trees and also would facilitate the rapid movement of fire through the area (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

For the purposes of this analysis, the Fire and Fuels Extension to the Forest Vegetation Simulator (Reinhardt and Crookston 2003) was used to estimate the effects of a wildfire on these 613 acres should an ignition occur. Specifically, the model was used to simulate a wildfire occurring in mid-August under typical weather conditions (i.e. 20 percent humidity, a mid-afternoon temperature of 80 degrees, and wind speeds of 20 miles/hour with that wind coming out of the southwest). Based on this modeling effort, such an event would result in flame lengths 9 to 12 feet in height (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Although the probability of an ignition is unpredictable, a wildfire with flame lengths of 9 to 12 feet would be uncharacteristic of the Non-lethal and Mixed1 Fire Regimes and would likely result in tree mortality on affected acres of around 75 percent of the trees less than five inches dbh and 46 percent mortality in trees greater than 20 inches dbh (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

3.3.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on stand densities, ladder fuels, fuel loads, or wildfire susceptibility. In general, the analysis area as-a-whole would continue to reflect characteristic tree mortality rates following a moderate intensity wildfire. At a landscape level there would continue to be a low to moderate likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, intense fire. However the presence of dense understories and downed fuel accumulations in some localized areas would continue to present conditions favorable to atypical wildfire intensities (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Relative to the 613 acre block of warm, dry habitat types in the southeast portion of the project area, flame lengths of 9 to 12 feet and atypical tree mortalities would be expected should a wildfire ignition occur (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

3.3.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

At a landscape level there would continue to be a low to moderate likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, intense fire. As disclosed above, tree mortality rates following a moderate intensity wildfire would likely be characteristic of the respective fire regime. Although this alternative would not change this fact, reducing densities of the overstory and understory trees on 1,654 acres and the associated treatments of created slash would reduce the expected fire intensity and enhance tree survival in managed stands should a wildfire ignition occur (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Chapter 3-35 Clear Prong Final EIS

Limited tree mortality would be expected in stands following implementation of the individual tree selection prescription due primarily to the lack of ladder fuels, the large diameter of retained trees, and the emphasis on retaining thick-barked, fire resistant species like Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. Although to a lesser extent, reductions of ladder fuels, stand densities, and retention of fire resistant species where present under the commercial thin and sanitation/improvement prescriptions would also improve wildfire survival rates. Thinning of sub-merchantable trees would reflect a subtle improvement relative to wildfire survival, primarily by providing more open space between retained trees (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Harvest-created slash resulting from this alternative would not be expected to have a noticeable effect on wildfire survival rates. In those harvest units where slash accumulations are expected to be of concern, slash would be disposed of with broadcast burns or prescribed fire following harvest, or the majority of created slash would be accumulated at landings by whole-tree yarding. In those units where sub-merchantable trees would be thinned, felled trees would be lopped and retained on site. The resultant slash would represent an increased fuel load and higher wildfire susceptibility on affected acres for roughly 2 to 3 years (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Under this alternative a low to moderate intensity/severity prescribed fire would be implemented in the 613 acre block of warm, dry habitat types in the southeast portion of the project area. This prescribed fire would result in a mosaic of burned and unburned vegetation, with approximately 40 to 70 percent of the area actually affected. Roughly half of the understory trees would be expected to die on affected acres with minimal mortality in the trees greater than eight inches in diameter. The prescribed fire would reduce the probability of crown fire development by reducing ground fuels and also by reducing the abundance of ladder fuels. Following implementation of this alternative, the Fire and Fuels Extension to the Forest Vegetation Simulator (Reinhardt and Crookston 2003) indicates that a wildfire ignition under typical weather conditions in mid-August (i.e. 20 percent humidity, a mid-afternoon temperature of 80 degrees, and wind speeds of 20 miles/hour with that wind coming out of the southwest) would result in flame lengths of about four feet on these 613 acres. Such an event would be similar to those seen in the Non-lethal and Mixed1 Fire Regimes prior to man’s influence and would likely result in limited tree mortality on affected acres. In addition, in comparison to Alternative A (No Action), a wildfire under these conditions would be easier to suppress and should pose less of a threat to the health and safety of firefighters and the general public (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

3.3.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on wildfire susceptibility would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effect on wildfire susceptibility and therefore no cumulative effect (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

The cumulative effect of Alternative B in combination with past activities would be reduced ladder fuels, downed fuel accumulations, and stand densities within the analysis area, and therefore reduced fire intensities and severities should a wildfire ignition occur (P.R., Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Chapter 3-36 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.4 Air Quality

This document describes the characteristics and relevant rules, regulations, and laws related to air quality. This section also discloses the effects that the various alternatives would have on air quality.

The basic framework for controlling air pollutants is the 1970 Clean Air Act, as amended in 1990 and 1999 (State of Idaho 1998). The primary means by which this is accomplished is through the implementation of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). In addition to the NAAQS, other sections or provisions of the Clean Air Act, as amended, address general conformity, prevention of significant deterioration, and visibility (i.e. regional haze). There are no mandatory Class I airsheds or nonattainment areas within the project area, therefore elements pertaining to general conformity do not apply. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) does not apply prevention of significant deterioration increments to prescribed fire or burning of harvest-created slash because such effects are considered temporary and short-lived sources. Therefore the remainder of this discussion will focus on the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and visibility.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established NAAQS for six air pollutants; carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, lead, and particulate matter. As they relate to this project, particulate matter associated with smoke emissions is the pollutant of most concern because of potential impacts on human health and visibility. The NAAQS for PM-10 (particulate matter less than 10 micrometers in aerodynamic diameter) were established in 1987 and updated in December of 2006. The NAAQS for PM-2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in aerodynamic diameter) were established in 1997. Although PM-2.5 causes more severe health effects and visibility impacts than PM- 10, the PM-10 standards were retained because they also have the potential to cause significant health effects. The majority of particulate matter from smoke emissions is usually in the PM-2.5 size class. According to the NAAQS, PM-10 cannot exceed 150 micrograms/cubic meter (ug/m3) within a 24 hour period and PM-2.5 cannot exceed 35 ug/m3 within a 24 hour period either alone or in combination with existing pollution sources.

An area that violates the NAAQS is designated as "nonattainment". For the purposes of regulating ambient air quality, the Idaho DEQ does not have baseline data for the affected environment. However, air quality in the project area is generally good to excellent due to the lack of urban and industrial sources and a minimum of other activities (vehicle dust and emissions) in the area that would generate pollutants.

The Montana/Idaho Airshed Group, of which the Boise National Forest is a member, was formed in 1998 and yearly releases its operating guidelines for public and private land managers within Idaho. The objective of those guidelines is to coordinate prescribed burning among members to minimize smoke- related impacts to air quality. Idaho DEQ has certified to the EPA that the operations of the Montana/Idaho Airshed Group meet the Basic Smoke Management Program elements described in the interim air quality policy. The Montana/Idaho Airshed Group monitors daily emissions, burning activities, and particulate matter levels with established monitoring units and certified meteorologists. Existing sites near Idaho City and McCall monitor PM-2.5 levels. The Forest Service, in cooperation with Idaho DEQ, has placed a PM- 10 monitor near Garden Valley.

The Montana/Idaho Airshed Group tracks smoke inputs across the two states by “airshed”. Airsheds are geographical areas delineated by similar atmospheric characteristics (Operating Guide, August 2008). The Airshed Group also identifies population centers within these airsheds that are sensitive to smoke.

Class I Areas are subject to the most stringent restrictions relative to additional air pollution. The Clean Air Act established the national visibility goals of preventing any future, and the remedying of any existing, impairment of visibility in mandatory Class I Areas where impairment results from man-made air pollutants. The EPA's regional haze regulations (July 1, 1999) require that all states develop visibility plans to address regional haze impairment of Class I Areas within their state, as well as Class I Areas outside of their state that may be affected by emissions from within their state.

Chapter 3-37 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 3-15 lists the Class I Areas, population centers, and other sensitive areas within a 100 kilometer radius of the project area where smoke impacts may occur. Table 3-15 also discloses the approximate distance and general direction from the project area.

Table 3-15 Smoke Sensitive Areas Distance from Project Area Site Direction from Project Area (Air Miles) Sawtooth Wilderness Area (Class I) 66 Southeast City of Donnelly 21 Northwest City of Cascade 10 Northwest City of McCall 31 North Warm Lake Community 12 East Yellow Pine Community 38 South Garden Valley 35 North

3.4.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any burning activities. Therefore no direct or indirect effects on air quality are expected. Impacts from dust and vehicle emissions in the area associated with recreational activities would not change from the existing conditions (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

3.4.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Impacts from dust and vehicle emissions in the area associated with recreational activities would not change from the existing conditions. The combination of these impacts and dust/vehicle emissions resulting from implementation of this alternative would not noticeably affect air quality in the vicinity of any of the sensitive areas, population centers, or in any Class I Areas (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

For the purposes of this analysis, the Smoke Impact Spreadsheet (USDA 2003) was used to model smoke production, dispersion, and potential impacts on sensitive areas, population centers, and Class I Areas within 100 kilometers (62 miles) of the project area.

Burning of slash piles on a maximum of 36 acres of landings from whole-tree yarding activities would most likely occur in the late fall or early winter after snowfall. Weather conditions assumed for burning of landing piles were 50 percent humidity, a mid-afternoon temperature of 55 degrees, and wind speeds of five miles/hour with that wind coming out of the southwest. Based on the results of modeling with the Smoke Impact Spreadsheet, all 36 acres of these piles could be ignited within the same 24 hour period without violating the NAAQS for PM-2.5 in any sensitive area, population center, or Class I Area (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

Broadcast burning of harvest-generated activity fuels in eight units totaling 119 acres under this alternative would occur in the spring or fall months. Weather conditions assumed for prescribed burning in early May were 30 percent humidity, a maximum mid-afternoon temperature of 75 degrees, and wind speeds of five miles/hour with that wind coming out of the southwest. Weather conditions assumed for prescribed burning in mid-September were 30 percent humidity, a maximum mid- afternoon temperature of 60 degrees, and wind speeds of five miles/hour with that wind coming out of the southwest. Based on the results of numerous modeling efforts with the Smoke Impact Spreadsheet, all 119 acres could be ignited in the spring or fall without violating the 24 hour NAAQS for PM-2.5 in any sensitive area, population center, or Class I Area (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

Prescribed burning of natural fuels on 613 acres under this alternative would occur in the spring or fall months. Weather conditions assumed for prescribed burning in mid-May were 30 percent humidity, a mid-afternoon temperature of 75 degrees, and wind speeds of five miles/hour with that wind coming out of the southwest. Weather conditions assumed for prescribed burning in mid-September were 30 percent humidity, a mid-afternoon temperature of 60 degrees, and wind speeds of five miles/hour with that wind coming out of the southwest. Based on the results of numerous modeling efforts with the

Chapter 3-38 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Smoke Impact Spreadsheet, a maximum of 500 acres could be ignited in the spring and a maximum of 700 acres could be ignited in the fall without violating the 24 hour NAAQS for PM-2.5 in any sensitive area, population center, or Class I Area (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

Prior to any burning activities, fuels specialists would prepare prescribed burn plans specifically addressing site, fuel moisture, and weather conditions. Efforts would also be made to coordinate burning activities with other entities that may impact the same airshed. In addition, coordination with the Montana/Idaho Airshed Group would be required. As an active partner in this regulatory program, the Boise National Forest must submit all planned prescribed burn projects prior to such activities taking place. Based on weather conditions and other proposed activities within the airshed, a decision would be made by the Airshed Group as to whether or not a burn could be implemented on a given day (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

Although this alternative would temporarily degrade air quality in the immediate vicinity of the project area, within the constraints discussed above, proposed burning activities would remain below the NAAQS established by the Clean Air Act even when combined with average ambient pollutants (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

Completion of the burning activities under the constraints outlined above would be contingent upon uncontrollable weather conditions, as well as timing of harvest activities. It is anticipated that burning would begin in the fall of 2011 and be completed in the fall of 2015.

3.4.3 Cumulative Effects

The area used to assess this project's cumulative effects on air quality consists of a 100 kilometer radius around the project area. There are no past burning activities that, when combined with proposed activities, would result in a noticeable incremental effect on air quality. Foreseeable future actions considered in this cumulative effects analysis include burning activities associated with numerous timber harvests and fuels reduction projects on the Cascade Ranger District and similar projects on the Payette National Forest to the north.

Alternative A does not propose any burning activities and therefore would have no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on air quality (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

Smoke, dust, and vehicle emissions that result from Alternative B could combine with air pollutants from other projects, including other prescribed fires, wildfires, mining activities, and/or recreation uses on adjacent National Forest, State, and private lands. Each of these activities is largely driven by seasonal opportunities or requirements that present similar parameters on resource managers, landowners, and users to conduct their activities simultaneously. Even though the impacts of these activities are largely unforeseen, of short duration, and widely spaced over vast, complex terrain, degradation of air quality could occur at localized sites from cumulative effects (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

The Boise National Forest is a member of the Montana/Idaho Airshed Group and would use the services of the Montana/Idaho Airshed Group Meteorologist and the most appropriate smoke monitoring unit to determine the appropriate day burning could be implemented and not exceed NAAQS. Should a cumulative airshed problem be detected, immediate action would be taken to curtail this project’s contribution by delaying or coordinating timing of burning operations (P.R., Vol. 4, Air Quality).

Chapter 3-39 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.5 Roadless Resource

This section of the document describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on inventoried roadless areas (IRAs). The discussions have been partitioned into two sections; wilderness attributes and roadless area characteristics.

The term "inventoried roadless area" refers to an area at least 5,000 acres in size without developed and maintained roads and substantially natural. An inventoried roadless area is specifically defined as an area that meets the minimum criteria for wilderness as defined by the Wilderness Act of 1964 and Forest Service Guidelines.

On the Payette and Boise National Forests, inventoried roadless areas (IRAs) were initially identified during the Roadless Area Resource Evaluation of 1972 (also known as RARE I) and the RARE II of 1979. These inventories were updated and areas re-evaluated for wilderness suitability as part of the initial forest planning efforts completed on the Payette and Boise National Forests in 1988 and 1990, respectively. As part of the 2003 Forest Plan revision process on these Forests, the inventories were further reviewed and updated. During the re-inventory process, changes were made to the roadless area boundaries based on project-level development and by examining boundaries for areas that may have been omitted. Roadless area boundaries were adjusted to reflect previous project developments such as timber harvest units, new road construction, and utility corridors; undeveloped areas missed in previous inventories; and areas that have changed, over time, affecting their eligibility for classification as roadless and undeveloped. Roadless acreages also changed due to the use of new technology (GIS) to determine acreages of defined areas. The updated inventory was included in the Forest Service Roadless Area Conservation, Final Environmental Impact Statement, Volume 2 (USDA 2000).

Portions of two IRAs, Peace Rock and Stony Meadows, occur within the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-9). Appendix C of the Final EIS for the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans (July 2003) provides an overview description of these roadless areas (FEIS, Volume 3, Appendix C).

3.5.1 Wilderness Attributes (Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs)

This section of the document will focus on the wilderness attributes of natural integrity, apparent naturalness, opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation, special features or values, and wilderness manageability and boundaries for the Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs, as well as potential effects on those attributes. Effects were assessed by determining the area changed from an undeveloped to developed condition based on the criteria established in the Wilderness Act, section 2(C) and Forest Service Handbook 1909.12, Section 7. These criteria are used to evaluate if activities would affect an area to such a degree that a portion of, or the entire area, would no longer meet the roadless area definition and therefore be omitted from consideration as potential wilderness.

A key factor in analyzing the effects of management activities on roadless areas is disturbance. Disturbance is the alteration, through human interference, of the area's undeveloped character. The intensity, magnitude, and nature of the disturbance determine if the area would be considered developed.

The Peace Rock IRA (#0402026) occurs entirely on the Boise National Forest and is inventoried at 191,712 acres, of which 2,194 acres occur within the project area. This IRA occurs on the Cascade, Emmett, and Lowman Ranger Districts, primarily between the Middle Fork Payette River and the Deadwood River. The Stony Meadows IRA (#0402027) is inventoried at 13,553 acres, all of which occurs on the Cascade Ranger District. Roughly 252 acres of the Stony Meadows IRA occur within the project area (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

The Peace Rock IRA is the largest roadless area on the Boise National Forest and there has been relatively high public interest in this area becoming wilderness. There has been relatively low public interest in the Stony Meadows IRA becoming wilderness. The Forest Plan does not recommend either of these IRAs for wilderness designation.

Chapter 3-40 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Figure 3-9 Inventoried Roadless Areas

Chapter 3-41 Clear Prong Final EIS

Given the potential for activities adjacent to the IRAs to impact some wilderness attributes, the entire 11,056 acre project area was used as the analysis area (Figure 3-9). The following discussions of the wilderness attributes are specific to those portions of the IRAs that occur within the Clear Prong Project Area (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Apparent Naturalness/Natural Integrity – The majority of the Peace Rock IRA continues to have a predominantly natural appearance. However, roughly six miles of motorized Trail #099 occur within the IRA. This trail is well maintained and impairs the apparent naturalness/natural integrity of this portion of the IRA. The trail has a four foot running surface and in some areas has a cut and fill slope similar to a narrow road (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

The natural integrity and apparent naturalness of the Stony Meadows IRA are also generally intact. Two miles of motorized Trail #106, which skirts the northeast boundary of the project area, impairs the natural integrity and apparent naturalness of a portion of this IRA (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Primitive Recreation/Solitude – The relative closeness of existing open roads, generally less than ½ mile, and the inclusion of motorized Trail #099 limit the opportunity for primitive recreation and solitude in portions of the Peace Rock IRA within the analysis area. Existing roads, especially the #409 and #417F roads, receive considerable use throughout the snow-free season. In addition, Road #409 serves as a groomed snowmobile trail in the winter months. Trail #099 also receives a considerable amount of motorized use in the summer and fall. Sounds associated with these motorized uses impair the opportunity for primitive recreation and solitude in those portions of the Peace Rock IRA adjacent to the trail and the surrounding roads (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Similarly, sounds associated with motorized uses on Road #433 and Trail #106 limit the opportunity for primitive recreation and solitude in those portions of the Stony Meadows IRA adjacent to these motorized routes (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Special Features, Special Values, or Special Places - Those portions of the IRAs within the analysis area do not contain any special features, values, or places (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Wilderness Manageability and Boundaries – Peace Rock has some very complex and irregular boundaries in some locations due to “cherry stem” boundaries caused by excluding roads and past timber harvests. Likewise, the boundary of the Stony Meadows IRA is complex and has an irregular shape. Boundaries associated with both IRAs would be difficult to identify on the ground and difficult to administer. However, creating more manageable boundaries would result in reduced acreages of the IRAs (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

3.5.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any activities within the Peace Rock or Stony Meadows IRAs and therefore would have no direct or indirect effects on the wilderness attributes (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

3.5.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Apparent Naturalness/Natural Integrity - With the exception of 110 acres of prescribed fire in the Peace Rock IRA, this alternative does not propose any activities within the boundaries of either IRA. As disclosed in Chapter 2 (Section 2.4.2.5), prescribed fires would be designed to burn at low or moderate intensities/severities, thus emulating the occurrence of a natural event. In addition, construction of fireline would not occur within the IRA unless necessary to control an escaped fire (Section 2.4.2.5). Given these incorporated design features, this alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on the apparent naturalness or natural integrity of either IRA (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Primitive Recreation/Solitude - Noise from harvest-related operations, particularly helicopter yarding, would reduce or diminish feelings of solitude and remoteness in those portions of the IRAs

Chapter 3-42 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences within and immediately adjacent to the analysis area. However this would be a temporary impact on solitude with noise associated with helicopter yarding limited to a period of 5 to 7 weeks (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Special Features, Special Values, or Special Places – There are no special features, values, or places identified within those portions of the IRAs that occur in the analysis area, therefore this alternative would have no effect on these wilderness attributes (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Wilderness Manageability and Boundaries – With the exception of noise from harvest-related operations, proposed activities would not result in direct or indirect effects on either IRA. Potential wilderness boundaries would not be affected under Alternative B (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Conclusion –Alternative B would have a temporary effect (5 to 7 weeks) on solitude in portions of the Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs. This alternative would not have any other direct or indirect effects on either IRA, nor would it result in the development of any portion of either IRA. Both IRAs in their entireties would remain suitable for wilderness designation by Congress (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

3.5.1.3 Cumulative Effects

With the exception of temporary impacts on solitude, neither of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct or indirect effects on the wilderness attributes of either IRA. Therefore an area encompassing the project area and adjacent activities that could add incrementally to impacts on solitude was selected as the cumulative effects area. Specifically, the 26,937 acres encompassing the Clear Prong and adjacent Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project Areas was used to assess cumulative effects for this resource (Figure 3-10).

Since 1959 an estimated 4,019 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. The impacts of these past activities relative to development of the IRA are reflected in the existing conditions disclosed above. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would impact this resource. One ongoing activity that could potentially affect solitude within the cumulative effects area is discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Neither of the alternatives would have any direct or indirect effects on natural integrity, apparent naturalness, special features, or wilderness manageability and boundaries of either IRA. Therefore neither of the alternatives would result in any cumulative effects on these attributes (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Alternative A would have no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on the opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation in either IRA (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Helicopter noise associated with Alternative B would result in a temporary impact (5 to 7 weeks) on opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation in the Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs. While it is highly unlikely that helicopter yarding would occur simultaneously in both the Clear Prong and Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project Areas, there is the potential for the two projects to result in incremental impacts on solitude in either IRA for a 2 or 3 week period (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Chapter 3-43 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 3-10 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Chapter 3-44 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.5.2 Roadless Area Characteristics (Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs)

This section of the document will focus on the roadless area characteristics of the Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs including high quality soil and water; diversity of plant and animal species; habitat for threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive species; watersheds that function as sources of public drinking water; semi-primitive and primitive recreation opportunities; natural appearing landscapes; traditional cultural properties and sacred sites, and; other unique or special features. This section of the document also discloses the potential effects of the various alternatives on those attributes.

The roadless characteristics identified were derived from a roadless area characteristic description contained in the Forest Service Roadless Area Conservation Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2000). While these characteristics are not unique to roadless areas and will be present outside of as well as within roadless areas, they often represent what lends a particular roadless area social and ecological value. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the following descriptions of the existing roadless characteristics were taken directly from Appendix H of the Southwest Idaho Land and Resource Management Plans FEIS and therefore represent the IRAs in their entireties. It should be noted that this information was compiled at a much larger scale (Ecogroup) than this project area and, by necessity, used coarse data sources. Therefore discussions here may or may not be consistent with descriptions of the existing conditions reflected elsewhere in this document that relied on more site- specific information and/or apply to different analysis areas. Figure 3-9 displays those portions of the IRAs that occur within the project area.

High Quality Soil and Water - Soil quality and geomorphic integrity in roadless areas are generally very high due to the relative lack of disturbance in these areas. A common indicator of geomorphic integrity is the road density expressed in terms of miles/square mile of roadless area. A lower road density implies a higher geomorphic integrity. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS discloses that both the Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs have geomorphic integrity ratings of very high indicating that the road density is from 0.0 to 0.1 miles/square mile.

Water quality integrity ratings are intended to reflect the current extent of water quality condition in the IRA based on past and current disturbances. Three indicators were used to assess water quality and watershed integrity within roadless areas: (1) road miles in riparian conservation areas, (2) the number of road/stream crossings within each roadless area, and (3) the amount of damaged stream segments within the roadless area. The three indicators were then combined to arrive at an overall composite watershed quality integrity rating for each individual roadless area. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS indicates that the Peace Rock and Stony Meadows IRAs have high water quality integrity ratings.

Diversity of Plant and Animal Species - The Southwest Idaho Ecogroup landscape represents a complex system that has been influenced by a number of factors including the interaction of soils, aspect, elevation, climate, and disturbance. All these factors have shaped the vegetative composition and patterns across the landscape, which in turn have influenced the biodiversity.

At a coarse scale, the diversity of potential vegetation groups (PVGs) and other land or water forms within a given roadless area was used as an indicator of potential diversity of plants, mammals, amphibians, fish, reptiles, and invertebrates. While it is recognized that other subcomponents within a PVG such as structural stages, age classes, species composition, and density are important diversity variables, the complexity of display and detail of such data would be at a finer scale than desired for the overview of diversity characteristics by individual IRA. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS indicates that PVGs 2, 7, and 10 dominate the Peace Rock IRA, while PVGs 7 and 10 dominate the Stony Meadows IRA.

Inventoried roadless areas also conserve native biodiversity which impedes the spread of non-native invasive species such as noxious weeds. Infestation by these invaders can substantially change overall biological diversity by affecting the amount and distribution of native plants and animals. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS indicates roughly two percent of the Peace Rock IRA is infested with noxious

Chapter 3-45 Clear Prong Final EIS

weeds. Appendix H indicates there are no known noxious weed infestations within the Stony Meadows IRA.

Habitat for Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate, and Sensitive Species (TEPCS) - Roadless areas often support a diversity of habitats and communities, providing or affecting habitat for a number of threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive species. Appendix H of the Forest Plan provides information on presence/absence of TEPCS that was derived from coarse scale ecogroup databases. For this project assessment, more site-specific data and analysis relative to TEPCS has been developed. Reference Sections 3.2.11, 3.12, and 3.13 for discussions specific to TEPCS plants, fish, and wildlife.

Sources of Public Drinking Water - National Forest System lands often contain watersheds that are important sources of public drinking water. Management of these watersheds to maintain the flow of clean water is crucial to a growing population. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS indicates there are no watersheds within the Peace Rock or Stony Meadows IRAs that provide surface water to facilities that treat and distribute that water for domestic purposes.

Semi-primitive and Primitive Recreation Opportunities - Forest landscapes offer recreation settings that are managed to provide the physical and social environments for a variety of recreation opportunities and experiences. The Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) describes the different classes of outdoor environments, activities, and experience opportunities ranging from the primitive end of the spectrum with low visitor use, to the more urban setting where highly developed facilities and high numbers of users would likely be encountered. While IRAs can contain a fairly wide range of ROS settings, they are valued particularly for the settings that are toward the primitive or semi- primitive end of the spectrum.

ROS classes may vary by season due to a shift in travel management strategies for summer and winter reflected in the current travel plan, and/or a reduction of road access due to snow during winter. As a result there can be dramatic differences between summer and winter ROS classes. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS discloses the ROS setting for the Peace Rock IRA as 24 percent semi-primitive non- motorized and 55 percent semi-primitive motorized in the summer months, and 2 percent semi- primitive non-motorized and 96 percent semi-primitive motorized in the winter months. Appendix H discloses the ROS setting for the Stony Meadows IRA as 49 percent semi-primitive non-motorized in the summer months and 75 percent semi-primitive motorized in the winter months.

Natural Appearing Landscapes - High quality scenery, especially scenery with natural-appearing landscapes, is a primary reason that people choose to recreate. Most of the IRAs in the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup are essentially natural appearing and have a high degree of scenic integrity. In addition to natural appearing landscapes, indicators that can be used to represent high quality scenery are the scenic variety classes. There are three variety classes that identify the scenic quality of the landscape based on elements of landform, rock-form, vegetation, waterbodies, and streams. Of most importance in this case is Variety Class A, Distinctive Landscape. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS indicates that roughly 31 percent of the Peace Rock IRA is Variety Class A, with 41 percent of the Stony Meadows IRA considered Variety Class A.

Traditional Cultural Properties and Sacred Sites - Traditional cultural properties are places, sites, structures, art, or objects that have played an important role in the cultural history of a group. Sacred sites are places that have special religious significance to a group. Many of the nation’s cultural resources are located on federal lands, with National Forest system lands containing a substantial share. Many of these resources have not yet been inventoried, especially those that occur in IRAs where development has not occurred. Most inventories for cultural resources have been conducted on lands where development or management projects have been proposed because of legal requirements to disclose the impacts of such projects on cultural resources. IRAs that have a high potential or sensitivity of cultural resource sites were identified during development of the Forest Plan FEIS. Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS identifies the Peace Rock IRA as having a high potential or sensitivity to such sites. However, Appendix H of the Forest Plan FEIS does not identify the Stony Meadows IRA as having a high potential or sensitivity to such sites.

Chapter 3-46 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Other Unique or Special Features - IRAs may contain special or unique features that contribute to the biological, recreational, historic, and scenic values of the areas. Special features are unique or special examples of plant and animal communities, geologic features, scenic grandeur, or other locally identified attributes that merit special consideration. Special or unique features specific to the Peace Rock IRA include: eligible, suitable, or designated Wild and Scenic River; unique and scenic geologic formations (e.g. high peaks, gorges, canyons, cliffs, etc.); high elevation lakes and/or cirque basins; threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, or sensitive species or habitat, and; special recreational opportunities. Special or unique features specific to the Stony Meadows IRA include: high elevation lakes and/or cirque basins, and; threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, or sensitive species or habitat.

3.5.2.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any activities within or adjacent to the Peace Rock or Stony Meadows IRA and therefore would have no direct or indirect effects on any roadless characteristic (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

3.5.2.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

High Quality Soil and Water – This alternative would not affect any of the indicators used to assess geomorphic integrity, water quality, or watershed integrity within any roadless area. The existing condition of these indicators within the IRAs would be maintained (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality, Water Yield, Slope Stability, Soil Productivity).

Diversity of Plant and Animal Species – This alternative would not increase or decrease the acres of any PVG within either IRA (P.R., Vol. 2, PVG).

Habitat for Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate, and Sensitive Species - Section 3.2.11 discloses that Alternative B would have no effect on Spiranthes diluvialis; no impact on Allium validum, Botrychium crenulatum, Botrychium multifidum, or Botrychium virginianum, and; may impact individuals but would not likely contribute to a trend toward Federal Listing or cause a loss of viability to the population or species of Botrychium lineare, Botrychium simplex, or Lewisia sacajaweana (P.R., Vol. 2, TES Plants).

Section 3.12 of this document discloses that Alternative B would have no effect on bull trout and no impact on westslope cutthroat trout (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Section 3.13.16 discloses that Alternative B may affect but is not likely to adversely affect Canada lynx and would have no effect on northern Idaho ground squirrel. Section 3.13.16 also discloses that Alternative B would have no impact on mountain quail, peregrine falcon, rocky mountain bighorn sheep, spotted bat, greater sage grouse, bald eagle, and common loon; would have a beneficial impact on Townsend’s big-eared bat, and; may impact individuals or habitat but would not likely contribute to a trend towards Federal listing or cause a loss of viability to the population or species for white-headed woodpecker, American three-toed woodpecker, boreal owl, fisher, flammulated owl, great gray owl, northern goshawk, wolverine, gray wolf, and Columbia spotted frog (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Sources of Public Drinking Water - There are no watersheds within the Peace Rock or Stony Meadows IRAs that provide surface water to facilities that treat and distribute that water for domestic purposes (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Semi-primitive and Primitive Recreation Opportunities – This alternative would maintain the existing semi-primitive motorized and non-motorized ROS settings within the two IRAs in both the summer and winter months (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Chapter 3-47 Clear Prong Final EIS

Natural Appearing Landscapes - The current amount of high scenic value class landscape (Variety Class A) within the IRAs would remain unchanged under this alternative (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Traditional Cultural Properties and Sacred Sites – Alternative B would not have any direct or indirect effects on historically significant sites. Previously identified sites would be protected under this alternative. The State Historic Preservation Officer has concurred with the Forest’s no adverse effect determination (P.R., Vol. 8, Cultural Resources).

Other Unique or Special Features – Alternative B would not impact any unique or special features found within the Peace Rock or Stony Meadows IRA (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

3.5.2.3 Cumulative Effects

The potential effects of any alternative on the roadless area characteristics would be limited to the project area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-9).

None of the alternatives considered in this analysis would have any measurable direct or indirect effects on the indicators of high quality soil and water, diversity of plant and animal species, sources of public drinking water, semi-primitive and primitive recreation opportunities, natural appearing landscapes, traditional cultural properties and sacred sites, or other unique or special features within either IRA. Therefore regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or foreseeable future projects, neither Alternative A nor B would add incrementally to those effects (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

Reference Sections 3.2.11, 3.12, and 3.13 for discussions specific to the cumulative effects of the alternatives on TEPCS plant, fish, and wildlife species (P.R., Vol. 5, Roadless).

3.6 Recreation

This section of the document discusses the existing conditions of the recreation resources and activities, as well as the effects of the various alternatives on those resources and/or uses. The analysis area used in this assessment consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-11).

The greatest use of the analysis area occurs in the fall months during hunting seasons for deer and elk. In addition to local residents, many hunters from the Treasure Valley use the area for prolonged visits, often up to one week in duration. No designated campsites exist in the analysis area, however several dispersed campsites are present and used throughout the summer and fall months. Many of the users, particularly big game hunters, use these dispersed sites for camping on a recurring, annual basis (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Snowmobiling is also a popular activity along existing travel routes and throughout the analysis area where the terrain permits. Portions of the #409 road are groomed for snowmobiling after snow closes the road to wheeled vehicles. This groomed route leads to the Warm Lake area where several other trails converge. During a typical winter, snow levels on the #409 road permit this activity in December, with conditions becoming marginal by the first of April (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Roughly 43.2 miles of road are currently open and accessible to motorized passenger vehicles during the snow-free season. The remaining 6.1 miles of existing roads are closed year-round to motorized vehicles. The #409 road, which eventually connects to State Highways 22 and 55, is the most heavily traveled road in the analysis area. Traffic counters on the #409 road indicated an average of about 40 passenger vehicles per day traveled past the counter location during the period of June to November of 2001. Table 3-16 summarizes the existing roads within the analysis area, including authorized and unauthorized roads, and discloses their current management status relative to motorized passenger vehicles. Reference Figure 3-11 for locations of travel routes in the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Chapter 3-48 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Figure 3-11 Travel Routes in 11,056 Acre Analysis Area

Chapter 3-49 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 3-16 Existing Roads in the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area Miles Closed to Motorized Road Total Length Miles Open to Motorized Passenger Passenger Vehicles During Snow- Number (miles) Vehicles During Snow-free Season free Season 405 3.7 3.7 0 405A 0.2 0 0.2 405B 2.4 1.2 1.2 405B1 0.2 0 0.2 405B2 0.1 0 0.1 405C 2.5 2.5 0 405C1 1.3 1.3 0 405D 2.4 2.4 0 406 5.3 5.3 0 406A 1.4 1.4 0 406B 0.2 0 0.2 406C 0.8 0 0.8 407 3.5 3.5 0 407A 0.3 0.3 0 407D 1.5 1.5 0 407X 0.6 0.6 0 409 5.1 5.1 0 409B 0.9 0.5 0.4 409B1 0.9 0 0.9 409C 3.2 3.2 0 409C2 0.2 0 0.2 409C3 0.3 0 0.3 409D 2.4 2.4 0 417 1.6 1.6 0 417F 0.5 0.5 0 417F1 0.5 0.5 0 417H 2.0 2.0 0 417H1 0.7 0.7 0 433 2.1 2.1 0 433D 0.2 0 0.2 Unauthorized 2.3 0.9 1.4 Totals 49.3 43.2 6.1

Three designated trails exist within the analysis area. Roughly 300 feet of non-motorized Trail #079, which receives a low to moderate amount of use, provides a cutoff to the more extensive Trail #033 which lies outside of the analysis area. Trail #106, which lies along the ridge forming the northeastern boundary of the analysis area, receives a low to moderate amount of motorized use, most of which occurs during the big game hunting season. Trail #099 lies along the ridge that forms the south and southeast boundaries of the analysis area, running from East Mountain Lookout to Clear Creek Summit. This motorized ATV trail receives moderate to heavy use throughout most of the summer and fall (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Similarly to the rest of the Boise National Forest, the analysis area provides recreation opportunities for local residents as well as residents of the Treasure Valley. The use of both roads and trails (motorized and non-motorized) within the analysis area has increased over the last decade and is expected to continue to increase in the future as the demand for both motorized and non-motorized recreation increases (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

A number of roads and/or trails within the analysis area have been identified as travel-ways that Valley County, Idaho has asserted a claim of rights-of-way under Federal Law R.S. 2477 and the common law, laws of the predecessors of Idaho Territory, Idaho Territory, and the State of Idaho (Assertion, Valley County Idaho, filed September 8, 1997). The maps and/or narratives accompanying Valley County’s Assertion identify claims of rights-of-way on all or portions of the following travel-ways within the analysis area: roads #433, #433D, #409, #417F, #417F1, and two unnamed routes (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Chapter 3-50 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

The vast majority of the project area has a Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) classification of Roaded Modified, comprising about 10,088 acres. Another 950 acres, occurring largely within the upper reaches of the East Fork of Clear Creek, are classified as Semi-Primitive Motorized. The remaining 18 acres occur near Clear Creek Summit and are classified as Roaded Natural (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

3.6.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any changes to the current management of roads or trails within or adjacent to the analysis area, nor would it effect the current level of recreational use in the area. No direct effects to the existing patterns or levels of recreational use or current ROS classifications would occur (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

3.6.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Design features associated with this alternative (Section 2.4.2.2) prohibit plowing of snow on the #409 road except to facilitate reforestation efforts. Plowing to facilitate tree planting, if necessary, would occur in late April or early May when conditions for snowmobiling are typically poor. Given this design feature and the fact that harvest operations would not occur during the winter months when snowmobiling conditions are ideal, this alternative would not be expected to have noticeable effects on snowmobiling activities (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

During active harvest operations (two to three years), users of existing open roads and dispersed campsites would be displaced by harvest activities in the analysis area. Frequent users of these roads and/or dispersed campsites would likely take advantage of similar opportunities on other road systems in or adjacent to the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Following implementation of Alternative B, roads currently closed year-round would again be closed year-round. In addition, an estimated 4.4 miles of existing road (#405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1) not needed for the long term management of the area would be decommissioned to reduce future maintenance needs and to reduce sedimentation. Those portions of roads #405B and #405B2 that would be decommissioned under this alternative are currently inaccessible to motorized vehicles because of previously removed culverts and existing vegetation. However decommissioning of portions of roads #405C, #405D, and #417HX1 would reduce the miles of road open to passenger vehicles in the analysis area from the existing 43.2 miles down to 40.1 miles (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Proposed maintenance activities (i.e. graveling the road surface) on the #409 road and general maintenance of roads used in hauling operations would enhance driver safety and comfort and reduce maintenance needs in the long term (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

With the exception of Trail #079 which lies within a unit that would receive the thinning of sub- merchantable trees prescription, none of the designated trails lie within any proposed unit. Nevertheless, users of Trails #079, #106, and #099 could be temporarily displaced by active harvest operations occurring sporadically over a period of two to three years. However, displacement associated with any one trail would likely be for no more than a few weeks. If displaced, users of these trails would likely take advantage of other trails in or adjacent to the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Design features associated with Alternative B (Section 2.4.2.2) would require that any portions of Trails #106 and #099 affected by proposed harvest units would be maintained free of logs and/or slash resulting from harvest activities. In addition, ground-based skidding would not be allowed down the trails nor would created slash be piled within 25 feet of the trail treads. Should it be necessary to skid across the trails, the Purchaser would be required to reconstruct the disturbed portion of the trail tread following activities. Portions of Trail #079 within units receiving the thinning of sub-merchantable trees prescription would also be maintained free of material resulting from thinning operations. Created slash in these thinning units would be pulled back and scattered and/or hand-piled a minimum of 25 feet from the trail tread. Given incorporated design features, this alternative would not be expected to have

Chapter 3-51 Clear Prong Final EIS

any effect on trail use, or the quality of that trail, beyond the potential for temporary displacement discussed above (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Based on maps provided in Valley County’s asserted claim of rights-of-way, one unnamed route parallels the existing unauthorized road #417HX1, occurring approximately 300 feet to the west. Alternative B would decommission 0.8 miles of road #417HX1 but would have no effect on access management along the unnamed route to the west. This alternative would not eliminate access to any road or trail that Valley County, Idaho has asserted a claim of rights-of-way under Federal Law R.S. 2477 and the common law (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Alternative B does not propose any new activities within that portion of the project area classified as Semi-Primitive Motorized. There would be some level of temporary road construction and/or mechanical treatments within the Roaded Modified and Roaded Natural ROS classifications. However, these activities would be consistent with the current settings that exist within the vast majority of the project area in these two ROS classifications. In the case of both ROS classifications, recreation management may be secondary to other resource needs and vegetation restoration may be the dominant emphasis. A wide range of management activities and objectives may occur, generally being guided by the adopted visual quality objectives which, as explained in Section 3.7, would be met. Given that there would be no change from the current ROS classifications, Alternative B would be consistent with Forest Plan direction (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

3.6.3 Cumulative Effects

With the exception of displacement of recreationists using open roads and/or trails, none of the alternatives are expected to result in any measurable direct or indirect effects on this resource. Therefore an area encompassing the project area and adjacent activities that could add incrementally to displacement of recreationists was selected as the cumulative effects area. Specifically, the 26,937 acres encompassing the Clear Prong and adjacent Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project Areas was used to assess cumulative effects for this resource (Figure 3-10).

Since 1959 an estimated 4,019 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 3,235 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. This cumulative effects area currently has roughly 62 miles of road open to motorized use during the snow-free season and an additional 31 miles of trail are present. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would impact this resource. One ongoing activity that could potentially affect displacement of recreationists within the cumulative effects area is discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project – This project occurs in the 6th field HUC immediately to the east of the Clear Prong Project Area. During active harvest operations (two to three years), users of existing open roads and dispersed campsites would be displaced by harvest activities in the project area. Frequent users of these roads and/or dispersed campsites would likely take advantage of similar opportunities on other road systems in the vicinity. Users of Trails #033, #078, #101, #106, #107, and #110 could also be temporarily displaced by active harvest operations over a period of two to three years. However, displacement associated with any one trail would likely be for no more than a few weeks. Users of these trails would likely take advantage of other trails in the vicinity. This project does not include any activities adjacent to the remaining trails in the project area. The use of these other trails would be unaffected by this project.

Alternative A would not result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on current or future access, recreational use, or recreational opportunities within the area (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

Alternative B could result in temporary displacement of recreationists during active harvest operations occurring sporadically over two to three years, and could add incrementally to displacement of recreationists attributable to the Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project. However, given the 62 miles of road open to motorized use within this cumulative effects area and the low likelihood that both projects would be active at the same time, sufficient alternate sites should be available to minimize

Chapter 3-52 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

displacement of recreationists to adjacent drainages. Relative to trail users, the incremental effect of Alternative B in combination with the Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project would be potential displacement of users of Trail #106 for a period of a few weeks (P.R., Vol. 6, Recreation).

3.7 Scenic Environment

This section of the document discusses the existing conditions and characteristics of the scenic environment within the project area, as well as the effects of the various alternatives on those resources. The analysis area used in this assessment consists of the 11,056 acre project area as seen from sensitive viewing locations identified in the Forest Plan. Figure 3-11 displays the analysis area and applicable sensitive viewing routes/locations.

While most all National Forest lands can be viewed from high vista points or from aircraft, the esthetic concern varies along with the types of viewers, number of viewers, and the view duration. During the Forest Planning effort various visual quality objectives (VQOs) were established for seen areas. These VQOs function as indicators of allowable levels of induced change on the landscape. VQOs defined in the Forest Plan and relevant to this analysis area include:

Partial Retention (PR) - Management activities may be visible but remain subordinate to the characteristic landscape.

Modification (M) - Management activities may dominate the characteristic landscape, but must concurrently use natural, established form, line, color, and texture. Activities should appear as natural occurrences when viewed in foreground or middleground distances.

The distance from which a landscape is viewed has an effect on how much detail, pattern, color, line, and texture a viewer sees. To capture this difference, various distance zones are established from the sensitive viewing areas:

Foreground (Fg) - That portion of a view from the observer to ¼ to ½ mile from the observer. The limit of this zone is based upon distances at which textural details can be perceived.

Middleground (Mg) - That portion of a view from ¼ or ½ mile up to three to five miles from the observer. Texture is characterized by the masses of trees in stands of uniform tree cover.

Background (Bg) - The visible terrain beyond the foreground and middleground where individual trees are not visible but are blended into the total fabric of the stand. Also, that portion of a view between three to five miles from the observer, and as far as can be seen.

A third component of the scenic environment relates to the degree of variety (variety class) within a visual landscape. The more distinctive the variety class, the more restrictive the VQO. In contrast, those landscapes with minimal variety usually have a less restrictive VQO.

The 11,056 acre analysis area occurs within Management Area 17. The Forest Plan identifies visually sensitive travelways or use areas within this management area and specifies the VQOs that are to be achieved. Table 3-17 below discloses those visually sensitive use areas or travelways that provide views into the project area and identifies their VQOs.

Table 3-17 Visual Quality Objectives for the 11,056 Acre Analysis Area Sensitive Route or Area Visual Quality Objective Forest Road #417 Fg Modification & Mg Modification Forest Road #409 Fg Modification & Mg Modification Forest Trails #099 and #106 Fg Partial Retention & Mg Modification East Mountain Lookout Fg Partial Retention & Mg Modification Fg – Foreground Mg - Middleground

Chapter 3-53 Clear Prong Final EIS

The following discussions describe the existing viewsheds as seen from the individual sensitive locations, and are specific to those viewing distances of concern.

Forest Road #417 - The #417 road originates on privately owned lands approximately ten miles southwest of the analysis area and traverses primarily Forest Service lands along the upper slopes of East Mountain. The location of this road provides excellent views of Cascade and the valley below. Evidence of past timber harvest activities on both private and Forest Service administered lands is obvious within the foreground, middleground, and background viewing distances along most of this route (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Roughly two miles of the #417 road lie within the project area and provide the only views of the analysis area from this road. Foreground and middleground views along this section of road alternate from those where previous management activities are apparent to those dominated by dense timber with little evidence of past management (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Forest Road #409 - Road #409 parallels Clear Creek for an estimated 12 miles prior to dropping over Clear Creek Summit and into the Middle Fork Payette River drainage. The majority of this section of the road occurs in a wide valley on private lands before entering the analysis area. Views of numerous past timber harvests, most at light intensities, are evident in the foreground and middleground distances along this section of road (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Upon entering the analysis area from the west, slopes adjacent to the #409 road begin to steepen and impede the view beyond the immediate foreground of this road. Along the lower portion of the #409 road much of the landscape is characterized by young or immature forested conditions as a result of plantations initiated in the 1970s. As one travels further to the east, a mature forested condition prevails in the immediate foreground as the #409 road ascends to Clear Creek Summit. However evidence of intensive timber harvest is visible in a number of locations (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Forest Trails #099 and #106 - Trail #099 lies along the ridge that forms the south and southeast boundaries of the analysis area, running from East Mountain Lookout to Clear Creek Summit. This motorized trail receives moderate to heavy use throughout most of the summer and fall. The view from this trail, when looking into the analysis area, is dominated by dense timber with little evidence of past management activities visible within the foreground until the traveler approaches Clear Creek Summit. In general, views into the middleground are obstructed by vegetation. Where the vegetation and/or topography allows, evidence of previous management activities is visible in the middleground distance along most of this route (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Motorized Trail #106 which lies along the ridge forming the northeastern boundary of the analysis area receives a low to moderate amount of use. Similar to Trail #099, the foreground views into the analysis area are dominated by mature timber with little evidence of past management activities. Views into the middleground, when not obstructed by vegetation, provide evidence of previous management activities along most of this route (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

East Mountain Lookout – Evidence of previous management activities within the foreground of East Mountain Lookout, which burned down in 2003, are not obvious. Although visible in the middleground viewing distances, evidence of past management activities do not dominate the viewshed (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

3.7.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on the vegetation or the visual quality of the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

3.7.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Most vegetative management activities can affect the visual resources to some degree. The greater the degree of visual contrast that is created, the greater the potential effect on the visual resources. The

Chapter 3-54 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences degree of disturbance or visual contrast on the landscape also depends upon the steepness of the terrain, screening effects of vegetation, and location of management activities in relation to the critical viewpoints or viewing areas. Implementation of Alternative B would result in some subtle changes in the viewsheds. However, Forest Plan Visual Quality Objectives (VQOs) would be met (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

This alternative would rely heavily on the commercial thin and sanitation/improvement prescriptions to accomplish project objectives disclosed in Chapter 1. Both of these prescriptions would include retaining roughly 70 percent of the merchantable trees within affected stands (Section 2.4.1). Although the appearance of stands would be noticeably changed relative to stand densities, these prescriptions would not result in affected acres dominating any viewshed (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Thinning of sub-merchantable trees and the use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning would have similar effects. In the case of prescribed fire and broadcast burning, design features associated with this alternative (Section 2.4.2.5) stipulate burning at low or moderate intensities/severities with an estimated 40 to 70 percent of the acres actually affected. Although the appearance of affected stands would be noticeably different, these activities in and by themselves would not dominate any viewshed (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

This alternative also includes 129 acres of the individual tree selection prescription. While the actual amount of this prescription visible from any given viewpoint would vary according to the viewer's location, the amount of potential change was deemed sufficient enough to warrant the following individual discussions relative to sensitive viewing locations (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Forest Road #417 – This alternative does not include any individual tree selection prescriptions immediately adjacent to the #417 road. Proposed activities within the middleground viewing distance, although potentially visible from certain locations, would be consistent with the established VQOs of foreground and middleground modification (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Forest Road #409 – This alternative does not include any individual tree selection prescriptions immediately adjacent to the #409 road. One 45 acre unit would occur in the foreground viewing distance roughly ¼ mile south of the #409 road. However the existing topography and vegetation would screen views of this unit from this travel route. In general, proposed activities within the middleground viewing distance would also be screened by steep and undulating topography to the north and south of this road. Nevertheless, given the amount of traffic on this road a number of design features have been incorporated to minimize effects on the scenic environment along this route. As disclosed in Section 2.4.2.6, at least half of the trees greater than 24 inches in diameter would be retained within 300 feet of the #409 road; all slash accumulated at landings located on the #409 road would be piled and burned and any noticeable amounts of debris following pile burning would be repiled and burned again, and; created slash in harvest units within 150 feet of the #409 road would be lopped so that the slash lies within 12 inches of the ground unless units are whole-tree yarded or broadcast burned. In conclusion, the VQOs of foreground and middleground modification would be met (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Forest Trails #099 and #106 – Although this alternative does not include any individual tree selection prescriptions in the vicinity of either of these trails, additional measures were incorporated to minimize effects on the viewsheds as seen from these routes. Design features associated with this alternative (Section 2.4.2.6) require retention of approximately 50 percent of the merchantable stems within 150 feet of the #106 and #099 trails. In addition, created slash within 150 feet of these trails would be lopped so that it lies within 12 inches of the ground unless units are to be whole-tree yarded or broadcast burned. Proposed activities within the middleground viewing distance would generally be obscured by dense vegetation immediately adjacent to the trails and would not be expected to dominate the viewshed. The VQOs of foreground partial retention and middleground modification would be met (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

Chapter 3-55 Clear Prong Final EIS

East Mountain Lookout – This alternative does not include any silvicultural activities that would be visible within the foreground viewing distance of this location. Proposed activities within the middleground viewing distance, although noticeable, would not dominate the viewshed due in large part to partial screening by vegetation and the topography. The VQOs of foreground partial retention and middleground modification would be met (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

3.7.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on the scenic environment would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-11).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would not result in any direct or indirect effects on visual quality. Therefore no cumulative effects would result from this alternative (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

The incremental effect of Alternative B in combination with past activities would be additional subtle changes in the viewsheds, primarily in the form of reduced stand densities. The analysis area would continue to reflect primarily a mature forested condition but with evidence of management activities apparent in many locations (P.R., Vol. 7, Visuals).

3.8 Cultural Resources

This section of the document discusses the existing conditions of the cultural resources, as well as the effects of the various alternatives on those resources. The analysis area used in this assessment consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1).

Cultural resources are evidences of human activity, the clues that let us reconstruct past activities. These resources include stone tools and tin cans, log cabins and old roads, mine tailings, corrals, and even historic landscapes associated with mining and ranching. These resources document the patterns of human activity in the forest.

The National Historic Preservation Act is the principle guiding regulation for the management of cultural resources during any proposed activity that might affect the condition or context of cultural resources. As part of the review process, a determination of both significance and effect is prepared by the Forest Archeologist and submitted to the State Historic Preservation Officer and/or Advisory Council on Historic Preservation for comment. This determination states whether the proposed activities will affect significant cultural resources in the area, and if so, to what extent.

The assessment disclosed in this document was initiated following review of previous cultural resource surveys completed in the area, as well as additional surveys completed in 1998. Due to the sensitivity of the resources, locations of historically significant sites are not disclosed in this document (P.R., Vol. 8, Cultural Resources).

3.8.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any new ground-disturbing activities and would have no direct or indirect effects on historically significant sites (P.R., Vol. 8, Cultural Resources).

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3.8.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative would not be expected to have any direct or indirect effects on historically significant sites. Previously identified sites would be protected under this alternative and design features have been incorporated to protect sensitive sites (Section 2.4.2.8). Contract provisions that would halt all degrading activities would be included with this alternative to prevent adverse impacts to any unknown sites discovered during implementation. The State Historic Preservation Officer has concurred with the Forest’s no adverse effect determination (P.R., Vol. 8, Cultural Resources).

3.8.3 Cumulative Effects

Since the effects of proposed alternatives would be limited to the project area only, the area used to assess the cumulative effects on cultural resources consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Neither of the alternatives considered in detail are expected to have any direct or indirect effects on cultural resources, therefore no cumulative effects are anticipated (P.R., Vol. 8, Cultural Resources).

3.9 Range Resource

This section of the document discusses the existing conditions of the range resources, as well as the effects of the various alternatives on those resources. The 11,056 acre project area was used as the analysis area for this assessment (Figure 3-1).

Roughly 1,392 acres of the Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment falls within the southern end of the analysis area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with Road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years (P.R., Vol. 9, Range).

3.9.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any new management activities and therefore would have no effect on this resource. The quality and quantity of forage within this allotment and the current use patterns would remain similar to the existing conditions (P.R., Vol. 9, Range).

3.9.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Given that sheep associated with this allotment are confined primarily to the main ridgeline, silvicultural activities would be expected to have minimal effects on the existing quality or quantity of forage or the use patterns of that forage. Log hauling activities could however conflict with the herding of sheep up or down the #405 road in the early summer months should both activities occur during the same time period (P.R., Vol. 9, Range).

3.9.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on livestock grazing would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Chapter 3-57 Clear Prong Final EIS

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effect on livestock grazing and therefore no cumulative effects (P.R., Vol. 9, Range).

Alternative B would not have any measurable direct or indirect effects on the existing use patterns or the quality or quantity of forage associated with this allotment, therefore no incremental or cumulative effects would occur relative to these resources. Since there are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities that would result in a noticeable increase in motorized use on the #405 road, log hauling associated with this alternative would not be expected to result in any cumulative effects as it relates to herding sheep down this route (P.R., Vol. 9, Range).

3.10 Financial Assessment

Non-commodity values are difficult to assess, especially on projects of this scope. The full range of non- timber costs and priced benefits (as used to determine management area allocation) is appropriate at the Forest Plan level, but is extremely difficult to identify at a project scale. An analysis of this type at the project level would suffer from a lack of information and is not essential to the decision being made.

A number of environmental values and amenities occur within and adjacent to the project area, including recreational, visual, and wildlife resources. Although no attempt has been made to assign a monetary value to these amenities or to include them in this financial assessment, discussions relative to many of these aspects of the social environment are addressed elsewhere in this document. In addition, the Final EIS completed for the Boise National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan includes a comprehensive socioeconomic analysis of the effects of timber harvest on the communities in southwestern Idaho, including effects on non-commodity resources. Reference the 2003 Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plan’s Final EIS, Chapters 2 and 3 for detailed information. Also reference the socioeconomic analysis disclosed in the 2010 Final EIS for those effects resulting from proposed Forest Plan amendments associated with the Wildlife Conservation Strategy.

The project area is located within Valley County, Idaho. Small sawmills in Valley County and larger mills in adjacent counties process the majority of timber harvested from the Cascade Ranger District. Timber sales and their associated activities have an effect on communities through their impact on employment. The Forest influences the wood products, government, construction, and recreation sectors. Indirect impacts occur as these sectors transact additional business with other sectors.

The analysis for this project uses the Transaction Evidence Appraisal (TEA) system and estimated net sale volumes, costs, and appraised values as indicators of the effects of the alternatives on local economies, funds available to be returned to the Federal Treasury, and the total cost to implement the alternative in comparison to the revenues generated. As mandated by a change in policy in the spring of 1999, the TEA appraisal now reflects required road-related activities (such as road construction, reconstruction, and maintenance) as a cost rather than a credit, thus lowering the lump sum value of the appraised volume. Costs associated with the environmental analysis (NEPA) are a combination of costs already incurred, as well as projected expenditures. Sale preparation and harvest administration costs were estimated based on historic expenditures for similar activities.

There is no legal or policy mandate requiring that revenues generated by an individual National Forest timber sale exceed the cost to implement that project. Nevertheless, the issue of “below cost” sales is often raised as a concern for projects such as this. A timber sale is considered to be below cost when the Forest Service’s expense to prepare and administer the sale exceeds the revenue returned to the Federal Treasury.

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This financial analysis is based on current information in a fluctuating market and is provided to show a relative difference between alternatives. A variety of influential factors could fluctuate unexpectedly and significantly increase or decrease the value of any alternative.

3.10.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would not harvest any timber. No expenses would be incurred for sale preparation or harvest administration. Given the NEPA cost of approximately $97,000 and the lack of generated revenue (Table 3-18), this alternative would be considered “below cost” (P.R., Vol. 10, Financial Assessment).

Expenditures of Congressionally appropriated monies on implementation of prescribed fire, thinning of sub-merchantable trees, and road decommissioning would not be incurred under this alternative (P.R., Vol. 10, Financial Assessment).

3.10.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative would harvest an estimated 9.5 MMbf of timber and generate an estimated appraised value of $139,000 (Table 3-18). Sawlogs and other wood products, as well as employment opportunities associated with this alternative, would help sustain sawmills and economies in Valley County and adjacent counties. Jobs supported by this alternative would directly and indirectly benefit local economies and the economies of adjacent counties (P.R., Vol. 10, Financial Assessment).

Approximate costs of NEPA analysis ($97,000), sale preparation and harvest administration ($129,000), and projected KV expenditures ($411,000) would total roughly $637,000. The total cost to implement this alternative would exceed the revenues generated by roughly $498,000 (Table 3-18). While there is no legal or policy mandate requiring that revenues generated by an individual project exceed the cost of implementation, this alternative would be considered “below cost” (P.R., Vol. 10, Financial Assessment).

Table 3-18 Financial Comparison Indicator Alt. A Alt. B Net Volume (Mbf) 0 9,500 Gross Revenue (Appraised Value) $0 +$139,000 Projected NEPA Costs -$97,000 -$97,000 Projected Sale Preparation and Harvest Administration Costs $0 -$129,000 Projected Essential KV Expenditures $0 -$411,000 Net Revenue (Gross Revenue – Costs) -$97,000 -$498,000

3.10.3 Cumulative Effects

There are no past or ongoing projects that would affect the financial assessment or revenue generated by any alternative. Therefore no cumulative effects are anticipated on the financial aspects or net revenue/expenditure ratios of this particular project. Numerous foreseeable future timber sales, all extremely tentative in nature, within and adjacent to Valley County will have an influence on the county’s stability and employment opportunities. While these factors will certainly affect employment opportunities, the magnitude and speculative nature of those effects are unpredictable at this time (P.R., Vol. 10, Financial Assessment).

3.11 Watershed/Soils

This section of the document discusses the existing characteristics of the watershed/soil resources, as well as the effects of the alternatives on those resources. The discussions will focus on five areas; water quality, water yield, slope stability, soil productivity, and wetlands and floodplains. Given the complexity of these

Chapter 3-59 Clear Prong Final EIS components, a variety of different analysis areas were used. A brief description of each is provided in the discussion for each respective analysis.

The 11,056 acre project area lies within the 16,693 acre 6th field Upper Clear Creek Subwatershed (HUC 170501230204) in the North Fork of the Payette River Subbasin (Figure 3-12). Roughly one-third of this subwatershed occurs on private lands downstream of the project area. Tributaries within the subwatershed include the East Fork of Clear Creek and numerous unnamed tributaries. These tributaries are generally steep, forested, south and north facing drainages that exhibit well-developed parallel and dendritic drainage patterns. Some drainages are elongated and narrow while others have headwater basins that flow steeply and quickly onto the valley floor (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

The 6th field subwatershed is composed of a variety of natural hydrologic features including streams, springs, and wetlands. One irrigation diversion is present in Clear Creek, located about three miles downstream of the 6th field subwatershed on privately owned land. In most years, this diversion almost completely dewaters Clear Creek during the late summer and early fall months from the point of diversion to its confluence with the North Fork Payette River (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Discussions of the existing watershed conditions were derived from field data collected in 1997 and 1998 unless specifically stated otherwise. A review of aerial photographs and a 2004 color digital orthophotoquad (Farm Service Agency NAIP Imagery, USDA 2004) indicates little change in land management activities or natural disturbances on Forest Service administered lands (i.e. project area) since collection of that data. However, additional timber harvest has occurred on private lands downstream of the project area since 1997. Field data collected from tributaries in these lower reaches in 2002 indicate similar stream channel conditions to data collected in 1997 and 1998, suggesting that these activities on private lands have had little influence on watershed conditions. For these reasons, it is believed that the data collected in 1997 and 1998 still reflect the existing conditions and was considered adequate for this assessment.

3.11.1 Water Quality

This section of the document describes the existing conditions as well as the effects of the alternatives on water quality. For the purposes of this assessment the 16,693 acre 6th field subwatershed was used as the analysis area (Figure 3-12).

The analysis area lies in the central Idaho batholith, well known for its naturally high erosivity. Human disturbances have the potential to deliver increased sediment to streams in amounts that may influence fish habitat and water quality beneficial uses if best management practices (BMPs) designed to protect these functions are not implemented or are not effective. Increased levels of sediment can disrupt fish population viability.

Clear Creek appears in the Department of Environmental Quality Working Principles and Policies for the 2008 Integrated (303[d]/305[b]) Report (IDEQ 2009) because it did not fully support the presumed beneficial use of salmonid spawning, with sediment identified as the pollutant of concern. Under the Clean Water Act, Section 303(d) waters are called Water Quality Limited Waterbodies. In the Integrated (303[d]/305[b]) Report, Water Quality Limited Waterbodies are described as Assessment Units. The North Fork Payette River Subbasin Assessment and Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) was completed in July of 2005 by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ) and approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in August of 2005. That document states that the beneficial uses of “Upper Clear Creek” (i.e. that portion that occurs within the project area) do not appear impacted, but may be threatened by increasing sediment levels (IDEQ 2005, pg. 104). The TMDL also describes Clear Creek’s beneficial uses as “undesignated” (IDEQ 2005, pg. 33). Therefore it has been assumed that in addition to salmonid spawning, beneficial uses also include cold water biota and primary contact recreation.

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Figure 3-12 Upper Clear Creek Subwatershed

Chapter 3-61 Clear Prong Final EIS

The goal of the TMDL is to attain the water quality standards and return beneficial uses to full support in the shortest time possible. The TMDL target for sediment in this 6th field subwatershed (i.e. analysis area) is a BOISED modeled estimate of 12 percent over natural sediment delivery (IDEQ 2005, pg. 154). The IDEQ published an implementation plan for the North Fork Payette River TMDL in June of 2007 (IDEQ 2007). This plan includes recommended projects designed to reduce the sediment load in Clear Creek, with the focus on reducing sediment in the lower and middle reaches of Clear Creek by increasing bank stability and reducing agricultural sediment sources. Recommended TMDL implementation practices include replacing undersized culverts, graveling road surfaces, and abandoning or obliterating unnecessary roads (IDEQ 2007, Appendix B, pg. 79). The Clear Prong Project proposes to replace 12 under-sized culverts, graveling 0.8 miles of road, and decommissioning 4.4 miles of road.

The Federal Clean Water Act states, in part, that Federal agencies must comply with state water quality requirements to the same extent and in the same manner as private entities (CWA Section 313). Idaho Administrative Code states that for a waterbody with a completed TMDL that, “Once the TMDL or equivalent process is completed, any new or increased discharge of causative pollutants will be allowed only if consistent with the approved TMDL” (IDAPA 58.01.02.054.04). The mechanism to control non-point sources of pollution is through application of best management practices (BMPs). BMPs are methods, measures, or practices selected by an agency to meet its non-point source control needs. BMPs include but are not limited to structural and nonstructural controls and operation and maintenance procedures. BMPs can be applied before, during, and after pollution-producing activities to reduce or eliminate the introduction of pollutants into receiving waters (40CFR130.2(m)).

Large wildfires in the analysis area have been relatively few and thus have had little effect on the existing sediment levels. The most recent timber sale of any size on Forest Service administered lands in the analysis area, the 252 acre Clear Creek Summit Sale, occurred in 1997. Sedimentation attributable to this project has likely subsided to the point of being immeasurable. Timber harvest activities on close to 500 acres of privately owned lands in 2002, and using almost exclusively ground-based systems, is likely a continuing source of sediment to area streams (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

It is generally acknowledged that roads are typically the primary source of sediment on managed and developed lands. An estimated 115 miles of road exist within the analysis area, which equates to a road density of 4.41 mi/mi2. Over half of these roads occur in the lower 1/3 of the analysis area on non- Forest Service administered lands (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Many of the road-related sediment sources on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area were addressed in 2002. The objective of these road restoration activities was to reduce sediment contributions from, and long term maintenance needs of, identified road segments. Specifically these activities included replacement of a damaged relief culvert and graveling roughly 0.1 mile of the #407X road; rounding the cutslope, installation of drivable dips, extending existing culverts, armoring the ditchline, and graveling the surface of 0.8 miles of the #406 road; installation of an additional relief culvert on the #405B road; graveling the surface of roughly 0.1 mile of the #405 road, and; installation of six additional relief culverts and spot graveling 1.2 miles of the #405C road (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Although the road restoration activities described above addressed many of the high priority road- related sediment sources on Forest Service administered lands, 0.8 miles of the #409 road between Clear Creek Summit and the #409/#409D intersection continue to be a concern relative to sedimentation. Much of this segment of road lies immediately adjacent to Clear Creek and within the riparian conservation area (RCA). With the exception of these 0.8 miles, the remainder of that portion of the #409 road that occurs on Forest Service administered lands in the analysis area has had gravel applied to its surface (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

That section of the #409 road below the Forest boundary is a native surface road. This segment of road and the numerous other roads located on private lands within the analysis area continue to be a concern relative to sedimentation (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

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Other obvious sources of sedimentation occur on the #405B road. The structure at the stream crossing near the #405B/#405B1 intersection was removed roughly 20 years ago. However, the existing log stringers remain in place. These log stringers and the steep eroding banks at this location continue to impact water quality. In addition, an estimated three old log culverts still exist along this well- vegetated road south of the #405B/#405B1 intersection (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Although all roads are considered potential sediment sources, roads located adjacent to streams are particularly efficient at delivering sediment. Additionally, roads located near meandering low gradient channels often disconnect the channel from its adjacent flood plain and result in bank cutting during higher flows. An example of this is that section of the #409 road along the mainstem of Clear Creek on private land within the analysis area. Approximately 44 miles of road in the analysis area are located within streamside riparian conservation areas (RCAs), this equates to a RCA road density of 5.70 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

The Boise National Forest Sediment (BOISED) model was one of several tools used to describe the existing conditions of sedimentation, as well as to estimate the relative percent over natural sediment yield as a result of proposed activities. BOISED models the percent over natural sediment yield as a result of all past and ongoing management activities, as well as the effects of past large fires. The use of BOISED along with field inventories, monitoring results from similar projects, applicable research, and professional judgment, provides a means through which to compare the effects of different management strategies to the baseline conditions. It should be stressed however that the BOISED model does not predict actual sediment delivery, but rather provides a tool through which to compare the relative effects of different management strategies.

BOISED is a commonly used model and generally accepted in the professional community for the purpose of assessing relative risk between various alternatives (R1/R4 Sediment Model and Various Clones Strategy Meeting, EPA 1997). Recent tests indicate the model tends to over-estimate sediment delivery from roads (“R1/R4” and “BOISED” Sediment Prediction Model Tests Using Forest Roads In Granitics, Ketcheson et al 1999). The planning record includes several sources that document the limitations, expected predictive power and accuracy, and the generally accepted use of the BOISED model. However the use of other predictive tools, such as the Megahan/Ketcheson model (Megahan and Ketcheson 1996), using site specific data is encouraged and was used for this analysis to better refine and/or interpret the results of the BOISED model. Use of the BOISED and Megahan/Ketcheson models, as used in this analysis, was peer reviewed in 1995 in association with the Thunderbolt Wildfire Recovery assessment. The Science Panel convened to review that analysis concluded that “the analyses and data used by the Boise and Payette National Forests for the estimation of soil erosion and sediment movement to be the best that is technically available” (Thunderbolt Wildfire Recovery ROD 1995).

Based on BOISED modeling efforts, the existing sediment yield for the 16,693 acre 6th field subwatershed is about 25 percent over natural, with nearly all of that sedimentation attributable to the existing road system. This value reflects the effects of all past activities including road construction, timber harvest, large fires, and completed road restoration activities (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

3.11.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any new management activities in the analysis area and therefore would have no direct or indirect effects on erosion or sedimentation. As displayed in Table 3-19 sediment yield for the 6th field analysis area, as modeled by BOISED, would remain about 25 percent over natural (ON) into the foreseeable future. Roads within the analysis area, particularly those below the Forest boundary, would continue to be the primary source of management-induced sediment delivery to streams (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Total road density within the analysis area, as well as road density within RCAs, would be maintained at the existing levels of 4.41 mi/mi2 and 5.70 mi/mi2, respectively (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Chapter 3-63 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.11.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Following implementation of Alternative B total road density within the analysis area, as well as road density within RCAs, would decrease to 4.24 mi/mi2 and 5.45 mi/mi2, respectively (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

As displayed in Table 3-19 sediment yield for the 6th field analysis area, as modeled by BOISED, would increase to a peak of 29 percent over natural (ON) under this alternative and gradually decrease to 24 percent ON by year 2020. Although BOISED reflects a temporary and near short term increase in sedimentation, the modeled output does not reflect the benefits of many design features incorporated into this alternative. Design features associated with proposed activities, including site-specific best management practices (BMPs), would minimize soil disturbance and sediment delivery during and following implementation. The effectiveness of these BMPs applied to timber harvest and road-related activities have been extensively studied (Belt et al 1992; Dissmeyer 1994; IDEQ 1997; Seyedbagheri 1996; Cook and King 1983). Proper application of these design features would be expected to decrease the likelihood of sediment delivery to streams in quantities sufficient to impact water quality conditions in the temporary and near short term, and would result in a slight short and long term decrease. As discussed in detail below, this alternative would not contribute additional sediment in amounts that would prevent the attainment or maintenance of instream objectives, nor would this alternative have a measurable effect on the identified beneficial uses. Alternative B would comply with existing management direction including Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, and the Clean Water Act (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Table 3-19 BOISED Modeled Percent ON Sediment Yields for the 6th Field Analysis Area Percent Over Natural Sediment Yield Year Alternative A Alternative B 2010 25 25 2011 25 27 2012 25 29 2013 25 29 2014 25 26 2016 25 25 2020 25 24

In addition, this alternative would be consistent with the intent of the TMDL of reducing sediment, the pollutant of concern. As previously disclosed, a number of activities (i.e. restorative BMPs) have already been implemented in the project area to reduce management-related sediment. Even though this alternative would reflect only a slight improving trend, it would include additional restorative BMPs to further reduce sediment in the drainage (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

BMPs associated with this alternative in the form of restorative activities, as well as design features incorporated to mitigate undesirable effects, have been adapted and/or modified where shown to be ineffective in the past. The combination of improving the BMPs known to have caused past problems and employing restorative BMPs where and if applicable, would meet the intent of the TMDL as required by Idaho Code, thereby complying with IDAPA 58.01.02.054.04 to the same extent as any private entity.

The Megahan/Ketcheson model (Megahan and Ketcheson 1996) was developed to estimate sediment delivery distances from activities in granitic geologies, specifically the Idaho batholith, and was used in this assessment to refine and further interpret results of BOISED modeling efforts. The Megahan/Ketcheson model is an empirical model developed through research conducted in the Silver Creek watershed on the Boise National Forest that has similar soils, potential vegetation groups (PVGs), topography, and climate as the analysis area. Due to these factors, modeled sediment delivery distances should reflect potential sediment delivery distances for this project within the modeled confidence interval. The Megahan/Ketcheson model predicted sediment

Chapter 3-64 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences delivery distances are based on the 95 percent confidence level. This means that statistically 95 percent of sediment distances under the given parameters would be shorter than the modeled delivery distance. In other words, it is 95 percent certain that sediment generated from a given source would not travel farther than the modeled distances.

Timber Harvest/Thinning Activities – Design features associated with Alternative B prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding of trees within RCAs, which for this project equates to a minimum of 80 feet (Section 2.4.2.5). The Megahan/Ketcheson model predicted, using on-site data, that sediment would travel no more than eight feet below units harvested with ground-based (i.e. tractor and off-road jammer), skyline, or helicopter yarding systems. Given the modeled sediment delivery distance of eight feet and the prohibition of skidding within at least 80 feet of any stream, any harvest-related erosion delivered to area streams would be immeasurable. In addition, thinning of sub-merchantable trees would be accomplished with hand labor only and therefore would not result in any ground disturbance or sedimentation (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Helicopter Landings – Implementation of Alternative B would include the use of five existing landings which would increase ground disturbance and increase the potential for sediment delivery. Of particular concern are three helicopter landings within RCAs, the closest of which is 135 feet from a stream channel. The sediment delivery distance using the Megahan/Ketcheson model and on-site data for helicopter landings was 54 feet. Given incorporated design features, the modeled sediment delivery distance, and the flat nature of these sites, the use of existing helicopter landings is not expected to result in a measurable increase in sediment delivery (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Prescribed Fire/Broadcast Burning – The use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning on 732 acres under Alternative B would occur at a low to moderate severity to minimize the potential for erosion and sedimentation. Design features (Section 2.4.2.5) incorporated to minimize fireline construction and to avoid fire ignition within RCAs should decrease the likelihood of disturbance to soils and the resulting sediment delivery from these activities. Clayton and Kennedy (1985) credited buffer strips (49 to 98 feet) as one factor limiting movement of large amounts of nutrients mobilized by slash burning and decay, and limiting the delivery of sediment to streams (Seyedbagheri 1996). Given the minimum RCA width of 80 feet and the prescribed low to moderate intensity/severity burns, sediment delivery from these activities is expected to be minimal (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Temporary Road Construction – While a total of 1.1 miles of temporary road would be constructed under Alternative B, over half of this temporary road construction would occur on existing road prisms with vegetated cut and fill slopes and none of the temporary roads would include any stream crossings. With the exception of the #409 Temp road, all temporary roads would be constructed on or near ridges thus minimizing the potential for sediment delivery. Megahan/Ketcheson sediment delivery distances below temporary roads were modeled to not exceed 41 feet. Upon completion of use, all newly constructed temporary roads would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the ripped surface, planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, and closed to motorized traffic (Section 2.4.2.2) (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Disturbance associated with these activities would increase the risk of sedimentation until the disturbed areas stabilize and harvest-related traffic subsides (Ketcheson and Megahan 1996). However, undesirable effects of temporary road construction would be expected to be minimal since no stream crossings would be necessary. Construction of the #409 Temp road on an existing road prism would not necessitate disturbance of the vegetated fill slope. Given the sediment delivery distance of 41 feet, the vegetated fill slope, and the fact that the majority of this road would be located more than 41 feet from the adjacent stream, any increase in sediment should be immeasurable (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Road Maintenance – As disclosed in Section 3.11.1, many of the road-related sediment sources on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area were addressed in 2002. Under

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Alternative B an additional 0.8 miles of the #409 road would be improved through maintenance activities to enhance hydrologic conditions and reduce sedimentation. Specifically, gravel would be applied to the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Graveling 0.8 miles of the #409 road, which lies adjacent to the headwaters of Clear Creek, would have an immediate beneficial effect and would decrease direct sediment delivery to streams in the temporary, short, and long term. Road surfacing reduces the amount of fine particles that erode from the road surface (Foltz and Truebe 1994) and also prevents wheel ruts from routing water down the road surface or into streams. Following completion of this activity, the entire length of the #409 road on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area would have a gravel surface (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

In addition, Alternative B would replace the 12 known under-sized culverts on the #409 road with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event. Replacement of the single under- sized culvert near Clear Creek Summit would be accomplished through the timber sale contract should this alternative be selected. Replacement of the remaining 11 under-sized culverts would be accomplished with appropriated monies rather than connected with any timber sale receipts resulting from this alternative. Replacing the 12 under-sized culverts would reduce the risk of these culverts becoming clogged with debris and precipitating a road prism failure and the associated sediment delivery to streams. However replacement of the under-sized culverts would also result in an immeasurable temporary and near short term increase in sedimentation until the disturbed areas stabilize (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Culvert replacement is a temporary process, usually taking less than one day, of which only 1 to 2 hours would result in actual channel turbidity. The indirect effect of these activities would be the delivery of turbid water downstream. This material would settle out in pools and in low velocity areas in streams and be diluted to a point where no measurable consequences would occur. The amount of this material is not expected to be a measurable increase over the existing sediment (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Road Decommissioning – An estimated 4.4 miles of existing road (#405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1) would be decommissioned to reduce future maintenance needs and/or to reduce sedimentation. Ripping and distributing slash on 2.8 miles of road (#405C, #405D, and #417HX1) would result in a temporary sediment increase, but ultimately would reduce the sediment production from these roads to near natural rates (Harr and Nichols 1993; Potyondy et al 1991). That portion of the #405B road beyond the intersection with the #405B1 and the #405B2 road would also be decommissioned under this alternative. However, given that these roads are currently well vegetated with small conifers, decommissioning in this case would consist of removing the existing log stringers and any other culverts by hand and reestablishing and revegetating the streamcourses (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Decommissioned roads would be a potential source of sediment until vegetation is established and the disturbed areas stabilize. In the temporary, short, and long term, this action would allow establishment of vegetation on disturbed sites, eliminate five stream crossings, and reduce the potential of unauthorized motorized use and its associated impacts on sediment delivery. Similar to culvert replacement, culvert removal would result in some channel turbidity. The indirect effect of these activities would be the delivery of turbid water downstream. This material would settle out in pools and in low velocity areas in streams and be diluted to a point where no measurable consequences would occur. The amount of this material is not expected to be a measurable increase over the existing sediment (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

3.11.1.3 Cumulative Effects

Given the need to assess potential effects at a logical hydrologic scale, the area used to assess cumulative effects for sedimentation was limited to the 16,693 acre 6th field subwatershed (Figure 3- 12).

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Since 1950 an estimated 8,144 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area; 5,476 acres of which occurred on private or state lands. Since 1910 approximately 379 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Road closures following timber sales have occurred in several locations. Although the exact dates of closures are unknown in some instances, roughly 0.1 mile of road was closed in 1961; 1.8 miles in 1963; 4.0 miles in 1965; 5.9 miles in 1971; 0.1 mile in 1974; 0.2 miles in 1978; 1.4 miles in 1980; 0.1 mile in 1982; 3.1 miles in 1986, and; 1.3 miles in 1991. In addition, a number of road restoration activities were implemented within the analysis area in 2002. Specifically, these activities included replacement of a damaged relief culvert and graveling roughly 0.1 mile of the #407X road; rounding the cutslope, installation of drivable dips, extending existing culverts, armoring the ditchline, and graveling the surface of 0.8 miles of the #406 road; installation of an additional relief culvert on the #405B road; graveling the surface of roughly 0.1 mile of the #405 road, and; installation of six additional relief culverts and spot graveling 1.2 miles of the #405C road. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery and/or increase or decrease in sedimentation that has occurred since those actions. While additional timber harvest and/or development on privately owned land is probable in the future, there are no known foreseeable future harvest or development activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact erosion/sedimentation. Ongoing and foreseeable future activities that could potentially affect erosion/sedimentation are discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment – This allotment falls within the southern end of the analysis area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years. Given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within riparian areas, any undesirable effects on erosion/sedimentation would be considered inconsequential.

Cattle Grazing on Private Land - Cattle have historically grazed within the riparian area along Clear Creek below the Forest boundary but within the cumulative effects area. This ongoing use is impacting streambank stability, riparian vegetation, and sedimentation.

Recreational Activities on Private Land - Concentrated recreational activities on private lands below the Forest boundary include camping, picnicking, ATV and motorcycle use, and fishing. Given the unregulated nature of these activities, camping and off highway vehicle (OHV) use in the riparian meadows along Clear Creek has led to a progressive deterioration of vegetation and has resulted in small, but chronic sources of sedimentation.

Clear Creek Stabilization – Valley County is currently considering a project that would add or improve the placement of rip rap; revegetate streambanks; replace or add 32 culverts; reshape and/or raise the road prism where needed, and; regrade ditches along an estimated 10 miles of the Clear Creek Road (#409) that falls under their jurisdiction, roughly half of which occurs within this cumulative effects area.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on erosion/sedimentation therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

As disclosed above, Alternative B would result in an immeasurable increase in sedimentation in the temporary or near short term, primarily as a result of replacing under-sized culverts and road decommissioning. Alternative B would however result in a slight decrease in sedimentation in the short and long term. Regardless of the potential effects associated with ongoing or foreseeable future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a slightly decreased level of management-induced sedimentation in the cumulative effects area (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

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3.11.2 Water Yield

This section of the document describes the existing conditions as well as the effects of the alternatives on water yield. Increased water yield and runoff within a watershed following the removal of forest canopy is well documented (Hibbert 1966; Stednick 1996; USDA 1974). For the purposes of this analysis Equivalent Clearcut Area (ECA) was used as a means of quantifying the effects of past and proposed activities, as well as any large fires, on water yield. ECA is a method of determining the percent of a subwatershed's vegetation in a "hydrologically immature" condition. Hydrologically immature indicates forested stands in which root structures and canopy covers have not reached the level of water use and influence created by mature timber stands.

As vegetation is removed increases in water yield occur because of one or more factors: a reduction in transpiration; an increase in wind turbulence which results in redistribution of snow and greater local snow accumulations, and/or; a reduction in interception which can result in a more efficient conversion of the snow pack to stream flow. Increases in water yield become a concern when they result in the degradation of stream channels or channel adjustments and the associated increase in sediment yield and loss of fish habitat.

Increases in water yield can increase the magnitude and duration of the runoff within a drainage in both the spring and fall, thus increasing the frequency of bankfull (channel forming) flows. Increased low flows in the summer and the corresponding lower stream temperatures, usually a benefit to native aquatic species, can also result from increased water yields. The magnitude of increase in water yield is dependent upon soils and rooting depth, amount and type of vegetation removed, rainfall input compared to energy supply, and the method of vegetation removal. Both elevation and aspect influence snow accumulation and melt, mainly through their influence on radiation intensity and exposure to winds.

The procedure used to evaluate ECA for this analysis is described in Forest Hydrology, Hydrologic Effects of Vegetative Manipulation (USDA 1974). The percent ECA of an area is based on the percent tree crown cover removed by management activities or natural events and any recovery that may have occurred over time. Roads are assumed to have complete vegetation removal and remain in an unrecovered condition. For the purposes of this analysis ECA was assessed at the 6th field subwatershed scale, in this case, the 16,693 acre Upper Clear Creek Subwatershed (Figure 3-12).

The current ECA value for this 16,693 acre analysis area is 10 percent and reflects the effects of all past harvest activities, road construction, and wildfires, as well as any vegetative recovery that may have occurred since the disturbance (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield). Desired conditions in the Forest Plan describe less than 15 percent ECA for a watershed, with no concentration of activities in RCAs, landslide prone areas, and/or refugia, as “functioning appropriately” (Forest Plan, Appendix B).

3.11.2.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on existing water yields or ECA values. Assuming no large disturbance events, water yield would gradually decrease over time as vegetation matures on previously disturbed areas (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield).

3.11.2.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative would have a minimal effect on ECA, water yield, and peak flows. Activities associated with this alternative would increase ECA for the 6th field subwatershed by roughly three percent, from the existing 10 percent up to 13 percent. Following implementation ECA would continue to be below the Forest Plan desired condition of 15 percent. Alternative B would not increase ECA or water yields enough to result in downstream channel degradation at the 6th field scale (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield).

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A detailed effects analysis of the impacts of increased water yield in headwater streams (zero and first order) was not completed. Limited information is available on the existing channel stability of many of these streams, which is a key consideration in assessing the impacts. However, site- specific channel changes such as soil piping, sapping failures, and headwater extensions could be expected within headwater streams where activities occur. The extent of effects would depend on numerous factors including climate, inherent resistance of channels, current channel conditions, sediment yield, amount of vegetation removed, root strength, and groundwater levels. Design features associated with this alternative prohibit timber harvest adjacent to perennial and intermittent channels, wetlands, springs, seeps, lakes, and ponds. These unmanaged buffers would provide longer transmission zones for both surface and subsurface water flow to streams, thereby lessening the likelihood of increasing localized changes in water yield and associated sapping failures (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield).

Changes in water yield can also lead to the extension of, and increases in, the peak flow period. However, given the minimal increase in water yield resulting from this alternative, no measurable increase or extension of peak flows would be expected (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield).

3.11.2.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of the alternatives on water yield/ECA would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 16,693 acre 6th field subwatershed (Figure 3-12).

Since 1950 an estimated 8,144 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area; 5,476 acres of which occurred on private or state lands. Since 1910 approximately 379 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Road closures following timber sales have occurred in several locations. Although the exact dates of closures are unknown in some instances, roughly 0.1 mile of road was closed in 1961; 1.8 miles in 1963; 4.0 miles in 1965; 5.9 miles in 1971; 0.1 mile in 1974; 0.2 miles in 1978; 1.4 miles in 1980; 0.1 mile in 1982; 3.1 miles in 1986, and; 1.3 miles in 1991. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. While additional timber harvest and/or development on privately owned land is probable in the future, there are no known foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact water yield/ECA. Livestock grazing in the Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment and on private lands would not have a measurable effect on water yield/ECA, nor would recreational activities. Therefore these ongoing activities were not considered in this assessment. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on water yield/ECA, therefore no cumulative effects would be expected (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield).

Implementation of Alternative B would result in a slight incremental increase in water yield/ECA within the cumulative effects area. However as previously noted, following implementation the ECA value within the 6th field subwatershed would reflect conditions identified in the Forest Plan as “functioning appropriately” (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield).

3.11.3 Slope Stability

This section of the document describes the existing conditions relative to slope stability. The analysis area used in this assessment consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1). The Forest Plan requires identification and protection of landslides and landslide prone areas.

Mass instability, or landslides, are naturally occurring disturbances that have had and will continue to have an influence on the analysis area. Landslides have been documented as the dominant form of sediment delivery to streams in the Idaho batholith (Arnold 1988). The rapid delivery of high volumes of sediment can result in major negative short and long term impacts to riparian systems, water quality, and

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fish habitat (Schultz et al 1986). However landslides also provide a critical source of rock and organic material to stream systems that is necessary to maintain the integrity of the systems and aquatic habitat.

The triggering event for landslides is usually a major seismic and/or climatic event, such as a rain-on- snow, intense, or long duration rainstorm. An actual landslide typically occurs when a randomly occurring rainstorm or snowmelt event generates sufficient groundwater conditions to induce instability of a slope. Although landslides are naturally occurring events, man-caused disturbances such as road construction, and to a lesser extent timber harvest, can increase the potential for and occurrence of landslides.

Landslide is a collective term that includes both deep-seated, geologic failures and smaller localized mass erosion events such as slumps, debris torrents, and debris slides. Three principle factors influence slope stability; soil moisture, root strength, and slope gradient.

Vegetation utilizes and transpires soil moisture. As vegetation is lost or removed from a site the outlet for soil water is diminished. The vegetation canopy also functions as an interception of precipitation and in the case of snow, the rate and timing of snowmelt. Without the presence of vegetation to utilize and/or intercept soil moisture, the non-cohesive soil can become saturated and lose its binding strength. Roots of trees and shrubs also provide structural reinforcement and buttressing and are a critical component of slope stability. When vegetation is removed the binding strength of the root system gradually decreases as roots decompose, usually within 8 to 12 years. The weight of trees, or the surcharge on a slope, can have different effects on slope stability depending upon the soil moisture content. On saturated soils the weight produces a down slope force and contributes to slope instability. On dry slopes the added weight can increase soil internal frictional resistance, thus increasing stability.

Roads have been identified as the greatest cause of accelerated landslide activity on managed slopes. Roads typically cut the natural slope and alter the surface and subsurface water drainage which can result in saturated conditions in and above the fill slope. The excavation of cut slopes can remove the support for the area upslope of the road prism, while adding fill material may overload the soil surface below the road prism. Most landslides associated with roads are usually related to large fill slopes, inadequate drainage, over-steepened cut slopes, or a combination of the three.

Ground reconnaissance of the project area has identified several existing landslides. Management- related landslides that have been identified are mostly small, localized road cut and fill slope failures. Other management-related landslides include one large debris torrent along the #417H1 road and two channel extensions resulting from previous harvest activities (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

Field reconnaissance in the East Fork of Clear Creek in 1999 identified three landslides, all a result of natural occurrences, and all assumed to be in excess of 100 years old. These landslides occur near the middle or lower reach of a non-fish bearing perennial stream that flows from this drainage. These slumps and debris flows are associated with springs, seeps, or the headwaters of the stream. The resulting slope shape is a steep exposed headwall (scarp) area with shallow soils, large exposed rock, pistol-butted trees, and a flat, wet depositional area forming the bottom of the old landslide (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

The SINMAP model (Stability Index Mapping; Pack et al 1998) was used as a preliminary tool to identify locations in the project area that may potentially be landslide prone. Terrain stability mapping with SINMAP requires that broad stability classes be identified and mapped, based upon relatively coarse information, to quickly identify regions where more detailed assessments are warranted. This model uses a digital elevation model coupled with the infinite slope stability equation to identify potential landslide hazards associated with shallow surface failures (debris slides). The primary output of this modeling approach is a stability index that can be used to categorize the terrain stability. Although the SINMAP model can be calibrated using the locations of existing landslides within a

Chapter 3-70 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences particular analysis area, site-specific calibration was not done for this assessment. Instead, the Forest- wide coverage developed concurrently with the Forest Plan was used in this analysis.

The selection of breakpoints for the various SINMAP stability index classes is subjective, requiring both judgment and interpretation. For the purposes of this analysis, the "stable", "moderately stable", and "quasi-stable" classes were considered stable areas and should not fail (i.e. none to low hazard). The terms "lower threshold" (i.e. moderate hazard) and "upper threshold and undefended" (i.e. high hazard) characterize areas where the probability of a landslide is less than or greater than 50 percent following a 100-year storm event, respectively.

Based on the SINMAP modeling effort, roughly three percent of the 11,056 acre analysis area is categorized as being in the moderate hazard category (probability of instability 0 to 50 percent following a 100-year storm event), with another three percent identified as being in the high hazard category (probability of instability 50 to 100 percent following a 100-year storm event). The remaining 94 percent of the analysis area was modeled as being in the low hazard category. Stability indices output by SINMAP should not be interpreted as numerically precise and are most appropriately interpreted in term of relative hazard. Use of the model does however provide a means through which to identify potentially unstable sites (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

3.11.3.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on the three principle factors that influence slope stability (i.e. soil moisture, root strength, and slope gradient). Implementation of this alternative would maintain the existing potential for cut and fill slope failures and culvert failures on existing roads within the analysis area. These sites would continue to be prone to failure especially during high precipitation or rain-on-snow events (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

3.11.3.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

SINMAP modeling for this alternative indicates that harvest activities would occur on 107 acres modeled as having a moderate or high hazard relative to slope stability. However, as discussed above, the SINMAP model was used as a preliminary tool to identify locations in the project area that may potentially be landslide prone (i.e. regions where more detailed assessments are warranted). Design features associated with this alternative (reference Section 2.4.2.5) require field identification of landslide prone areas based on guidelines developed from Chatwin et al (1994), Megahan (1979), Gray and Megahan (1981), and Pack et al (1998). These same design features prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding on these field-identified landslide prone areas. Incorporation of these measures should minimize the direct and indirect effects of harvest activities on slope stability throughout the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

Cut and fill slopes and vegetation removal associated with temporary road construction would increase the potential for subsurface water interception and concentration of surface water. While a total of 1.1 miles would be constructed under Alternative B, over half of this temporary road construction would occur on existing road prisms with vegetated cut and fill slopes and none of the temporary roads would include any stream crossings. With the exception of the #409 Temp road, temporary roads would be constructed on or near ridges thus minimizing the size of cut and fill slopes and the potential for subsurface water interception. To maintain slope stability above all newly constructed temporary roads with cut slopes exceeding three feet, to the extent practical, all trees within one crown width of the cut slope would be retained and skid trails and skyline corridors would be minimized through these areas (Section 2.4.2.5). Newly constructed temporary roads would be constructed to prevent water from flowing over fill slopes exceeding five feet in height and all available construction slash would be windrowed at the toe of the fill slope (Section 2.4.2.2). In addition, upon completion of use, all newly constructed temporary roads would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the ripped surface, planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, and closed to motorized traffic (Section 2.4.2.2). Nevertheless, the risk of temporary and near short term effects in the form of small slumps on the cut and fill slopes would be expected to last 1 to 5 years until vegetation is

Chapter 3-71 Clear Prong Final EIS

reestablished. Decommissioning of the temporary roads would mitigate instability concerns beyond the temporary and near short terms (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

Proposed maintenance activities on 0.8 miles of the #409 road would be expected to have beneficial effects on slope stability by improving drainage onto and off of the road surface. Portions of this road surface are currently rutted and sections of the ditchline obstructed due, in part, to the lack of adequate maintenance. This can lead to culvert blockage, road fill failures, and/or debris torrents. Maintenance activities would include cleaning the ditchline, reshaping the road surface to direct surface water, graveling 0.8 miles of the road surface, and replacing 12 under-sized culverts. All of these activities would result in the #409 road being less prone to future slumps and/or culvert failures. Design features associated with this alternative would also reduce the likelihood of negatively impacting the stability of cut slopes of existing roads during general road maintenance activities. To the extent practical, undercutting the cut slope at the edge of the road prism during blading and shaping of existing roads would be minimized, thereby preventing the cut slopes from adjusting to find a new angle of repose (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

Decommissioning 4.4 miles of existing road would also have a positive effect on slope stability. Removing five existing culverts and stabilizing the associated stream crossings and road prisms would restore hydrologic function and reduce the likelihood of small localized landslides (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

Broadcast burning of harvest-created slash and/or prescribed burning to reduce natural fuel loads would occur at low or moderate intensities/severities and would not be expected to measurably increase slope instability. Studies have shown that low intensity burns produce no mass erosion on extreme slopes (Burroughs and Thomas 1977; Gray and Megahan 1981; McNabb and Swanson 1990). Therefore these activities are not expected to measurably increase or initiate landslide activity (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

3.11.3.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on slope stability would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. A number of road restoration activities were implemented within the analysis area in 2002. Specifically these activities included replacement of a damaged relief culvert and graveling roughly 0.1 mile of the #407X road; rounding the cutslope, installation of drivable dips, extending existing culverts, armoring the ditchline, and graveling the surface of 0.8 miles of the #406 road; installation of an additional relief culvert on the #405B road; graveling the surface of roughly 0.1 mile of the #405 road, and; installation of six additional relief culverts and spot graveling 1.2 miles of the #405C road. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future management activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would impact this resource. Given Forest Plan standards related to grazing practices, the ongoing Middle Fork North Allotment was considered as having a negligible effect on slope stability. Reference Appendix A of this document for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on slope stability and therefore no cumulative effects (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

Design features associated with Alternative B should effectively minimize slope instability concerns resulting from proposed harvest and burning activities. Given the lack of direct and indirect effects resulting from these activities, no incremental or cumulative effects would be anticipated. Road- related activities implemented under this alternative in combination with past activities would result

Chapter 3-72 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

in both detrimental and beneficial cumulative effects on slope stability. Although design features would minimize the risk of a landslide during and following construction of temporary roads, the mere presence of these roads would result in a slight incremental increase in slope instability. Proposed road maintenance and decommissioning activities would however reduce the potential of road failures at many locations, thus having a beneficial cumulative effect on slope stability (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

3.11.4 Long Term Soil Productivity

This section of the document describes the existing conditions and the effects of the alternatives on long term soil productivity, with the discussions focusing on detrimental disturbance, total soil resource commitment, and coarse woody debris within the project area. Per direction in the Forest Plan, different analysis areas have been used for each of the three components of soil productivity, with each defined in the discussions presented below.

Detrimental Soil Disturbance – Management activities can detrimentally alter the natural soil characteristics resulting in the immediate and/or prolonged degradation of onsite resources or biomass productivity. This impact, referred to as detrimental disturbance, is generally associated with soil puddling, compaction, and/or displacement resulting from the use of ground-based equipment. However severely burned soils, such as those that burn at a high severity, are also considered detrimentally disturbed due to the associated loss of soil productivity.

The Forest Plan stipulates that management activities that may affect detrimental disturbance shall meet the following requirements:

1) In an activity area where the existing conditions of detrimental disturbance are below 15 percent of the area, management activities shall leave the area in a condition of 15 percent or less detrimental disturbance following completion of the activities.

2) In an activity area where existing conditions of detrimental disturbance exceed 15 percent of the area, management activities shall include mitigation and restoration so that detrimental disturbance levels are moved back toward 15 percent or less following completion of the activities.

The Forest Plan (Appendix A, pg. GL-1) defines activity areas for detrimental disturbance as the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts, such as harvest units within a timber sale area, an individual pasture unit within a grazing allotment, or a burn block within a prescribed burn project area. Given the definition of activity area (where proposed actions may have detrimental impacts) and the fact that those activity areas will vary by alternative and yarding system, it is not practical to describe the existing conditions of individual activity areas at this point. Existing detrimental soil disturbance within each activity area was however considered in calculating the post- implementation detrimental disturbance and is reflected below in the effects analyses for the various alternatives (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Total Soil Resource Commitment – Total soil resource commitment (TSRC) is the conversion of a productive site to an essentially non-productive site for a period of more than 50 years. Examples include roads, landing areas, designated skid trails, parking lots, and mining dumps. The Forest Plan stipulates that management activities that may affect TSRC shall meet the following requirements:

1) In an activity area where the existing conditions of TSRC are below 5 percent of the area, management activities shall leave the area in a condition of 5 percent or less TSRC following completion of the activities.

2) In an activity area where existing conditions of TSRC exceed 5 percent of the area, management activities shall include mitigation and restoration so that TSRC levels are moved back toward 5 percent or less following completion of the activities.

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The Forest Plan (Appendix A, pg. GL-1) defines activity areas for TSRC as generally an all-inclusive activity area, like a timber sale area. Therefore for the purposes of this analysis the 11,056 acre project area has been used as the activity area for TSRC. Currently the TSRC for the Clear Prong Project Area (i.e. activity area) is 2.6 percent, due primarily to the existing road system (P.R., Vol. 11, TSRC).

Coarse Woody Debris – One important component of soil productivity is the presence of organic or woody material on a site. The maintenance and restoration of nutrient cycling, decomposition processes, and a nutrient supply from vegetation are important for sustaining soil productivity and dependent, in part, on having sufficient amounts of woody material on site.

Nutrient cycling is dependent on a variety of sizes of woody material and finer organics on the soil surface and within the soil. Nutrient cycling is also influenced by the degree of decay of the material. Typically there is a full range of decay levels on the site that provide for a slow, continual release of nutrients. Woody material on site also provides for moisture retention and an environment that supports bacteria and microbes important to the nutrient cycling process, as well as surface irregularities for the interception and storage of sediment.

The Forest Plan defines coarse woody debris as pieces of woody material having a diameter of at least three inches and a length greater than six feet. Appendix A of the Forest Plan discloses desired ranges for coarse wood in decay classes I and II for individual potential vegetation groups (PVGs) and goes on to explain that those desired ranges are not meant to provide an even distribution across every acre of the forested landscape, but to provide numbers that serve as a guide to approximate an average condition for an activity area (Forest Plan, Appendix A). Appendix A also states that although coarse wood is managed at the activity area, it is useful to have some knowledge of the larger landscape to assist in determining the appropriate amount that falls within the desired range in order to provide context (Forest Plan, Appendix A).

Table 3-20 discloses the existing amounts of coarse woody debris for the various PVGs present within the analysis area and compares those values to the desired conditions portrayed in Appendix A of the Forest Plan. Although standing dead trees will certainly contribute to coarse woody debris levels in the future, only that material on the ground and in decay class I or II was considered in describing the existing conditions reflected in Table 3-20. Sources of data reflected in the table below were derived from coarse wood transects measured in 2005 for PVGs 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7. Coarse woody debris data collected during stand examinations in 1997 and in decay class I or II was used to determine the existing conditions for PVGs 4, 8, and 10 (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

As displayed in Table 3-20, existing tons/acre of coarse woody debris are within desired ranges for PVGs 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 10, and above the desired range for PVG 5. However, as shown in Table 3- 20, coarse woody debris greater than 15 inches in diameter is deficient in many of the PVGs (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

Table 3-20 Existing Coarse Woody Debris by PVG PVG 2 PVG 3 PVG 4 PVG 5 (2,293 acres) (1,299 acres) (272 acres) (207 acres) Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Indicator Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Dry 4 – 14 9.2 4 – 14 9.0 4 – 14 4.3 4 – 14 17.4 Weight* Percent >75% 0% >65% 0% >65% 86% >75% 52% >15” PVG 6 PVG 7 PVG 8 PVG 10 (1,658 acres) (3,733 acres) (406 acres) (1,188 acres) Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Desired Existing Indicator Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Condition Dry 4 – 14 12.1 5 – 19 16.5 5 – 19 12.6 5 – 19 7.9 Weight* Percent >65% 0% >50% 62% >25% 13% >25% 38% >15” * Dry weight in tons/acre in Decay Classes I and II.

Chapter 3-74 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.11.4.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

Detrimental Soil Disturbance - This alternative would have no effect on detrimental disturbance. Existing levels of detrimental disturbance would continue in the temporary and short term under this alternative. Soils affected by compaction, puddling, and/or displacement would recover over time as weathering and duff development restores soil productivity (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Total Soil Resource Commitment – This alternative would have no effect on total soil resource commitment (TSRC). Alternative A would maintain the existing TSRC of 2.6 percent for the 11,056 acre activity area (P.R., Vol. 11, TSRC).

Coarse Woody Debris – Implementation of this alternative would have no effect on the existing quantities or distribution of coarse woody debris (CWD) within the 11,056 acre project area. Some recruitment of CWD would occur over time as existing snags fall. However, assuming no uncharacteristic wildfires or major insect epidemics, CWD in all PVGs would remain similar to the existing conditions portrayed in Table 3-20 (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

3.11.4.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Detrimental Disturbance – Given the definition of activity area provided in the Forest Plan (i.e. the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts), each individual harvest unit associated with this alternative was assessed as a separate activity area.

As previously discussed, detrimental disturbance is usually associated with ground disturbance (i.e. compaction, puddling, or displacement). Helicopter yarding would not result in any soil compaction, puddling, or displacement as defined in the Forest Plan. Therefore this activity would not result in detrimental disturbance. In addition, thinning by hand of sub-merchantable trees would not result in any ground disturbance or detrimental soil disturbance. Design features associated with this alternative (Section 2.4.2.5) prescribe low to moderate severity burns specifically to limit impacts on soil productivity. Therefore broadcast burning and prescribed fire are not expected to result in detrimentally disturbed soils (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Detrimental disturbance in units proposed to be yarded by skyline or jammer would be limited to the specific, and relatively narrow, corridors where ground disturbance would occur. Detrimental disturbance in units proposed to be yarded by tractor or off-road jammer would be limited to the various undesignated skid trails in the individual activity areas. In addition to the effects resulting from these yarding systems, existing levels of detrimental disturbance within these activity areas and any recovery that has occurred since the previous disturbance must be considered (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Recovery from the effects of compaction and rutting associated with previous activities include the shrinking and swelling caused by periodic freeze-thaw and wet-dry cycles (Arnup 1998). Studies on the recovery of natural soil bulk density after timber harvest demonstrate that recovery rates range from 0 to 21 years depending on soil texture, level of compaction, climate, amount of organic material in the soil, and soil drainage (Arnup 1998). Well-drained soils often recover more quickly than poorly drained soils, while clay soils may recover more quickly than sandy soils (Arnup 1998). Studies on the effects of soil puddling and displacement are more limited, but one study on organic soils indicated rut cover decreased rapidly following logging due to re-establishment of vegetation (Arnup 1998).

The Clear Prong Project Area is dominated by well-drained sandy soils. Therefore, based on the studies reviewed in Arnup (1998), only those activity areas affected within the last 21 years were considered to have existing levels of detrimental disturbance. Based on the available literature, any detrimental disturbance predating that period of time should now be recovered (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Chapter 3-75 Clear Prong Final EIS

With the exception of one 12 acre unit (Unit #93) harvested with a tractor yarding system in 1992, none of the activity areas of concern have existing levels of detrimental disturbance. The next most recent activity that could have resulted in detrimental disturbance in activity areas of concern occurred in 1960 and any detrimental disturbance was assumed to have recovered by now (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Given recent scrutiny on this matter, Unit #93 was surveyed on-the-ground in the summer of 2005 to determine the existing level of detrimental disturbance. Based on that field review it was determined that roughly three percent of this unit is currently considered detrimentally disturbed. Following implementation of Alternative B, roughly eight percent of Unit #93 would be detrimentally disturbed, with detrimental disturbance ranging from 0 to 11 percent in the other activity areas depending upon the yarding system. This alternative would be consistent with Forest Plan direction to maintain detrimental disturbance below 15 percent within the activity areas (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Total Soil Resource Commitment (TSRC) – Temporary roads constructed under this alternative (1.1 miles), as well as newly constructed landings, would be reshaped to provide adequate drainage, ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the reshaped surface, and planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture (Section 2.4.2.2). Therefore these activities would neither increase nor decrease TSRC in the short or long term. Decommissioning of 4.4 miles of existing roads would decrease TSRC in the activity area (P.R., Vol. 11, TSRC).

Helicopter and skyline yarding, in and by themselves, would not result in conversion of any acres from a productive to an essentially non-productive condition. Designated/dedicated skid trails associated with ground-based skidding would however result in an increase in acres in a TSRC condition. Following implementation of Alternative B, TSRC for the 11,056 acre activity area would increase from the existing 2.6 percent to 2.9 percent. The Forest Plan standard for TSRC would be met (P.R., Vol. 11, TSRC).

Coarse Woody Debris – This alternative does not propose any new management activities on 80 percent (8,866 acres) of the analysis area and therefore would have no effect on coarse woody debris (CWD) levels on these untreated acres. Although some recruitment of CWD would occur over time on these untreated acres as existing snags fall, assuming no uncharacteristic wildfires or major insect epidemics, CWD on untreated acres would remain similar to the existing conditions portrayed in Table 3-20. No additional discussion of these untreated acres is provided (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

Alternative B would include silvicultural treatments on 2,190 acres, however it would not require or permit removal of logs currently on the ground (i.e. CWD). Therefore proposed harvest activities would have no effect on existing CWD levels. In addition, design features (Section 2.4.2.3) require that all existing standing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities be retained within proposed units. While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be immeasurable in comparison to existing snag densities, and since they would be retained on site, would actually increase existing CWD levels (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

A range of 50 to 70 live trees per acre would be retained under the commercial thin prescription, 20 to 30 live trees per acre under the individual tree selection prescription, and 20 to 70 live trees per acre following the sanitation/improvement prescription (Section 2.4.1). These trees, which would typically be the larger diameter trees present, would provide more than enough live trees to meet future recruitment needs relative to CWD desired conditions. Under an assumed scenario where only 20 trees/acre were retained and those trees average 14 inches dbh, these 20 trees would equate to roughly 22 tons/acre of potential CWD (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

The slash disposal method of whole-tree yarding (i.e. accumulating trees at the landings before limbs and tops are severed) would have no direct effect on existing levels of CWD. Lopping of

Chapter 3-76 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences created slash and retaining that material on site would increase CWD levels within affected units, however much of this material would be less than three inches in diameter. Based on the analysis completed for the Brush Boulder Project (USDA 2002) lopping of created slash would contribute no more than one ton/acre of CWD on affected sites (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

This alternative does however include prescribed burning to treat natural fuels on 613 acres and broadcast burning to treat harvest-related fuels on 119 acres. These activities could consume existing CWD retained in these units. Given that none of the other proposed activities are expected to have a measurable effect on CWD levels, for the purposes of this analysis proposed units associated with these burning activities that would have the same silvicultural prescription implemented prior to the burn were assessed as separate activity areas (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

For example, since all stands proposed to receive the commercial thin prescription currently reflect similar stand characteristics and would reflect similar stand densities, species compositions, and size classes following implementation, the cumulative acres of these stands that would be burned after harvest were assessed as a single activity area. Similar activity areas were established for the individual tree selection and sanitation/improvement prescriptions if followed by burning operations. A fourth activity area was also established to assess the effects of proposed burning activities within those stands where no mechanical treatments would occur prior to the prescribed burn. Since both the prescribed burn and the broadcast burn would involve low to moderate intensity/severity fires and therefore result in similar effects, there was no need to differentiate between the two types of burning activities. The following discussions summarize the pertinent stand characteristics for the activity areas and the effects of Alternative B.

Commercial Thin followed by Prescribed Fire – This 87 acre activity area consists primarily of PVG 2 and currently has about 9 tons/acre of CWD, 5.5 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group, and 0.1 snag/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. Following implementation of harvest activities retained live trees (50 to 70/acre) would consist primarily of Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. Although these species are generally considered to be tolerant of fire, given the immature nature of these stands some mortality would be expected in the smaller diameter live trees retained in affected units (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris; Vol. 2, Snags).

Individual Tree Selection followed by Broadcast Burn – This 53 acre activity area consists primarily of PVGs 5, 6, and 7 and currently has about 12 to 17 tons/acre of CWD, 24.9 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group, and 2.9 snags/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. Following implementation of harvest activities retained live trees (20 to 30/acre) would consist primarily of large diameter Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. Given the diameters of retained trees, their resistance to fire damage, and the low to moderate intensity of the proposed burn, mortality of retained live trees would not be expected (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris; Vol. 2, Snags).

Sanitation/Improvement followed by Prescribed Fire or Broadcast Burn - This activity area (90 acres) consists primarily of PVGs 3 and 10 and currently has about 8 tons/acre of CWD, 9.0 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group, and 0.8 snags/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. Following implementation of harvest activities retained live trees (20 to 70/acre) would consist primarily of Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. However, given the species compositions in some of these stands, grand fir, subalpine fir, and/or Engelmann spruce would also be retained in some locations. Although Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine are generally considered to be tolerant of fire, given the immature nature of these stands some mortality would be expected in the smaller diameter live trees retained in affected units. The same would hold true for retained grand fir, subalpine fir, and/or Engelmann spruce, but to a greater extent (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris; Vol. 2, Snags).

Prescribed Fire Only - This 502 acre activity area consists primarily of PVGs 2, 7, and 10 and currently has 9 to 16 tons/acre of CWD, 9.9 snags/acre in the 10 to 20 inch diameter group, and 0.9 snags/acre greater than 20 inches dbh. This prescription does not include any mechanical

Chapter 3-77 Clear Prong Final EIS

treatments prior to the prescribed burn. Therefore all existing live trees would be present including both fire tolerant and intolerant species. This low to moderate intensity fire would result in a mosaic burn pattern with an estimated 40 to 70 percent of the area actually affected. Roughly half of the understory trees would be expected to die on affected acres with minimal mortality in the trees greater than eight inches in diameter (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris; Vol. 2, Snags; Vol. 3, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Design features associated with this alternative disclose that prescribed and broadcast burning would be designed to burn at low or moderate intensities and severities (Section 2.4.2.5). While it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of larger diameter subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, and/or lodgepole pine that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags), thus providing an additional source of CWD recruitment. Although unquantifiable, prescribed and broadcast burning may also consume existing CWD retained in these units. However, as previously disclosed, live trees retained within these units would provide ample sources of future CWD recruitment (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

In summary, with the exception of the minor beneficial and undesirable effects of prescribed and broadcast burning activities, CWD levels following Alternative B would remain similar to the existing conditions within the four activity areas and across the 11,056 acre analysis area. CWD levels would continue to be within desired ranges for PVGs 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 10, and above the desired range for PVG 5. CWD greater than 15 inches in diameter would continue to be deficient in many of the PVGs (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

3.11.4.3 Cumulative Effects

Detrimental Disturbance - The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on detrimental disturbance would be limited to the project area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would influence this resource. One ongoing activity that could potentially affect detrimental disturbance within the cumulative effects area is discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment – This allotment falls within the southern end of the analysis area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years. Given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within RCAs and restrictions on bed grounds, any undesirable effects on these resources would be considered inconsequential.

Alternative A would have no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on detrimental disturbance (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Alternative B in combination with past activities would result in a slight incremental increase in detrimental disturbance. However, Forest Plan standards would be met and, given the lack of any other actions that would add to these effects, cumulative effects would be limited to the direct effects presented above (P.R., Vol. 11, Detrimental Disturbance).

Chapter 3-78 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Total Soil Resource Commitment (TSRC) – The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on TSRC would be limited to the project area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would influence this resource. One ongoing activity that could potentially affect TSRC within the cumulative effects area is discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment – This allotment falls within the southern end of the analysis area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years. Given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within RCAs and restrictions on bed grounds, any undesirable effects on these resources would be considered inconsequential.

Alternative A would have no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on TSRC (P.R., Vol. 11, TSRC).

Alternative B in combination with past activities would result in a slight incremental increase in TSRC. However, Forest Plan standards would be met and, given the lack of any other actions that would add to these effects, cumulative effects would be limited to the direct effects presented above (P.R., Vol. 11, TSRC).

Coarse Woody Debris - The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on coarse woody debris (CWD) would be limited to the project area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any CWD recruitment that may have occurred since those actions. Given that the existing conditions reflect the ongoing activity of firewood cutting and that CWD levels, in comparison to desired conditions, do not appear to have been greatly affected by this practice, this activity was not considered to be a relevant ongoing activity for the purposes of this assessment. There are no other ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on CWD, therefore no incremental or cumulative effects would occur as a result of this alternative (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

The use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning under Alternative B would both increase and decrease CWD levels slightly on affected acres. However, given that CWD levels would remain similar to the existing conditions across the 11,056 acre analysis area, any incremental effects would be immeasurable (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

3.11.5 Wetlands and Floodplains

This section of the document describes the existing conditions of wetlands and floodplains as well as the effects of the alternatives on those resources. Because of their potential influence on floodplains,

Chapter 3-79 Clear Prong Final EIS

this section also discloses the effects of the alternatives on 100-year flows relative to road culverts. Since potential impacts on wetlands and floodplains would be limited to those associated with proposed harvest and road-related activities, the analysis area consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3- 1).

Wetland communities support a unique variety of vegetation that provide food and cover for many mammals, birds, and amphibians, and have an important influence on aquatic habitat conditions. Protection of these areas is required by direction in the Forest Plan, as well as executive orders.

The goal of Executive Order 11988 is that the proposed activities must not increase flood hazards and must preserve the resource benefit of floodplains (i.e. their ability to dissipate flood flows and moderate peak flows). The goal of Executive Order 11990 is that the proposed activities must preserve the resource benefits of wetlands (i.e. their ability to produce abundant diverse biota, buffer water quality, and recharge groundwater).

Two types of wetlands are found in the project area, riverine and palustrine (USDI 1979) (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

The riverine, upper perennial types generally occur adjacent to rock/unconsolidated bottom streams that are permanently flooded with water. These narrow riparian wetlands typically follow the main stream channels and glacial outwash floodplains. These wetlands are largely composed of shrubs and conifer tree species with forb understories. Roughly 182 acres of this type of wetland occur within the analysis area, providing value to fisheries, birds, and mammals (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

The palustrine wetland types are seasonally and intermittently saturated with water, often following intermittent channels to the heads of drainages. These wetlands are of most value to birds and mammals. Roughly 27 acres of these wetlands have been identified within the analysis area. However it is likely that numerous other unidentified small seeps and springs are also present within the area (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

The current condition of wetlands and floodplains within the analysis area varies from site to site. In general, the majority of wetlands and floodplains have maintained their overall resource benefits. Some wetlands and floodplains have however been impacted at road crossings, with the most noticeable being the influence of the numerous culverts along the #409 road and their impact on tributaries to Clear Creek. Past disturbance during culvert installation was generally short term in nature, but the presence of the culvert still affects the value and function of the wetlands at these sites (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

Other narrow wetlands being affected by road crossings occur on the #405B road. The structure at the stream crossing near the #405B/#405B1 intersection was removed roughly 20 years ago but the existing log stringers remain in place. These log stringers and the steep eroding banks at this location continue to impact wetland values and likely constrain the floodplain during high flows. In addition, an estimated three old log culverts still exist along this well-vegetated road south of the #405B/#405B1 intersection that, if present, are also impacting wetlands and floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

Existing culverts have also impacted floodplain connectivity within the analysis area to some degree where culverts are currently too small to accommodate a 100-year flow event. Although others are likely present, a combination of culvert inventories, personal knowledge, and analysis indicates that 12 culverts on the #409 road are under-sized and therefore are impacting floodplain connectivity. These under-sized culverts, if blocked by debris, have the potential to result in a road fill failure and subsequent undesirable impacts on wetlands and floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

3.11.5.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative does not propose any new activities that would directly or indirectly affect wetlands or floodplains. Sediment from existing roads would continue to be delivered to area streams, some

Chapter 3-80 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences of which would impair the function and value of wetlands and floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

Under-sized culverts within the analysis area would continue to be at risk of failure during a 100- year flow event. Failure of these culverts would likely result in undesirable impacts to downstream wetlands and floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

3.11.5.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative would not be expected to negatively change the functions or values of wetlands and floodplains as they relate to protection of human health, safety, and welfare; preventing the loss of property values, and; maintaining natural systems. Applicable permits would be obtained and required consultation would occur with the Army Corp of Engineers, Idaho Department of Water Resources, the Idaho Division of Environmental Quality, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service prior to activities within wetlands or floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

Design features associated with this alternative include delineation of RCAs around all wetlands and streams (floodplains). No harvest or ground-based skidding would occur within these RCAs (Section 2.4.2.5). Therefore the function and value of wetlands and floodplains would be maintained within and adjacent to proposed harvest units (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains; Water Quality).

The use of five existing helicopter landings within the area would not be expected to have any undesirable effects on wetlands or floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains; Water Quality).

Construction of 1.1 miles of temporary road under Alternative B would not necessitate crossing of any perennial or intermittent streams. Although the #409 Temp road would be situated on an existing road prism roughly 50 feet away from a small perennial stream, the remaining temporary roads would be located on or near ridges. Therefore construction of temporary roads under this alternative would not be expected to have a noticeable effect on wetlands or floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains; Water Quality).

Road maintenance activities on the #409 road would consist of graveling the surface of roughly 0.8 miles from its intersection with the #409D road to Clear Creek Summit. Following this activity, the entire length of the #409 road within the project area would have a gravel surface. In addition, Alternative B would replace the 12 known under-sized culverts on the #409 road with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event. Replacement of the single under-sized culvert near Clear Creek Summit would be accomplished through the timber sale contract should this alternative be selected. Replacement of the remaining 11 under-sized culverts would be accomplished with appropriated monies rather than connected with any timber sale receipts resulting from this alternative. Replacing the 12 under-sized culverts would reduce the risk of these culverts becoming clogged with debris and precipitating a road prism failure and the associated sediment delivery to streams (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains; Water Quality).

Decommissioning 4.4 miles of road under Alternative B would include the removal of five culverts. In addition, the existing log stringers on the #405B road (where the structure was previously located) would be removed, the natural streamcourse reestablished, and the streambanks stabilized (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains; Water Quality).

Graveling 0.8 miles of the #409 road, removal of culverts on decommissioned roads, and replacement of under-sized culverts would result in temporary (1 to 3 years) detrimental effects in the form of displacement or trampling of riparian vegetation and/or minor amounts of sediment delivery. However in the temporary, short, and long term these actions would reduce the risk of culvert failure, stream diversion, streambank erosion, and sediment delivery, and therefore benefit both wetlands and floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains; Water Quality).

Chapter 3-81 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.11.5.3 Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects of any alternative on wetlands and floodplains would be limited to the project area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. A number of road restoration activities were implemented within the analysis area in 2002. Specifically these activities included replacement of a damaged relief culvert and graveling roughly 0.1 mile of the #407X road; rounding the cutslope, installation of drivable dips, extending existing culverts, armoring the ditchline, and graveling the surface of 0.8 miles of the #406 road; installation of an additional relief culvert on the #405B road; graveling the surface of roughly 0.1 mile of the #405 road, and; installation of six additional relief culverts and spot graveling 1.2 miles of the #405C road. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future vegetative management activities within the cumulative effects analysis area that would influence this resource. One ongoing activity that could potentially affect wetlands or floodplains within the cumulative effects area is discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment – This allotment falls within the southern end of the analysis area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years. Given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within RCAs and restrictions on bed grounds, any undesirable effects on these resources would be considered inconsequential.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on wetlands or floodplains within the analysis area, therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

Regardless of the effects of past or ongoing actions, replacing/removing culverts and decommissioning roads under Alternative B would result in an incremental improvement relative to wetlands and floodplains within the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

3.12 Fisheries

This section of the document discusses the existing characteristics of the fisheries and fish habitat, as well as the effects of the alternatives on those resources. The 11,056 acre project area lies within the 16,693 acre 6th field Upper Clear Creek Subwatershed (HUC 170501230204) in the North Fork of the Payette River Subbasin. For the purposes of this assessment, the 6th field subwatershed was used as the analysis area (Figure 3-13). However where pertinent, discussions of other fish populations outside of the analysis area are also presented. Tributaries within the analysis area include the East Fork of Clear Creek and numerous unnamed intermittent, non-fish bearing perennial, and fish bearing perennial streams, all of which flow into Clear Creek.

Discussions of the existing conditions were derived from field data collected between 1993 and 2002 unless specifically stated otherwise. A review of aerial photographs and a 2004 color digital orthophotoquad (Farm Service Agency NAIP Imagery, USDA 2004) indicates little change in land management activities or natural disturbances on Forest Service administered lands (i.e. project area) since collection of that data. However, additional timber harvest has occurred on private lands downstream of the project area since 1997. Field data collected from tributaries in these lower reaches in 2002 indicate similar stream channel conditions to data collected in earlier years, suggesting that these activities on private lands have had little influence on watershed conditions. For these reasons, it is believed that the data collected between 1993 and 2002 still reflect the existing conditions and was considered adequate for this assessment.

Chapter 3-82 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Figure 3-13 Fisheries Analysis Area

Chapter 3-83 Clear Prong Final EIS

Fish presence/absence surveys were completed in the analysis area in 1993, 1995, 1996 and 1998. A separate presence/absence survey was also completed in lower Clear Creek, immediately below the analysis area, in 2002. None of these surveys identified the presence of any threatened, endangered, or sensitive fish species within or adjacent to the analysis area. Surveys found both rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) to be present, with brook trout the predominant species in the watershed (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

The North Fork Payette River Core Area identified in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Draft Bull Trout Recovery Plan (USDI 2002) includes only that portion of the North Fork Payette River Subbasin upstream of Cascade Dam. The only bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) local population unit identified for the North Fork Payette River Core Area is Gold Fork River (USDI 2002). This population is believed to be a resident population based on the size of fish sampled in the 1990s and again in 2008. An upstream and downstream migration barrier (irrigation diversion dam) in lower Gold Fork River isolates this population.

A final designation of bull trout critical habitat was published in the Federal Register on September 26, 2005, and became effective October 26, 2005 (50 CFR Vol. 70, No. 185). Under that rule, no designated bull trout critical habitat occurred in the North Fork Payette River within the Boise National Forest or on the Cascade Ranger District. In January of 2010 the USFWS announced a proposal to revise its 2005 designation of critical habitat for bull trout. However, no proposed critical habitat occurs in the North Fork Payette River south of Cascade Reservoir, nor is any proposed critical habitat located within the Clear Creek subwatershed in the 2010 proposal.

Findings by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) indicate remnant resident redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri), the native trout of the North Fork Payette River, may be present in Clear Creek. IDFG has determined that the wild rainbow trout found downstream in the Cabarton reach of the North Fork Payette River, two to three miles downstream of the mouth of Clear Creek, are spawning in Clear Creek in the spring (Anderson et al 1987).

Fish habitat surveys were completed in the analysis area in the summers of 1996 and 1998 for reaches approximately 100 meters long in Clear Creek, the East Fork of Clear Creek, and larger tributaries to these streams using the R1/R4 protocol for habitat (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Watershed Condition Indicators – The 2003 Forest Plan management direction (goals, objectives, standards, and guidelines) replaces direction in the 1990 Forest Plan, as amended by Pacfish/Infish, and the 1995 and 1998 Biological Opinions (BOs) for listed fish species. However, Appendix B of the Forest Plan did incorporate components of Pacfish/Infish, the 1995 and 1998 BOs, the Endangered Species Act, and the Clean Water Act that are important to the Forest’s long-term Aquatic Conservation Strategy (ACS).

Information and process guidance provided in Appendix B of the Forest Plan, also referred to as the “Matrix”, comprise a decision support tool that has been developed to assist land managers in assessing how well management actions move toward related resource goals. There are four components/tables in the Matrix with each table divided into 8 overall pathways (major rows). Each of these rows represents a significant pathway by which actions can have potential effects on native and desired non-native fish species, their habitats, and associated beneficial uses. Pathways are further broken down into 24 watershed condition indicators (WCIs). These WCIs improve upon and update the Riparian Management Objectives identified in Pacfish and Infish. In simple terms, direction in Appendix B requires completion of four steps:

1) Identify the desired conditions necessary for any individual WCI to function at an appropriate level. Although the Matrix provides “default” desired conditions for each WCI, it also provides the flexibility to modify these values to reflect desired conditions achievable in a given location and/or to incorporate localized or better information.

2) Identify the environmental baseline (existing condition) of each WCI.

Chapter 3-84 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3) Compare the desired condition of each WCI to the environmental baseline to determine if the individual WCI is currently functioning appropriately (FA), functioning at risk (FR), or functioning at an unacceptable risk (FUR).

4) Identify the temporary, short, and long term effects of proposed activities on the relevant WCIs to determine how those activities affect the functionality rating.

The intent is that the processes outlined in the Matrix can be used to track how management actions, over time, are trending FUR and FR indicators toward a FA condition, or are maintaining already FA indicators at multiple scales. How quickly WCIs obtain a FA condition depends on the baseline, the kinds of management actions that are implemented and their effects over time, and the types of natural disturbances that occur.

As noted in Appendix B of the Forest Plan, not every project, even in a degraded baseline, will be restorative. Some management actions will be proposed in a watershed with a FUR baseline that will result in a temporary or possibly short term “degrade” in the Matrix. These management actions are appropriate as long as they do not retard the attainment of riparian processes and functions, have measurable long term ecological benefits, and do not have substantially measurable short term effects to important subwatersheds or to the overall watershed. If riparian and watershed processes are to be restored over time within watersheds that have a FR or FUR baseline, it is critical that management actions individually and collectively do not further degrade or retard attainment of WCIs unless outweighed by demonstrable long term benefits. It is also critical that management actions in priority subwatersheds provide some degree of restoration to WCIs at the appropriate temporal and spatial scales if desired conditions are to be achieved.

The following discussions describe the environmental baselines for the relevant WCIs (those that may be affected by proposed activities). Where applicable, the relevant WCIs were modified from the “default” desired condition to reflect better or more localized information. The updated environmental baselines were developed, in part, to support completion of the Clear Prong Project Biological Assessment. Reference Appendix B of the Forest Plan and Appendix A of the Clear Prong Project Biological Assessment for detailed discussions of all WCIs, including those deemed not relevant to this analysis.

Subpopulation Size, Growth and Survival, Life History Diversity and Isolation, and Persistence and Genetic Integrity - No bull trout or any other listed or sensitive fish species have been identified in the many population surveys in this subwatershed, nor has any bull trout, steelhead trout, or Chinook salmon critical habitat been identified in the subwatershed (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Temperature – The highest seven-day mean maximum temperature measured in sampled streams within the analysis area was 12.6oC. These temperatures are probably not impacting resident salmonid species (i.e. rainbow and brook trout) present in the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Sediment – Percent fines from Wolman pebble counts collected in pool tailouts in streams within the analysis area show elevated fines (>30 percent particles <6 millimeters) in most sampled tributaries, including Clear Creek. Percent fines ranged from 19 to 81 percent, indicating that sediment is likely impairing spawning habitat for resident rainbow and brook trout (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Chemical Contaminants/Nutrients – As previously disclosed, Clear Creek appears on the State of Idaho's Integrated (303[d]/305[b]) Report (IDEQ 2009), with sediment identified as the pollutant of concern. Levels of chemical contamination/nutrients from agricultural, industrial, and other sources are low (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Physical Barriers – Review of existing GIS layers and 2004 color digital orthophotoquads (Farm Service Agency NAIP Imagery, USDA 2004) for private land indicates there are in excess of 100 road crossings of intermittent or perennial streams within the 6th field analysis area. These intersections include open, closed, and decommissioned roads. Two existing culverts on the #405B road south of its intersection with the #405B1 road were assumed to be fish passage barriers. In addition, 12 culverts along that portion of the #409 road in the analysis area have been identified as under-sized, and several of these culverts assumed to prevent fish passage. The irrigation diversion on Clear Creek, located about three miles downstream of the

Chapter 3-85 Clear Prong Final EIS analysis area in a separate 6th field subwatershed on privately owned land, diverts nearly 100 percent of the flow during the late summer and early fall months resulting in a complete fish migration barrier (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Substrate Embeddedness – The dominant substrate is sand and small gravel in most streams within the analysis area. Wolman pebble count data indicates that average percent fines less than six millimeters in sampled streams range from 19 to 65 percent (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Large Woody Debris – Stream survey data determined that all but one of the sampled sites in the analysis area had large woody debris (LWD) present in amounts exceeding values for pristine streams based on locally derived habitat data (The User's Guide to Fish Habitat: Descriptions that Represent Natural Conditions in the Salmon River Basin, Overton and others 1995). With the exception of one tributary of the East Fork of Clear Creek, which had a LWD value of 94, LWD ranged from 231 to 670 pieces/mile. Surveys indicate LWD is present in sufficient quantities to create pool habitat similar to that in unmanaged streams, as well as to provide sediment storage, cover, and channel stability. LWD greater than 12 inches in diameter and greater than 35 feet in length as described in the Forest Plan would not be expected in the majority of streams in the analysis area due to their narrow widths (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Pool Frequency and Quality – Stream survey data found that pool frequency at sampled sites within the analysis area ranged from 91 to 237 pools/mile, or an average of 172 pools/mile, and exceeded the desired condition in every measured reach. However, surveys also found that pools are less than one meter deep, likely due to the high amounts of fine sediment found in streams throughout the subwatershed (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Large Pools/Pool Quality – As noted above, pools are relatively abundant in sampled streams but were all less than one meter deep (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Off-channel Habitat - Only three off-channel habitat units were noted during surveys in the analysis area. These units occurred primarily in the main Clear Creek channel, a Rosgen C channel, where oxbows and side channels would be expected. The remainder of the sampled sites were Rosgen Aa+ to B channels where off-channel habitat is expected to be minimal (Rosgen 1994) (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Refugia - Two existing culverts on the #405B road, south of its intersection with the #405B1 road, possibly prevent use of portions of this stream as refugia. In addition, 12 culverts along that portion of the #409 road in the analysis area have been identified as under-sized, and several of these culverts assumed to prevent fish access to several streams. The irrigation diversion on Clear Creek, located about three miles downstream of the analysis area on privately owned land, prevents access by migratory fish during the late summer and early fall months, thereby limiting use of this area as refugia (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Wetted Width/Maximum Depth Ratio – Based on survey data, wetted width/maximum depth ratios of sampled sites ranged from 4.7 to 8.5, with all sampled sites having width/maximum depth ratios of less than ten (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Streambank Condition - Stream survey data reveals that 95.4 percent of the streambanks in the analysis area are stable (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Floodplain Connectivity - Based on field observations of riparian conditions, overbank flows appear to be occurring but 12 under-sized culverts (i.e. not adequately sized to accommodate a 100-year flow event) are known to exist within the analysis area. These under-sized culverts may impound water above each road crossing during a flood event, thereby altering flow characteristics over the floodplain in a flood event (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

Chapter 3-86 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences vegetated road south of the #405B/#405B1 intersection that, if present, are also impacting floodplains (P.R., Vol. 11, Wetlands and Floodplains).

The #409 road parallels Clear Creek, occurring within the floodplain for several miles. Roughly ¼ mile of roads #405 and #406 also occur within floodplains. These roads have the potential to redirect flows and reduce the potential of floodwaters to access portions of the floodplain during flood events (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Change in Peak/Base Flows – Stream discharge data specific to streams in the area is not available. Desired conditions in the Forest Plan describe less than 15 percent Equivalent Clearcut Area (ECA) for a watershed as “functioning appropriately” (Forest Plan, Appendix B). Although ECA for the analysis area is within desired conditions at 10 percent, riparian conservation area (RCA) road density is high at 5.70 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Change in Drainage Network - One surrogate that has been used on the Boise National Forest for this watershed condition indicator is the ratio between total road miles within RCAs and total stream miles. The current ratio for the analysis area is 0.38 RCA road miles/mile of stream (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Road Density/Location – An estimated 115 miles of road exist within the analysis area, which equates to a road density of 4.41 mi/mi2. Over half of these roads occur in the lower 1/3 of the analysis area on non- Forest Service administered lands. Although all roads are considered potential sediment sources, roads located adjacent to streams are particularly efficient at delivering sediment. Approximately 44 miles of road in the analysis area are located within RCAs, which equates to a RCA road density of 5.70 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Disturbance History – Desired conditions in the Forest Plan describe less than 15 percent Equivalent Clearcut Area (ECA) for a watershed as “functioning appropriately” (Forest Plan, Appendix B). ECA for the analysis area is currently about 10 percent (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield). Approximately 44 miles of road in the analysis area are located within RCAs, which equates to a RCA road density of 5.70 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality). Two existing culverts on the #405B road, south of its intersection with the #405B1 road, possibly prevent use of portions of this stream as refugia. The irrigation diversion on Clear Creek, located about three miles downstream of the analysis area, prevents access by migratory fish during the late summer and early fall months, thereby limiting use of this area as refugia (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries). Roughly 4,927 acres of RCAs exist within the analysis area, 2,202 acres of which have been impacted by past timber harvest activities on private or Forest Service administered lands. Nevertheless large woody debris and bank stability are generally functioning appropriately across the analysis area and stream temperatures are probably not impacting resident salmonid species (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

No large earthflows have been identified in the analysis area and although there are numerous faults in the project area, no correlation has been made between fault lines and mass erosion processes. Management- related landslides that have been identified are mostly small, localized road cut and fill slope failures. Other management-related landslides include one large debris torrent along the #417H1 road and two channel extensions resulting from previous harvest activities. Field reconnaissance in the East Fork of Clear Creek in 1999 identified three landslides, all a result of natural occurrences, and all assumed to be in excess of 100 years old. These landslides occur near the middle or lower reach of a non-fish bearing perennial stream that flows from this drainage. These slumps and debris flows are associated with springs, seeps, or the headwaters of the stream. The resulting slope shape is a steep exposed headwall (scarp) area with shallow soils, large exposed rock, pistol-butted trees, and a flat, wet depositional area forming the bottom of the old landslide (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability).

Although unquantifiable, and at a small scale, cattle grazing and dispersed recreation along Clear Creek have also impacted riparian areas in that portion of the analysis area downstream of Forest Service administered lands (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Riparian Conservation Areas – Roughly 4,927 acres of RCAs exist within the analysis area, 2,202 acres of which have been impacted by past timber harvest activities on private or Forest Service administered lands. Nevertheless large woody debris and bank stability are generally functioning appropriately across the

Chapter 3-87 Clear Prong Final EIS analysis area and stream temperatures are probably not impacting resident salmonid species. Roads within the project area, and specifically within RCAs, continue to have an impact on water quality and aquatic species. The existing RCA road density is about 5.70 mi/mi2 within the analysis area. Although unquantifiable, and at a small scale, cattle grazing and dispersed recreation along Clear Creek have also impacted riparian areas in that portion of the analysis area downstream of Forest Service administered lands (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Disturbance Regime - Sediment is higher than desired while streambank stability is functioning appropriately and stream temperatures are probably not impacting resident salmonid species. Though few sites meet the desired condition for LWD as defined in the Forest Plan, surveys indicate smaller wood is present in sufficient quantities to create pool habitat similar to that in unmanaged streams, as well as to provide sediment storage, cover, and channel stability. No listed or sensitive fish species have been identified as present in the analysis area. The irrigation diversion on Clear Creek, located about three miles downstream of the analysis area, prevents access by migratory fish during the late summer and early fall months. Two existing culverts on the #405B road, south of its intersection with the #405B1 road, possibly prevent use of portions of this stream as refugia. Streamflows are not exacerbated by ECA. Vegetation does not reflect desired conditions. Given the prevalence of the mixed severity fire regime, there is currently a low likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, intense fire (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Integration of Species and Habitat Conditions – Although some of the habitat conditions are functioning appropriately, the high amount of fine sediment in most of the potential spawning habitat in the analysis area has the potential to limit the resilience of salmonid species. The irrigation diversion below the analysis area isolates aquatic species in Clear Creek from the rest of the North Fork Payette River Subbasin during the late summer and early fall months. Migration of aquatic species is however still possible in the spring before water is diverted for irrigation and in the fall after irrigation is completed for the season (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

3.12.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on any watershed condition indicator (WCI), fish habitat, or fish populations. This alternative would have no influence on the existing functionality ratings of the WCIs (Table 3-21) in the 6th field analysis area (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

3.12.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

As displayed in Table 3-21, this alternative would have no influence or would maintain the existing functionality ratings for all WCIs in the 6th field analysis area (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Subpopulation Size, Growth and Survival, Life History Diversity and Isolation, and Persistence and Genetic Integrity - These WCIs would not be affected since the analysis area is outside of all core areas

Chapter 3-88 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences identified in the Draft Bull Trout Recovery Plan (USDI 2002) and no bull trout local populations or critical habitat exists in the North Fork Payette River Subbasin downstream of Cascade Reservoir. Further, no bull trout or any other listed or sensitive fish species have been identified in the many population surveys in this subwatershed (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Temperature – This alternative would have no measurable effect on stream temperature. Design features (Section 2.4.2.5) prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding of trees within riparian conservation areas (RCAs). The analysis completed for this assessment delineated RCAs based upon site-potential tree heights for the appropriate potential vegetation group (PVG). In the case of this project, the RCA widths would be a minimum of 80 to 130 feet (one site potential tree height) for intermittent streams not providing seasonal rearing and spawning habitat, and 160 to 260 feet (two site potential tree heights) for all other streams. FEMAT (Steinblums 1977) found that a buffer of about one site-potential tree height is sufficient to maintain shading (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Thinning of sub-merchantable trees (<8 inches dbh) would occur on about 34 acres of RCAs under this alternative. Trees to be thinned within these units currently average 2.4 inches in diameter with an average height of 12 feet. Design features (Section 2.4.2.5) prohibit thinning of sub-merchantable trees within 30 feet of streams. This 30 foot distance exceeds average heights of trees to be thinned within affected units. Therefore this activity would have no immediate effect on stream temperature, but would enhance stream shading in the future. Based on projections with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), by year 2031 the average height of the understory on treated acres would be about 37 feet and the average diameter at breast height 7.4 inches. In comparison to Alternative A, on average, trees retained on thinned acres would grow an additional 13 feet in height and 2.7 inches in diameter by year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth). Engelmann spruce and Douglas-fir would be selected for retention where thinning has been proposed in riparian habitats. This activity would accelerate the development of overstory trees, promote the establishment of a larger, shade-producing canopy, continue to provide a persisting shrub/forb layer, and enhance the opportunity for long term large woody debris recruitment. In addition, given the design feature to retain tree species more adapted to riparian habitats, this activity would enhance the diversity and productivity of native plant communities and riparian vegetation (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

The use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning on 732 acres under Alternative B would occur at a low to moderate intensity. Design features (Section 2.4.2.5) have been incorporated to avoid fire ignition within RCAs. Given these fire intensities, design features, and the relatively wet nature of streamside RCAs, little, if any, tree mortality would be expected immediately adjacent to streams. Therefore these activities would not be expected to measurably affect stream temperature (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Sediment – Although BOISED reflects a temporary and near short term increase in sedimentation, the modeled output does not reflect the benefits of many design features incorporated into this alternative. Proper application of these design features would be expected to decrease the likelihood of sediment delivery to streams in quantities sufficient to impact water quality conditions in the temporary and near short term, and would result in a slight short and long term decrease. The Megahan/Ketcheson model predicted, using on-site data, that sediment would travel no more than eight feet below units harvested with ground-based (i.e. tractor and off-road jammer), skyline, or helicopter yarding systems. Given the modeled sediment delivery distance of eight feet and the prohibition of skidding within at least 80 feet of any stream, any harvest-related erosion delivered to area streams would be immeasurable. In addition, thinning of sub-merchantable trees would be accomplished with hand labor only and therefore would not result in any ground disturbance or sedimentation (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Implementation of Alternative B would include the use of five existing landings which would increase ground disturbance and increase the potential for sediment delivery. Of particular concern are three helicopter landings within RCAs, the closest of which is 135 feet from a stream channel. The sediment delivery distance using the Megahan/Ketcheson model and on-site data for helicopter landings was 54 feet. Given incorporated design features, the modeled sediment delivery distance, and the flat nature of these sites, the use of existing helicopter landings is not expected to result in a measurable increase in sediment delivery (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Chapter 3-89 Clear Prong Final EIS

The use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning on 732 acres under Alternative B would occur at a low to moderate intensity/severity to minimize the potential for erosion and sedimentation. Design features (Section 2.4.2.5) incorporated to minimize fireline construction and to avoid fire ignition within RCAs should decrease the likelihood of disturbance to soils and the resulting sediment delivery from these activities. Clayton and Kennedy (1985) credited buffer strips (49 to 98 feet) as one factor limiting movement of large amounts of nutrients mobilized by slash burning and decay, and limiting the delivery of sediment to streams (Seyedbagheri 1996). Given the minimum RCA width of 80 feet and the prescribed low to moderate intensity/severity burns, sediment delivery from these activities is expected to be minimal (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

While a total of 1.1 miles of temporary road would be constructed under Alternative B, over half of this temporary road construction would occur on existing road prisms with vegetated cut and fill slopes and none of the temporary roads would include any stream crossings. With the exception of the #409 Temp road, all temporary roads would be constructed on or near ridges thus minimizing the potential for sediment delivery. Disturbance associated with these activities would increase the risk of sedimentation until the disturbed areas stabilize and harvest-related traffic subsides (Ketcheson and Megahan 1996). Undesirable effects of temporary road construction would be expected to be minimal since no stream crossings would be necessary. Construction of the #409 Temp road on an existing road prism would not necessitate disturbance of the vegetated fill slope. Given the Megahan/Ketcheson modeled sediment delivery distance of 41 feet, the vegetated fill slope, and the fact that the majority of this road would be located more than 41 feet from the adjacent stream, any increase in sediment should be immeasurable (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Under Alternative B an estimated 0.8 miles of the #409 road would be improved through maintenance activities to enhance hydrologic conditions and reduce sedimentation. Specifically, gravel would be applied to the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit. Graveling 0.8 miles of the #409 road, which lies adjacent to the headwaters of Clear Creek, would have an immediate beneficial effect and would decrease direct sediment delivery to streams in the temporary, short, and long term. Road surfacing reduces the amount of fine particles that erode from the road surface (Foltz and Truebe 1994) and also prevents wheel ruts from routing water down the road surface or into streams. Following completion of this activity, the entire length of the #409 road on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area would have a gravel surface (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

An estimated 4.4 miles of existing road (#405B, #405B2, #405C, #405D, and #417HX1) would be decommissioned to reduce future maintenance needs and/or to reduce sedimentation. Ripping and distributing slash on 2.8 miles of road (#405C, #405D, and #417HX1) would result in a temporary sediment increase, but ultimately would reduce the sediment production from these roads to near natural rates (Harr and Nichols 1993; Potyondy et al 1991). That portion of the #405B road beyond the intersection with the #405B1 and the #405B2 road would also be decommissioned under this alternative. Given that these roads are currently well vegetated with small conifers, decommissioning in this case would consist of removing the existing log stringers and any other culverts by hand and reestablishing and revegetating the streamcourses. Decommissioned roads would be a potential source of sediment until vegetation is established and the disturbed areas stabilize. However in the temporary, short, and long term, this action would allow establishment of vegetation on disturbed sites, eliminate

Chapter 3-90 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences five stream crossings, and reduce the potential of unauthorized motorized use and its associated impacts on sediment delivery (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Culvert replacement and/or removal associated with road maintenance and decommissioning activities is a temporary process, usually taking less than one day. Increases in turbidity and bedload may occur for up to two days after culvert removal (Foltz and Yanosek 2006). However the amount of this material is not expected to be a measurable increase over the existing sediment. The indirect effect of these activities would be the delivery of turbid water downstream. This material would settle out in pools and in low velocity areas in streams and be diluted to a point where no measurable consequences would occur at the confluence with the next stream (Foltz and Yanosek 2006). The amount of this material is not expected to be a measurable increase over the existing sediment (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality). Reference Section 2.4.2 for a complete list of design features associated with these activities.

Since the #409 road parallels Clear Creek for much of its length, log hauling on this route has the potential to deliver fine sediment in the form of dust to Clear Creek in the temporary time frame (estimated not to exceed three years). As previously noted, the proposed action would apply gravel to 0.8 miles of the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit. Following completion of this activity the entire length of the #409 road on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area would have a gravel surface. Therefore dust production from this section of the road would be negligible. The remaining 4.5 miles of the #409 road within the analysis area occur on privately owned lands and have a native surface. Dust abatement along this section of road would be mitigated by normal timber sale provisions which would require watering the road during dry periods when dust is particularly evident. Although some dust would be delivered to Clear Creek, any increase in sediment should be immeasurable (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Chemical Contaminants/Nutrients – The risk of Alternative B resulting in a fuel spill and that spilled material reaching the stream system would be extremely small and discountable. Contract provisions associated with any timber sale would require a spill response plan and identify requirements for storage of fuel and fueling operations within the project area. In addition, those contract provisions would stipulate that the helicopter service landing, where fuel would be stored and helicopters refueled, would be located outside of any RCA. The fuel haul route would be the #409 road which has good sight distances and is wide enough to accommodate two lanes of traffic from Highway 55 to the service landing near the #409/#405 intersection (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Fuel for ground-based equipment would be transported and stored in service trucks with capacities of 100 to 150 gallons. Refueling of this equipment would occur outside of RCAs. Fuel for sawyers, including those implementing thinning of sub-merchantable trees, would be carried in individual containers of less than two gallons. Since harvest activities are prohibited in RCAs, it is unlikely that refueling of chainsaws would result in contamination of streams. Although the risk of such a spill is extremely small, if a spill were to occur there is a small risk of impacts to fish in the immediate vicinity of the spill (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Relative to Clear Creek and its listing in the State of Idaho's Integrated (303[d]/305[b]) Report (IDEQ 2009), Alternative B would be consistent with the intent of the TMDL of reducing sediment, the pollutant of concern (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

Physical Barriers – Implementation of Alternative B would include removal of two culverts on the #405B road that were assumed to be fish passage barriers, and replacement of 12 under-sized culverts along the #409 road. While it is unknown which of these 12 culverts may actually be preventing passage, culverts replaced along the #409 road would be designed to allow fish passage where habitat exists upstream. Following implementation all identified management-related fish passage barriers in the 6th field analysis area will have been addressed. However the irrigation diversion on Clear Creek, three miles downstream of the analysis area in another 6th field subwatershed on privately owned land, would continue to act as a complete seasonal fish migration barrier (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Substrate Embeddedness – Culvert replacement and/or removal associated with road maintenance and decommissioning activities would result in some channel turbidity. This material would settle out in

Chapter 3-91 Clear Prong Final EIS

pools and in low velocity areas in streams and be diluted to a point where no measurable consequences would occur at the confluence with the next stream (Foltz and Yanosek 2006). Although road maintenance and decommissioning activities would result in a slight short and long term decrease in sedimentation, any noticeable improvement in substrate embeddedness would likely not be realized for several decades (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality; Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Large Woody Debris – This alternative would have no measurable effect on large woody debris recruitment. Robinson and Beschta (1990) found that when the distance from a tree to stream was more than one effective tree height the probability of the tree contributing large woody debris approached zero. Belt and others (1992) found that 85 percent of large woody debris recruitment is contributed from those trees within one site-potential tree height of the stream. Design features associated with this alternative (Section 2.4.2.5) prohibit harvest activities within one or two site-potential tree heights depending upon the stream type (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Design features also prohibit thinning of sub-merchantable trees (<8 inches dbh) within 30 feet of streams. This 30 foot distance exceeds average heights of trees to be thinned within affected units. Therefore this activity would have no immediate effect on large woody debris recruitment. In comparison to Alternative A, on average, trees retained on thinned acres would grow an additional 13 feet in height and 2.7 inches in diameter by year 2031 thereby enhancing large woody debris recruitment in the long term (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

The use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning on 732 acres under Alternative B would occur at a low to moderate intensity. In addition, design features (Section 2.4.2.5) have been incorporated to avoid fire ignition within RCAs. Given these fire intensities, design features, and the relatively wet nature of RCAs, little, if any, tree mortality would be expected immediately adjacent to streams. Therefore these activities would not be expected to measurably affect large woody debris recruitment (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Design features associated with this alternative require field identification of landslide prone areas. These same design features prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding of trees on these field-identified landslide prone areas. Incorporation of these design features (Section 2.4.2.5) should effectively mitigate any undesirable effects on potential large woody debris recruitment from landslide prone areas (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Pool Frequency and Quality – Culvert replacement and/or removal associated with road maintenance and decommissioning activities would result in some channel turbidity. This material would settle out in pools and in low velocity areas in streams and be diluted to a point where no measurable consequences would occur in the temporary time frame at the confluence with the next stream (Foltz and Yanosek 2006). Although road maintenance and decommissioning activities would result in a slight short and long term decrease in sedimentation, any noticeable improvement in substrate embeddedness would likely not be realized for several decades. This alternative would have no immediate effect on large woody debris recruitment and would not measurably increase sediment delivery, therefore no effect on pool frequency and quality would be expected. The function of woody debris in stream channels and its role in pool formation and depth would not be affected by this alternative (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality; Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Large Pool/Pool Quality – As noted above, culvert replacement and/or removal associated with road maintenance and decommissioning activities would result in some channel turbidity. This material would settle out in pools and in low velocity areas in streams and be diluted to a point where no measurable consequences would occur in the temporary time frame at the confluence with the next stream (Foltz and Yanosek 2006). Although road maintenance and decommissioning activities would result in a slight short and long term decrease in sedimentation, any noticeable improvement in pool depth would likely not be realized for several decades (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality; Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Off-channel Habitat - No change in this watershed condition indicator would be expected from implementation of Alternative B in the temporary, short, or long term. Off-channel habitat would

Chapter 3-92 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences continue to be limited due to the high percentage of confined, high gradient streams in the analysis area. Since any change in sediment delivery would be minimal in the temporary, short, and long term, and since existing LWD would not migrate to low gradient reaches for many decades, no change to off- channel habitat would occur as a result of this alternative (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Refugia – Implementation of Alternative B would include removal of two culverts on the #405B road that were assumed to be fish passage barriers, thereby permitting use of minor sections of the affected stream as refugia. Replacement of 12 under-sized culverts on the #409 road, several of which likely prevent fish passage, would also allow use of affected streams as refugia. However the irrigation diversion on Clear Creek, three miles downstream of the analysis area in another 6th field subwatershed, would continue to act as a complete seasonal fish migration barrier (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Wetted Width/Maximum Depth Ratio – This alternative would have a minimal effect on ECA (increase from the existing 10 percent up to 13 percent) and would not measurably increase sediment delivery (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield; Water Quality). In addition, design features associated with this alternative require field identification of landslide prone areas based on guidelines developed from Chatwin et al (1994), Megahan (1979), Gray and Megahan (1981), and Pack et al (1998). Those same design features prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding of trees on these field-identified landslide prone areas. Incorporation of these design features (Section 2.4.2.5) should effectively mitigate any undesirable effects on slope stability (P.R., Vol. 11, Slope Stability). In summary, given the immeasurable effects on peak flow, sediment delivery, and slope stability, this alternative would have no effect on wetted width/maximum depth ratios (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Streambank Condition - Exclusion of harvest in RCAs in all units, maintenance of existing and future large woody debris recruitment, and design features incorporated to minimize sediment delivery would result in maintenance of the existing bank stability in the majority of streams. Removal of culverts during road decommissioning activities and culvert replacement on the #409 road would result in disturbance of minor segments of streambanks during the temporary timeframe, but would enhance streambank stability in the short and long term (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Floodplain Connectivity – Replacement of the 12 known under-sized culverts in the analysis area and removal of culverts during road decommissioning activities would improve floodplain connectivity and reduce constricted overbank flows at affected sites (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Change in Peak/Base Flows – Desired conditions in the Forest Plan describe less than 15 percent Equivalent Clearcut Area (ECA) for a watershed as “functioning appropriately” (Forest Plan, Appendix B). This alternative would have a minimal effect on ECA, water yield, and peak flows. Harvest activities associated with this alternative would increase ECA for the 6th field subwatershed by three percent, from the existing 10 percent up to 13 percent (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield). However, road density within RCAs would be decreased from the existing 5.70 mi/mi2 down to 5.45 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Change in Drainage Network – Decommissioning 4.4 miles of road would result in a slight enhancement of this watershed condition indicator. The current ratio for the analysis area of 0.38 RCA road miles/mile of stream would be reduced down to 0.34 RCA road miles/mile of stream after implementation (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Road Density/Location – Decommissioning 4.4 miles of road under this alternative would result in a slightly decreased road density in the 6th field analysis area. Upon completion of use, all newly constructed temporary roads would be ripped to an approximate depth of 18 inches, slash would be distributed to cover approximately 30 percent of the ripped surface, planted with a Forest Service approved seed mixture, and closed to motorized traffic (Section 2.4.2.2) (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Quality).

During implementation, this alternative would reflect temporary increases (1 to 3 years) in road density in the analysis area while temporary roads are in use. However, upon completion of use, road density in the analysis area would decrease from the existing 4.41 mi/mi2 down to 4.24 mi/mi2. Road density

Chapter 3-93 Clear Prong Final EIS

within RCAs would also decrease from the existing 5.70 mi/mi2 down to 5.45 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Disturbance History – As explained above, desired conditions in the Forest Plan describe less than 15 percent Equivalent Clearcut Area (ECA) for a watershed as “functioning appropriately” (Forest Plan, Appendix B). This alternative would have a minimal effect on ECA, water yield, and peak flows. Harvest activities associated with this alternative would increase ECA for the 6th field subwatershed by three percent, from the existing 10 percent up to 13 percent (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield). Design features associated with this alternative require field identification of landslide prone areas based on guidelines developed from Chatwin et al (1994), Megahan (1979), Gray and Megahan (1981), and Pack et al (1998). Those same design features prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding of trees on these field-identified landslide prone areas. Incorporation of these design features should effectively mitigate any undesirable effects on slope stability (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield; Slope Stability).

Decommissioning 4.4 miles of road would reduce road density within RCAs from the existing 5.70 mi/mi2 down to 5.45 mi/mi2. The proposed action would also replace 12 under-sized culverts in the analysis area and remove five culverts during road decommissioning activities. Small scale disturbances associated with cattle grazing and dispersed recreation in that portion of the analysis area downstream of Forest Service administered lands would not be affected by this alternative (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Riparian Conservation Areas – Design features prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding of trees within RCAs (Section 2.4.2.5). Therefore harvest activities would have no effect on this WCI (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Design features (Section 2.4.2.5) also prohibit thinning of sub-merchantable trees (<8 inches dbh) within 30 feet of streams. This 30-foot distance exceeds average heights of trees to be thinned within affected units. Therefore this activity would have no immediate effect on stream temperature but would enhance stream shading in the future. Based on projections with the Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002), by year 2031 the average height of the understory on treated acres would be about 37 feet and the average diameter at breast height 7.4 inches. In comparison to Alternative A, on average, trees retained on thinned acres would grow an additional 13 feet in height and 2.7 inches in diameter by year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 2, Annual Growth). Engelmann spruce and Douglas-fir would be selected for retention where thinning has been proposed in riparian habitats. This activity would accelerate the development of overstory trees, promote the establishment of a larger, shade-producing canopy, continue to provide a persisting shrub/forb layer, and enhance the opportunity for long term large woody debris recruitment. In addition, given the design feature to retain tree species more adapted to riparian habitats, this activity would enhance the diversity and productivity of native plant communities and riparian vegetation (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

The use of prescribed fire and broadcast burning on 732 acres under Alternative B would occur at a low to moderate intensity. Design features (Section 2.4.2.5) have been incorporated to avoid fire ignition within RCAs. Given these fire intensities, design features, and the relatively wet nature of streamside RCAs, little, if any, tree mortality would be expected immediately adjacent to streams. Similarly, limited effects on riparian brush species would be expected, and where brush is affected, would be expected to quickly resprout following the disturbance (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Although on a small scale, removal of five culverts during road decommissioning activities would return affected RCA sites to a more natural condition (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Disturbance Regime – Alternative B would result in a slight short and long term decrease in sedimentation due to associated road decommissioning and maintenance activities. Although known barriers would be eliminated on the #405B and #409 roads, the irrigation diversion on Clear Creek, located about three miles downstream of the analysis area, would continue to prevent access by migratory fish during the late summer and early fall months. Flow and ECA increases would be negligible under this alternative and vegetation would be moved toward desired conditions. Given the prevalence of the mixed severity fire regime, this alternative would maintain the existing low likelihood

Chapter 3-94 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, intense fire (P.R., Vol. 11, Water Yield; P.R., Vol. 2, Tree Size Class, Canopy Cover, Wildfire Susceptibility).

Integration of Species and Habitat Conditions – Although some of the habitat conditions would continue to function appropriately and management-induced sediment would be reduced, the high amount of fine sediment in most of the potential spawning habitat in the analysis area would continue to limit the resilience of salmonid species. The irrigation diversion located about three miles downstream of the analysis area would continue to isolate aquatic species in Clear Creek from the rest of the North Fork Payette River Subbasin during the late summer and early fall months (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Table 3-21 Summary of Effects on WCIs for the 6th Field Analysis Area Alt. A Alt. B Watershed Condition Functionality Functionality Indicator (WCI) Effects Effects Rating Rating Population Characteristics No Influence Not Applicable No Influence Not Applicable Functioning Functioning Temperature No Influence Maintain Appropriately Appropriately Functioning at Functioning at Sediment No Influence Maintain Unacceptable Risk Unacceptable Risk Chemical No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Contaminants/Nutrients Functioning at Functioning at Physical Barriers No Influence Maintain Unacceptable Risk Unacceptable Risk Functioning at Functioning at Substrate Embeddedness No Influence Maintain Unacceptable Risk Unacceptable Risk Functioning at Functioning at Large Woody Debris No Influence Maintain Unacceptable Risk Unacceptable Risk Pool Frequency and No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Quality Functioning at Functioning at Large Pools/Pool Quality No Influence Maintain Unacceptable Risk Unacceptable Risk Functioning Functioning Off-channel Habitat No Influence No Influence Appropriately Appropriately Refugia (Bull Trout) No Influence Not Applicable No Influence Not Applicable Wetted Width/Maximum Functioning Functioning No Influence No Influence Depth Ratio Appropriately Appropriately Functioning Functioning Streambank Condition No Influence Maintain Appropriately Appropriately Floodplain Connectivity No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Change in Peak/Base No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Flows Change in Drainage No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Network Functioning at Functioning at Road Density/Location No Influence Maintain Unacceptable Risk Unacceptable Risk Disturbance History No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Riparian Conservation No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Areas Disturbance Regime No Influence Functioning at Risk Maintain Functioning at Risk Integration of Species and Functioning at Functioning at No Influence No Influence Habitat Conditions Unacceptable Risk Unacceptable Risk

3.12.3 Cumulative Effects

Since the effects of any alternative on fish and fish habitat would be limited to the analysis area, the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 16,693 acre 6th field subwatershed (Figure 3-13).

Chapter 3-95 Clear Prong Final EIS

Since 1950 an estimated 8,144 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area; 5,476 acres of which occurred on private or state lands. Since 1910 approximately 379 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Road closures following timber sales have occurred in several locations. Although the exact dates of closures are unknown in some instances, roughly 0.1 mile of road was closed in 1961; 1.8 miles in 1963; 4.0 miles in 1965; 5.9 miles in 1971; 0.1 mile in 1974; 0.2 miles in 1978; 1.4 miles in 1980; 0.1 mile in 1982; 3.1 miles in 1986, and; 1.3 miles in 1991. In addition, a number of road restoration activities were implemented within the analysis area in 2002. Specifically these activities included replacement of a damaged relief culvert and graveling roughly 0.1 mile of the #407X road; rounding the cutslope, installation of drivable dips, extending existing culverts, armoring the ditchline, and graveling the surface of 0.8 miles of the #406 road; installation of an additional relief culvert on the #405B road; graveling the surface of roughly 0.1 mile of the #405 road, and; installation of six additional relief culverts and spot graveling 1.2 miles of the #405C road. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery and/or increase or decrease in sedimentation that has occurred since those actions. While additional timber harvest and/or development on privately owned land is probable in the future, there are no known foreseeable future harvest or development activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact fish or fish habitat. Ongoing and foreseeable future activities that could potentially affect fish or fish habitat are discussed below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment – This allotment falls within the southern end of the analysis area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years. Given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within riparian areas, any undesirable effects on fish/fish habitat would be considered inconsequential.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on any watershed condition indicator, fish habitat, or fish populations, therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Regardless of the potential effects associated with past or ongoing activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a slightly decreased level of management-induced sedimentation in the short and long term, and an incremental enhancement of fish passage in the cumulative effects area (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Alternative A and B would have no effect on bull trout and no impact on westslope cutthroat trout. Relative to its status as a management indicator species, implementation of Alternative A or B would maintain the current population trend of bull trout at the Forest scale (P.R., Vol. 12, Fisheries).

Chapter 3-96 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.13 Wildlife

This section of the document discusses the existing conditions of the wildlife resources and their habitats as well as the effects of the various alternatives on those resources. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1) was used as the analysis area. This area was selected because all activities would occur within the project area and any subsequent changes to habitat would be limited to the project area.

Habitat modeling completed for this analysis was based on stand examination data collected and compiled in 1997 (P.R., Vol. 2). Stand examinations from 1997 were considered adequate for this assessment because no major disturbances such as large wildfires or uncharacteristic levels of insect-related tree mortality have occurred in the project area since examinations were performed. In addition, field reconnaissance of a representative sample of stands was completed in the summer of 2009 to validate that data (P.R., Vol. 2, Field Reconnaissance). Source habitat modeling results were compared with species occurrence data to validate the amount and distribution of modeled source habitat.

Species occurrence records were obtained from several sources including the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Conservation Sciences Program (IDFG 2009), the Cascade Ranger District Sighting Records Database (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010), and project survey data (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

As explained in Chapter 1 of this document, this analysis reflects management direction, findings, and conclusions in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010). This Final EIS is the first (Phase 1) of four assessments to be completed for the comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (WCS) for the Boise National Forest. Phase 1 of the WCS focuses on the forested biological community and integration of pertinent direction into the Forest Plan. The WCS also includes several new terms and/or phrases which are key to understanding this assessment. These terms, as used in this analysis, are summarized below. Reference the Glossary of this document for complete definitions.

Source habitat is the characteristics of macrovegetation that contribute to stationary or positive population growth (Wisdom et al 2000). Source habitat is distinguished from habitats associated with species occurrence which may or may not contribute to long term population persistence.

Source habitat capacity includes all areas capable of providing source habitat at some point in their successional development. Source habitat capacity includes areas that currently provide source habitat as well as areas that might provide source habitat in the future.

As described in Appendix E of the Forest Plan, habitat for all wildlife species fits within a hierarchical system that groups source habitats into one of four broad suites: Forest Only; Combination of Forest and Rangeland; Rangeland Only, and; Riverine and Non-riverine Riparian and Wetland. These four suites are further refined by categorizing similar source habitats into 14 families. Focal species are those species selected during an analysis to represent the key environmental correlates and ecological functions of a family that may potentially be affected by management activities.

The remainder of this section of the document describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on the various species assessed for this project (Table 3-22), with those discussions organized by family. Section 3.13.16 summarizes the effects determinations for all threatened, endangered, proposed, and candidate species identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as applicable to the Cascade Ranger District, and the effects determinations for all sensitive species as identified by the Intermountain Region’s Regional Forester.

Given the reliance of many of these terrestrial wildlife species on “old forest habitat”, this section of the document begins with a discussion of this component of the environment and the potential effects of the alternatives on old forest habitat.

Chapter 3-97 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 3-22 Wildlife Species Considered in this Analysis Species Focal Suite Family Number & Name Species Considered this Analysis Status1 Species 1 - Low Elevation Old Forest White-headed Woodpecker S X American Three-toed Woodpecker S Black-backed Woodpecker MIS X Boreal Owl S Fisher S 2 - Broad Elevation Old Forest Flammulated Owl S X Forest Only Great Gray Owl S Northern Goshawk S X Pileated Woodpecker MIS X Canada Lynx T X 3 - Forest Mosaic Mountain Quail S Wolverine S 4 - Early-seral & Lower Montane None2 -- Gray Wolf S Mule Deer -- X 5 - Forest & Range Mosaic Peregrine Falcon S Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep S Rocky Mountain Elk -- X Combination 6 - Forests, Woodlands, & Montane of Forest & None2 -- Shrubs Rangeland Spotted Bat S 7 - Forests, Woodlands, & Sagebrush Townsend’s Big-eared Bat S 8 - Rangeland and Early & Late-seral Western Bluebird -- Forests 9 - Woodlands None2 -- 10 - Range Mosaic None2 -- Rangeland 11 - Sagebrush Greater Sage Grouse S Only 12 - Grassland & Open-canopy Northern Idaho Ground Squirrel T Sagebrush Southern Idaho Ground Squirrel -- Bald Eagle S Riverine & 13 - Riverine Riparian & Wetland Columbia Spotted Frog S Non-riverine Riparian & Yellow-billed Cuckoo -- 14 - Non-riverine Riparian & Wetland Common Loon S Wetland 1Species Status on the Cascade Ranger District: T = threatened (USFWS 2009); C = candidate (USFWS 2009); P = proposed (USFWS 2009); S = sensitive (USFS R4 2009) and; MIS = Management Indicator Species (Forest Plan, Appendix E). 2None = No species identified because habitat is not present, or if present, would not be affected by the action alternative(s).

3.13.1 Old Forest Habitat

As described in the Forest Plan and as used in this analysis, old forest habitat includes old growth, but is also broad enough to include the mid-seral, fire-maintained systems common in those fire regimes prevalent in central Idaho. Old forest habitat definitions in Appendix E of the Forest Plan describe the desired attributes, by PVG, for canopy cover of live trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh; canopy cover of live trees greater than or equal to 0.1 inches dbh; species composition of live trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh; snag quantities per acre, and; quantities of downed logs per acre (CWD). As reflected in Appendix E of the Forest Plan, PVG 10 is dominated by lodgepole pine and would not be expected to develop old forest habitat conditions. The following discussions describe the existing conditions of old forest habitat within the 11,056 acre analysis area based on stand examination data collected in 1997.

Currently, none of the 3,069 acres of large tree size class stands within the project area meet the definition of old forest habitat due to inadequate canopy covers attributable to live trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh. In contrast to the desired value of 30 percent, trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh now reflect canopy covers ranging from 10 to 29 percent indicating that such trees are currently underrepresented within these stands. Further, in half of the four stands where trees greater

Chapter 3-98 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences than or equal to 20 inches dbh reflect canopy covers of 26 to 29 percent, the species composition of these larger trees is undesirable with an abundance of grand fir rather than the preferred ponderosa pine and/or Douglas-fir (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

3.13.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on the existing quantities or distribution of old forest habitat within the analysis area. The Forest Vegetation Simulator model (Dixon 2002) was used to project stand conditions in year 2012, and 19 years later in year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

In year 2012 one 34 acre stand in PVG 2 (Stand 510/110) would have sufficient trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh to meet the required 30 percent canopy cover. However, the species composition of those trees would be dominated by Douglas-fir rather than the desired ponderosa pine. By year 2031 this 34 acre stand would continue to have sufficient trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh to meet the required 30 percent canopy cover, but the species composition of those trees would reflect an increase in Douglas-fir (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

In year 2031 another 27 acre stand within PVG 6 (Stand 510/130) would also have sufficient trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh to meet the required 30 percent canopy cover, but the species composition of those trees would be dominated by grand fir rather than the desired ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir combination (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

In summary, none of the large tree size class stands within the analysis area would provide old forest habitat in year 2012 or 2031. Although stands would gradually shift to larger size classes and canopy covers of trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh would gradually increase, stands would continue to reflect undesirable species compositions (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

3.13.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative does not propose any treatments within Stand 510/110 and therefore would have effects identical to Alternative A (No Action). In year 2012 this 34 acre stand in PVG 2 would have sufficient trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh to meet the required 30 percent canopy cover. However, the species composition of those trees would be dominated by Douglas-fir rather than the desired ponderosa pine. By year 2031 this 34 acre stand would continue to have sufficient trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh to meet the required 30 percent canopy cover, but the species composition of those trees would reflect an increase in Douglas-fir (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

This alternative does not propose any treatment on 12 acres of Stand 510/130. In year 2031 these 12 acres would have sufficient trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh to meet the required 30 percent canopy cover, but the species composition of those trees would be dominated by grand fir rather than the desired ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir combination. Implementation of the commercial thin prescription on nine acres of Stand 510/130 would result in an increase in the canopy cover of trees greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in year 2031 and improve the species composition in comparison to Alternative A, but the species composition of those trees would still be dominated by grand fir rather than the desired ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir combination. Implementation of a sanitation/improvement prescription on the remaining six acres of Stand 510/130 would result in the species composition of trees greater than or equal to 20 inches reflecting the desired conditions in year 2031, but the canopy cover of those trees would be reduced to 29 percent, less than the required 30 percent canopy cover needed to meet the definition of old forest habitat (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

In summary, like Alternative A (No Action), none of the large tree size class stands within the analysis area would provide old forest habitat in year 2012 or 2031. In comparison to Alternative A,

Chapter 3-99 Clear Prong Final EIS

this alternative would accelerate development of stand conditions that could provide old forest habitat in the future. As reflected in Section 3.2.2, this alternative would result in a slight increase in the number of acres in the large tree size class in years 2012 and 2031. This alternative would also reduce the number of acres in the high stand canopy cover category which is a constraining factor for all affected PVGs (Section 3.2.3). Implementation of this alternative would increase the percentage of ponderosa pine greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in PVGs of concern (Section 3.2.4) and would increase the annual growth rate of retained trees (Section 3.2.5). Although this alternative would accelerate movement of stands toward desired conditions, it will likely take many decades for stands to develop all of the desired attributes necessary to provide old forest habitat (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

3.13.1.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on the quantities or distribution of old forest habitat would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre project area (Figure 3-1).

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on old forest habitat therefore no cumulative effects would occur (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

Regardless of the existing conditions, the incremental effect of Alternative B, in comparison to Alternative A, would be an incremental increase in the number of stands in the large tree size class and a shift of species composition toward seral species, both of which would result in movement toward stand attributes necessary to meet the old forest habitat definition (P.R., Vol. 2, Old Forest).

3.13.2 Family 1 – Low Elevation Old Forest

All species within Family 1 depend on late seral multi-storied and single-storied lower montane forests as source habitat, as well as requiring large diameter (>21 inches) snags or trees with cavities for nesting or foraging (Wisdom et al 2000). Habitat is generally depicted as relatively homogeneous patches of predominantly large trees in lower canopy cover conditions dominated by ponderosa pine (Forest Plan, Appendix E). Family 1 source habitat occurs in PVGs 1, 2, and 5 and those portions of PVGs 3 and 6 where ponderosa pine is a major seral species. Historically, these types were maintained in a relatively open condition by frequent, non-lethal fire.

The WCS assessment for the Boise National Forest shows a strong decreasing trend for Family 1 source habitat when comparing historic to current conditions. Of the 58 watersheds with source habitat, all reflected a loss of habitat. For this reason, Family 1 has been identified as the forested habitat family of greatest conservation concern on the Boise National Forest. A number of priority watersheds in need of restoration have been identified for Family 1. However, the Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a non- priority watershed (Nutt et al 2010).

3.13.2.1 White-headed Woodpecker (Sensitive Species)

White-headed woodpeckers are associated with mature ponderosa pine forests. They prefer open- canopied stands of mature and older ponderosa pine, but will also use mixed ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir stands. Nest sites are usually large diameter (>20” dbh) standing dead trees with moderate to extensive decayed wood. White-headed woodpeckers forage on insects throughout the

Chapter 3-100 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences summer months. During the fall and early winter, conifer seeds supplement the diet of insects and may comprise up to sixty percent of the annual diet. In west-central Idaho, white-headed woodpeckers prefer to forage on mature ponderosa pine averaging 28 inches dbh. Fire can benefit this species by creating open canopy habitat with dead standing trees and improving cavity creation potential (O’Neil et al 2001).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 (Nutt et al 2010). While PVGs 3 and 6 can develop cover types with ponderosa pine in the larger size classes and open canopies, these conditions are not found as commonly as in PVGs 1, 2, and 5. Large diameter snags are an essential habitat feature for white- headed woodpecker (Nutt et al 2010). The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 92 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, source habitat is believed to be well below the amount expected to have occurred historically. Roughly 5,457 acres are considered source habitat capacity but only 162 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. Patches of late-seral ponderosa pine forests are relatively small and fragmented, and the combination of the scattered patches of source habitat are not sufficient to provide for a single home range in the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. Snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that the large snags important to white- headed woodpeckers are generally within but near the low end of desired ranges for the majority of PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). Known populations of rush skeletonweed are distributed across the analysis area, while spotted knapweed is generally limited to the southern portion of the analysis area. Although only nine noxious weed populations have been identified, noxious weeds are likely present in other unknown locations (P.R., Vol. 2, Noxious Weeds).

No occurrences of white-headed woodpeckers have been reported on the Cascade Ranger District (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009). A management indicator species (MIS) monitoring transect occurs within the project area along the East Fork of Clear Creek. White- headed woodpeckers have not been detected along this transect during MIS monitoring surveys conducted annually since 2004 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.2.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on white-headed woodpecker or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 279 acres in year 2012 and 493 acres by year 2031. However, the combination of the scattered patches of source habitat would not be sufficient to provide for a single home range in the project area in year 2012 or 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.2.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would increase source habitat for this species in both the short and long term. Roughly 478 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 839 acres of source habitat by year 2031. Although source habitat in year 2031 would approach the average size of a white-headed woodpecker home range, the combination of the scattered patches of source habitat would not be sufficient to provide for a single home range in the project area in year 2012 or 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 70 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities,

Chapter 3-101 Clear Prong Final EIS

prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative would also physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities. Physically preventing motorized access on these routes would indirectly enhance snag retention by reducing the likelihood of their removal for fuelwood (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed activities associated with this alternative would not be expected to introduce noxious weeds into the analysis area. Design features (Section 2.4.2.1) require the cleaning of all off- road equipment potentially carrying noxious weed seeds prior to moving into the analysis area. This alternative may contribute to distribution of noxious weeds already present, but existing noxious weed populations would continue to be addressed through the District’s noxious weed program (P.R., Vol. 2, Noxious Weeds). This alternative does not include construction of any new permanent roads and all newly constructed temporary roads would be closed to motorized traffic upon completion of use. This alternative would also physically close several existing roads following completion of harvest activities, thereby reducing the likelihood of noxious weed introduction along these routes (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.2.1.3 Cumulative Effects

The effects of any alternative on the quantities or distribution of source habitat for this species would be limited to the analysis area. Therefore the area used to assess cumulative effects consists of the 11,056 acre analysis area.

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Motorized Recreation – Motorized use of existing open roads and designated trails would continue into the future. Currently 43.2 miles of road and 4.8 miles of trail are open to motorized use. The remainder of this cumulative effects area is closed to all off-road and off-trail motorized use except snowmobiles.

Chapter 3-102 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment – Roughly 1,392 acres of this allotment falls within the southern end of the analysis area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be an increase in total acres of source habitat for this species and a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation. This alternative would maintain the current population trend of white-headed woodpecker at the Forest scale (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3 Family 2 – Broad Elevation Old Forest

All species in Family 2 use late-seral multi-layered and single-layered stages of the montane community as source habitats (Wisdom et al 2000). Source habitats for some species also include late- seral stages of the subalpine community or the lower montane community, or both. Source habitat for Family 2 overlaps that of Family 1 but encompasses a broader array of cover types and elevations (Wisdom et al 2000). Family 2 source habitat occurs primarily in PVGs 3 through 11 (Forest Plan, Appendix E), although some species use lower elevation types. Historical fire regimes vary by PVG but are dominated by Mixed and Lethal Fire Regimes (Forest Plan, Appendix A).

The WCS assessment for the Boise National Forest shows a dominant decreasing trend for Family 2 source habitat when comparing historic to current conditions. Of the 61 watersheds with source habitat, 71 percent reflect a loss of habitat, 19 percent an increasing trend, and 10 percent a neutral trend. Decreasing trends are tied primarily to the reduction in forests dominated by large trees, with the lower elevation forest types (PVGs 1, 2, and 5) experiencing the greatest departure. Increasing trends are typically the result of increased stand densities. Although source habitat for this family reflects a predominantly downward trend, the total quantity of Family 2 habitat at the Forest scale is still within desired conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

3.13.3.1 American Three-toed Woodpecker (Sensitive Species)

American three-toed woodpeckers inhabit mature and overmature stands containing bark beetles, disease, and heart rot (Goggans et al 1989), and recent stand-replacing burns with abundant woodboring insects (Caton 1996; Hutto 1995). Three-toed woodpecker populations typically peak during the first 3 to 5 years after a fire (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 8, 9, 10, and 11 (Nutt et al 2010). Mountain pine beetle infestations and/or high intensity fire events are primary recycling agents in these PVGs, both of which are disturbances associated with three-toed woodpecker habitat and population increases. Snags are a special habitat feature for three-toed woodpeckers and provide both nesting and foraging opportunities. The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have increased by nearly 214 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Chapter 3-103 Clear Prong Final EIS

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 1,594 acres are considered source habitat capacity but only 307 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. Cool, north facing slopes that provide high elevation spruce/fir/lodgepole pine stands are limited within the analysis area. No patches of source habitat are large enough to provide for a single home range in the project area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. An evaluation of snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that the 10 to 20 inch snags important to three-toed woodpeckers are generally well above desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Numerous occurrences of three-toed woodpeckers have been reported on the Cascade Ranger District, but no sightings have been documented within the analysis area (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009).

3.13.3.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on three-toed woodpecker or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 320 acres in year 2012 and 513 acres by year 2031. However, the combination of the scattered patches of source habitat would not be sufficient to provide for a single home range in the project area in year 2012 or 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would increase source habitat for this species in both the short and long term. Roughly 343 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 581 acres of source habitat by year 2031. However, the combination of the scattered patches of source habitat would not be sufficient to provide for a single home range in the project area in year 2012 or 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 13 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-104 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.13.3.1.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.2 Black-backed Woodpecker (Management Indicator Species)

Black-backed woodpeckers are associated with mature, late seral boreal and montane coniferous forests (NatureServe 2008). This species is a year-round resident in the Interior Columbia Basin (Wisdom et al 2000). Source habitats of the black-backed woodpecker include old forest stages of subalpine, montane, and lower montane forest and riparian woodlands (Wisdom et al 2000). Both managed and unmanaged young forest stages of lodgepole pine also provide source habitat (Wisdom et al 2000). Burned conifer forests (Saab and Dudley 1998; Hoffman 1997; Caton 1996; Hutto 1995; Marshall 1992) and other insect-infested forests (Goggans et al 1989) provide key conditions necessary for both nesting and foraging. Habitat requirements for nesting include mature and old trees affected by disease and heart rot, or in early stages of decay (Goggans et al 1989). This species forages almost exclusively on the larvae of bark beetles and wood-boring beetles (Marshall 1992).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 (Nutt et al 2010). Historic fire regimes within these PVGs range from Mixed1 to Lethal, creating a variety of patch sizes depending on the fire regime (Forest Plan, Appendix A). Source habitat can also occur in recently burned areas (<5 years). The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 42 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 8,556 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 5,948 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area could provide for multiple black-backed woodpecker home ranges (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. An evaluation of snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that the 10 to 20 inch snags important to black-backed woodpeckers are generally well above desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Chapter 3-105 Clear Prong Final EIS

Numerous occurrences of black-backed woodpeckers have been reported on the Cascade Ranger District, with the majority occurring within areas recently affected by wildfire. While none have occurred within the analysis area, one sighting was reported 1.5 miles to the west in 1984 (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009).

3.13.3.2.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on black-backed woodpecker or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 6,173 acres in year 2012 and 7,239 acres by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would provide for multiple black-backed woodpecker home ranges in years 2012 and 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.2.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would decrease source habitat for this species in both the short and long term, but source habitat would continue to be relatively abundant in both timeframes. Roughly 5,410 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 6,404 acres of source habitat by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would provide for multiple black-backed woodpecker home ranges in years 2012 and 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 1,158 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.2.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have

Chapter 3-106 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a reduction of total acres of source habitat for this species, but also a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation. Given that source habitat within the analysis area would be sufficient to provide for multiple black-backed woodpecker home ranges in both the short and long term, the incremental loss of source habitat in comparison to Alternative A (No Action) would be considered inconsequential. This alternative would maintain the current population trend of black-backed woodpecker at the Forest scale (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.3 Boreal Owl (Sensitive Species)

Source habitat for boreal owls includes old forest and unmanaged young forest stages of subalpine and montane forests and riparian woodlands (Wisdom et al 2000). Specific cover types and structural stages that provide source habitat are the old forest multi-story stages of Engelmann spruce/subalpine fir, Pacific silver fir/mountain hemlock, and aspen; and the old forest single and multi-story stages of interior Douglas-fir, western larch, and lodgepole pine. Unmanaged young forest stages of all these cover types and of grand fir/white fir also serve as source habitats if suitable large diameter snags are present. Source habitats typically support abundant lichens and fungal sporocarps which provide important foods for southern red-backed voles, the principal prey of boreal owls (Hayward 1994).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, and 11 (Nutt et al 2010). In Idaho, occupied forests are generally located above 5,000 feet in elevation. The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 47 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 5,710 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 4,052 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat could provide for one boreal owl home range within the project area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. An evaluation of snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that snags quantities are generally within or above desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). Existing tons/acre of coarse woody debris (i.e. downed logs) are generally within or exceed desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity, but coarse woody debris greater than 15 inches in diameter is deficient in many of the PVGs (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

While no occurrences of boreal owls have been documented within the analysis area, two sightings were recorded within a five mile radius of its boundary in 1984 (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009).

Chapter 3-107 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.13.3.3.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on boreal owl or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 4,276 acres in year 2012 and 4,965 acres by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient to provide for one boreal owl home range in years 2012 and 2031(P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.3.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would decrease source habitat for this species in both the short and long term. Roughly 3,673 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 4,224 acres of source habitat by year 2031. Although total acres would be reduced, sufficient source habitat would be retained within the analysis area to provide for one boreal owl home range in years 2012 and 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 916 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative would also physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities. Physically preventing motorized access on these routes would indirectly enhance snag retention and downed log recruitment by reducing the likelihood of their removal for fuelwood (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Silvicultural treatments would not require or permit removal of logs currently on the ground (i.e. coarse woody debris). Therefore proposed harvest activities would have no effect on existing coarse woody debris levels. While it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume existing coarse woody debris retained in affected units, as previously disclosed, live trees retained within these units would provide ample sources of future coarse woody debris recruitment and any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

3.13.3.3.3 Cumulative Effects

Chapter 3-108 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a reduction of total acres of source habitat for this species, but also a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation. Given that source habitat abundance within the analysis area would remain near existing levels, the incremental loss of source habitat in comparison to Alternative A (No Action) would be considered inconsequential (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.4 Fisher (Sensitive Species)

In the Rocky Mountains, fishers show a preference for late-seral coniferous forests (Jones and Garton 1994). Late-seral forests are used preferentially during summer months while early or late- seral forests may be used in winter (Jones 1991). In Idaho and Montana, mesic forest habitats at low or mid elevations are important fisher habitat (Heinemeyer 1993; Jones 1991). Deep snow accumulation appears to limit fisher movements and distribution (Arthur et al 1989; Aubry and Houston 1992; Heinemeyer 1993). Fisher tend to select forested stands with relatively high canopy cover, although tree cover may be discontinuous (Aubry and Houston 1992; Buskirk and Powell 1994). Riparian corridors provide important travel routes and prey patches for fisher. The high canopy cover and structural complexity of riparian habitat support relatively abundant and diverse populations of prey (small mammals and birds).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 3, 6, 8, 9, and 10 (Nutt et al 2010). The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 39 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 4,551 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 2,979 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide little more than half of one male fisher’s home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. An evaluation of snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that the large snags important to fisher are generally within but near the low end of desired ranges for the majority of PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). Existing tons/acre of coarse woody debris (i.e. downed logs) are generally within or exceed desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity, but coarse woody debris greater than 15 inches in diameter is deficient in the PVGs (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

No fisher have been documented within the analysis area but three sightings have occurred within 10 miles of the project area; two in 1995 and one in 2004. Snow tracking and camera surveys were conducted within the analysis area during the winter of 1999. Similar tracking and camera surveys

Chapter 3-109 Clear Prong Final EIS

were conducted in the adjacent Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project Area during February and March of 2001. None of these surveys documented the presence of fisher (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009).

3.13.3.4.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on fisher or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 3,052 acres in year 2012 and 3,544 acres by year 2031. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide little more than half of one male fisher’s home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.4.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would decrease source habitat for this species in both the short and long term. Roughly 2,580 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 3,065 acres of source habitat by year 2031. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide little more than half of one male fisher’s home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 676 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for disturbance of an active den site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prevent or minimize disturbance at active den sites, and provide for the future recruitment of downed logs (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative would also physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities. Physically preventing motorized access on these routes would indirectly enhance snag retention and downed log recruitment by reducing the likelihood of their removal for fuelwood (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-110 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.13.3.4.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a reduction of total acres of source habitat for this species, but also a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation. Given that source habitat abundance within the analysis area would remain near existing levels, the incremental loss of source habitat in comparison to Alternative A (No Action) would be considered inconsequential (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.5 Flammulated Owl (Sensitive Species)

Breeding habitat for flammulated owls combines open, mature montane pine forests for nesting, scattered thickets of saplings or shrubs for roosting and calling, and grassland edge habitat for foraging (IDFG 2005; Reynolds and Linkhart 1987; Goggans 1986); which are all necessary across multiple spatial scales (e.g., microhabitat, home range, landscape) (Wright 1996). In Idaho, flammulated owls were documented occupying mid-elevation, old growth or mature stands of open ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, or stands co-dominated by both species (Groves et al 1997). Old forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir are key components of home ranges for flammulated owl (Reynolds and Linkhart 1992) as these forest types apparently support a particular abundance of favored lepidopteron prey (McCallum 1994). Flammulated owls nest in cavities that have been previously excavated in snags and live, large diameter trees (Bull et al 1990; McCallum and Gehlback 1988). Habitat for flammulated owls is strongly associated with the upper slopes or ridges (Groves et al 1997; Bull et al 1990; Barnes 2007). Flammulated owls are obligate cavity nesters (IDFG 2005) and can take advantage of insect irruptions such as spruce budworm outbreaks (McCallum 1994; O’Neil et al 2001; Marcot 1997).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 2, 3, 5, and 6 (Nutt et al 2010). These types are most likely to have the habitat types that develop late seral stages of open forest with stands dominated by ponderosa pine or Douglas-fir, or co-dominated by both. Historical fire regimes in these PVGs include Non-lethal, Mixed1, and Mixed2 (Forest Plan, Appendix A). The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 38 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Chapter 3-111 Clear Prong Final EIS

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 5,457 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 1,699 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area could provide for an estimated 25 to 35 flammulated owl home ranges (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. An evaluation of snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that the large snags important to flammulated owl are generally within but near the low end of desired ranges for the majority of PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

Surveys were conducted for flammulated owls within the analysis area in June of 2006. At least two responses were solicited, one in the vicinity of the #409C road and the other near the #405 road. A third potential response was heard further down the #409C road but could not be positively distinguished from the earlier response along this road (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010).

3.13.3.5.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on flammulated owl or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 1,729 acres in year 2012 and 2,452 acres by year 2031. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would provide for an estimated 25 to 35 flammulated owl home ranges in year 2012, and 45 to 55 home ranges in year 2031(P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.5.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would decrease source habitat for this species in both the short and long term. Roughly 1,457 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 2,159 acres of source habitat by year 2031. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would provide for an estimated 20 to 30 flammulated owl home ranges in year 2012, and 35 to 45 home ranges in year 2031(P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 571 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

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3.13.3.5.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a reduction of total acres of source habitat for this species, but also a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation. Given that source habitat within the analysis area would provide for multiple flammulated owl home ranges in the short and long term, the incremental loss of source habitat in comparison to Alternative A (No Action) would be considered inconsequential (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.6 Great Gray Owl (Sensitive Species)

Great gray owls are year-round residents of the Interior Columbia Basin and occupy source habitats in subalpine and montane forest and woodlands (Wisdom et al 2000). Great gray owl is a contrast species that requires the juxtaposition of open habitats for foraging, with forested habitats for roosting and nesting. They are associated with forested habitats that are in close proximity to meadows, marshes, bogs, open forests, and herbaceous habitats (Duncan and Hayward 1994).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 (Nutt et al 2010). These types have the capability to develop stand characteristics compatible with great gray owl needs. Historical fire regimes for these PVGs include Mixed2 and Lethal and can create the juxtaposition of open and forested habitats used by the owls. Snags are a special habitat feature for the species. The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 33 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 6,626 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 5,357 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. Although source habitat is relatively abundant, that habitat is not sufficient to provide for a single home range within the project area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. An evaluation of snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that those snags important to great gray owls are generally within or exceed desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags).

No occurrences of great gray owls have been reported within the analysis area but six sightings have been documented within two and five miles west of the project area. Surveys were conducted for

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great gray owls within the project area in April of 2006, however no responses were documented (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009).

3.13.3.6.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on great gray owl or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 5,560 acres in year 2012 and 6,079 acres by year 2031. However, due to their large home range size, the existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would not be sufficient to provide a great gray owl home range in year 2012 or 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.6.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would slightly increase source habitat for this species in both the short and long term. Roughly 5,566 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 6,080 acres of source habitat by year 2031. However, due to their large home range size, the existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would not be sufficient to provide a great gray owl home range in year 2012 or 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 987 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.6.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as

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well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a slight increase in total acres of source habitat for this species and a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.7 Northern Goshawk (Sensitive Species)

Northern goshawk use a variety of forest ages, structural conditions, and successional stages (Griffith 1993) and are associated with shrubland and grassland habitats. Nest sites are typically located next to the trunk of large diameter trees and in older stands where trees are widely spaced (Hayward and Escano 1989). Deformities (e.g. multiple trunks and mistletoe) especially in smaller diameter trees are used as nest site substrates. Northern goshawk prefer transitional zones for hunting. Mosaics of forested and open areas and riparian zones are equally important (Griffith 1993).

On the Boise National Forest, source habitat for goshawk occurs in all PVGs except 1 and 11 (Nutt et al 2010). For some PVGs, these conditions occur under historical fire regimes, while other PVGs develop these conditions due to fire suppression and altered fire regimes. The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 34 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 8,556 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 6,259 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. The amount and distribution of source habitat is likely sufficient to provide a single home range within the project area. Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife)

No occurrences of goshawk have been reported within the analysis area but one sighting occurred less than a mile east of the analysis area in 1998. Goshawk surveys were conducted in June of 1995 along the #409, #409C, and #409D roads; in June/July of 1998 along the #405, #406, #407 roads and their spurs, as well as the #417H and #433D roads, and; in June of 2005 within potential habitat in the middle and southern portions of the project area. No detections resulted from any of the surveys (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009)

3.13.3.7.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on goshawk or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 6,615 acres in year 2012 and 8,249 acres by year 2031. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would be sufficient to provide one goshawk home range in year 2012, and one home range plus a significant portion of a second home range by year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

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3.13.3.7.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would decrease source habitat for this species in both the short and long term, but source habitat would continue to be relatively abundant. Roughly 5,721 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 7,172 acres of source habitat by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient to provide one goshawk home range in year 2012, and one home range plus a significant portion of a second home range by year 2031 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 1,274 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. This design feature would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.7.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a reduction of total acres of source habitat for this species. Given that the amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient to provide one goshawk home range in year 2012 and one home range plus a significant portion of a second home range by year 2031, the incremental loss of source habitat in comparison to Alternative A (No Action) would be considered inconsequential (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.8 Pileated Woodpecker (Management Indicator Species)

Pileated woodpeckers occupy dense deciduous, coniferous, or mixed forests, open woodlands, second growth forests, and parks and wooded residential areas of towns (NatureServe 2008). The species prefers habitats with tall closed canopies and high basal areas. General characteristics of habitat provide opportunities for nesting, roosting, and foraging, and include the presence of large diameter trees and snags, multiple canopy layers, decaying wood on the forest floor, and a somewhat moist environment that promotes fungal decay, and ant, termite, and beetle populations to forage upon (NatureServe 2008). Source habitats for pileated woodpeckers are typically late-seral stages of subalpine and montane community types.

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On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, and 9 (Nutt et al 2010). Some PVGs are capable of providing source habitat conditions under historical fire regimes while others do so because of altered fire regimes. Special habitat features for pileated woodpecker include large diameter (>21 inch dbh) snags and hollow live trees for nesting and roosting, and large standing dead and downed trees for foraging (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs in a watershed where source habitat is believed to have declined by nearly 53 percent in comparison to historic conditions (Nutt et al 2010).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 3,363 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 866 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. The existing amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area is not likely sufficient to provide a single home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. An evaluation of snag abundance relative to desired conditions indicates that large snag quantities are generally within but near the low end of desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). Existing tons/acre of coarse woody debris (i.e. downed logs) are generally within or exceed desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity, but coarse woody debris greater than 15 inches in diameter is deficient in the PVGs (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

Eleven pileated woodpecker sightings have been documented within the analysis area, four of which were reported in 2006. A management indicator species (MIS) monitoring transect occurs within the project area along the East Fork of Clear Creek. Pileated woodpeckers were detected along this route during monitoring surveys conducted in 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009 (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009).

3.13.3.8.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on pileated woodpecker or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 1,917 acres in year 2012 and 3,153 acres by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient by year 2031 to provide for one or possibly two pileated woodpecker home ranges (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.8.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would decrease source habitat for this species in both the short and long term. Roughly 1,431 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 2,489 acres of source habitat by year 2031. The amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient by year 2031 to provide for one or possibly two pileated woodpecker home ranges (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed treatments would occur on 281 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for loss of nest trees or for disturbance at an active nest site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prohibit the removal of known nest trees and would prevent or minimize disturbance at

Chapter 3-117 Clear Prong Final EIS

active nest sites, thereby reducing impacts to breeding birds if they should occur in the area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative would also physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities. Physically preventing motorized access on these routes would indirectly enhance snag retention and downed log recruitment by reducing the likelihood of their removal for fuelwood (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.3.8.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be a reduction of total acres of source habitat for this species, but also a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation. Given that the amount and distribution of source habitat within the analysis area would likely be sufficient by year 2031 to provide for one or possibly two pileated woodpecker home ranges, the incremental loss of source habitat in comparison to Alternative A (No Action) would be considered inconsequential. This alternative would maintain the current population trend of pileated woodpecker at the Forest scale (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

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3.13.4 Family 3 – Forest Mosaic

Species within this family tend to be habitat generalists in montane forests. Most species also use subalpine forests, lower montane forests, or riparian woodlands as source habitats. A few species use upland shrub and upland herb communities. Source habitat occurs across all PVGs and structural stages (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). The WCS assessment for the Boise National Forest shows a dominant decreasing trend for Family 3 source habitat when comparing historic to current conditions. Of the 64 watersheds with source habitat, 72 percent reflect a loss of habitat, 5 percent an increasing trend, and 23 percent a neutral trend. Decreasing trends are tied primarily to the reduction in forests dominated by large trees. Family 3 has been identified as a family of greatest concern due to the effects of negative human interactions (Forest Plan, Appendix E).

3.13.4.1 Canada Lynx (Threatened Species)

Lynx are typically associated with large tracts of higher elevation boreal or coniferous forest that is often interspersed with rock outcrops, bogs and thickets. In Idaho, Canada lynx typically inhabit montane and subalpine coniferous forests above 4,000 feet (McKelvey et al 2000; Ruediger et al 2000). In central Idaho, primary habitat has been identified as lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, and Engelmann spruce habitat types (Ruediger et al 2000).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 (Nutt et al 2010). Down logs and root wads are a special habitat feature for lynx (Wisdom et al 2000; Ruggiero et al 1999; Koehler 1990) and provide important natal and maternal denning sites.

The Clear Prong Analysis Area occurs within the East Mountain Lynx Analysis Unit (LAU). Source habitat in the LAU is currently at 25,258 acres or 87.6 percent. Approximately 3,574 acres (12.4 percent) of source habitat capacity are currently in an unsuitable condition within the LAU, well below the 30 percent unsuitable threshold required by standards in the Forest Plan (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

The East Mountain LAU lies adjacent to the Needles LAU to the north, Warm Lake and Bulldead LAUs to the east, West Mountain LAU to the west, and the Deadwood-Scott LAU to the southeast. Connectivity to the west and south is basically nonexistent, as barriers such as the Cascade Reservoir, North Fork Payette River, a major highway, treeless valley bottoms, and warm/dry habitat types restrict travel to the West Mountain and Dead-Scott LAUs. Connectivity to the north is good. However, continuity of this habitat runs out approximately twelve miles to the north of the project area in the Needles LAU due to dry habitat types. Connectivity to the east is in poor condition due to habitat loss resulting from the 2007 Cascade Complex Wildfire that burned throughout the Warm Lake and Bulldead LAUs (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 6,626 acres are considered source habitat capacity while 5,979 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide a small portion of a single home range. Source habitat within the project area is fairly continuous, and dominated by large patches with good connectivity between patches (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. Total existing tons/acre of coarse woody debris (i.e. downed logs) are generally within or exceed desired ranges for the PVGs that make up source habitat capacity, but coarse woody debris greater than 15 inches in diameter is deficient in many of the PVGs (P.R., Vol. 11, Coarse Woody Debris).

No lynx sightings have been documented on the Cascade Ranger District since the trapping of a lynx in 1978 in the Warm Lake area. No lynx tracks were documented in the project area during winter tracking surveys completed in 1999 or during winter tracking surveys completed in the adjacent Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project Area in 2001. In addition, the National Lynx Detection survey conducted on the Cascade Ranger District in 2001, 2002, and 2003 failed to note the presence of lynx. However, because of other lynx documentation on the Lowman Ranger

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District, the closest of which occurred just over 11 miles east of the project area, and the large amount of suitable habitat on the District, there is the potential for lynx to occur on the Cascade Ranger District (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010).

3.13.4.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on lynx or its habitat. Source habitat would increase to around 5,986 acres in year 2012 and 6,099 acres by year 2031. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide a small portion of a single home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.4.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would increase source habitat for this species in the short term and have identical effects in the long term. Roughly 5,992 acres of source habitat would exist in the analysis area in year 2012 and 6,099 acres of source habitat by year 2031. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide a small portion of a single home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Proposed silvicultural treatments would occur on 1,091 acres of existing source habitat under this alternative and the potential for disturbance of an active den site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, the number of snags affected would be discountable. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prevent or minimize disturbance at active den sites, and provide for the future recruitment of downed logs (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative would also physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities. Physically preventing motorized access on these routes would indirectly enhance snag retention and downed log recruitment by reducing the likelihood of their removal for fuelwood (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Following implementation, approximately 12.4 percent of the lynx source habitat in the East Mountain LAU would be in an unsuited condition, well below the 30 percent threshold stipulated in the Forest Plan (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

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3.13.4.1.3 Cumulative Effects

The 153,563 acre East Mountain Lynx Analysis Unit (LAU) was used to assess cumulative effects on this species (Figure 3-14). Roughly 28 percent (43,665 acres) of this area occurs on private lands with a small percentage on land administered by the State of Idaho.

Since 1956 an estimated 50,202 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area; 35,644 acres of which occurred on private or state lands. Roughly 28,863 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire since 1908. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. Ongoing and/or foreseeable future projects within the cumulative effects area that could potentially impact this species are presented below. Reference Appendix A of this document for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Groomed Snowmobile Trails - There are approximately 69.8 miles of groomed snowmobile trails within the East Mountain LAU. Generally, grooming of trails begins in mid-December and can continue into late March.

Prince John Project –The majority of activities associated with this project were completed in the fall of 2004, however, burning of created slash and reforestation activities are still ongoing.

Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project – The NEPA decision for this project was signed in April of 2005. This project includes removal of about 4.5 MMbf of timber from 1,206 acres, 523 acres of thinning of sub-merchantable trees, decommissioning of 1.1 miles of road, and construction of 0.9 miles of classified road.

Development of Private Land - The development of several hundred acres of forestland, formerly owned by the Boise Cascade Corporation, into housing subdivisions in and around Horsethief Reservoir is ongoing and similar activities in the lower reaches of Clear Creek are considered likely in the future. While additional timber harvest on privately owned land is probable in the future, there are no foreseeable activities known at this time. Based on existing habitat types, these lower elevation lands are generally not capable of providing lynx source habitat.

Skunk Summit Project – This project could include 500 to 1,500 acres of silvicultural treatments, the construction of 0.2 to 1.5 miles of temporary road, and road maintenance on 0.5 to 3 miles of road. This project is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2013.

Six Shooter Project – The NEPA decision for this project was signed in June of 2006. This project, a portion of which occurs within the cumulative effects area, includes harvest of approximately 13 MMbf of timber from about 1,928 acres; converting 2.1 miles of unauthorized road to authorized road; 1.3 miles of road reconstruction; decommissioning about 29.9 miles of authorized roads, and; year-round closures on 17.7 miles of road. The analysis completed for this project concluded that the preferred alternative would not convert any suitable lynx habitat to an unsuited condition.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects on this species or its habitat, therefore no cumulative effects would occur. Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be an increase in the total acres of source habitat for this species and a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

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Figure 3-14 East Mountain Lynx Analysis Unit (LAU)

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3.13.4.2 Mountain Quail (Sensitive Species)

Source habitat for mountain quail is characterized by brushy slopes and shrub-dominated communities ranging in elevation from 2,300 to more than 9,850 feet. In Idaho, mountain quail distribution appears to be closely associated with riparian shrub habitats (Vogel and Reese 1995). These areas may or may not have a forest canopy associated with them and typically occur along waterways and secondary drainages that are within a few hundred meters of water (Vogel and Reese 1995).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 11 (Nutt et al 2010). In the Interior Columbia Basin, mountain quail are usually found within 100 to 200 meters (328 to 656 feet) of a water source (Brennan 1989). The Clear Prong Analysis Area is outside of the current and historic range of this species (Marcot et al 2003), therefore no attempt was made to identify source habitat within the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

No occurrence records for the mountain quail exist on the Cascade Ranger District (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009).

3.13.4.2.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species due to the lack of source habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.4.3 Wolverine (Sensitive Species)

Source habitats for wolverine include alpine tundra and all subalpine and montane forests. Within forest types, all structural stages except the closed canopy stem exclusion stage provide source habitat (Wisdom et al 2000). Primary habitat during winter is mid-elevation conifer forest, while summer habitat is subalpine areas associated with high-elevation cirques (Copeland 1996). Summer use of high-elevation habitats is related to the availability of prey and den sites and possibly human avoidance. Lower elevation forests likely contain the greatest amount of ungulate carrion in winter (Copeland 1996).

Spring snow cover (April 15 to May 14) is the best overall predictor of wolverine occurrence (Aubrey et al 2007). Snow cover during the denning period is essential for successful wolverine reproduction range-wide (Magoun and Copeland 1998; Inman et al 2007). Wolverine dens tend to be in areas of high structural diversity such as logs and boulders with deep snow (Magoun and Copeland 1998; Inman et al 2007). Reproductive females dig deep snow tunnels to reach the protective structure of logs and boulders where they produce offspring. This behavior presumably protects the vulnerable kits from predation by large carnivores, including other wolverines (Pulliainen 1968), but may also have physiological benefits for kits by buffering them from extreme cold, wind, and desiccation (Pullianen 1968). All of the areas in the lower 48 states for which good evidence of persistent wolverine populations exists contain large and well-distributed areas with deep snow cover that persists through the wolverine denning period (Aubry et al 2007).

On the Boise National Forest, source habitat is defined by areas that retain snow into late spring. These areas typically coincide with mixed conifers at mid-elevations, and subalpine and alpine habitats at higher elevations. Special habitat features include deep persistent snow above timberline and den sites (e.g. talus slopes, boulder fields, beaver lodges, old bear dens, fallen logs, root wads of fallen trees, and large cavities). Denning habitat may be a factor limiting distribution and abundance (Copeland 1996) and wolverines may abandon dens in response to disturbance (Copeland 1996, Magoun and Copeland 1998).

Chapter 3-123 Clear Prong Final EIS

Within the 11,056 acre analysis area, roughly 3,983 acres exhibit source habitat conditions. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide only a small portion of a single home range. Road densities in source habitat are moderate but are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences, as are 1.9 miles of groomed snowmobile trails (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

No wolverine occurrences have been documented within the analysis area. However, multiple sightings have occurred on the District, the most recent of which occurred in 2007 (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010). Snow tracking and camera surveys were conducted within the analysis area during the winter of 1999. Similar tracking and camera surveys were conducted in the adjacent Upper Middle Fork Project River Project Area during February and March of 2001. None of these surveys documented the presence of wolverine (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.4.3.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no direct effect on wolverine or its habitat. Source habitat would be maintained at 3,983 acres in years 2012 and 2031. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide only a small portion of a single home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.4.3.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Similar to Alternative A (No Action), this alternative would maintain source habitat at 3,983 acres in years 2012 and 2031. Due to this species’ very large average home range size, the project area could provide only a small portion of a single home range (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative would have no effect on the special habitat features of persistent snow and talus slopes. Proposed treatments would however occur on 549 acres of existing source habitat and the potential for disturbance of an active den site would be possible, but unlikely. Design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that the District Wildlife Biologist would be notified of any occupied nests or dens encountered during sale preparation activities that may be associated with listed, sensitive, or management indicator species. If necessary to maintain key features of nesting/denning habitat or to avoid disruption of nesting/denning activities, prescribed treatments or activities would be modified. Design features also stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units (Section 2.4.2.3). While a certain number of snags would be felled for safety reasons, felled snags would be retained on site. In addition, while it is possible that proposed burning activities may consume a small number of existing snags, any loss would likely be offset by the addition of live trees that may succumb to a low or moderate intensity fire (P.R., Vol. 2, Snags). The combination of these design features would prevent or minimize disturbance at active den sites, and provide for the future recruitment of downed logs (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative would also physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities. Physically preventing motorized access on these routes would indirectly enhance snag retention and downed log recruitment by reducing the likelihood of their removal for fuelwood, and reduce the potential for human-caused disturbance of wolverine (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-124 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.13.4.3.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Ongoing activities that could affect this resource are presented below. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effects of Alternative B would be maintenance of the total acres of source habitat for this species and a reduction of risk factors associated with its conservation (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.5 Family 4 -- Early-seral and Lower Montane

Lazuli bunting, the only member of this family, was assigned a separate family because of its unique dependence on early-seral, shrub-dominated conditions in forested environments. Source habitat for the family includes the stand initiation stages of subalpine, montane, lower montane, and riparian woodland communities (Wisdom et al 2000). Most cover types that serve as source habitat are in the montane community.

On the Boise National Forest, source habitat occurs in PVGs 1 through 6 (Nutt et al 2010). Historical fire regime varies by type and includes Non-lethal, Mixed1, and Mixed2 (Forest Plan, Appendix A). Source habitat also occurs in shrub and grassland communities (mountain and Wyoming big sagebrush, montane shrub). Although limited, some source habitat for this family does occur within the Clear Prong Analysis Area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.5.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

Activities occurring in PVGs providing source habitat for Lazuli bunting would be limited to thinning of sub-merchantable trees and some prescribed burning which would result in a temporary effect (1 year) under the action alternative. No activities are proposed in other areas representing source habitat capacity. Any effects under either of the alternatives would be inconsequential and not expected to result in any measurable direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-125 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.13.6 Family 5 – Forest and Range Mosaic

Family 5 species use a broad range of forest, woodlands, and rangelands as source habitat (Wisdom et al 2000). Source habitat occurs in all PVGs and structural types, as well as woodland and non-forested types. Human disturbance is a primary factor impacting some species as is altered fire regimes (Wisdom et al 2000).

3.13.6.1 Gray Wolf (Sensitive Species)

Gray wolves utilize a wide array of forested and non-forested habitats. They have large home ranges and make seasonal movements in pursuit of their primary prey (ungulates). Human factors have been the greatest source of documented mortality for wolves in Idaho (Nadeau et al 2009). Roads, trails, and their associated human use and development increase the potential for human- wolf conflict as does the presence of livestock (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include all forest, woodland, and non-forested vegetation types. All structural conditions are utilized (Nutt et al 2010). Key features of habitat include sufficient ungulate prey and limited human conflict.

The entire Clear Prong Analysis Area would be considered source habitat for this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife). Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. Over 43 miles of open roads occur within the project area which equates to an open road density of 2.55 mi/mi2. Numerous wolf sightings have been documented within and around the project area since the 1980s (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010).

3.13.6.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on wolves or their habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative would not result in the loss of any source habitat within the analysis area. It could however result in disturbance of wolves within or adjacent to proposed units. Any impacts would be minimal as activities would not occur during the critical denning period when young are immobile (i.e. between March and early May) because snow levels would prevent roaded access. In addition, although there are no known active wolf dens within the project area, design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that if future monitoring efforts reveal that a pack has denned within or adjacent to the project area, proposed activities within one mile of the den site would be suspended from April 1 through July 31 if those actions are determined by the District Wildlife Biologist to be disturbing denning activities (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

This alternative does not include construction of any new permanent roads and all newly constructed temporary roads would be closed to motorized traffic upon completion of use. Alternative B would physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities, thereby reducing open road density in source habitat from the existing 2.55 mi/mi2 down to 2.37 mi/mi2. This reduction in open road density would incrementally improve the quality of habitat by reducing the potential for human-caused disturbance or vulnerability of both wolves and ungulate prey species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.1.3 Cumulative Effects

Chapter 3-126 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be an increase in forage quantity and quality for wild ungulates, the primary prey species of wolves, and a reduction of risk factors (i.e. open road density) associated with its conservation (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.2 Mule Deer

Mule deer were described by Christensen et al (1995) as one of the greatest habitat generalists known to game managers. Mule deer occupy almost every habitat within the Columbia River Basin from agricultural to shrub steppe and virtually every forest type.

Mule deer are best adapted to seral, transitional habitat types. Key forage species for mule deer are provided by early seral stage plant communities where a variety of forage is available to meet the energy demands throughout the year (Christensen et al 1995). The window of forage production typically follows a disturbance event (e.g. logging, fire, grazing, insect/disease) by 3 to 10 years. Mule deer are primarily browsers feeding on leaves, stems, and shoots of woody plants throughout the year. They are frequently viewed as a shrub-dependent species; however, shrub habitats do not provide the full spectrum of plants needed to support the species. Forbs and grasses are sought out during the spring green-up, a period when winter-stressed deer need good forage as soon as possible. On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include all forest, woodland, and non-forested vegetation types (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

The entire Clear Prong Analysis Area would be considered source habitat for this species. Although there are areas several miles downstream of the project area that may serve as winter range, the analysis area itself is considered summer range for mule deer. The analysis area provides foraging habitat for this species as well as thermal and hiding cover. Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. Over 43 miles of open roads occur within the project area which equates to an open road density of 2.55 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.2.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on mule deer or its habitat. Hiding cover would continue to increase as stand densities increase, and forage quantity and quality would continue to decrease (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.2.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Vegetation treatments associated with this alternative would reduce conifer densities, thereby indirectly enhancing the production and quality of forage used by mule deer, but would also decrease hiding and thermal cover. Aspen restoration, although on a limited basis, would also provide a valuable microhabitat for mule deer (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-127 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.13.6.2.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Regardless of the effects of past, ongoing, or future activities, the incremental effect of Alternative B would be an increase in forage quantity and quality for this species and a reduction of risk factors (i.e. open road density) associated with its conservation (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.3 Peregrine Falcon (Sensitive Species)

Peregrine falcons have historically been cliff nesters in the Interior Columbia River Basin (Pagel 1995) utilizing cliffs from 30 to 400 meters (98 to 1,312 feet) in height. Habitat surrounding the cliffs may be variable, ranging from old forests to second growth and sagebrush steppe environments. Common features of nesting habitat include close proximity (1,312 to 2,953 feet) to water, abundant avian prey, and lack of human disturbance during the breeding season (Pagel 1995).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include all forest and non-forest vegetation types (Miller et al 2008) when located within 10 miles of suitable cliffs.

The Clear Prong Analysis Area does not provide any suitable nesting sites for this species, nor does it provide suitable forage habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.3.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species due to the lack of source habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.4 Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep (Sensitive Species)

Bighorn sheep occupy rugged canyons, foothills, and mountainous terrain at elevations ranging from 1,450 to 10,500 feet and slopes of 45 percent or greater. Key habitat features include steep, rugged escape terrain such as cliffs and rock slides, grasses and forbs for forage, and limited amounts of tall vegetation.

Chapter 3-128 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

On the Boise National Forest, PVGs 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 11 in all tree size classes and with a low canopy cover provide summer source habitat when this habitat is within two miles of rock, cliff, or tallus slopes with greater than 27 percent gradient. Winter source habitat is composed of numerous sagebrush dominated cover types when the canopy cover class is low and these cover types are within two miles of rock, cliff, or tallus slopes with greater than 27 percent gradient. The Clear Prong Analysis Area does not provide source habitat for this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.4.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species due to the lack of source habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.5 Rocky Mountain Elk

Elk are considered habitat generalists and are found across the Forest in a variety of habitats. During the winter months, snow forces elk to move to lower elevation winter ranges. As snows recede, elk follow the spring green-up back to mid and high elevation summer ranges. Some basic habitat components, such as the availability of food and water, are important throughout the year while others are seasonally important. During temperature extremes, thermal cover or vegetation that modifies the effects of temperature may be important. Habitats located on gentle terrain and that provide a mix of lush vegetation and adjacent cover are important during the calving period. Hiding cover and security areas become increasingly important during hunting season, providing some escape from the pressures and stress of hunting season (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Forage preferences vary among seasons and years, and appear to be strongly related to availability and phenology of plants, both of which are influenced by weather conditions (Nelson and Leege 1982). Where both grasses and shrubs are available, elk usually prefer grasses. When grasses are not available, shrubs are utilized, and conifers and arboreal lichens may be consumed on forested winter ranges during deep snow periods. Grass comprises a high component of spring and summer diets following green-up. As grasses dry and mature, elk use shifts to forbs and woody plants.

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include all forest, woodland, and non-forested vegetation types (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

The entire Clear Prong Analysis Area would be considered source habitat for this species. The lack of natural disturbances (i.e. wildfire) within the analysis area has resulted in conifer encroachment within shrub and aspen communities. Although there are areas several miles downstream of the project area that may serve as winter range, the analysis area itself is considered summer range for elk. The analysis area provides foraging habitat as well as thermal and hiding cover. Road densities in source habitat are high and are likely affecting habitat through a variety of negative influences. Over 43 miles of open roads occur within the project area which equates to an open road density of 2.55 mi/mi2 (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Elk calving habitat is typically associated with flat riparian areas with sufficient hiding cover, most notably along Clear Creek and its larger tributaries (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.5.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on elk or its habitat. Hiding cover would continue to increase as stand densities increase, and forage quantity and quality would continue to decrease (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-129 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.13.6.5.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Vegetation treatments associated with this alternative would reduce conifer densities, thereby enhancing the production and quality of forage used by elk, but would also decrease hiding and thermal cover. Aspen restoration, although on a limited basis, would also provide a valuable microhabitat for elk (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.6.5.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.7 Family 6 – Forests, Woodlands, and Montane Shrub

Source habitat for this family consists of montane and lower montane forests, riparian and upland woodlands, chokecherry-serviceberry-rose, mountain mahogany, and riparian shrublands (Wisdom et al 2000). Special habitat features include nectar-producing flowers and logs and talus. Source habitat includes curl leaf mountain mahogany woodland and montane foothill deciduous shrubland. With the exception of riparian habitats and brush fields, the Clear Prong Analysis Area does not provide source habitat for species in this family (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.7.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any measurable direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to species in this family due to the lack of source habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.8 Family 7 – Forests, Woodlands, and Sagebrush

Species in Family 7 use a complex pattern of forest, woodlands, and sagebrush cover types (Wisdom et al 2000). A distinguishing feature of the family is that most species have specialized requirements for nesting and roosting which often limits population size and distribution (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-130 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.13.8.1 Spotted Bat (Sensitive Species)

Spotted bats are found in a variety of habitats ranging from desert scrub to montane coniferous forests (IDFG 1995). These bats forage for moths in open habitats. The species’ distribution appears to be patchy and limited to areas with suitable roost sites. Spotted bats roost predominantly in small crevices in substantial cliff faces (IDFG 1995).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 1, 2, and 5 and the following non-forest vegetation types: perennial grass slopes, perennial grass montane, mountain and Wyoming big sagebrush, low sagebrush, montane shrub, and shrub-forest transition (Miller et al 2008). These types provide source habitat when located within six miles of roost sites (i.e. cliffs and canyons).

There are no suitable roost sites (i.e. cliffs and canyons) within six miles of the Clear Prong Analysis Area nor have spotted bats been documented on the Cascade Ranger District (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.8.1.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.8.2 Townsend’s Big-eared Bat (Sensitive Species)

The Townsend’s big-eared bat is a year-round resident of the Interior Columbia River Basin and is considered a forest generalist within the subalpine, montane, upland woodland, and riparian woodland community groups (Wisdom et al 2000). This species uses caves, mines, and buildings for roosting where they aggregate in large colonies. Townsend’s big-eared bats forage for moths in sagebrush, bitterbrush, and open ponderosa pine forests. The distribution of this species is patchy due to their specialized roosting requirements. Primary threats are related to human disturbance and loss of roost sites and hibernacula (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include PVGs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 and non-forest vegetation types including low sagebrush, mountain and Wyoming big sagebrush, montane shrub, and shrub-forest transition (Nutt et al 2010). These types provide source habitat when located within the maximum foraging distance (15 miles) of roost locations (i.e. caves, mines, and other suitable structures). Habitat associated with roosting does not occur within the Clear Prong Analysis Area but does occur within 15 miles of the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.8.2.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on Townsend’s big-eared bat or its habitat. Foraging habitats would continue to decrease as conifers encroach into non-forested areas and relatively open stands increase in density (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.8.2.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Vegetation treatments associated with this alternative would reduce stand densities and therefore result in an increase in foraging habitat. No suitable roost sites occur within the project area therefore this alternative would have no effect on roost sites (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.8.2.3 Cumulative Effects

Chapter 3-131 Clear Prong Final EIS

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Alternative B would have no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on roosting sites, but would result in an incremental increase in forage habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.9 Family 8 – Rangeland and Early and Late-Seral Forest

The western bluebird is the sole member of this family because its source habitat is a unique combination of woodlands, shrublands, grasslands, and early and late-seral forests (Wisdom et al 2000). Burned areas likely also provide source habitat. The juxtaposition of open areas and forests is a necessary component of source habitat. Snags less than 21 inches dbh are a special habitat feature and are used for nesting. Source habitat occurs in PVGs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 and includes perennial grass slopes, perennial grass montane, montane shrub, mountain and Wyoming big sagebrush, and shrub- forest transition (Miller et al 2008).

Within the Clear Prong Analysis Area, shrub and grassland types occur as small patches along south facing slopes and are not represented by the extensive grassland and shrub/sage communities used by species in this family (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.9.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any measurable direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to source habitat or species in this family. As previously disclosed, incorporated design features (Section 2.4.2.3) stipulate that all existing dead trees not posing a safety hazard to logging or post-harvest activities would be retained within proposed harvest units, and sufficient live trees would be retained within harvested units to provide snags in the future (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.10 Family 9 – Woodlands

Source habitat for this family consists primarily of the upland woodland and upland shrubland community groups which do not occur within the Clear Prong Analysis Area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.10.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to species in this family due to the lack of source habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.11 Family 10 – Range Mosaic

This family is characterized by species that primarily use various shrublands, herblands, and woodlands (Wisdom et al 2000). Many species in the family prefer open cover types with a high percentage of grass and forbs in the understory.

Within the Clear Prong Analysis Area, shrubland and herbland types occur as small patches along ridges and are not represented by the extensive shrubland and herbland communities used by species in this family (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-132 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.13.11.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any measurable direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to species in this family due to the lack of source habitat and the fact that proposed activities would be limited to forested types (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.12 Family 11 – Sagebrush

Species in Family 11 use open and closed stages of big sagebrush, low sage, and mountain big sagebrush (Wisdom et al 2000). Some species also utilize herbaceous wetlands, antelope bitterbrush- bluebunch wheatgrass, upland woodlands, and salt desert shrub (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.12.1 Greater Sage Grouse (Sensitive Species)

The greater sage grouse is dependent on sagebrush-grassland vegetation to meet its habitat requirements. Despite wide-ranging annual movements in some populations, sage grouse have high fidelity to seasonal ranges for both nesting and wintering, and birds need extensive areas of native sagebrush-grassland year-round. Abundant native grass-forb composition appears to be important within the sagebrush-grassland communities during all life stages in the snow-free season.

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include mountain and Wyoming big sagebrush, and low sagebrush (Miller et al 2008). Special habitat features include native herbaceous understory, access to succulent forbs, large landscape areas, and juxtaposition of habitat (Miller et al 2008). Sage grouse habitat occurs only at the southern end of the Boise National Forest (USDA 2003).

The Cascade Ranger District and the Clear Prong Analysis Area are outside of the current and historic range of greater sage grouse (Marcot et al 2003).

3.13.12.1.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

The analysis area is outside of the current and historic range of this species. None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to greater sage grouse (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.13 Family 12 – Grassland and Open-canopy Sagebrush

Species in Family 12 are closely associated with fescue-bunchgrass herblands (Wisdom et al 2000). Many species also use open-canopied sagebrush communities, with a few using other shrubland and herbland types. Two species, northern Idaho ground squirrel and southern Idaho ground squirrel, are associated with this family (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.13.1 Northern Idaho Ground Squirrel (Threatened)

Northern Idaho ground squirrels are known to occur in shallow, dry rocky meadows usually associated with deeper, well-drained soils and surrounded by ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir forests at elevations of about 3,000 to 5,400 feet (Evans Mack 2006). Similar habitat occurs up to at least 6,000 feet (Evans Mack 2006). Consequently, ponderosa pine/shrub-steppe habitat associated with south-facing slopes less than 30 percent at elevations below 6,000 feet is considered to be potentially suitable habitat (Evans Mack 2006). This species typically emerges in late March or early April (USFWS 2003).

Chapter 3-133 Clear Prong Final EIS

The northern Idaho ground squirrel is confined to a small area of Adams and adjacent Valley County, Idaho, and occurs no place else in the world. Most known populations are critically low in numbers and distribution. Evidence suggests that where Columbian ground squirrels exist, northern Idaho ground squirrels have been out-competed (Yensen and Sherman 1997). The replacement of open, park-like forests with dense stands of younger trees has greatly reduced the amount of forage species such as grasses and other forbs. Thus the current rarity of northern Idaho ground squirrel is most likely a result of historical rarity (due to competition with Columbian ground squirrels) and forest changes that have altered habitat. These factors have isolated northern Idaho ground squirrel to a few meadows that have not yet filled in with trees (Yensen 1991).

Historic population sites (no longer occupied) on or near the Boise National Forest include Round Valley (approximately 15 miles south of Cascade, Idaho), Cabarton, and a site that is now underneath Cascade Reservoir. The nearest known active population of northern Idaho ground squirrel is a population in Round Valley, roughly seven miles southwest of the project area. The Round Valley population occurs on private land and is considered to be one of the largest currently known populations and the most isolated of populations (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Many active populations of northern Idaho ground squirrel also exist on the Payette National Forest. A population was discovered in July 2005 near the Lick Creek Lookout on the Payette National Forest at an elevation of around 7,500 feet, more than 2,000 feet higher than known existing populations. This finding resulted in a more broad approach to identifying northern Idaho ground squirrel habitat, and subsequently other small populations were found at higher elevations in the Lick Creek Lookout area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

On the Boise National Forest, vegetative communities that could provide source habitat conditions include those associated with grass, forb, and shrub dominated communities in addition to low density aspen, ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir and riparian cover types (Crist and Nutt 2007). These vegetative communities provide source habitat when they coincide with slopes less than 15 percent, aspects between 90 and 290 degrees, and specific soil types (Nutt and Crist 2008). On the Forest, habitat occurs only on the Emmett and Cascade Ranger Districts.

For the purposes of this assessment, the analysis area for the northern Idaho ground squirrel includes the 11,056 acre project area and the road corridor that extends from the Forest boundary along the #409 road south to the junction with Clear Creek Road and west to the junction with State Highway 55. The northern Idaho ground squirrel habitat model (Crist and Nutt 2007) did not identify any source habitat on Forest Service lands within the analysis area, but did identify source habitat along the Clear Creek Road corridor on private land (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

No occurrences of northern Idaho ground squirrel have been reported on the Cascade Ranger District (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010; IDFG 2009). In May of 2006, focused surveys were conducted for the northern Idaho ground squirrel by Mike Henon (Idaho Department of Fish and Game Biologist) and Michelle McCammon (Boise National Forest Wildlife Biologist) from approximately one mile northeast of the #409/#405 intersection to the residential area at the south end of East Mountain Reservoir, roughly nine miles southwest of the project area (Henon and McCammon 2006). No northern Idaho ground squirrels were observed during this survey. Given the relatively small size and wet nature of the meadows along the #409 road, Columbian ground squirrel abundance, and the fact that the drainage occurs in a “cold pocket”, the northern Idaho ground squirrel would not be expected to inhabit these areas (Henon and McCammon 2006).

Additional focused surveys were conducted by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game in 2006 throughout the southern portion of Long Valley and all of Round Valley, including the residential area that makes up the remainder of the haul route (the portion from Highway 55 to East Mountain Reservoir). Mike Henon stated that “The residential area was covered by Dave Sellers and myself and we're confident there are no northern Idaho ground squirrel there” (Henon, personal communication 2006).

Chapter 3-134 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

In addition, informal surveys were conducted in potential habitat on private land along the #409 road southwest of the project area in 2004, but no northern Idaho ground squirrels were found (Nutt 2004). Additional informal surveys, although limited, and general observations of the area for several years have not documented the presence of this species within the 50 acres of non-forested dry meadows within the project area near the #409/#405 intersection or along the #409 road. Only Columbian ground squirrels have been observed (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010).

3.13.13.1.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effects on northern Idaho ground squirrel or its habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.13.1.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

This alternative would have no effects on northern Idaho ground squirrel or its habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

The lack of detections from focused surveys by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and Forest Service personnel, and a subsequent review by experienced biologists determined that potential habitat for northern Idaho ground squirrel within the analysis area was largely unsuitable and was unoccupied. In addition, the haul route does not go through the existing Round Valley population of northern Idaho ground squirrel and, therefore, would not affect that population (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.13.1.3 Cumulative Effects

Given the lack of any measurable direct or indirect effects, neither alternative would be expected to result in any incremental effects to this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.13.2 Southern Idaho Ground Squirrel

Southern Idaho ground squirrels are found in the lower elevation shrub-steppe habitat of the Weiser River Basin. They inhabit areas dominated by big sagebrush, bitterbrush, and a variety of native forbs and bunchgrasses (Yensen 1991). Southern Idaho ground squirrels prefer areas with a high percentage of native cover types, however some non-native features may enhance their survival as well, specifically alfalfa fields, haystacks, or fence lines.

Source habitat associated with this species does not occur within the Clear Prong Analysis Area or along the potential haul route (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.13.2.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

Given the lack of source habitat in the project area or along the potential haul route, none of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14 Family 13 – Riverine Riparian and Wetland

Source habitat for species in Family 13 occurs in conjunction with riverine riparian and wetland areas. Some species within the family also use non-riverine riparian and wetland habitats. Adjacent forests and woodlands provide nesting sites for some species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14.1 Bald Eagle (Sensitive Species)

Two key habitats have been identified for bald eagles; nesting territory and wintering habitat. Nesting territories are typically associated with large rivers, lakes, reservoirs, or ponds that produce fish (Marcot et al 1997; Buehler 2000). Bald eagles nest relatively close to water (1.25 miles) with

Chapter 3-135 Clear Prong Final EIS

suitable foraging opportunities (Buehler 2000). The majority of nest sites are located within one- half mile of a major stream or water body (USFWS 1986). Wintering habitat is also typically associated with aquatic habitats with some open water for foraging (Buehler 2000). Winter habitat suitability is defined by food availability, the presence of roost sites that provide protection from inclement weather, and the absence of human disturbance (Buehler 2000).

The Clear Prong Analysis Area does not provide forage or wintering habitat for bald eagles, nor do any nesting territories occur within the analysis area. Clear Creek at its widest point is roughly 10 to 12 feet wide, is fast-moving with nearly continuous rapids throughout the entire length of the project area, and is covered by forest canopy for much of this section. Fish populations are not considered large enough to provide forage habitat, nor is there sufficient waterfowl activity in this portion of Clear Creek. The closest bald eagle nest territory occurs one mile west of the project area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14.1.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any measurable direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14.2 Columbia Spotted Frog (Sensitive Species)

Columbia spotted frogs are aquatic and typically occur in or near permanent bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, slow moving streams, and marshes (Gomez 1994). The frogs generally occur along the marshy edges of such sites where emergent vegetation (e.g. grasses, sedges, cattails, etc.) is fairly thick and where there is an ample amount of dead and decaying vegetation. Some occupied sites may also have a layer of algae or small vegetation (e.g. duckweed) on the surface of the water. During summer months, they may travel away from breeding sites, but are still typically associated with aquatic sites with vegetated margins (Gomez 1994). Occupied aquatic sites may be surrounded by a wide variety of terrestrial vegetation including mixed coniferous and subalpine forests, grasslands, and shrub-steppe communities. Key features of source habitat for the Columbia spotted frog include the aquatic site itself, its banks and streambank vegetation, and the conditions of the surrounding uplands.

Source habitat for this species includes overwintering, breeding, and post-breeding habitat, all of which could be associated with slow-moving portions of Clear Creek and/or its tributaries (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

While no sightings have been documented within the analysis area, two sightings have occurred within one mile of the project area (Cascade RD Sightings Database 2010).

3.13.14.2.1 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative A

This alternative would have no effect on Columbia spotted frog or its habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14.2.2 Environmental Consequences Specific to Alternative B

Replacing and/or removing culverts under this alternative both have the potential to impact this species or its habitat if such activities occur in the vicinity of standing water. Modification of habitat would not bet expected to result in any long term impacts because the habitat would largely remain suitable after installation/removal of the culvert is completed. More importantly, culvert work could disturb, displace, or even lead to mortality if individuals happen to be present during the activity. However, spotted frogs are quite mobile and would likely be able to move away from equipment if threatened (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-136 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Other activities associated with this alternative would have negligible effects on Columbia spotted frog and its habitat. Design features associated with this alternative prohibit harvest or ground-based skidding of trees within RCAs (Section 2.4.2.5). Incorporation of this feature would effectively mitigate the impacts of these activities on spotted frog habitat within the analysis area. Although thinning of sub-merchantable trees would occur within RCAs, this thinning would not occur within 30 feet of either side of any stream nor would it result in any ground disturbance. Since spotted frog habitat is typically directly adjacent to the main body of water, this 30 foot buffer should minimize any undesirable impacts on this species and its habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14.2.3 Cumulative Effects

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area, with another 253 acres impacted by wildfire since 1910. Roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years. Although the specific effects cannot be quantified, the existing conditions disclosed above reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any vegetative recovery that has occurred since those actions. There are no ongoing or foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would affect this resource. Reference Appendix A for additional information and maps related to the cumulative effects analyses completed for this project.

Alternative A would have no direct or indirect effects and therefore no cumulative effects on this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Although Alternative B would modify habitat of this species, it would not result in any long term loss of source habitat, nor are there any ongoing or foreseeable future activities that would add incrementally to effects on source habitat or disturbance/displacement of this species (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14.3 Yellow-billed Cuckoo

These birds are rare visitors and breeders in Idaho and are associated with large blocks of riparian habitat dominated by an overstory of tall deciduous trees like cottonwoods or within willows adjacent to tall deciduous trees. This species is a neotropical migrant that overwinters from Columbia and Venezuela south to northern Argentina. Their breeding season occurs between May and August. In Idaho, they have been sighted primarily in the Snake River Valley (USFWS 2002).

The Clear Prong Analysis Area does not provide source habitat for this species. Large blocks of riparian habitat dominated by an overstory of tall deciduous trees do not occur within or near the analysis area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.14.3.1 Environmental Consequences Common to All Alternatives

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species due to the lack of source habitat (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.15 Family 14 – Non-riverine Riparian and Wetland

Source habitat for species in Family 14 occurs in conjunction with non-riverine riparian and wetland areas. Some species within the family also use riverine riparian and wetland areas. One sensitive species, the common loon, is a member of this family (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

Chapter 3-137 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.13.15.1 Common Loon (Sensitive Species)

Common loons breed in clear, oligotrophic (with fish) lakes with forested, tundra, or rocky shorelines, bays, islands, and floating bogs (McIntyre and Barr 1997). Lakes are usually larger than 22 acres in size, below 5,905 feet in elevation, and support adequate prey fish populations and nesting and nursery habitat. Source habitats (e.g. ponds, lakes, reservoirs) do not occur in the Clear Prong Analysis Area (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.15.1.1 Environmental Consequences Common to all Action Alternative(s)

None of the alternatives are expected to result in any direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to common loon or other species associated with this family (P.R., Vol. 13, Wildlife).

3.13.16 Summary of Effects Determinations

Table 3-23 discloses the effects determinations for all threatened, endangered, proposed, and candidate species identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as applicable to the Cascade Ranger District. Table 3-23 also discloses the effects determinations for those species identified by the Regional Forester as sensitive species (FSM 2670.5).

Table 3-23 Summary of Effects Determinations for Wildlife Species Family Common Name Scientific Name Status Alt. A Alt. B Family 1 White-headed Woodpecker Picoides albolarvatus S NI MII American Three-toed Woodpecker Picoides tridactylus S NI MII Boreal Owl Aegolius funereus S NI MII Fisher Martes pennanti S NI MII Family 2 Flammulated Owl Otus flammeolus S NI MII Great Gray Owl Strix nebulosa S NI MII Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis S NI MII Canada Lynx Lynx canadensis T NE NLAA Family 3 Mountain Quail Oreortyx pictus S NI NI Wolverine Gulo gulo S NI MII Gray Wolf Canis lupus S NI MII Family 5 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus anatum S NI NI Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Ovis canadensis canadensis S NI NI Spotted Bat Euderma maculatum S NI NI Family 7 Townsend’s Big-eared Bat Corynorhinus townsendii pallescens S NI BI Family 11 Greater Sage Grouse Centrocercus urophasianus S NI NI Family 12 Northern Idaho Ground Squirrel Spermophilus brunneus brunneus T NE NE Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus S NI NI Family 13 Columbia Spotted Frog Rana luteiventris S NI MII Family 14 Common Loon Gavia immer S NI NI Status: T = threatened; C = candidate; S = sensitive. Determination language for T&C species: NE = “no effect”; NLAA = “may affect, not likely to adversely affect”; NI = “no impact” for candidate species. Determination language for S species: NI = “no impacts”; BI = “beneficial impacts”; MII = “may impact individuals but is not likely to cause a trend to federal listing or loss of viability”.

3.14 Irreversible and Irretrievable Effects

For the purposes of this analysis, irreversible effects are defined as those effects resulting from a proposed activity that cannot be reversed within a reasonable period of time as perceived from a human time scale. Irretrievable effects are those effects caused by the activities that change outputs or commodities.

Long Term Soil Productivity - Implementation of Alternative B would result in 2.9 percent of the 11,056 acre activity area being irreversibly committed (total soil resource commitment), an increase of 0.3 percent (Section 3.11.4). Graveling of road surfaces under Alternative B would also commit rock resources from a pit location outside of the project area.

Chapter 3-138 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

Energy - Implementation of Alternative B would irretrievably commit an indeterminate amount of fossil fuels in order to remove and transport products, and to implement activities associated with the alternative.

3.15 Probable Environmental Effects that Cannot be Avoided

Wildlife – Alternative B could potentially result in undesirable impacts on individual animals of any species present within the project area by displacing that animal during harvest operations. However, this impact would be temporary (up to four years) in nature and is not expected to contribute to a trend towards Federal listing or loss of viability to any population or adverse impacts to listed species (Section 3.13).

Soils - Accelerated erosion and other detrimental effects under Alternative B would be minimized by design features associated with proposed activities. Although some loss of productive land is expected to occur, long term productivity would remain within Forest Plan standards specified for detrimental disturbance and total soil resource commitment (Section 3.11.4).

Water Quality – Although BOISED reflects a temporary and near short term increase in sedimentation, the modeled output does not reflect the benefits of many design features incorporated into Alternative B. Proper application of these design features would be expected to decrease the likelihood of sediment delivery to streams in quantities sufficient to impact water quality conditions in the temporary and near short term, and would result in a slight short and long term decrease (Section 3.11.1).

As disclosed in Section 3.11.1, many of the road-related sediment sources on Forest Service administered lands within the analysis area were addressed in 2002. Under Alternative B an additional 0.8 miles of the #409 road would be improved through maintenance activities to enhance hydrologic conditions and reduce sedimentation. Specifically, gravel would be applied to the surface of the #409 road from near the #409/#409D intersection to Clear Creek Summit. In addition, Alternative B would replace the 12 known under-sized culverts on the #409 road with culverts sufficient in size to accommodate a 100-year flow event, and would be designed to allow fish passage where habitat exists upstream. Alternative B would also decommission an estimated 4.4 miles of existing road to reduce future maintenance needs and/or to reduce sedimentation (Section 3.11.1).

Alternative B would not contribute additional sediment in amounts that would prevent the attainment or maintenance of instream objectives, nor would this alternative have a measurable effect on the identified beneficial uses. Alternative B would comply with existing management direction including Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, and the Clean Water Act. In addition, this alternative would be consistent with the intent of the TMDL of reducing sediment, the pollutant of concern. A number of activities (i.e. restorative BMPs) have already been implemented in the project area to reduce management-related sediment. Even though this alternative would reflect only a slight improving trend, it would include additional restorative BMPs to further reduce sediment in the drainage (Section 3.11.1).

Air Quality - Broadcast burning of created slash across 119 acres of harvest units, the use of prescribed fire on 613 acres, burning of 36 acres of landing slash, dust, and vehicle emissions would temporarily degrade air quality in the immediate vicinity of the project area. However, within the constraints of associated design features (Section 2.4.2.4), Alternative B would not noticeably affect air quality in the vicinity of any sensitive areas, population centers, or in any Class I Areas. Emission levels would remain below the NAAQS established by the Clean Air Act even when combined with average ambient pollutants (Section 3.4).

Recreation – During active harvest operations (two to three years) associated with Alternative B, users of existing open roads and dispersed campsites would be displaced by harvest activities. Frequent users of these roads and/or dispersed campsites would likely take advantage of similar opportunities on other road systems in or adjacent to the analysis area (Section 3.6).

Chapter 3-139 Clear Prong Final EIS

3.16 Relationship Between Short-term Use and Long-term Productivity

Soils - Accelerated erosion and other detrimental effects resulting from Alternative B would be minimized by design features associated with proposed activities. Although some loss of productive land is expected to occur, long term productivity would remain within Forest Plan standards specified for detrimental disturbance and total soil resource commitment (Section 3.11.4).

3.17 Potential Conflicts with Plans and Policies of Other Jurisdictions

Air Quality - Within the constraints of associated design features (Section 2.4.2.4), Alternative B would not noticeably affect air quality in the vicinity of any sensitive areas, population centers, or in any Class I Areas. Emission levels would remain below the NAAQS established by the Clean Air Act even when combined with average ambient pollutants (Section 3.4).

American Indian Treaty Rights - The proposed alternatives would not conflict with any known treaty provisions.

Cultural Resources - Alternative B would not be expected to have any direct or indirect effects on historically significant sites. Previously identified sites would be protected under this alternative through incorporated design features (Section 2.4.2.8). Contract provisions that would halt all degrading activities would be included with this alternative to prevent adverse impacts to any unknown sites discovered during implementation. The State Historic Preservation Officer has concurred with the Forest’s no adverse effect determination (Section 3.8).

Endangered Species - Determinations disclosed in Chapter 3 and documented in completed biological assessments have concluded that Alternative B would have no effect on Spiranthes diluvialis (Section 3.2.11); no effect on bull trout (Section 3.12), and; would have no effect on northern Idaho ground squirrel and may affect but is not likely to adversely affect Canada lynx (Section 3.13).

Minerals - The proposed alternatives would have no effect on the availability of lands for mining under Federal mining laws and regulations.

Water Quality - The State of Idaho Forest Practices Water Quality Management Plan and Forest Service Soil and Water Conservation Practices standards would be implemented to meet State and Federal water quality regulations. Implementation of Alternative B would, in the short and long term, reduce existing sediment delivery. Although the overall improvement would be small, Alternative B would comply with existing management direction including Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, and the Clean Water Act. In addition, this alternative would be consistent with the intent of the TMDL of reducing sediment, the pollutant of concern. A number of activities (i.e. restorative BMPs) have already been implemented in the project area to reduce management-related sediment. Even though this alternative would reflect only a slight improving trend, it would include additional restorative BMPs to further reduce sediment in the drainage (Section 3.11.1).

Wildlife - Proposed activities would not conflict with current or proposed Idaho Department of Fish and Game management plans.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act – All alternatives would comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This project may however result in an “unintentional take” of individuals during proposed activities. However the project complies with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director’s Order #131 related to the applicability of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to federal agencies and requirements for permits for “take”. In addition, this project complies with Executive Order 13186 because the analysis meets agency obligations as defined under the January 16, 2001 Memorandum of Understanding between the Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designed to complement Executive Order 13186. Migratory bird species are also analyzed and discussed in Sections 3.13.2 through 3.13.15 of this document. If new requirements or direction result from subsequent interagency memorandums of understanding pursuant to Executive Order 13186, this project would be reevaluated to ensure that it is consistent.

Chapter 3-140 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

3.18 Specifically Required Disclosures

NFMA Even-aged Management – Even-aged silvicultural prescriptions would occur on 248 acres under Alternative B. Even-aged management has been proposed in those stands where no other treatments would meet the project’s objectives to the same degree while protecting other resource values.

Effects of Alternatives on Wetlands and Floodplains – Alternative B would not be expected to negatively change the functions or values of wetlands and floodplains as they relate to protection of human health, safety, and welfare; preventing the loss of property values, and; maintaining natural systems. The goals of Executive Orders 11988 and 11990 would be met. Direct and indirect effects would occur on wetland areas and within stream floodplains during removal and/or replacement of culverts on existing roads. However these effects, both undesirable and beneficial, are expected to be insignificant. All wetlands would be protected through design features such as riparian conservation areas which conform to Executive Order 11990. Applicable permits would be obtained and required consultation would occur with the Army Corp of Engineers, Idaho Department of Water Resources, the Idaho Division of Environmental Quality, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service prior to activities within wetlands or floodplains (Section 3.11.5).

Effects of Alternatives on Social Groups - The alternatives do not differ in their effects on minorities, Native American Indians, women, or Civil Liberties of any American Citizen. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Effects of Alternatives on Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species - The effects on threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive species have been analyzed. In compliance with the Endangered Species Act, consultation has been initiated. Potential effects are disclosed in Chapter 3.

Effects of Alternatives on Prime Range Land, Farm Land, and Forest Land - The alternatives considered are in compliance with the Federal Regulations for prime land. The definition of "prime" forest land does not apply to lands within the National Forest System. The project area does not contain any prime range land or farm land. Under Alternative B, Federal lands would be managed with appropriate sensitivity to the effects on adjacent lands.

Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential of Alternatives - With relation to national and global petroleum reserves, the energy consumption associated with the individual alternatives, as well as the differences between alternatives, is insignificant.

Environmental Justice (E.O. 12898) - Executive Order 12898 (59 Fed. Register 7629, 1994) directs federal agencies to identify and address, as appropriate, any disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority populations and low-income populations. Based upon the analysis disclosed in this document, the proposed alternatives are in compliance with Executive Order 12898.

Clean Air Act - Compliance with design features and smoke management plans would result in no long term impacts. These measures would protect air quality and comply with the rules, regulations, and permit procedures of the EPA and the IDEQ. All alternatives would comply with the provisions of the Clean Air Act (Section 3.4).

Clean Water Act - The objective of the Clean Water Act is to “…restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters.” One of the Act’s goals is to “…provide for the

Chapter 3-141 Clear Prong Final EIS protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife” and provide for “…recreation in and on the water” (33 U.S.C. 466 et seq., Title I, Section 101). Based on the analysis disclosed in this document, all alternatives would satisfy the Clean Water Act.

This project includes design features to ensure management activities maintain or improve watershed conditions (Section 2.4.2). These features, including best management practices (BMPs), are designed to maintain or improve soil, water, riparian and aquatic resources, including beneficial uses. Cumulatively this direction would ensure continued compliance with the Clean Water Act (Section 3.11.1).

Invasive Species (E.O. 13112) - Executive Order 13112 on Invasive Species directs that federal agencies should not authorize any activities that would increase the spread of invasive species. This project includes design features to limit the spread of invasive species (Section 2.4.2). This project would require that integrated pest management methods be used to contain and control the spread of invasive species, following the R-4 Forest Service Handbook (FSH 2080).

Other Policies - The existing body of national direction for managing National Forests remains in effect. This action would contribute to the Forest Service Strategic Plan (GPRA 2001).

Consultation with Tribal Governments (E.O. 13175) – This order established a requirement for regular and meaningful consultation between federal and tribal government officials on federal policies that have tribal implications.

Three federally recognized Native American tribes have expressed interest in activities proposed on the Boise National Forest; Nez Perce, Shoshone-Paiute and Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. A packet describing the Proposed Action and soliciting comments on that action was mailed to representatives of the Shoshone- Bannock and Nez Perce Tribes in October of 2009. In addition, the Agency presented and discussed the Proposed Action at the November 12, 2009 Wings and Roots meeting. These meetings are an official part of the consultation process between the Shoshone-Paiute Tribe and the Boise National Forest. The tribal notification and subsequent consultation processes described above did not result in the identification of any adverse effects to tribal interests or rights specifically associated with this project.

Idaho Roadless Rule - With the exception of 110 acres of prescribed fire to reduce natural fuel loads, none of the alternatives include any activities within any inventoried roadless area. All alternatives would be consistent with the Idaho Roadless Rule (Section 3.5).

Facilitation of Hunting Heritage and Wildlife Conservation (E.O. 13443) - Vegetation treatments associated with Alternative B would reduce conifer densities, thereby enhancing the production and quality of forage used by many big game species. Aspen restoration, although on a limited basis, would also provide a valuable microhabitat for ungulates. Alternative B would physically close several roads following completion of harvest activities, thereby reducing the potential for human-caused disturbance and/or vulnerability of big-game species (Sections 3.13.6.2 and 3.13.6.5).

Best Available Science – The conclusions disclosed in this document are based on a review of the project’s record that reflects consideration of relevant scientific information and responsible opposing views where raised by internal or external sources, and the acknowledgement of incomplete or unavailable information, scientific uncertainty, and/or risk where pertinent. As disclosed in Chapter 1, the analysis presented in this document reflects management direction, findings, and conclusions in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated Record of Decision. This Final EIS is the first (Phase 1) of four assessments to be completed for the comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (WCS) for the Boise National Forest and represents a thorough review and consideration of the best available science applicable to the Forest.

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CHAPTER 4

CONSULTATION & COORDINATION

Consultation and Coordination

CHAPTER 4 - CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

4.1 Introduction

This chapter includes a list of the primary preparers of the document; a summary of the scoping and public involvement efforts; a summary of the changes made to the Draft EIS in preparation of the Final EIS; a list of agencies, organizations, and persons to whom copies of the Final EIS and Record of Decision were sent, and; comments received on the Draft EIS and responses to those comments.

4.2 List of Primary Preparers

Name, Area of Expertise, Years of Experience Resource Area Professional Education

Keith Dimmett IDT Leader, BS Forest Management Forester (23) Vegetation, Purdue University Roadless, Visuals, Recreation

Mark Loseke Wildfire BA Political Science Fuels Management Technician (20) Susceptibility, BA U.S. History Air Quality Boise State University

Joe Foust Wildlife BS Forest/Wildlife Mgmt. Wildlife Biologist (8) Purdue University

David Marben Vegetation BS Forest Management Silviculturist (26) University of Minnesota

Gary Harris Watershed, BS Forest Management Hydrologist (11) Soils, UC Berkley Fisheries

Jeff Hunteman GIS Support, BS Forest Management Forester (10) Financial Purdue University Assessment

David Potter TES Plants, Botanist (9) Botany

Nate Lange GIS Support BS Forest Management Forester (1) Purdue University

Carol McCoy Brown Project MS Geology District Ranger (28) Direction University of Georgia

4.3 Summary of Scoping, Public Involvement, and Comments

Chapter 4-1 Clear Prong Final EIS

Fisheries at a scheduled Level 1 Meeting. In response to these scoping efforts, comments were received from 13 interested parties who voiced a variety of concerns including potential impacts on water quality, wildlife resources, and recreational uses and opportunities. The planning record contains all scoping comments received relative to this project and discloses how the Interdisciplinary Team addressed those concerns.

4.4 Changes Made to the Draft EIS in Preparation of the Final EIS

In addition to minor edits, the following changes were made to the Draft EIS in preparation of this Final EIS:

A discussion was added to Section 1.8 disclosing consistency of both alternatives with the Idaho Roadless Rule.

Discussions related to cultural resources have been updated throughout the document to reflect that the State Historic Preservation Officer has concurred with the no adverse effect determination.

Consistent with the cultural resources determination of significance and effect report, a design feature was added to Section 2.4.2.8 requiring avoidance of BS-554.

References to the “Draft Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2009)” have been replaced with “Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010)” throughout the document.

References to “Nutt et al 2009” have been replaced with “Nutt et al 2010” throughout the document where appropriate.

Appendix A of the Draft EIS failed to include a number of resources and the details of their cumulative effects analyses. This oversight was corrected in Appendix A of the Final EIS.

Discussions related to the effects of proposed burning activities on riparian vegetation were added to Section 3.12.

Section 3.3 includes additional discussion concerning the effects of thinning of sub-merchantable trees on fuel loads and wildfire susceptibility.

Additional discussion of where and why tree planting would occur has been included in Section 2.4.3.2.

Disclosures related to terrestrial wildlife species have been clarified throughout Section 3.13. Changes of substance include clarifying that existing acres of boreal owl source habitat are likely sufficient to provide for one boreal owl home; would be sufficient to provide for one home range in 2012 and 2031 after Alternative A, and; would be sufficient to provide for one home range in 2012 and 2031 after Alternative B (Section 3.13.3.3). The effects determination for Alternative B was changed to reflect a “beneficial impact” on Townsend’s big-eared bat (Section 3.13.8.2), and because of culvert replacements and removals, Alternative B “may impact” Columbia spotted frog (Section 3.13.14.2).

Chapter 4-2 Consultation and Coordination

4.5 List of Those Receiving Copies of the Final EIS and Record of Decision

State, County, and Local Agencies and Officials Federal Agencies and Officials ID Department of Fish and Game, Nampa National Agricultural Library ID Department of Parks and Recreation, Boise Intermountain Regional Office ID Department of Environmental Quality, Boise EPA, Office of Federal Activities Southern Idaho Timber Protection Association EPA, Region 10 EIS Review Coordinator Valley County Commissioners Director, Office of Envir. Policy and Compliance USFWS, Boise, Idaho

Businesses and Organizations Individuals Idaho Conservation League Richard Artley Idaho Sporting Congress Irene Victory WildWest Institute Jean Public The Lands Council Nancy Little Alliance for the Wild Rockies Richard C. Renstrom The Wilderness Society Ron C. Hamilton Colorado State University Libraries Sam Hescock

4.6 Responses to Comments Received on the Draft EIS

Ten letters were received commenting on the Draft EIS. The following section contains photocopies of the letters received and the Interdisciplinary Team’s responses to those comments. Responses to individual statements in the letters can be cross-referenced by the corresponding numbers in the page margins.

Chapter 4-3 Clear Prong Final EIS

1 We are aware of the high costs associated with helicopter yarding. IDT Members considered less expensive yarding systems and, where feasible, have proposed those other yarding systems under Alternative B. The majority of the acres to be helicopter yarded under Alternative B occur in the northern portion of the project area. Construction of a road to access these units was discussed internally, but dropped from further consideration due to the landtypes prevalent in that area.

2 Section 3.3 summarizes the various fire regimes present, their typical fire return intervals, and associated tree mortalities in general terms. Although there are some pockets of “tall brush” species (i.e. mountain maple, chokecherry, and willow), these stands occur primarily in the northeast 1 portion of the project area and are generally limited in size and would not be burned under Alternative B.

3 Section 3.3 discusses fire history within the project area based on available records. Section 3.2.6 discloses the effects of the alternatives on forest insects and diseases.

2 4 Alternative B proposes use of prescribed fire on a contiguous 613 acre block in the southeast portion of the project area. As explained in Section 2.3.1, the undulating nature of the topography and the intermixed cooler and/or moister habitat types limit the use of prescribed fire as a practical management tool at a broad scale.

Chapter 4-4 Consultation and Coordination

5 Field reconnaissance of the areas proposed for aspen enhancement treatments was completed in the summer/fall of 2009. Although the extent and health of root systems was not thoroughly examined, the general health of aspen trees/clones was noted. Since part of the reason for restoring 5 aspen is to enhance ungulate forage, the IDT did not see any need to try and discourage their access. There are no livestock grazing allotments in the areas proposed for aspen enhancement treatments.

6 Under Alternative B, limbs and tops of harvested trees would be accumulated at landings by whole-tree-yarding on roughly 1,100 acres. These slash piles could subsequently be sold as chips or biomass rather than burned if any interest is shown by prospective Purchasers.

7 Section 1.7.2 discloses that under MPC 5.1, commodity production is an outcome of restoring or maintaining the resilience/resistance of forested 6 vegetation to disturbance events; achievement of timber growth and yield is not the primary purpose. Section 3.2 discloses other alternatives considered and explains why they were eliminated from detailed study.

8 Descriptions of the various silvicultural treatments in Section 2.4.1 are 7 provided to give the reader a sense of what the treated stands would look like following implementation. Future treatment of affected stands would depend upon the stand characteristics and management direction in effect at that time.

9 All limbs below the girdled section of the subalpine fir would be removed 8 which should eliminate the possibility of the girdled trees surviving.

10 Section 2.4.1 states that, depending upon site characteristics, a range of 150 to 225 trees would be retained per acre after thinning of sub-merchantable trees. Section 2.4.2.1 discloses that, where needed, trees would be planted at a range of 150 to 350 trees per acre. It is expected that some level of 9 natural regeneration would occur on most sites, although the trees regenerating naturally may not be the desired species for that site.

Chapter 4-5 Clear Prong Final EIS

11 Trees adjacent to roads with exposed root systems would be removed if considered an imminent safety hazard, otherwise these trees would be retained as prescribed in Section 2.4.2.5. Although we agree that 11 windthrown trees may attract beetles, we don’t expect such events to lead to any insect epidemic. Section 3.2.6 discloses the effects of the alternatives on forest insects and diseases. 12 12 Goals related to coarse woody debris would be incorporated into contract provisions related to slash disposal. The Sale Administrator would be available to assist with interpretation of the contract.

Chapter 4-6 Consultation and Coordination

1 Chapters 1 and 2 disclose that, although a number of concerns were noted during scoping and the analysis, no significant issues were identified therefore additional action alternatives were not developed. Further, as documented in Chapter 3 and this project’s planning record, the Proposed Action (Alternative B) would result in a slight improving trend relative to sedimentation; would accelerate movement of affected stands toward their desired vegetative conditions; would not result in unacceptable impacts on any given resource, and; would be consistent with applicable laws, rules, 1 regulations, and Forest Plan standards and guidelines. 2 2 Section 2.3 discloses other alternatives considered but eliminated from detailed study and provides the rationale for doing so. 3 3 Section 2.3.2 discloses that all roads identified in the Roads Analysis Report for the Clear Prong Project (2010) as not needed for the long term 4 management of the area would be decommissioned under the action alternatives considered in detail.

5 4 Reference responses to Comments #1, #2, and #3 above.

5 Section 3.11.4 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on detrimental soil disturbance and total soil resource commitment and discloses compliance with related Forest Plan standards.

Chapter 4-7 Clear Prong Final EIS

1 Thank you for your comments.

Chapter 4-8 Consultation and Coordination

Chapter 4-9 Clear Prong Final EIS

1 Thank you for your comments. It is standard operating procedure to post signs in appropriate locations alerting the public to log hauling and/or road reconstruction activities. To the extent practicable, culvert replacement activities would be scheduled to minimize impacts on recreational uses.

Chapter 4-10 Consultation and Coordination

1 Thank you for your comments.

2 Design features in Section 2.4.2.5 stipulate that fire ignition would be avoided in RCAs but that prescribed fire would be allowed to “creep” into the RCAs. Section 3.12 discloses the effects of proposed burning on riparian vegetation and Section 3.13 discloses the effects on terrestrial wildlife species.

Chapter 4-11 Clear Prong Final EIS

1 Thank you for your comments.

Chapter 4-12 Consultation and Coordination

1 The planning record documents that a copy of the Scoping Comment Analysis was sent to you on March 26, 2010.

Chapter 4-13 Clear Prong Final EIS

1 Section 1.5 discloses the purpose and need for this project and the project’s objectives, one of which is to reduce the potential for sedimentation and future maintenance needs and to address the intent of the TMDL by decommissioning roads not needed for the long term management of the Forest.

2 Section 3.11.1 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on water quality.

3 Section 3.6 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on recreation, including effects on motorized access.

Chapter 4-14 Consultation and Coordination

General Response - The comment letter provided contains numerous excerpts from a variety of different authors in different locations and with different objectives. While we do not dispute disclosures in the cited documents, neither do we categorically agree with the findings or recommendations in the literature referenced. In the case of Forest Service prepared documents, it is assumed that the authors used the most recent and applicable literature given the location of their particular project area, the stand types and conditions at the time, and the direction and/or definitions in their Forest Plan(s). As highlighted by some of the excerpts you’ve provided, an abundance of literature is available on a variety of subjects, each with its own recommendations/findings depending upon the specific site characteristics, research methodology and/or objectives, and/or disturbance event. While general disagreement in the literature exists on many subjects, one common conclusion that can be drawn in almost all cases is that every site and every situation is different. This, in part, is why site-specific analyses are completed. As part of this site-specific analysis the resource experts assigned to the project have the responsibility to determine what the most appropriate scientific literature/information is that reflects the specific project area and situation. The EIS completed for this assessment lists cited references where appropriate and provides a bibliography. Copies of literature referenced in the EIS are contained in the project’s planning record and available upon request.

The analysis presented in this document reflects management direction, findings, and conclusions in the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010) and its associated

Record of Decision. This Final EIS is the first (Phase 1) of four assessments to be completed for the comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (WCS) for the Boise National Forest and represents a thorough review and consideration of the best available science applicable to the Forest. The long term goal of the WCS is to maintain or effectively restore a representative and resilient network of habitats across the Forest sufficient to support the desired diversity of native and non-native vertebrate wildlife species consistent with overall multiple-use objectives. The short term goal of the WCS for the remainder of this planning period (7 to 8 years) is restoration of habitats associated with species believed to be of greatest conservation concern. The WCS was developed in the context of the Interior

Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project (ICEBMP) and complements the Idaho State Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (IDFG 2005). The underlying philosophy of the science and related conservation concepts supporting the ICBEMP and the WCS is that restoration of historic vegetative conditions (i.e. desired conditions) and emulation of their inherent disturbance processes would conserve the vast majority of these species of concern (Haufler et al 1996; Hunter et al 1988; Noss 1987; Raphael et al 2000; McComb and Duncan 2007; Wisdom et al 2000).

Chapter 4-15 Clear Prong Final EIS

1 Chapter 1 discloses the purpose and need for this project. Chapter 3 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on the resources.

1 2 Cumulative effects analyses are presented at the end of each resource and disclose the area considered in the cumulative effects analysis and a brief summary of why

the area was selected. Where appropriate, past, ongoing, and/or foreseeable future activities on non-Forest Service lands were considered in the analyses. As 2 explained in Chapter 3 and Appendix A, the effects of past activities (regardless of their stated goals) were considered in cumulative effects analyses. Monitoring associated with past activities, where relevant, was considered in the analysis and is included in the project’s planning record.

3 As explained in Section 1.1, the Clear Prong Draft Environmental Impact Statement assumed that changes to the 2003 Forest Plan reflected in the USDA Forest Service 2009 Draft EIS as the Preferred Alternative had already occurred. 3 Section 1.1 also discloses that the USDA Forest Service 2010 Final EIS amending the Forest Plan and its associated Record of Decision have been completed and that, with the exception of minor corrections and clarifications, the Selected Alternative is nearly identical to the Preferred Alternative presented in the 2009 Draft EIS. Chapters 1, 2, and 3 disclose that Alternative B is consistent with the Selected Alternative identified in the 2010 Final EIS amending the Forest Plan and its 4 associated Record of Decision, and that Alternative B complies with all NFMA requirements.

4 Section 3.13.1 discloses that, like Alternative A (No Action), none of the large tree

size class stands within the analysis area would provide old forest habitat in year 5 2012 or 2031 after Alternative B. However, Alternative B would accelerate development of stand conditions that could provide old forest habitat in the future. As reflected in Section 3.2.2, Alternative B would result in a slight increase in the number of acres in the large tree size class in years 2012 and 2031; would reduce the number of acres in the high stand canopy cover category which is a constraining factor for all affected PVGs (Section 3.2.3); would increase the percentage of ponderosa pine greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh in PVGs of concern (Section 6 3.2.4), and; would increase the annual growth rate of retained trees (Section 3.2.5). Section 3.13 also concludes neither alternative would have detrimental effects on

population viability at the Forest level.

5 Section 3.3 describes the existing conditions and fire regimes present in the project 6 area and summarizes their typical wildfire frequencies and tree mortalities.

6 Section 1.5 discloses the project’s objectives. Relative to vegetation, the objective is to move toward restoration of desired vegetative conditions identified in the Forest Plan.

Chapter 4-16 Consultation and Coordination

7 40 CFR 1508.7 defines “cumulative impact” as the impact on the environment which results from the incremental impacts of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions. Since the direct and indirect effects of any alternative on wildfire susceptibility (i.e. fuel loads, ladder fuels, and stand density) would be limited to the 11,056 acre analysis area, this area was used

to assess cumulative effects on wildfire susceptibility. None of the alternatives considered in this analysis would affect fuel loads, ladder fuels, or stand densities 7 beyond the analysis area and therefore could not affect fuel loads, ladder fuels, stand density, or flame lengths on those other acres.

8 Section 3.3 discloses the effects of the alternatives on wildfire susceptibility the year after implementation. The Forest Plan provides the framework for future management activities within the area. Any attempt at this time to prescribe site- specific treatments 5, 10, or 20 years in the future would suffer from a lack of information. 8

9 Section 3.3 acknowledges that at the landscape level there would continue to be a low to moderate likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, 8 intense fire following implementation of Alternative A or B. In general, survival rates following a moderate intensity wildfire would be characteristic of the fire regimes present in the analysis area. Although Alternative B would not change this fact, reducing densities of the overstory and understory trees on 1,654 acres and the associated treatments of created slash would reduce the expected fire intensity and enhance tree survival in managed stands should a wildfire ignition occur (Section 3.3). The use of prescribed fire on 613 acres under Alternative B would reduce the 9 probability of crown fire development by reducing ground fuels and also by reducing the abundance of ladder fuels. A wildfire ignition under typical weather conditions in mid-August would result in flame lengths of about four feet on these 613 acres. Such an event would be similar to those seen in the Non-lethal and Mixed1 Fire Regimes prior to man’s influence and would likely result in limited tree mortality on affected acres. In comparison to Alternative A (No Action), a wildfire under these conditions would be easier to suppress and should pose less of a threat to the health and safety of firefighters and the general public (Section 3.3). 10 Also reference the General Response on page 1.

10 Educational programs related to reducing wildfire susceptibility on private lands have been ongoing for a number of years and is beyond the scope of this analysis. Although the Forest Service can provide advice and make recommendations, the agency has no authority to compel adjacent landowners to take any preventative measures. Section 3.3 discloses that this project area is not within a WUI and that the closest residential structure is roughly five miles away. It should also be noted that in addition to reducing fuel loads and ladder fuels in select areas, this project is

also designed to accomplish six other objectives.

Chapter 4-17 Clear Prong Final EIS

11 Chapter 3 discloses the effects of the alternatives, including Alternative A (No Action), on a variety of resources. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

12 Educational programs related to reducing wildfire susceptibility on private lands have been ongoing for a number of years and is beyond the scope of this analysis.

Although the Forest Service can provide advice and make recommendations, the agency has no authority to compel adjacent landowners to take any preventative measures. Section 3.3 discloses that this project area is not within a WUI and that the closest residential structure is roughly five miles away. It should also be noted that in addition to reducing fuel loads and ladder fuels in select areas, this project is 10 also designed to accomplish six other objectives.

13 Section 3.3 discloses the effects of the alternatives on wildfire susceptibility and discloses consideration of harvest-related slash in the analysis. Although considered in the analysis presented in the Draft EIS, additional discussion related

to thinning of sub-merchantable trees and the temporary increase in fuel loads was added to Section 3.3.2 in the Final EIS.

Chapter 4-18 Consultation and Coordination

14 Section 2.4.1 discloses proposed silvicultural prescriptions. Section 3.3 discloses 13 the effects of the alternatives on wildfire susceptibility.

15 Neither the sanitation/improvement nor the individual tree selection prescriptions represent “regeneration type logging” as used in this project. Conifers would be

planted on an estimated 358 acres scattered across the 1,216 acres of the sanitation/improvement and individual tree selection prescriptions where small 13 openings result due to removal of Douglas-fir heavily infected with dwarf mistletoe or removal of pockets of undesirable species such as grand fir/subalpine fir, and/or within small openings created by broadcast burning of harvest-related slash. Although Alternative B would convert a number of acres in the large tree size class to a low stand canopy cover in year 2012, none of these affected acres would approach the lower limit of 10 percent but would instead range from a low of 19 percent to a high of 39 percent, with an average of around 29 percent stand canopy cover (Section 3.2.3). Neither alternative would result in management created 14 openings as defined in the Forest Plan (Section 3.2.7)

16 Section 1.5 discloses completion of the Roads Analysis Report for the Clear Prong Project (2010). Neither alternative proposes construction of any new permanent roads. Sections 2.4.2 and 2.4.3 describe how temporary roads and existing authorized roads would be closed under Alternative B. Chapter 3 discloses the 15 effects of the alternatives on water quality, slope stability, and fish habitat.

17 Visual observations indicate that these activities were effective at minimizing erosion and/or sedimentation.

16 18 That segment of the #409 road below the Forest boundary falls under the jurisdiction of Valley County. The majority of the other roads occur on lands owned by Potlatch.

17 19 Section 3.11.4 summarizes the methodology used in the detrimental soil disturbance analysis, discloses consideration of past levels of disturbance within activity areas, and discloses completion of field surveys.

Chapter 4-19 Clear Prong Final EIS

20 As disclosed in Section 3.11.4, the Forest Plan Glossary defines activity areas for detrimental disturbance as the specific area where proposed actions may have 20 detrimental soil impacts.

21 Section 3.11.1 discloses that some of the temporary roads constructed under

Alternative B would in fact occur on old but existing road prisms. Reference Figure 3-11 and Table 3-16 in Section 3.6 for known unauthorized roads in the project area. 20 22 Section 3.2.9 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on snags. Section 3.13.1 discloses that none of the stands in the project area currently provide old forest habitat and that, like Alternative A (No Action), none of the large 21 tree size class stands within the analysis area would provide old forest habitat in year 2012 or 2031 after Alternative B. Section 3.13 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on terrestrial wildlife species.

22 23 Design features associated with this project have been proven to be effective. Chapter 3 cites literature supporting this assertion, copies of which are contained in the project’s planning record. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

24 Chapter 3 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on water 23 quality and fish habitat. Design features associated with this project have been proven to be effective. Chapter 3 cites literature supporting this assertion, copies of which are contained in the project’s planning record. Section 3.12 discusses the Forest’s long term Aquatic Conservation Strategy and how it applies to this project,

and discloses that direction in the 2003 Forest Plan replaced INFISH. Reference Appendix B of the 2003 Forest Plan for additional information.

25 The Biological Assessment completed for the 2003 Forest Plan discloses that local 24 water yield research (King, John G., 1989, Streamflow Responses to Road Building and Harvesting: a Comparison With the Equivalent Clearcut Area Procedure) demonstrated that ECA of up to approximately 23 percent does not result in any significant difference in water yield being detected. Therefore a conservative value of 15 percent was considered to be functioning appropriately.

Chapter 4-20 Consultation and Coordination

26 Section 3.11.2 summarizes the methodology used to assess effects on water yield/ECA for this project. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

27 Section 3.11.1 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on water quality and discloses that the combined effects of Alternative B would be

consistent with the intent of the TMDL. 26 28 Section 3.13 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on terrestrial wildlife species, including discussions of habitat quantity. The discussion of each respective species begins with a summary of the habitat needs of that 27 species. Additional information is provided in the project’s planning record.

29 The discussion in Section 3.13.1 summarizes the various attributes involved, which 28 vary by PVG, and references Appendix E of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National

Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2009) and Appendix E of the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife 29 Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010). Relative to this project, additional information is provided in the project’s planning record. 30 30 The discussion of each respective species in Section 3.13 begins with a discussion of the habitat needs of that species with additional information provided in the project’s planning record. The introduction to Section 3.13 discloses that habitat

modeling was based on stand examination data collected and compiled in 1997 and 31 that those stand examinations were considered adequate for this assessment because no major disturbances such as large wildfires or uncharacteristic levels of insect- related tree mortality have occurred in the project area since examinations were performed. In addition, field reconnaissance of a representative sample of stands was completed in the summer of 2009 to validate that data. Source habitat modeling results were compared with species occurrence data to validate the 31 amount and distribution of modeled source habitat.

31 Reference the General Response on page 1.

32 Although some “large diameter trees” would be removed under Alternative B, these trees would generally be limited to species not desired for the particular site (such as grand fir or subalpine fir) and Douglas-fir with heavy levels of dwarf mistletoe 32 infection. Section 3.2.2 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on tree size classes and discloses that, in comparison to Alternative A (No Action), Alternative B would result in a slight increase in the number of acres

in the large tree size class in years 2012 and 2031 and would not convert any stand currently in the medium or large tree size class to a smaller size class.

Chapter 4-21 Clear Prong Final EIS

33 Section 3.13.6 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on mule deer and elk and includes discussions related to road density and vulnerability. 33 Fisher and wolverine are two of numerous species discussed in Section 3.13 and road-related effects were considered and are disclosed where pertinent. Also

reference the General Response on page 1.

34 The project’s planning record documents completion of Forest Plan monitoring. 34 Reference USDA 1996, USDA 2004, USDA 2005, USDA 2006, USDA 2007, and USDA 2008. Chapter 3 discloses completion of MIS monitoring surveys that have been ongoing since 2004 and summarizes fish, wildlife, and plant surveys specific to the Clear Prong Project Area.

35 35 Chapter 4 discloses the primary preparers of this document, their years of experience, and their professional education. Chapter 3 cites literature used in the

course of this analysis, copies of which are contained in the project’s planning record. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

Chapter 4-22 Consultation and Coordination

36 Chapter 4 discloses the primary preparers of this document, their years of experience, and their professional education. Chapter 3 cites literature used in the course of this analysis, copies of which are contained in the project’s planning record. Relative to comments from other agencies, this section of the document

contains all comments received on the Draft EIS. Also reference the General Response on page 1. 36 37 Decisions regarding the Forest’s wildfire suppression policy are most appropriately addressed through Forest planning efforts. This was specifically done during Forest Plan revision in 2003 through the mix of alternatives considered that looked at varying degrees of wildland fire use in management strategies, including where unwanted wildfire suppression would be emphasized.

Chapter 4-23 Clear Prong Final EIS

38 Section 3.3 acknowledges that at the landscape level there would continue to be a low to moderate likelihood of a wildfire ignition becoming a relatively large, intense fire following implementation of Alternative A or B. In general, survival rates following a moderate intensity wildfire would be characteristic of the fire

regimes present in the analysis area. Although Alternative B would not change this fact, reducing densities of the overstory and understory trees on 1,654 acres and the associated treatments of created slash would reduce the expected fire intensity and enhance tree survival in managed stands should a wildfire ignition occur (Section 38 3.3). The use of prescribed fire on 613 acres under Alternative B would reduce the probability of crown fire development by reducing ground fuels and also by reducing the abundance of ladder fuels. The combination of these actions would not eliminate, but would reduce the probability of deforestation/forest degradation referenced by Van der Werf et al (2009).

As explained in Section 3.2, none of the alternatives would “deforest” the project area. Further, Alternative B would improve the overall health and vigor of forest vegetation on affected acres. While the difference may not be significant, young vigorous stands are believed to store carbon more quickly than old forest stands. It should also be noted that wood products removed for use as building materials would continue to store carbon.

We acknowledge that burning activities associated with Alternative B would release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and that an indeterminate amount of fossil fuels would be used to implement activities associated with the alternative. However, to

our knowledge there is no practical accepted methodology for quantifying the effects of a project such as this on the global climate, nor would the effects at that 38 scale be meaningful to the decisions being made.

Chapter 4-24 Consultation and Coordination

39 Reference the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological 38 Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan standards. The Forest Plan includes monitoring requirements related to soil productivity.

Section 3.11.4 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on soil productivity. Section 3.13.1 discloses that none of the stands currently provide old forest habitat, nor would any stand provide such habitat in year 2012 or 2031 following Alternative A or B. Section 3.13 describes the existing conditions and 38 effects of the alternatives on terrestrial wildlife species.

40 Chapter 3 discloses the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on coarse woody debris, detrimental disturbance, and total soil resource commitment. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

Chapter 4-25 Clear Prong Final EIS

41 Reference the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological

Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures 41 related to Forest Plan standards. The Forest Plan includes monitoring requirements related to soil productivity. Section 3.11.4 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on soil productivity. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

42 As disclosed in Section 3.11.4, the Forest Plan Glossary defines activity areas for detrimental disturbance as the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts. Reference the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003),

the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan standards.

41 43 Reference the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures

related to Forest Plan assumptions and conclusions.

Chapter 4-26 Consultation and Coordination

44 Reference the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological

Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan assumptions and conclusions.

45 Controversy, as it relates to significance of impacts, refers to situations where there is substantial dispute as to the size, nature, or effects of the Federal action rather than opposition to its implementation. Reference the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement 44 (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and their associated

planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan assumptions and conclusions. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

46 Section 3.11.4 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on soil productivity. As disclosed in Section 3.11.4, the Forest Plan Glossary defines activity areas for detrimental disturbance as the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts. Reference the Southwest Idaho 45 Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife

Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan 45 standards, assumptions, and conclusions. The Forest Plan includes monitoring requirements related to soil productivity.

Chapter 4-27 Clear Prong Final EIS

47 Section 3.11.4 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on soil productivity. As disclosed in Section 3.11.4, the Forest Plan Glossary defines 47 activity areas for detrimental disturbance as the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts. Reference the Southwest Idaho

Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan standards, assumptions, and conclusions. The Forest Plan includes monitoring requirements related to soil productivity.

48 Reference the response to Comments #47 and the General Response on page 1.

48 49 Reference the response to Comments #47 and the General Response on page 1. Section 2.4.1 discloses the silvicultural prescriptions associated with this project.

50 Section 3.11.4 summarizes the methodology used in the detrimental soil disturbance analysis and discloses completion of field surveys. Section 2.4.3 discloses that none of the alternatives proposed any “dozer piling” within harvested units. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

Chapter 4-28 Consultation and Coordination

51 Section 3.11.4 summarizes the methodology used in the detrimental soil disturbance analysis and discloses completion of field surveys. As disclosed in Section 3.11.4, the Forest Plan Glossary defines activity areas for detrimental disturbance as the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts. Reference 51 the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan standards, assumptions, and conclusions. The Forest Plan includes monitoring requirements related to soil productivity. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

52 Sections 3.11 and 3.12 describe the existing conditions and effects of the

alternatives on water quality and fish habitat. Also reference the General Response 51 on page 1.

Chapter 4-29 Clear Prong Final EIS

53 Sections 3.11 and 3.12 describe the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on water quality, water yield, slope stability, soil productivity, wetlands and floodplains, and fish habitat. Reference the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final Environmental Impact Statement (USDA

2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and their associated 52 planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan standards, assumptions, and conclusions. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

Chapter 4-30 Consultation and Coordination

54 Section 3.11.4 summarizes the methodology used in the detrimental soil disturbance 54 analysis and discloses completion of field surveys. As disclosed in Section 3.11.4, the Forest Plan Glossary defines activity areas for detrimental disturbance as the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts. Reference

the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Land and Resource Management Plans Final 54 Environmental Impact Statement (USDA 2003), the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community 55 (USDA 2010), and their associated planning records for disclosures related to Forest Plan standards, assumptions, and conclusions. The Forest Plan includes monitoring requirements related to soil productivity. Also reference the General Response on page 1. 55 55 Section 3.2.10 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on

noxious weeds. Also reference the General Response on page 1.

56 Information concerning the effectiveness of noxious weed treatments at the Forest level should be directed to the Boise National Forest Supervisor’s Office. We are unsure of the source for your quote “studies show that productivity can be regained” and therefore have no response.

57 Section 3.2.10 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on noxious weeds. Reference the Final Environmental Impact Statement Supporting Forest Plan Amendments to Integrate the Boise National Forest Wildlife 55 Conservation Strategy, Phase 1: Forested Biological Community (USDA 2010), and its associated planning record for noxious weed trends at the Forest scale.

58 Section 3.2.10 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on 56 noxious weeds.

Chapter 4-31 Clear Prong Final EIS

59 Section 3.5 describes the existing conditions and effects of the alternatives on inventoried roadless areas and explains how the existing boundaries were 59 delineated.

Chapter 4-32 Consultation and Coordination

Chapter 4-33 Clear Prong Final EIS

Chapter 4-34 Consultation and Coordination

Chapter 4-35 Clear Prong Final EIS

1 Thank you for your comments.

Chapter 4-36 Consultation and Coordination

2 Conifers would be planted on an estimated 358 acres scattered across the 2 1,216 acres of the sanitation/improvement and individual tree selection prescriptions where small openings result due to removal of Douglas-fir heavily infected with dwarf mistletoe or removal of pockets of undesirable species such as grand fir/subalpine fir, and/or within small openings created by broadcast burning of harvest-related slash. Additional discussion of this activity has been included in Section 2.4.3.2 of the Final EIS. 3 3 The discussion on page 3-88 of the Draft EIS (Section 3.12) is a summary of the water quality analysis presented in more detail in Section 3.11.1. Section 3.11.1 cites literature supporting incorporated design features including Belt et al 1992; Dissmeyer 1994; IDEQ 1997; Seyedbagheri 1996; Cook and King 1983; Clayton and Kennedy 1985; Foltz and Truebe 1994; Harr and Nichols 1993, and; Potyondy et al 1991. Copies of cited literature is contained in the project’s planning record and available upon request.

Chapter 4-37

GLOSSARY

Glossary

abiotic - Non-living (refers to air, rocks, soil particles, etcetera). access management - See travel management. activity area - The smallest logical land area where the effect that is being analyzed or monitored is expected to occur. The area may vary in size depending on the effect that is being analyzed or monitored, because some effects are quite localized and some occur across landscapes. Activity areas are to be specifically described when used in planning and project implementation documents.

 snags – The activity area for snags is the specific site affected by actions listed below, whether effects are positive or negative. Actions affecting activity areas that need to be assessed include timber harvest, site-preparation reforestation, timber stand improvement, and prescribed fire. The activity area reflects the scale at which to plan projects that provide for maintaining or improving trends in snag amounts.

 coarse woody debris – The activity area is the same as for snags above. However, this may also parallel the activity area for detrimental disturbance. See below.

 detrimental disturbance – The activity area is the specific area where proposed actions may have detrimental soil impacts, such as harvest units within a timber sale area, an individual pasture unit within a grazing allotment, or a burn block within a prescribed burn project area. Existing designated uses such as classified roads and trails, developed campgrounds, and buildings, are not considered detrimental disturbance within an activity area. See the definition for detrimental disturbance for more information.

 total soil resource commitment – Effects are generally measured across an all-inclusive activity area, like a timber sale area, a prescribed burn area, or a grazing allotment, where effects to soil commitment could occur or are occurring. Effects include both proposed actions and existing uses, such as roads (classified and non-classified), dedicated trails and landings, administrative sites, parking lots, and mine excavations. See the definition for total soil resource commitment for more information. adaptive management - A type of natural resource management in which decisions are made as part of an ongoing process. Adaptive management involves testing, monitoring, evaluation, and incorporating new knowledge into management approaches based on scientific findings and the needs of society. adfluvial fish - Fish that migrate between lake and river systems; such as land-locked kokanee salmon or some bull trout. adverse effect - For Forest Plan revision, ―adverse effect‖ is used in the context of the Endangered Species Act relative to effects on Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate (TEPC) species. Definitions are from Final Endangered Species Consultation Handbook; NMFS/USFWS, 1998. They include both ―likely to adversely effect‖ and ―not likely to adversely effect‖. Both of these definitions are needed to clearly understand the intent of the phrase ―adverse effect‖ when applied to Forest-wide and management area direction involving TEPC species. The definition of ―take‖ is also included below to help clarify intent.

 Likely to adversely affect – the appropriate finding in a biological assessment (or conclusion during informal consultation) if any adverse effect to listed species may occur as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action or its interrelated or interdependent actions, and the effect is not discountable, insignificant, or beneficial (see definition of ―not likely to adversely affect‖). In the event the overall effect of the proposed action is beneficial to the listed species, but is also likely to cause some adverse effects, then the proposed action is ―likely to adversely affect‖ the listed species. If incidental take is anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed action, an ―is likely to adversely affect‖ determination should be made. A ―likely to adversely affect‖ determination requires the initiation of formal Section 7 consultation.

Glossary-1 Clear Prong Final EIS

 Not likely to adversely affect – the appropriate conclusion when effects on listed species are expected to be discountable, insignificant, or completely beneficial. Beneficial effects are contemporaneous positive effects without any adverse effects to the species. Insignificant effects relate to the size of the impact and should never reach the scale where take occurs. Discountable effects are those that are extremely unlikely to occur. Based on best judgment, a person would not: (1) be able to meaningfully detect, measure, or evaluate insignificant effects; or (2) expect discountable effects to occur.

 Take – to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect or attempt to engage in any such conduct [ESA §3(19)]. Harm is further defined by FWS to include significant habitat modification or degradation that results in death or injury to listed species by significantly impairing behavioral patterns such as breeding, feeding, or sheltering. Harass is defined by FWS as actions that create the likelihood of injury to listed species to such an extent as to significantly disrupt normal behavior patterns which include, but are not limited to, breeding, feeding or sheltering (50 CFR § 17.3). air pollutant - Any substance in air that could, if in high enough concentration, harm humans, animals, vegetation, or material. Air pollutants may include almost any natural or artificial matter capable of being airborne in the form of solid particles, liquid droplets, gases, or a combination of these. air quality - The composition of air with respect to quantities of pollution therein; used most frequently in connection with ―standards‖ of maximum acceptable pollutant concentrations. allelopathic - Growth inhibiting. Usually refers to chemicals produced by one species of plant to inhibit the growth of surrounding species, thus giving the chemical-producing plant a competitive edge. allotment (grazing) - Area designated for the use of a certain number and kind of livestock for a prescribed period of time.

Allowable Sale Quantity (ASQ) - On a National Forest, the quantity of timber that may be sold from a designated area covered by the forest plan for a specified time period.

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) - Any motorized, off-highway vehicle 50 inches or less in width, having a dry weight of 600 pounds or less that travels on three or more low-pressure tires with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator. Low-pressure tires are generally 6 inches or more in width and designed for use on wheel rim diameters of 12 inches or less, utilizing an operating pressure of 10 pounds per square inch (psi) or less. alternative - In an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), one of a number of possible options for responding to the purpose and need for action. amenity - Resource use, object, feature, quality, or experience that is pleasing to the mind or senses; typically refers to resources for which monetary values are not or cannot be established, such as scenery or wilderness. anadromous fish - Fish that hatch and rear in fresh water, migrate to the ocean, mature there, and return to fresh water to reproduce; for example, salmon and steelhead. ancillary facilities - Auxiliary facilities or structures that do not serve the main purpose of the facility but rather provide for support needs. For example, for a hydroelectric dam, the dam, powerhouse, penstock, and spillway would not be considered ancillary facilities, but a tool storage shed would.

Animal Unit Month (AUM) - The amount of forage required by a 1,000-pound cow and its calf, or the equivalent, for 1 month.

Appropriate Management Response (AMR) - Actions taken in response to a wildland fire to implement protection and fire use objectives.

Glossary-2 Glossary aquatic ecosystem - 40 CFR 230.3 - Waters of the United States that serve as habitat for interrelated and interacting communities and populations of plants and animals. FSM 2526.05 - The stream channel, lake or estuary bed, water, biotic communities and the habitat features that occur therein. aquatic integrity - Aquatic integrity is an assessment and comparison of existing fish habitat conditions with historical conditions that existed before Euro-American settlement. Habitat conditions are assessed to determine how their integrity and resilience may have changed due to effects from past or current human- caused (road construction, timber harvest, livestock grazing, etc.) or natural (wildfire, floods, etc.) disturbance. Conditions or values assessed include numerous habitat parameters found in Appendix B of the Forest Plan. Relative integrity ratings are assigned at the subwatershed scale and are based on the quality of habitat conditions and the presence, abundance, and distribution of key native fish species. arterial road - A road serving a large land area and usually connecting with public highways or other Forest Service arterial roads to form an integrated network of primary travel routes. The location and standards are often determined by a demand for maximum mobility and travel efficiency rather than specific resource management service. Arterial roads are usually developed and operated for long-term land and resource management purposes and constant service. attitudes, beliefs, and values - FSH 1909.17. Preferences, expectations, and opinions people have for forests and the management and use of particular areas. Differing values and expectations have resulted in polarized perceptions that a healthy environment requires protection of lands from human influence, or increased attention to environmental quality presents a threat to employment, economy, or life-style. background (bg) - The visual distance zone relating to the distant part of a landscape, generally located from 3 to 5 miles to infinity from the viewer. background wildfire - Average amount of wildfire that occurs annually from small-sized (a through d) fires. bankfull stage - The bankfull stage corresponds to the discharge at which channel maintenance is the most effective, that is, the discharge at which moving sediment forms or changes bends and meanders, and generally results in the average morphologic characteristics of channels. This term generally describes the elevation on the stream bank where the stream begins to flow onto a flood plain; however, not all stream channels have distinct flood plains. beneficial effect - Beneficial effects are contemporaneous positive effects to resource, social, or economic conditions.

Specific to ESA and TEPC species, beneficial effects are contemporaneous positive effects without any adverse effects to the species. The appropriate conclusion when effects on listed species are expected to be beneficial would be: ―Is not likely to adversely affect‖. beneficial use - Any of the various uses that may be made of the water of an area, including, but not limited to: (1) agricultural water supply; (2) industrial water supply; (3) domestic water supply; (4) cold water biota; (5) primary contact recreational use; (6) secondary contact recreational use; (7) salmonid spawning, overwintering, emergence, and rearing; and (8) warm water biota.

Best Management Practices (BMPs) - Practices determined by the State of Idaho Division of Environmental Quality to be the most effective and practical means of preventing or reducing the amount of pollution generated by non-point sources. big game - Large wild animals that are hunted for sport and food. This hunting is controlled by state wildlife agencies. Big game animals found on this Forest include deer, elk, and moose. bighorn sheep emphasis areas - Areas identified by state wildlife agencies as being important to bighorn sheep (winter and summer habitat).

Glossary-3 Clear Prong Final EIS biological diversity (or biodiversity) - The variety and abundance of life and its processes. Biological diversity includes all living organisms, the genetic differences among them, and the communities and ecosystems in which they occur. Biological diversity also refers to the compositions, structures, and functions of species and habitats and their interactions. biophysical components - Refers to biological and/or physical components in an ecosystem.

Biota - Living material. The flora and fauna of an area. board foot - A measurement of wood equivalent to a board 1 foot square and 1 inch thick. Usually expressed in terms of thousand board feet (MBF) or million board feet (MMBF). broad-scale - A regional land area that may include all or parts of several states; typically millions of acres or greater. An example of a broad-scale assessment is the Interior Columbia Basin (ICB) Ecosystem Management Project. broadcast burning - Burning forest fuels as they are, with no piling or windrowing. browse - Twigs, leaves, and shoots of trees and shrubs that animals eat.

Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) - A procedure used by the federal government to restore watershed conditions following large wildfires. The objective of BAER is to provide for immediate rehabilitation by stabilizing soils, and controlling water, sediment, and debris movement. candidate species - Plant and animal species being considered for listing as endangered or threatened, in the opinion of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) or the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Category 1 candidate species are groups for which the FWS or NMFS has sufficient information to support listing proposals; category 2 candidate species are those for which available information indicates a possible problem, but that need further study to determine the need for listing. canopy cover - Total non-overlapping cover of all trees in a vegetative unit excluding the seedling size class. Trees in the seedling size class are used to estimate canopy cover only when they represent the only structural layer on the site. classified road - Roads wholly or partially within or adjacent to national Forest System lands that are determined to be needed for long-term motor vehicle access. Classified roads can include state roads, county roads, privately owned roads, National Forest System roads, and other roads authorized by the Forest Service.

Clean Air Act - An Act of Congress established to protect and enhance the quality of the Nation's air through air pollution prevention and control.

Clean Water Act - An Act of Congress which establishes policy to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters. coarse filter (conservation) approach - Used to assess the conservation value of ecosystems and landscapes. The intent of this approach is to maintain and where needed restore representative ecosystems and their inherent disturbance processes in order to conserve the majority of species without the necessity of considering them individually. coarse woody debris (CWD) - Pieces of woody material having a diameter of at least 3 inches and a length greater than 6 feet (also referred to as large woody debris, or LWD).

Cohesive Strategy (Current) Condition Classes - The Cohesive Strategy for the National Fire Plan defines three current condition classes as follows:

Glossary-4 Glossary

Condition Class 1 - Fire regimes are within an historical range, and the risk of losing key ecosystem components is low. Vegetation attributes (species composition and structure) are intact and functioning within an historical range.

Condition Class 2 - Fire regimes have been moderately altered from their historical range. The risk of losing key ecosystem components is moderate. Fire frequencies have departed from their historical frequencies by one or more return intervals (either increased or decreased). This results in moderate changes to one or more of the following: fire size, intensity and severity, and landscape patterns. Vegetation attributes have been moderately altered from their historical range.

Condition Class 3 - Fire regimes have been significantly altered from their historical range. The risk of losing key ecosystem components is high. Fire frequencies have departed from historical frequencies by multiple return intervals. This results in dramatic changes to one or more of the following: fire size, intensity, severity, and landscape patterns. Vegetation attributes have been significantly altered from their historical range.

Cohesive Strategy (Historical Natural) Fire Regimes - The Cohesive Strategy for the National Fire Plan defines historical natural fire regimes as follows: Fire regime I 0-35-year frequency, nonlethal Fire regime II 0-35-year frequency, lethal Fire regime III 35-100+ year frequency, mixed Fire regime IV 35-100+ year frequency, lethal Fire regime V 200+ frequency, lethal collaborative stewardship - Caring for the land and serving people by listening to all constituents and by living within the limits of the land. A commitment to healthy ecosystems and working with people on the land. collector road - A road serving smaller land areas than an arterial road and usually connected to a Forest arterial road or public highway. These roads collect traffic from Forest local roads and/or terminal facilities. The location and standard are influenced by both long-term multi-resource service needs, as well as travel efficiency. These roads may be operated for either constant or intermittent service, depending on land use and resource management objectives for the area served by the facility. common variety minerals - Minerals of sand, clay, cinders, roadside slough, fill dirt, etc., which have been specifically designated as common variety and are saleable under the discretion of the authorized officer. communication sites - Areas designated for the operation of equipment, which reflect, transmit, and/or receive radio, microwave, and cellular telephone signals, for long-distance transmission or local pickup of programming. components of ecosystem management - Biological diversity, physical diversity, social diversity, and economic diversity are the four components of the Southwest Idaho Ecosystem Management Framework. composition (species) - The species that make up a plant or animal community, and their relative abundance. connectivity - The arrangement of habitat that allows organisms and ecological processes to move across the landscape. Patches of similar habitats are either close together or connected by corridors of appropriate vegetation (or live stream channels). Opposite of fragmentation.

Sites in a landscape are ―connected‖ if there are patterns or processes to link them in some way. These links arise either from static patterns (e.g., landforms, soil distributions, contiguous forest cover) or from dynamic processes (e.g., dispersal, fire). A particular landscape may have radically different degrees of connectivity with respect to different processes. Connectivity usually involves corridors and networks and describes how patches are connected in the landscape.

Glossary-5 Clear Prong Final EIS

conservation strategy or conservation agreement: 1. An active, affirmative process that (a) identifies issues and seeks input from appropriate American Indian governments, community groups, and individuals; and (b) considers their interests as a necessary an integral part of the BLM's and Forest Service's decision-making process. 2. Plans to remove or reduce threats to Candidate or Sensitive species of plants and animals so that a federal listing as Threatened or Endangered is unnecessary. controlled hunt area - An area designated by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to manage species, usually big game such as elk or deer. core area - A geographic area of land or water that is managed to promote and conserve specific features of biodiversity (target species, communities, or ecosystems) within the context of a broader landscape and network of core areas. core area (for SWRA resources) - The combination of core habitat (i.e., habitat that could supply all elements for the long-term security of bull trout) and a core population (a group of one or more local bull trout populations that exist within core habitat) constitutes the basic unit for which to gauge recovery within a recovery unit. Core areas require both habitat and bull trout to function biologically, and the number (replication) and characteristics of local populations inhabiting a core area provide a relative indication of the core area’s likelihood to persist. Core area boundaries are typically: (1) 4th field hydrologic units (HUs), unless evidence of natural isolation (e.g., a natural barrier or presence of a lake supporting adfluvial bull trout) supports designation of a smaller core area; (2) conservative, i.e., the largest areas likely constituting a core area are considered a single core area when doubt exists about the extent of bull trout movement and use of habitats; and (3) non-overlapping (USDI FWS 2002). corridor (landscape) - Landscape element that connect similar patches of habitat through an area with different characteristics. For example, streamside vegetation may create a corridor of willows and hardwoods between meadows or through a conifer forest. cover type - The current or existing vegetation of an area, described by the dominant vegetation. critical habitat - Endangered Species Act - Designated by the FWS or NMFS, specific areas, within a geographical area occupied by a threatened or endangered species, on which are found physical or biological features essential to conservation of the species. These areas may require special management consideration or protection, and can also include specific areas outside the occupied area that are deemed essential for conservation. critical life stages - Animal life stages associated with the time of the year when reproduction, rearing young, and over-wintering occur. cultural resources - Cultural resources include sites, structures, or objects used by prehistoric and historic residents or travelers. They are non-renewable resources that tell of life-styles of prehistoric and historic people. Cultural resources within the Forests are diverse and include properties such as archaeological ruins, pictographs, early tools, burial sites, log cabins, mining structures, guard stations, and fire lookouts. cumulative effects - Impacts on the environment that result from the incremental impact of an action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions. Cumulative effects can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time.

Glossary-6 Glossary

decay classes1 (for snags and coarse woody debris):

Snags Snags that have recently died, typically have little decay, and retain their DECAY bark, branches, and top. CLASS 12 Logs Logs created by trees that have recently fallen over, and still have intact or loose bark, large branches present, a round shape, little to some wood decay, and are resting above or are in contact with the ground. Snags Snags that show some evidence of decay and have lost some of their bark DECAY and branches and often a portion of the top. CLASS 2 Logs Logs with bark partially intact to sloughing, no fine branches, large branches present, wood largely hard to soft, may be round, log may be sagging. Snags Snags that have extensive decay, are missing the bark and most of the DECAY branches, and have a broken top. CLASS 3 Logs Bark is absent, few branches present, wood is soft and powdery (when dry), shape is round, oval, or hard to see. 1From Bull et al. 1997 2Grand fir and Douglas-fir tend to retain their bark and therefore snags and coarse wood of these species may not meet the appropriate decay class bark description.

debris flow - A spatially continuous movement of mixed soil or rock in which surfaces of shear are short- lived, closely spaced, and usually not preserved. The distribution of velocities in the displacing mass resembles that in a viscous liquid. Debris slides may become extremely rapid as the material loses cohesion, gains water, or encounters steeper slopes.

defensible space - An area around a structure where fuels and vegetation are treated, cleared, or reduced to slow the spread of wildfire towards the structure. This space also reduces the chance of a structure fire moving from the building to the surrounding forest.

degradation - To degrade, or the act of degrading. Refer to the definition of ―degrade‖ in this glossary.

degrade - To degrade is to measurably change a resource condition for the worse within an identified scale and time frame. Where existing conditions are within the range of desired conditions, ―degrade‖ means to move the existing condition outside of the desired range. Where existing conditions are already outside the range of desired conditions, ―degrade‖ means to change the existing condition to anything measurably worse. The term ―degrade‖ can apply to any condition or condition indicator at any scale of size or time, but those scales need to be identified. This definition of ―degrade‖ is not intended to define degradation for the State of Idaho as it applies to their Antidegradation Policy (IDAPA 16.01.02.051).

demographic - Related to the vital statistics of human populations (size, density, growth, distribution, etcetera).

denning habitat or sites - Habitat and locations used by mammals during reproduction and rearing of their young, when the young are highly dependent on adults for survival.

designated communication site - An area of National Forest System land, designated through the land and resource management planning process, for use as a communication site. These designations constitute a long-term allocation of National Forest System land. A communications site may be limited to a single communications facility, but often encompasses more than one.

designated utility corridor - A linear strip of National Forest System land, designated through the land and resource management planning process, for use as a utility corridor. These designations constitute a

Glossary-7 Clear Prong Final EIS long-term allocation of National Forest System land. A utility corridor may be used to accommodate more than one utility use. designee - Related to fire suppression, a designee is a person with delegated line officer authority.

Desired Condition (DC) - Also called Desired Future Condition, a portrayal of the land, resource, or social and economic conditions that are expected in 50-100 years if management goals and objectives are achieved. A vision of the long-term conditions of the land.

Desired Future Condition (DFC) - Also called desired condition, a portrayal of the land, resource, or social and economic conditions that are expected in 50-100 years if management goals and objectives are achieved. A vision of the long-term conditions of the land. detrimental soil disturbance - Detrimental soil disturbance (DD) is the alteration of natural soil characteristics that results in immediate or prolonged loss of soil productivity and soil-hydrologic conditions. At least 85 percent of an activity area should be in a non-detrimentally disturbed condition. Stated another way, no more than 15 percent of an activity area should have detrimentally disturbed soil after the management activity is completed. DD can occur from soil that has been displaced, compacted, puddled or severely burned. Determination of DD excludes existing or planned classified transportation facilities, dedicated trails, and landings, mining dumps or excavations, parking areas, developed campgrounds, and other dedicated facilities. However, the impacts of these actions are considered total soil resource commitment (TSRC - see definition in this glossary). DD is represented by any or all of the four characteristics described below. 1. Detrimental Soil Displacement. Areas of 1 meter by 1 meter or larger that exhibit detrimentally displaced soil as described below:

(a) The loss of either 5 cm or half of humus-enriched top soil (A horizon), whichever is less, or (b) The exceeding of the soil loss tolerance value for the specific soil type.

2. Detrimental Soil Compaction. Soil compaction is generally evaluated from 5 to 30 centimeters below the mineral soil surface. Specific depths for measurement are dependent upon soil type and management activities. Detrimental soil compaction is increased soil density (weight per unit volume) and strength that hampers root growth, reduces soil aeration, and inhibits water movement. Measurements of potential detrimental soil compaction may be qualitative or quantitative. Refer to the Region 4 Soil Quality Handbook for methods related to measuring/determining soil compaction.

3. Detrimental Soil Puddling. Puddling is generally evaluated at the mineral soil surface. Visual indicators of detrimental puddling include clearly identifiable ruts with berms in mineral soil, or in an Oa horizon of an organic soil. Detrimental puddling may occur in conjunction with detrimental compaction. The guidelines for soil compaction are to be used when this occurs. Detrimentally puddled soils are not always detrimentally compacted. Infiltration and permeability are affected by detrimental soil puddling. Puddling can also alter local groundwater hydrology and wetland function, and provide conduits for runoff. 4. Severely Burned Soil. Severely burned soil applies to prescribed fire and natural fires that are managed for resource benefits. Severely burned soils are identified by ratings of fire severity and the effects to the soil. A severely burned soil is generally soil that is within a High Fire Severity burn as defined by the Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation Program (FSH 2509.13) and Debano et al. (1998). An example of a High Fire Severity rating is provided below. Soil humus losses, structural changes, hydrophobic characteristics and sterilization are potential effects of severely burned soil. Example of High Fire Severity Rating – High soil heating, or deep ground char occurs where the duff is completely consumed and the top of the mineral soil is visibly reddish or orange on severely burned sites. Color of the soil below 1 cm is darker or charred from organic material that has heated or burned. The char layer can extend to a depth of 10 cm or more. Logs can be consumed or deeply charred, and deep ground char can occur under slash concentrations or under burned logs. Soil textures in the surface layers are changed and fusion evidenced by clinkers that can be observed locally. All shrub stems are consumed and only the charred remains or large stubs may be visible. Soil temperatures at 1 cm are greater than 250 C. Lethal temperatures for soil organisms occur down to depths of 9 to 16 cm.

Glossary-8 Glossary

Standards for detrimentally disturbed soils are to be applied to existing or planned activities that are available for multiple uses. These standards do not apply to areas with dedicated uses such as mines, ski areas, campgrounds, and administrative sites. developed recreation - Recreation that requires facilities that in turn result in concentrated use of an area; for example, a campground or ski resort. discountable effect - A discountable effect is one that is highly unlikely to occur. Therefore, no change to a resource, social, or economic condition would be expected from a discountable effect. Determination of a discountable effect may be based on scientific analysis, professional judgment, experience, or logic. Specific to the ESA and effects on Threatened, Endangered, Proposed or Candidate species, the appropriate determination for discountable effects on these species would be: ―Is not likely to adversely affect‖. Refer to the ―adverse effect‖ definition in this glossary. dispersed recreation - Recreation that does not occur in a developed recreation setting, such as hunting, scenic driving, or backpacking. disturbance - Any event, such as wildfire or a timber, sale that alters the structure, composition, or function of an ecosystem. disturbance regime - Any recurring event that influences succession, such as fire, insects, ice storms, blow down, drought, etc. easement - A special-use authorization for a right-of-way that conveys a conditioned interest in National Forest System land, and is compensable according to its terms. ecological integrity - In general, ecological integrity refers to the degree to which the elements of biodiversity and the processes that link them together and sustain the entire system are complete and capable of performing desired functions. Exact definitions of integrity are somewhat relative and may differ depending on the type of ecosystem being described. ecological function - The activity or role performed by an organism or element in relation to other organisms, elements, or the environment. ecological health - The state of an ecosystem in which ecological processes, functions and structure are adequate to maintain diversity of biotic communities commensurate with those initially found there. ecological processes - The actions or events that link organisms (including humans) and their environment such as disturbance, successional development, nutrient cycling, productivity, and decay.

Ecological Reporting Unit (ERU) - In the Upper Columbia River Basin DEIS, a geographic mapping unit developed by the Science Integration Team to report information on the description of biophysical environments, the characterization of ecological processes, the discussion of past management activities and their effects, and the identification of landscape management opportunities. economic efficiency - Producing goods and services in areas best suited for that production based on natural biophysical advantage or an area’s ability to best serve regional demands of people. economic dependency - The degree to which a community is dependent upon National Forest resources for employment and income. economic region - A group of communities and their surrounding rural areas that are linked together through trade. ecosystem - A naturally occurring, self-maintained system of living and non-living interacting parts that are organized into biophysical and human dimension components that are linked by similar ecological

Glossary-9 Clear Prong Final EIS processes, environmental features, environmental gradients and that form a cohesive and distinguishable unit. ecosystem health - A condition where the components and functions of an ecosystem are sustained over time and where the system’s capacity for self-repair is maintained, such that goals for ecosystem uses, values, and services are met. ecosystem management - Scientifically based land and resource management that integrates ecological capabilities with social values and economic relationships, to produce, restore, or sustain ecosystem integrity and desired conditions, uses, products, values, and services over the long term. effective ground cover - Effective ground cover consists of vegetation, litter, and rock fragments larger than three-fourths inch in diameter. It is expressed as the percentage of material, other than bare ground, covering the land surface. It may include live vegetation, standing dead vegetation, litter, cobble, gravel, stones, and bedrock. The minimum effective ground cover, following the cessation of disturbance in an activity area, should be sufficient to prevent detrimental erosion. Minimum amounts of ground cover necessary to protect the soil from erosion are a function of soil properties, slope gradient and length, and erosivity (precipitation factor), and must be determined locally. Rock fragments, litter, and canopy might be treated independently, depending on the model used to estimate erosion hazard ratings. electronic sites - See communication sites. elements of ecosystem management - Essential building blocks of the biophysical (i.e., historical range of variability) and human dimension (i.e., demographics; tribal) components for Southwest Idaho Ecosystem Management Framework. eligibility - For Wild and Scenic Rivers, an evaluation of river features to determine which rivers qualify to be studied for possible addition to the WSR System. Two screening criteria are used for a river segment to be eligible for inclusion in the WSR system. The river must be free-flowing, and it must possess one or more outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geological, fish and wildlife, historical, cultural, ecological, or other value. elk site distance - Distance at which vegetation hides 90 percent of an elk from view. encroachments - Improvements occupied or used on National Forest System lands without authorization. encumbrance - A claim, lien, right to, liability, or interest attached to and binding real property. endangered species - Designated by the FWS or NMFS, an animal or plant species that has been given federal protection status because it is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its natural range.

Endangered Species Act (ESA) - An act passed by Congress in 1973 intended to protect species and subspecies of plants and animals that are of ―aesthetic, ecological, educational, historical, recreational, and scientific value‖. It may also protect the listed species’ critical habitat, the geographic area occupied by or essential to the species. The FWS (USFWS) and NMFS share authority to list endangered species, determine critical habitat, and develop species’ recovery plans. enhance - In a Recreation Opportunity Spectrum context, enhance means to address or resolve setting inconsistencies in the adopted ROS strategy classifications. entrainment - The drawing in and transport by the flow of a fluid. For example, fish can be entrained into a canal as water is diverted into the canal, if the diversion is not screened. entrapment - To catch in, as in a trap. For example, the entrainment of fish into a diversion canal may result in fish entrapment in the canal should they not be able to return to the stream they were diverted from.

Glossary-10 Glossary

ephemeral stream - A stream or portion of a stream that flows only in direct response to precipitation or run-off events, and that receives little or no continuous water from springs, snow, or other sources. Unlike intermittent streams, an ephemeral usually does not have a defined stream channel or banks, and its channel is at all times above the water table. eradicate (noxious weeds) - To eliminate a noxious weed from a given area, including all viable seeds and vegetative propagules.

Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) - EFH is broadly defined by the Magnuson-Stevens Act as, ―those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity‖. This language is interpreted or described in the 1997 Interim Final Rule [62 Fed. Reg. 66551, Section 600.10 Definitions] -- Waters include aquatic areas and their associated physical, chemical, and biological properties that are used by fish and may include historic areas if appropriate. Substrate includes sediment, hard bottom, structures underlying the waters, and associated biological communities. Necessary means the habitat required to support a sustainable fishery and the managed species’ contribution to a healthy ecosystem. ―Spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity‖ covers a species‖ full life cycle. Federal agencies are required, under '305(b)(2) of the MSA and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 600 Subpart K), to consult with NMFS regarding actions that are authorized, funded, or undertaken by that agency that may adversely affect EFH). essential habitat - Used to describe habitat of listed species under ESA, but not designated as ―critical habitat‖. Essential habitat has all the important elements of habitat necessary to sustain a species. exotic species - Animals or plants that have been introduced from a distant place and are non-native to the area of introduction. facility - Structures needed to support the management, protection, and utilization of the National Forests, including buildings, utility systems, bridges, dams, communication system components, and other constructed features. There are three categories of facilities: recreation, administrative, and permitted. family - A collection of focal species that share similarities in source habitats, with the similarities arranged along major vegetative themes fg (foreground) - The visual distance zone relating to the detailed landscape found within 0 to 0.25 to 0.5 mile from the viewer. fine filter (conservation) approach - Focuses on individual species that are assumed to be inadequately protected under the coarse-filter or meso-filter conservation approach. Typcially this includes threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) or those considered Regionally sensitive by the Intermountain Regional Forester. fine-scale - Used to define a landscape area varying in size from a 6th-field HU to a combination of 5th- field HUs, approximately 10,000 to 100,000 acres. fire-adapted ecosystem - An ecosystem with the ability to survive and regenerate in a fire-prone environment.

Fire Management Plans - A strategic plan that defines a program to manage wildland and prescribed fires and documents the Fire Management Program described in the approved Forest Plan. fire regimes - The characteristics of fire in a given ecosystem, including factors such as frequency, intensity, severity, and patch size. The terms used for the different fire regimes are: Nonlethal, Mixed1, Mixed2, and Lethal. Nonlethal fires are generally of lowest intensity and severity with the smallest patches of mortality, while lethal fires are generally of highest intensity and severity with the largest patches of mortality. The others fall in between.

Glossary-11 Clear Prong Final EIS fire intensity - The effects of fire on the above-ground vegetation generally described in terms of mortality. fire severity - Fire effects at and below the ground surface. Describes the impacts to organic material on the ground surface, changes to soils, and mortality of below-ground vegetative buds, roots, rhizomes, and other organisms. fire suppression tactics - The tactical approaches regarding suppression of a wildland fire. These range from Control, Confine, Contain, and Monitor. Control is the most aggressive tactic, while Monitor is the least. fire use - The combination of wildland fire use and prescribed fire application to meet resource objectives.

FIREWISE - A public education program developed by the National Wildland Fire Coordinating Center that assists communities located in proximity to fire-prone lands. floodprone area width - The area that would be expected to be covered by water if the wetted stream depth were twice bank full height, determined at the deepest part on a given transect. This width is then extrapolated over the length of the stream reach by averaging several random transects taken within the project area. fluvial fish - Fish that migrate, but only within a river system. Bull trout that migrate into larger river systems. focal species - Species that represent the varying characteristics of a landscape’s attributes that must be represented in the landscape (Lambeck 1997) forage - Plant material (usually grasses, forbs, and brush) that is available for animal consumption. forbs - Broadleaf ground vegetation with little or no woody material. forest development road - See National Forest System road. forest development trail - As defined in 36 CFR 212.1 and 261.2 (FSM 1013.4), a trail wholly or partly within or adjacent to and serving National Forests and other areas administered by the Forest Service that has been included in the forest development transportation plan. forest development transportation plan - The plan for the system of access roads, trails, and airfields needed for the protection, administration, and use of National Forests and other lands administered by the Forest Service, or the development and use of resources upon which communities within or adjacent to National Forests are dependent (36 CFR 212.1). forest highway - A designated forest road under the jurisdiction of, and maintained by, a public authority that is subject to the Highway Safety Act. The planning process is a cooperative effort involving the State(s), Forest Service, and the Federal Highway Administration. The location and need for improvements for these highways depend on the relative transportation needs of the various element of the National Forest System (23 CFR 660.107). The determination of relative needs involves the analysis of access alternatives associated with Forest Service programs and general public use. The basis for access needs is established in the Forest Plan. (FSM 7740.5 and 7741.) forest stand - A contiguous group of trees sufficiently uniform in age class distribution, composition and structure, and growing on a site of sufficiently uniform quality, to be a distinguishable unit, such as mixed, pure, even-aged, and uneven-aged stands. A stand is the functional unit of silviculture reporting and record-keeping. Stand may be analogous to Activity Area. In the Intermountain Region, contiguous groups of trees smaller than 5 acres are not recorded or tracked. (Definitions, FSH 2470, 08-13-2004.)

Glossary-12 Glossary forested stringers - Stands of forested vegetation that are long and narrow and surrounded by non-forested vegetation. Stringers often provide high value habitat for big game and other wildlife species because they are the only hiding or thermal cover in the immediate area. forested vegetation - Refers to lands that contain at least 10 percent canopy cover by forest trees of any size, or land that formerly had forest tree cover and is presently at an early seral cover type. forest system trail - See forest development trail. forest telecommunications system - All equipment and related facilities used for the purpose of Forest communication. This includes but is not limited to radio, voice, data, and video communications. forest transportation atlas - An inventory, description, display, and other associated information for those roads, trails, and airfields that are important to the management and use of National Forest System lands, or the development and use of resources upon which communities within or adjacent to the National Forests depend. forest transportation facility - A classified road, designated trail, or designated airfield—including bridges, culverts, parking lots, log transfer facilities, safety devices, and other transportation network appurtenances—under Forest service jurisdiction that is wholly or partially within or adjacent to National Forest System lands. forest transportation system management - The planning, inventory, analysis, classification, recordkeeping, scheduling, construction, reconstruction, maintenance, decommissioning, and other operations taken to achieve environmentally sound, safe, cost-effective, access for use, protection, administration, and management of National Forest System lands. fragmentation - The splitting or isolation of habitat into smaller patches because of human actions. Habitat can be fragmented by management activities such as timber harvest and road construction, and changes such as agricultural development, major road systems, and reservoir impoundments. fragmented population - The splitting or isolation of populations into smaller patches because of anthropogenic or natural causes. free flowing - Existing or flowing in a natural condition without impoundment, diversion, straightening, riprapping, or other modification in the waterway. function - The flow and interaction of abiotic and biotic nutrients, water, energy, or species. geoclimatic setting - The geology, climate (precipitation and temperature), vegetation, and geologic processes (such as landslides or debris flows) that are characteristic of a place; places with these similar characteristics are said to have the same geoclimatic setting.

Geographic Information System (GIS) - A GIS integrates hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information.

Geomorphic Integrity (GI) - Geomorphic integrity is an assessment and comparison of existing soil- hydrologic conditions with historical conditions that existed before Euro-American settlement. Upland, riparian, and stream conditions are assessed to determine how their integrity and resilience may have changed due to effects from past or current human-caused (road construction, timber harvest, livestock grazing, etc.) or natural (wildfire, floods, etc.) disturbance. Relative integrity ratings are assessed at the subwatershed scale and based on the geomorphic resilience of streams and wetland/riparian areas, and the ability of the system to absorb and store water. geomorphology - The study of land forms. Also, a natural physical process that is responsible for the movement and deposition of organic and inorganic materials through a watershed under the influence of gravity or water (either on a hillslope or in a stream channel).

Glossary-13 Clear Prong Final EIS

goal - As Forest Plan management direction, a goal is a concise statement that helps describe a desired condition, or how to achieve that condition. Goals are typically expressed in broad, general terms that are timeless, in that there are no specific dates by which the goals are to be achieved. Goal statements form the basis from which objectives are developed. goods and services - The various outputs produced by forest and rangeland renewable resources. The tangible and intangible values of which are expressed in market and non-market terms. (36 CFR 219) guideline - As Forest Plan management direction, a guideline is a preferred or advisable course of action generally expected to be carried out. Deviation from compliance does not require a Forest Plan amendment (as with a standard), but rationale for deviation must be documented in the project decision document. habitat - A place that provides seasonal or year-round food, water, shelter, and other environmental conditions for an organism, community, or population of plants or animals. habitat family - See family. habitat security - The protection inherent in any situation that allows big game to remain in a defined area despite an increase in stress or disturbance associated with the hunting season or other human activity. The components of security may include, but are not limited to: vegetation, topography, road density, general accessibility, hunting season timing and duration, and land ownership. Habitat security is area specific, while hiding cover (see definition below) is site specific. hardening - Used in the context of facility management, hardening refers to improvements, usually to the surfacing of roads, trails, campsite areas, and facility access areas, to reduce soil erosion and/or sedimentation in nearby watercourses. These improvements can include paving, gravel surfacing, or a number of other soil stabilization products and techniques. head month - One head month is equal to 1 month’s use and occupancy of the range by one animal. For grazing fee purposes, it is a month’s use and occupancy of range by one weaned or adult cow with or without calf, one bull, one steer, one heifer, one horse, one burro, or one mule; or five sheep or five goats. heritage program - The Forest Service program that encompasses all aspects of cultural resource management, including both project and non-project resource inventory, evaluation, mitigation, curation, interpretation, public participation and education, protection and monitoring, and support to other resources. hibernaculum - Winter residence, or any natural covering for protecting organisms during the winter. This term is often used for bat wintering and roosting areas, which may include caves, mine adits, or loose tree bark. hiding cover - Vegetation capable of hiding 90 percent of an adult elk or deer from a human’s view at a distance equal to or less than 200 feet. hierarchy - A general integrated system comprising two or more levels, the higher controlling to some extent the activities of the lower levels; a series of consecutively subordinate categories forming a system of classification. historical emissions - The amount of smoke assumed to be produced annually or decadally, based on the number of acres burned in each historical fire regime. Used to provide a reference for current conditions.

Historical Range of Variability (HRV) - The natural fluctuation of healthy ecosystem components over time. In this document, HRV refers to the range of conditions and processes that likely occurred prior to settlement of the area by people of European descent (around the mid 1800s), and that would have varied within certain limits over time.

Glossary-14 Glossary historic property - Any prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure, or object included on, or eligible for inclusion on the National Register, including artifacts, records, and material remains related to such a property or resource. human dimensions - Refers to social and economic components of an ecosystem. hydrologic - Refers to the properties, distribution, and effects of water. ―Hydrology‖ is the study of water; its occurrence, circulation, distribution, properties, and reactions with the environment.

Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) - A hierarchal coding system developed by the U.S. Geological Service to map geographic boundaries of watersheds of various sizes. hydric - Wet or moist conditions. Can refer to a habitat characterized by, or a species adapted to wet or moist conditions, rather than mesic (moderate) or xeric (dry) conditions.

Idaho Department of Water Resources Comprehensive Water Plan - State legislation provides for the development of a comprehensive state water plan that may include protected rivers designated either as natural or recreational rivers. The legislative purpose states that selected rivers possessing outstanding fish and wildlife, recreational, aesthetic, historic, cultural, natural, or geologic values should be protected for the public benefit and enjoyment. The legislation provides that a waterway may be designated as an interim protected river prior to the preparation of the comprehensive plan for the waterway. impinge - To strike or dash, especially with a sharp collision. For fish, impingement, or physical contact with screen material, can cause some level of injury and/or mortality. Fish impingement onto a screen face can usually be avoided with proper consideration of diversion design hydraulics. Fish screen criteria used in the Northwest specifies that approach velocity must be less than 0.4 feet per second to adequately protect salmonid fry. indicator - In effects analysis, a way or device for measuring effects from management alternatives on a particular resource or issue.

Infish - Interim Inland Native Fish Strategy for Intermountain, Northern, and Pacific Northwest Regions (USDA Forest Service). infrastructure - The facilities, utilities, and transportation systems needed to meet public and administrative needs. in lieu lots - Lots that are permitted to recreation residence tract permittees in lieu of existing lot permits that cannot be renewed due to a change in land use or allocation, etc. See FSH 2709.11, Chapter 2721.23f. inner gorge - Steep valley walls that bound a stream reach. Common in areas of stream downcutting or geologic uplift. More commonly found on the costal and cascade ranges. insignificant effect - An insignificant effect is one that cannot by detected, measured, or evaluated in any meaningful way. Therefore, no change to a resource, social, or economic condition would be expected from an insignificant effect. Determination of an insignificant effect may be based on scientific analysis, professional judgment, experience, or logic.

Specific to the ESA and effects on Threatened, Endangered, Proposed or Candidate species, an insignificant effect can never reach the scale or magnitude where a species take occurs. The appropriate effects determination for insignificant effects on these species would be: ―Is not likely to adversely affect‖. Refer to the ―adverse effect‖ definition in this glossary. integrated weed management - A multi-disciplinary, ecological approach to managing weed infestations involving the deliberate selection, integration, and implementation of effective weed control measures with due consideration of economic, ecological, and sociological consequences.

Glossary-15 Clear Prong Final EIS interior exclusion - A parcel of non-National Forest System land within the Forest boundary that can be acquired without having Congress change the exterior Forest boundary. interim management direction - For Wild and Scenic Rivers, the identified outstandingly remarkable values are afforded adequate protection, subject to valid existing rights. Affording adequate protection requires sound resource management decisions based on NEPA analysis. Protective management may be initiated by the administering agency as soon as eligibility is determined. Specific management prescriptions for eligible river segments provide protection to free-flowing values, river-related values, and classification impacts. intermittent stream - A stream or portion of a stream that flows only in direct response to precipitation or seasonal run-off, and that receives little or no water from springs or other permanent sources. Unlike ephemeral streams, an intermittent has well-defined channel and banks, and it may seasonally be below the water table.

Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA) - An area that:  is larger than 5,000 acres or, if smaller, contiguous to a designated wilderness or primitive area;  contains no improved roads maintained for travel by standard passenger-type vehicles;  is characterized by a substantially undeveloped character; and  has been inventoried by the Forest Service for possible inclusion in the Wilderness Preservation System.

These areas include those identified in a set of IRA maps—contained in the Forest Service Roadless Area Conservation Final EIS, Volume 2 (November 2000), and held at the National headquarters of the Forest Service—or any update, correction, or revision of those maps. Refer to Table C-5 in Appendix C to the Forest Plan Revision Final EIS for a listing of IRAs, their location, and acreage. isolated cabin - Cabins on sites not planned or designated for recreational cabin purposes. These cabins are authorized by special-use permit. isolated population - A population that is not connected as a result of barriers from anthropogenic or natural causes. For fish species, the migratory form is absent and the population is isolated to local streams or a small watershed.

Key Ecological Functions (KEF) - (KEF) are the set of ecological roles performed by a species in its ecosystem (Marcot and Vander Heyden 2004). These ecological roles are the main ways organisms use, influence, and alter their biotic and abiotic environments.

Key Environmental Correlates (KEC) - (KEC) are biotic or abiotic habitat elements that species use on the landscape to survive and reproduce. key watershed - Governor's Bull Trout Conservation Plan (7/96) - A watershed that has been designated as critical to long-term persistence of regionally important bull trout populations. Designation is based on existing bull trout population biology and not land ownership. Land management actions emphasize maintenance or recovery of bull trout. Key watersheds must:

be selected to provide all critical habitat elements; be selected from best available habitat, with best opportunity to be restored to high quality; provide for replication of strong subpopulations within their boundaries; be large enough to incorporate genetic and phenotypic diversity, and small enough that subpopulations interconnect; be distributed throughout bull trout historic range. landscape - Heterogenous land area composed of a cluster of interacting ecosystems that are repeated in similar form throughout. When defined for landscape scale assessment, the spatial extent should be large enough to allow natural disturbance processes to operate.

Glossary-16 Glossary landscape scale assessment - An assessment done for a landscape area varying in size from a 6th-field HU to a combination of 5th-field HUs, or approximately 10,000 to 100,000 acres. This scale is synonymous with ―fine-scale analysis.‖ Ecosystem Analysis at the Watershed Scale (EAWS) occurs at this scale. landslide - Any downslope mass movement of soil, rock, or debris. landslide hazard - The calculated probability of slope failure (Prellwitz et al. 1994). In practical field use, it is a relative (e.g., low, moderate, or high) estimate of the potential susceptibility for landslide occurrence. landslide prone area - An area with a tendency for rapid soil mass movements typified by shallow, non- cohesive soils on slopes where shallow translational planar landsliding phenomena is controlled by shallow groundwater flow convergence. The initiation is often associated with extremely wet periods, such as rain- on-snow events. It does not include slow soil mass movements that include deep earth-flows and rotational slumps, nor snow avalanche or rock fall areas. Translational slides have been documented as the dominant form of landslides for the majority of the Forest. landtype - A portion of the landscape resulting from geomorphic and climatic processes with defined characteristics having predictable soil, hydrologic, engineering, productivity, and other behavior patterns. landtype associations - A grouping of landtypes similar in general surface configuration and origin. leasable minerals - Leasable minerals are normally those ―soft rock minerals‖ related to energy resources, such as oil, gas, coal, oil shale, tar sands, etc. Some ―hard rock‖ minerals can become leasable because of land status, i.e., acquired mineral estate. legacy trees - Defined as older trees that survived recent disturbances and are a relic of historical communities. These trees are important because they exhibit definitive characteristics and contribute to ecosystem function in a different manner than younger trees. lifestyle - The way people live. local population - For bull trout, this is a group that spawns within a particular stream or portion of a stream system. Multiple local populations may exist within a core area. The smallest group of fish that is known to represent an interactive reproductive unit will be considered a local population. For most waters where specific information is lacking, a local population may be represented by a single headwater tributary or complex of headwater tributaries. Gene flow may occur between local populations (e.g., those within a core population), but is assumed to be infrequent compared to that among individuals within a local population (USDI FWS 2002). local road - Roads that connect terminal facilities with Forest collector or arterial roads, or public highways. The location and standard are usually controlled by topography and specific resource activities rather than travel efficiency. Forest local roads may be developed and operated for long-term, intermittent, short-term, or temporary service. locatable minerals - Locatable minerals are normally those ―hard rock minerals‖ that are either base or precious metals, and that are open and available for appropriation under the General Mining Laws. In Idaho, locatable minerals often include gold, silver, lead, zinc, copper, antimony, cadmium, cobalt, molybdenum, etc. log - Coarse woody debris with diameters ≥15 inches (≥12 inches for PVG 10) and lengths ≥6 feet. long-term effects - Effects that last 15 years or longer. macrovegetation - A unit of vegetation for analysis above the site-scale.

Magnuson-Stevens Act - Public Law 94-265, as amended through October 11, 1996. Ocean fisheries are managed under the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 (also called the

Glossary-17 Clear Prong Final EIS

Magnuson-Stevens Act [MSA]). The Act provided NMFS legislative authority for fisheries regulation in the United States, in the area between three-miles to 200 miles offshore and established eight Regional Fishery Management Councils (Councils) that manage the harvest of the fish and shellfish resources in these waters. In 1996, the MSA was re-authorized and changed by amendments to emphasize the sustainability of the nation’s fisheries and establish a new standard by requiring that fisheries be managed at maximum sustainable levels and that new approaches be taken in Essential Fish Habitat conservation. maintain - When used in a management goal or objective for biological and physical resources, ―maintain‖ means to stay within the range of desired conditions. The context is that resource conditions are already within their desired range, and the expectation is that management actions to achieve goals or objectives maintain resource conditions within their desired range in the planning period.

When used in a standard or guideline for biological and physical resources, ―maintain‖ means that current conditions are neither restored or degraded, but remain essentially the same. The context is that resource conditions may or may not be in their desired range, and the expectation is that maintenance management actions do not degrade or restore current conditions.

This is an important distinction because most goal or objective management actions cannot be designed to achieve desired conditions for all resources. Specific actions are designed to achieve desired conditions for specific resources, but may simultaneously have effects on those or other resources. The intent behind ―maintain‖ when used in a standard or guideline is to keep those effects from degrading resource conditions; i.e., moving conditions from functioning properly to functioning at risk, or making conditions measurably worse when they are currently functioning at risk or not functioning properly. See definitions for ―degrade‖ and ―restore‖ in this Glossary.

For Recreation, Scenic Environment, Heritage, Lands, Special Uses, and Wilderness resources, ―maintain‖ means to continue a current or existing practice, activity, management strategy, resource condition, or level of use.

For physical improvements managed under the Roads and Facilities programs, ―maintain‖ means to keep the road or facility in a usable condition.

For resource inventories, databases, plans, maps, or other documents related to all resources, ―maintain‖ means to periodically update these items to reflect current conditions and/or status. management action or activity - As identified in FSM 2527.05 - Any Federal activity including (1) acquiring, managing, and disposing of Federal lands and facilities, (2) providing federally undertaken, financed, or assisted construction or improvements, and (3) conducting Federal activities and programs affecting land use, including but not limited to water and related land resources planning, regulating, and licensing activities.

An exception to this definition is fire suppression, which is considered an emergency response action rather than a management action. FSM 2671.45f, part 2(a) states, ―Human safety is the highest priority for every emergency response action (see FSM 5130.3 for related direction on the wildland fire suppression policy and the priority for the safety of firefighters, other personnel, and the public).‖ management area - A land area with similar management goals and a common prescription, as described in the Forest Plan.

Management Indicator Species (MIS) - Representative species whose habitat conditions or population changes are used to assess the impacts of management activities on similar species in a particular area. MIS are generally presumed to be sensitive to habitat changes.

Management Prescription Category (MPC) - Management prescriptions are defined as, ―Management practices and intensity selected and scheduled for application on a specific area to attain multiple use and other goals and objectives‖ (36 CFR 219.3). MPCs are broad categories of management prescriptions that indicate the general management emphasis prescribed for a given area. They are based on Forest Service

Glossary-18 Glossary definitions developed at the national level, and represent management emphasis themes, ranging from Wilderness (1.0) to Concentrated Development (8.0). The national MPCs have been customized during Forest Plan revision to better fit the needs and issues of the Southwest Idaho Ecogroup Forests. management strategies - For Forest Plan revision, this term is used to encompass both management direction and management emphasis (especially MPCs) that set the stage and sideboards for future actions or activities that may occur during the planning period. The strategies do not include any specific actions or activities, but rather focus on the general types and intensities of activities that could occur, given the management direction and prescriptions proposed under the Forest Plan alternatives. mass stability - The susceptibility of soil masses to stress. Gravitational stresses, on slopes, changes of state (solution), and soil particles cohesion are the main factors involved (USDA Forest Service 1973). matrix - In landscape ecology, a matrix is usually the most extensive and connected element present in a landscape. Patches and corridors are often imbedded in the matrix. The matrix may play a dominant role in the functioning of the landscape without being the most extensive landscape element. Determining the matrix in a landscape depends either on connectivity, dominance, or function. Each landscape should be evaluated individually. matrix management - A concept that asserts biodiversity and ecological function can be sustained in working landscapes as long as attention is given to maintaining habitat across the full range of spatial scales.

Maximum Modification (MM) - Category of Visual Quality Objective (VQO) where human activity may dominate the characteristic landscape, but should appear as a natural occurrence when viewed as background. meaningful measures - A recreation, wilderness, and heritage resources management process that:

Establishes quality standards, based on validated visitor preferences and expectations, that are used to produce desired services and facilities; Accounts for the costs to manage resources; Establishes priorities for current budgets; and Links recreation resources to other management responsibilities of the agency measurable change - A measurable change is one that can be meaningfully detected, measured, or evaluated using accepted analysis or monitoring methods. A measurable change would not result from an insignificant or discountable effect. mesic - Moderate moisture conditions. Can refer to a habitat characterized by, or a species adapted to moderate moisture conditions rather than hydric (wet) or xeric (dry) conditions. mesofilter (conservation) approach - Used to assess the conservation value of ecosystems and landscapes that lie conceptually between the coarse-filter and fine-filter. The core idea of this approach is that by conserving representation of key habitat elements important to species but too fine to address through the coarse-filter, many species will protected without the necessity of considering them individually. Examples of mesofilter approaches include providing direction to conserve elements such as logs or snags. metapopulation - A group or collection of semi-isolated subpopulations of organisms that are interconnected and interact both physically and genetically. A population comprising local populations that are linked by migrants, allowing for recolonization of unoccupied habitat patches after local extinction events. For anadromous fish species, ―metapopulation‖ is the population within a 3rd field HU, i.e., Snake River Evolutionarily Significant Unit. mid-scale - An area varying in size from a U.S. Geological Survey 4th-field hydrologic unit (HU) to groups of 4th-field HUs, approximately 500,000 to 5,000,000 acres. Subbasin Review and Land Management Planning unit analyses occur at this scale.

Glossary-19 Clear Prong Final EIS

middleground (mg) - The visual distance zone between the foreground and the background in a landscape, located from 0.25 – 0.5 mile to 3-5 miles from the viewer. mitigate - To avoid, minimize, reduce, eliminate, rectify, or compensate for impacts or degradation that might otherwise result from management actions. mitigation measures - Modifications of actions that: (1) avoid impacts by not taking a certain action or parts of an action in a given area of concern; (2) minimize impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the actions and its implementation; (3) rectify impacts by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the affected environment; (4) reduce or eliminate impacts over time by preservation and maintenance operations during the life of the action; or (5) compensate for impacts by replacing or providing substitute resources or environments.

Modification (M) - Category of Visual Quality Objective (VQO) where human activity may dominate the characteristic landscape but must, at the same time, follow naturally established form, line, color, and texture. It should appear as a natural occurrence when viewed in foreground or middleground. monitoring - The process of collecting information to evaluate if objectives and anticipated results of a management plan are being realized, or if implementation is proceeding as planned.

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) - The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 requires environmental analysis and public disclosure of federal actions.

National Fire Plan - Strategic and implementation goals, budget requests and appropriations, and agency action plans to address severe wildland fires, reduce fire impacts on rural communities, and ensure effective firefighting capability in the future.

National Fire Plan Communities - Those communities identified in the January and August 2001 Federal Register as ―Urban Wildland Interface Communities‖ for each state as part of the National Fire Plan.

National Forest Scenic Byway - A road on National Forest System land that has been designated by the Chief of the Forest Service for its exceptional scenic, historic, cultural, recreational, or natural resources.

National Forest System Road - A classified Forest road under the jurisdiction of the Forest Service. The term ―National Forest System road‖ is synonymous with the term ―forest development road‖ as used in 23 U.S.C. 205.

National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) - A Federal Act, passed in 1966, which established a program for the preservation of additional historic properties throughout the nation and for other purposes, including the establishment of the National Register of Historic Places, the National Historic Landmarks designation, regulations for supervision of antiquities, designation of the State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPO), guidelines for federal agency responsibilities, technical advice, and the establishment of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.

National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) - A list of cultural resources that have local, state, or national significance maintained by the Secretary of the Interior.

National Wilderness Preservation System - All lands managed under the Wilderness Act and subsequent wilderness designations, irrespective of the department or agency having jurisdiction.

Nationwide Rivers Inventory (NRI) - The NRI provides a database for potential additions to the National Wild and Scenic River System. The NRI is maintained and updated by the National Park Service. Just because a segment is listed on the NRI or is on other source lists does not necessarily indicate eligibility, and conversely, absence from any such list or document does not indicate a river’s ineligibility.

Glossary-20 Glossary native species - Animals or plants that originated in the area in which they live. Species that normally live and thrive in a particular ecosystem. natural disturbance - Any relatively discrete event in time that is not a management action or activity, that disrupts ecosystems, vegetative communities, or species populations. Natural disturbances may or may not be functioning within their historical range of variability. natural-appearing landscape character - ―Natural-appearing‖ refers to a visual landscape character that has resulted from a combination of geological processes, climate, disturbance events, and ecological succession. networks - Highly interconnected features within landscapes. Network properties of connectivity are important for ensuring species dispersal, habitat colonization and hence persistence. Habitat networks are relevant when considering the movement of species and have been particularly useful for understand riparian systems. new facilities - Facilities resulting from new construction in locations where no facilities previously existed. new road construction - Activity that results in the addition of forest classified or temporary road miles (36 CFR 212.1). no action (alternative) - The most likely condition expected to exist if current management practices continue unchanged. The analysis of this alternative is required for federal actions under NEPA. non-discretionary actions - Land management activities initiated from outside the National Forest Service—such as mining proposals, special-use permitted activities, or suppression tactics for life- threatening situations. non-forested vegetation - Lands that are not capable of supporting at least 10 percent canopy cover of forest trees of any size. Land that formerly had at least 10 percent tree canopy cover and is presently in an early seral cover type is still considered forested vegetation.

Northwest Power Planning Council Protected Rivers - The Council has designated certain river reaches in the Columbia River Basin as "protected areas". These are areas where the Council believes hydroelectric development would have unacceptable risks of loss to fish and wildlife species of concern, their productive capacity, or their habitat. Protected rivers are those reaches or portions of reaches listed on the ―Protected Areas List‖. noxious weed - A state-designated plant species that causes negative ecological and economic impacts to both agricultural and other lands within the state. nutrient cycling - Circulation or exchange of elements such as nitrogen and carbon between non-living and living portions of the environment. Includes all mineral and nutrient cycles involving mammals and vegetation. objective - As Forest Plan management direction, an objective is a concise time-specific statement of actions or results designed to help achieve goals. Objectives form the basis for project-level actions or proposals to help achieve Forest goals. The time frame for accomplishing objectives, unless otherwise stated, is generally considered to be the planning period, or the next 10 to 15 years. More specific dates are not typically used because achievement can be delayed by funding, litigation, environmental changes, and other influences beyond the Forest’s control.

Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) - Any motorized vehicle designed for or capable of cross-country travel on or immediately over land, water, snow, ice, marsh, swampland, or other natural terrain. These include common vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, 4-wheel drive vehicles, and trail bikes.

Glossary-21 Clear Prong Final EIS old forest - Old forest is a component of the Large Tree Size Class, with the following general characteristics: a variability in tree size that includes old, large trees with signs of decadence, increasing numbers of snags and coarse woody debris, canopy gaps, and understory patchiness. There are two broad types of old forest—single-storied and multi-storied. Single-storied old forest is characterized by a single canopy layer of large or old trees. These stands generally consist of widely spaced, shade-intolerant species, such as ponderosa pine and western larch, that are adapted to a nonlethal, high frequency fire regime. Multi-storied old forest is characterized by two or more canopy layers, with large or old trees in the upper canopy. These stands can include both shade-tolerant and shade-intolerant species, and are typically adapted to a mixed regime of both lethal and nonlethal fires. Because old forest characteristics have been aggregated into two basic categories, it is generally easier to identify, monitor, and compare the characteristics of these old forest types with desired vegetative conditions than it is with ―old growth‖ (see old growth definition, below). old forest habitat - See old forest. old growth - Old growth is a defined set of forested vegetation conditions that reflect late-successional characteristics, including stand structure, stand size, species composition, snags and down logs, and decadence. Minimum amounts of large trees, large snags, and coarse wood are typically required. Definitions of old growth generally vary by forest type, depending on the disturbance regimes that may be present. Also, within a given forest type, considerable variability can exist across the type’s geographical range for specific ecological attributes that characterize late seral and climax stages of development. This variability among and within multiple (often 10-20) forest types makes old growth characteristics difficult to identify, monitor, and compare to desired vegetative conditions. opening (created) - Related to vegetation management, openings are created only by planned, even-aged, regeneration timber harvesting. Only those even-aged timber harvest practices that reduce stocking levels to less than 10 percent create openings. Canopy closure will normally be used to determine stocking levels. Residual stands of mature trees will generally have less than 10 percent stocking when fewer than 10 to 15 trees per acre remain following harvest. Even-aged harvest practices that may result in the creation of openings include clear-cutting, reserve tree clear-cutting, seed tree cutting, shelterwood seed cutting, and overstory removal. ordinary high water mark - The mark on all watercourses that will be found by examining the beds and banks and ascertaining where the presence and action of waters are so common and continuous in ordinary years as to mark upon the soil a character distinct from that of the abutting upland.

Outstandingly Remarkable Value (ORV) - In the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, river values identified include scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural, or other similar values and their immediate environments. The Act does not further define outstandingly remarkable values. The Intermountain Region defines outstandingly remarkable value as, “Characteristic of a river segment that is judged to be a rare, unique, or exemplary feature that is significant at a regional or national scale”.

Pacfish - Interim strategies for managing Pacific anadromous fish-producing watersheds in eastern Oregon and Washington, Idaho, and portions of California.

Pacific Northwest Rivers Study - A component of the Northwest Power Planning Council's Pacific Northwest Hydro Assessment Study. The study produced a comprehensive rating for five major classes of data including Resident Fish, Wildlife, Cultural Features, Natural Features, and Recreation. The study also identified reaches already protected by other State or Federal institutional constraints. Ratings were on a scale of 1-5, where 1 represented outstanding resource, 2 a substantial resource, 3 a moderate resource, 4 a limited resource, and 5 an unknown or absent resource.

Partial Retention (PR) - A category of Visual Quality Objective (VQO) where human activities may be evident to the casual Forest visitor but must remain subordinate to the characteristic landscape.

Glossary-22 Glossary

Passport In Time - A nationwide Forest Service program that provides opportunities for ―hands-on‖ public involvement in cultural resources management, such as archeological excavations, historical research, and oral history collection. patches - In landscape ecology, patches are spatial units at the landscape scale. Patches are areas surrounded by matrix, and may be connected by corridors. Patch size can affect species habitat, resource availability, competition, and recolonization. Patch shape and orientation also play an important ecological role. Interpatch distance refers to the distance between two or more patches. patchworks - Arrangement, size and pattern of distinct, interacting patches that can be used to predict biodiversity and species persistence. patchy habitat - Habitat that is naturally isolated from near-by pieces that are similar. Habitat that is patchy should not be referred to a being fragmented because it is not a man-induced condition. pattern, or spatial pattern - The spatial arrangement of landscape elements (patches, corridors, matrix) that determines the function of a landscape as an ecological system. perennial stream - A stream that typically maintains year-round surface flow, except possibly during extreme periods of drought. A perennial stream receives its water from springs or other permanent sources, and the water table usually stands at a higher level than the floor of the stream.

Persons At One Time (PAOT) - A recreational capacity measurement term indicating the number of people who can use a facility or area at one time. population - The people, wildlife, fish, or plants that inhabit and reproduce in a specific area. Also, a group of individuals of the same species occupying a defined locality during a given time that exhibit reproductive continuity from generation to generation. For anadromous fish species, this is the population within a 4th field HU. potential classification - For Wild and Scenic Rivers, when rivers are considered for eligibility, river segments are tentatively classified either as wild, scenic, or recreational, based on the degree of access and amount of development along the river area. potential outstandingly remarkable value assessment - For Wild and Scenic Rivers, a general look at each river, to determine if the resource values are below average, average, or above average. Rivers determined to contain at least one resource value that is above average will be evaluated in the eligibility process. preclude - To put a barrier before; hence, to shut out; to hinder; to stop; to impede. (The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v. 0.44). prescribed fire - Any fire ignited by management actions to meet specific objectives. prescription (fire) - Measurable criteria that define conditions under which a prescribed fire may be ignited, guide selection of appropriate management responses, and indicate other required actions. Prescription criteria may include safety, economic, public health, environmental, geographic, administrative, social, or legal considerations.

Preservation (P) - Category of Visual Quality Objective (VQO) that allows for ecological change only. primitive - A Recreation Opportunity Spectrum classification for areas characterized by an essentially unmodified natural environment of fairly large size. Interaction between users is very low and evidence of other users is minimal. The area is managed to be essentially free from evidence of human-induced restrictions and controls. Motorized use within the area is not permitted.

Glossary-23 Clear Prong Final EIS priority wildlife habitats - Those habitats that have most decreased or changed from historic times. They can be used to rank the need for restoration or management emphasis. priority watershed - Governor's Bull Trout Conservation Plan (7/96) - A watershed that is either in the best condition for this species or is most recoverable with the greatest opportunity for success. Priority watersheds can be classified as follows:

Focal - highly occupied, existing protection and maintenance, cost for protection is low, chance of success is high over the short term.

Adjunct - considerable restoration may be needed, riparian and in-channel restoration stand a good chance of succeeding, good opportunity for colonizing from adjacent habitat, restoration can improve adjacent refuge populations.

Nodal - critical to sustaining existing populations within the watershed, connected and accessible to migrating populations, restoration potential is high.

Critical Contributing Area - restoration is necessary to secure functional value for associated focal, adjunct, or nodal habitats.

Lost Cause - level of effort exceeds benefits. private road - A road under private ownership authorized by an easement to a private party, or a road that provides access pursuant to a reserved or private right. professional judgment - Intuitive conclusions and predictions dependent upon training; interpretation of facts, information, observations, and/or personal knowledge. promote - In the context of recommended wilderness management, to take measures that actively encourage non-conforming uses within recommended wilderness. These measures would include the development or improvement of facilities and infrastructure within recommended wilderness in support of non-conforming uses. These measures would not include actions taken to reduce safety hazards and routine maintenance of existing facilities and infrastructure.

Properly Functioning Condition (PFC) - Properly Functioning Condition means that the resource condition is within the range of desired conditions. proposed action - A proposal made by the Forest Service or other federal agency to authorize, recommend, or implement an action to meet a specific purpose and need. public road - Any road or street under the jurisdiction of, and maintained by, a public authority and open to public travel [23 U.S.C. 101(a)].

RARE I and RARE II - Roadless area inventory processes, conducted by the Forest Service in 1972 and 1977, respectively, mandated by the Wilderness Act of 1964. rear - To feed and grow in a natural or artificial environment. reclamation (mine facilities) - Reclamation can include removing facilities, equipment, and materials; recontouring disturbed areas to near pre-mining topography; isolating and neutralizing, or removing toxic or potentially toxic materials; salvage and replacement of topsoil, and/or seedbed preparation, and revegetation. recreation residences - Cabins on National Forest System lands that normally were established in tracts and built for recreation purposes with agency approval and supervision. These cabins are authorized by special use permit and are not the primary residences of the owners.

Glossary-24 Glossary

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) - A framework for stratifying and defining classes of outdoor recreation environments, activities, and experience opportunities. The settings, activities, and opportunities for obtaining experiences are arranged along a continuum or spectrum divided into six classes--primitive, semiprimitive nonmotorized, semiprimitive motorized, roaded natural, rural, and urban. recreational river - In the National Wild and Scenic River System, a river or river segment that is readily accessible by road or railroad, may have some development along their shorelines, and may have undergone some impoundment or diversion in the past.

Recreation Visitor Day (RVD) - Twelve hours of recreation use in any combination of persons and hours (one person for 12 hours, three persons for four hours, etc.). redundant - Communities and ecosystems occur in multiple locations across a planning area in order to ensure large-scale disturbances or other threats that affect one or more locations do not jeopardize conservation targets. reference - The range of a factor/indicator that is representative of its recent historical values prior to significant alteration of its environment resulting from unnatural disturbance. The reference could represent conditions found in a relic site or sites having little significant disturbances, but does not necessarily represent conditions that are attainable. The purposes of references are to establish a basis for comparing what currently exists to what has existed in recent history. References can be obtained through actual data, such as paired or well-managed watersheds, or through extrapolated techniques such as modeling. Sources of information include inventory and records, general land office and territorial surveys, settlers’ and explores’ journals, ethnographic records, local knowledge, and newspapers. refugia - Watersheds or large areas with minimal human disturbance, having relatively high quality water and fish habitat, or having the potential of providing high-quality water and fish habitat with the implementation of restoration efforts. These high-quality water and fish habitats are well distributed and connected within the watershed or large area to provide for both biodiversity and stable populations (Quigley and Arbelbide 1997). replacement facilities - Reconstruction of pre-existing facilities. representative - Conditions within landscapes that provide the biological features and historical range of variability under which ecosystems evolved. The assumption of a representative approach is that providing a wide-range of conditions will sustain the greatest percentage of the species which utilize those characteristics. resident fish - Fish that are non-migratory and spend their entire life cycle within a given freshwater area. resilient, resiliency - The ability of a system to absorb disturbances before changing to a state or trajectory that is entirely new to the system. The ability to absorb disturbances depends on the health of states, functions and processes that facilitate recovery. Resiliency is one of the properties that enable the system to persist in many different states of successional stages. In human communities, refers to the ability of a community to respond to externally induced changes such as larger economic or social forces. resistance-to-control hazard - Conditions that, given the same topography and weather, have a higher likelihood of becoming a crown fire, which in turn can lead to fire behavior that makes the fire difficult to control. restoration - Management actions or decisions taken to restore the desired conditions of habitats, communities, ecosystems, resources, or watersheds. For soil, water, riparian, or aquatic resources, restoration may include any one or a combination of active, passive, or conservation management strategies or approaches. restoration priority - A means used in this Forest Plan revision to prioritize water quality and aquatic restoration using beneficial uses, current condition, imperiled fish species, 303(d)-listed water bodies, and

Glossary-25 Clear Prong Final EIS

TMDL-assigned subbasins. This process also includes whether restoration should be active or passive based upon district-level properly functioning condition analyses for 6th level hydrologic units (subwatersheds). restore - For biological and physical resources, restore means to repair, re-establish, or recover ecosystem functions, processes, or components so that they are moving toward or within their range of desired conditions.

For the Recreation, Scenic Environment, Heritage, Lands, Special Uses, Wilderness, Roads and Facilities resources, restore means to use management actions to re-establish desired resource conditions. retard attainment of desired resource conditions - When an effect resulting from a management action, individually or in combination with effects from other management actions, within a specified area and time frame, measurably slows the recovery rate of existing conditions moving toward the range of desired resource conditions.

Retention (R) - A category of Visual Quality Objective (VQO) where human activities are not evident to the casual Forest visitor. riparian areas or zones - Terrestrial areas where the vegetation complex and microclimate conditions are products of the combined presence and influence of perennial and/or intermittent water, associated with high water tables, and soils that exhibit some wetness characteristics.

Riparian Conservation Areas (RCAs) - Portions of watersheds where riparian-dependant resources receive primary emphasis, and management activities are subject to specific goals, objectives, standards, and guidelines. RCAs include traditional riparian corridors, perennial and intermittent streams, wetlands, lakes, springs, reservoirs, and other areas where proper riparian functions and ecological processes are crucial to maintenance of the area’s water, sediment, woody debris, nutrient delivery system, and associated biotic communities and habitat. riparian ecosystems - The area of influence of the riparian ecological functions and processes that serve as a transition between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems that includes: streams, lakes, wet areas, and adjacent vegetation communities and their associated soils which have free water at or near the surface; an ecosystem whose components are directly or indirectly attributed to the influence of water. riparian function and ecological processes - The regulation and exchange of ecological processes and disturbances as they relate to geology, landform, climate and micro-climate, soil, water, vegetation and terrestrial and aquatic species in providing a range of habitats, their conditions and trends. Riparian functions and ecological processes can be affected by changes including among others: streambank and hillslope root strength, large wood recruitment to RCAs, nutrient input to streams, shading, water quality (sediment, nutrients, temperature) water yield and timing (including stream subsurface flow), migration barriers, vegetation composition and structure, and micro-climate (soil moisture, soil temperature, solar radiation, air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed).

Riparian Habitat Conservation Area (RHCAs) - To be used for the No Action Alternative only. As defined in Pacfish and Infish:

Fish-bearing streams - 100-year floodplain, outer edges of riparian area, to top of inner gorge, 300 feet slope distance, or two site potential tree heights, whichever is greatest.

Perennial nonfish-bearing streams - 100-year floodplain, outer reach of riparian area, to top of inner gorge, 150 feet slope distance, or one site potential tree height, whichever is greatest.

Intermittent streams (includes landslide-prone areas and wetlands less than 1 acre) - top of inner gorge, extent of landslide-prone area, outer edges of riparian area, and for key watersheds one site potential tree height or 100 feet slope distance (whichever is greatest), and for non-key watersheds half site potential tree height or 50 feet slope distance (whichever is greatest).

Glossary-26 Glossary

Ponds, lakes, and wetlands greater than 1 acre - outer edges of seasonally saturated soils, edge of riparian area, extent of any unstable soils, one site potential tree height, or 150 feet from maximum pool elevation, whichever is greatest. risk - The danger that damage or loss will occur; for example, for landslides and other mass soil movements, risk is a measure of the socio-economic consequences (susceptibility to losses) of slope failure (Prellwitz et al. 1994). river segment - For Wild and Scenic River studies, a portion of the river area, which has been delineated for evaluation and planning purposes,that usually breaks at a change in river character, land status, or classification. road - A motor vehicle travelway over 50 inches wide, unless designated and managed as a trail. A road may be classified, unclassified, or temporary. road decommissioning - Activities that result in the stabilization and restoration of unneeded roads to a more natural state (36 CFR 212.1, FSM 7703). road maintenance - The ongoing upkeep of a road necessary to retain or restore the road to the approved road management objective (FSM 7712.3). road maintenance level - Road maintenance is classified in terms of the following levels:

 Maintenance level 1 - Assigned to intermittent service roads during the time they are closed to vehicular traffic. Basic custodial maintenance is performed to keep damage to adjacent resources to an acceptable level and to perpetuate the road to facilitate future management activities.  Maintenance level 2 - Assigned to roads open for public or permitted use by high clearance vehicles. Passenger car traffic is not a consideration.  Maintenance level 3 - Assigned to roads open and maintained for travel by a prudent driver in a standard passenger car. User comfort and convenience are not considered priorities.  Maintenance level 4 - Assigned to roads that provide a moderate degree of user comfort and convenience at moderate travel speeds. Some roads may be paved and/or dust-abated.  Maintenance level 5 - Assigned to roads that provide a high degree of user comfort and convenience. These roads are normally paved. road obliteration - Road decommissioning technique used to eliminate the functional characteristics of a travelway and re-establish the natural resource production capability. The intent is to make the corridor unusable as a road or a trail and stabilize it against soil loss, which can involve re-contouring and restoring natural slopes. road reconstruction - Activity that results in improvement or realignment of an existing classified road as defined below:

(a) Road Improvement – Activity that results in an increase of an existing road’s traffic service level expansion of its capacity, or a change in its original design function.

(b) Road Realignment – Activity that results in a new location of an existing road or portions of an existing road and treatment of the old roadway (36 CFR 212.1). roads subject to the Highway Safety Act - National Forest System roads open to use by the public for standard passenger cars. This includes roads with access restricted on a seasonal basis and roads closed during extreme weather conditions or for emergencies, but which are otherwise open for general public use. roaded natural - A Recreation Opportunity Spectrum classification for areas characterized by a predominantly natural or natural-appearing environment with moderate evidence of the sights and sounds of people. Such evidence usually harmonizes with the natural environment. Interaction between users may

Glossary-27 Clear Prong Final EIS be moderate to high, with evidence of other users prevalent. Resource modification and utilization practices are evident, but harmonize with the natural environment. Conventional motorized use is allowed and incorporated into construction standards and design of facilities. roadless area - See Inventoried Roadless Area. rotational slides - Landslides that move along a surface of rupture that is curved and concave. Rotational slides are uncommon and occur infrequently within the Forest.

RS 2477 claim - A claim for a pre-existing road right-of-way based upon a mining law passed in 1866. The law was later repealed as a part of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) of 1976.

RS 2339 claim - A claim for a pre-existing ditchline or other water transmission structure. rural - ROS classification for areas characterized by a natural environment that has been substantially modified by development of structures, vegetative manipulation, or pastoral agricultural development. Resource modification and utilization practices may be used to enhance specific recreation activities and to maintain vegetative cover and soil. Sights and sound of humans are readily evident, and the interaction between users is often moderate to high. A considerable number of facilities are designed for use by a large number of people. Facilities are often provided for special activities. Moderate user densities are present away from developed sites. Facilities for intensified motorized use and parking are available. scale - Defined in this framework as geographic extent; for example broad, mid, fine or site scale.

Scenery Management System (SMS) - An updated system for the management of scenery resources designed to replace the Visual Management System (VMS) and instituted by the Forest Service in 1995. The SMS differs from the VMS in that:

It increases the role of constituents throughout the inventory and planning process; and It borrows from and is integrated with the basic concepts and terminology of Ecosystem Management.

The SMS provides for improved integration of aesthetics with other biological, physical, and social/cultural resources in the planning process. It also incorporates different terminology and planning elements including Ecological Unit Description, Scenic Attractiveness, Scenic Integrity, Landscape Visibility, and Constituent Analysis. Under SMS, Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIOs) are established that define relative levels of deviation from the character valued by constituents for its aesthetic appeal. Implementation of SMS does not necessarily confer greater or less protection for scenic resources. It is merely a different system for managing them. scenic river - In the National Wild and Scenic River System, a river or river segment that may be accessible in places by roads, but the shorelines or watersheds are largely primitive and undeveloped. scoping - The process the Forest Service uses to determine, through public involvement, the range of issues that the planning process should address. security cover or habitat - See habitat security. sedimentation - The action or process of forming and depositing sediments. Stream sedimentation occurs when water velocity cannot transport the bed load and suspended matter is deposited by gravity along the streambed. semiprimitive motorized - ROS classification for areas characterized by predominantly natural or natural- appearing environment of moderate to large size. Concentration of users is low, but there is often evidence of other users. The area is managed in such a way that minimum on-site controls and restrictions may be present, but would be subtle. Motorized use of primitive roads with predominantly natural surfaces and trails suitable for motorcycles is permitted.

Glossary-28 Glossary semiprimitive nonmotorized - ROS classification for areas characterized by predominantly natural or natural-appearing environment of moderate to large size. Interaction between users is low, but there is often evidence of other users. The area is managed in such a way that minimum on-site controls and restrictions may be present, but would be subtle. Motorized recreation use is not permitted, but primitive roads used for other resource management activities may be present on a limited basis. Use of such roads may be restricted to minimize impacts on recreational experience opportunities or other resources. sensitive species - A Forest Service or BLM designation, sensitive plant and animal species are selected by the Regional Forester or the BLM State Director because population viability may be a concern, as evidenced by a current or predicted downward trend in population numbers or density, or a current or predicted downward trend in habitat capability that would reduce a species' existing distribution. Sensitive species are not addressed in or covered by the Endangered Species Act. sensitivity level - A measure of the degree of visitor sensitivity to the visual environment that is used as a component for the determination of Visual Quality Objectives under the Visual Management System. Three sensitivity levels are employed, each identifying a different level of user concern for the visual environment:

Level 1 – Highest Sensitivity Level 2 – Average Sensitivity Level 3 – Lowest Sensitivity short-term effects - Effects lasting from 3 to 15 years in duration. significant cave - A cave located on federal lands that has been determined to meet the criteria in 36 CFR 290.3(c) or (d) and has been designated in accordance with 36 CFR 290.3(e). A cave considered significant may contain biotic, cultural, mineralogical, paleontologic, geologic, hydrologic, or other resources that have important values for scientific, educational or recreational purposes. silviculture - The care and tending of stands of trees to meet specific objectives. site potential tree height - For delineating RCAs, a site potential tree height is the height that a dominant or co-dominant tree within a stand is expected to attain at an age of 200 years. Outside of RCAs, a site potential tree height is the average height that the dominant or co-dominant tree within a stand will attain within 100 years. site-scale - Any scale less than a broad, mid or fine scale. snag - A standing dead tree. soil erosion - Soil erosion is the detachment and transport of soil particles or aggregates by wind, water, or gravity. Management practices may increase soil erosion hazard when they remove ground cover and detach soil particles. . soil-loss tolerance - Soil-loss tolerance is the maximum rate of soil erosion at which plant productivity can be sustained indefinitely. It is dependent on the rate of soil formation. soil mass movement or soil mass erosion - Soil mass movement is the downslope movement of earth caused by gravity. This includes but is not limited to landslides, rock falls, debris avalanches, and creep. It does not, however, include surface erosion by running water. It may be caused by natural erosional processes, or by natural disturbances (e.g., earthquakes or wildland fire) or human disturbances (e.g., mining or road construction). soil productivity - Soil productivity includes the inherent capacity of a soil under management to support the growth of specified plants, plant communities, or a sequence of plant communities. Soil productivity may be expressed in terms of volume or weight/unit area/year, percent plant cover, or other measures of biomass accumulation.

Glossary-29 Clear Prong Final EIS

source habitat - Source habitats are those characteristics of macrovegetation (i.e. cover types and structural stages) that contribute to stationary or positive population growth for a species in a specified area and time (Wisdom et al. 2000). source habitat capacity - The extent of PVGs or covertypes capable of developing source habitat conditions at some point in time and within some defined area. source environment - The composite of all environmental conditions that result in stationary or positive population growth for a species in a specified area and time (Wisdom et al. 2000). Source habitats contribute to source environments (Pulliam 1988, Pulliam and Danielson 1991). spawning - The act of fish reproduction. The mixing of the sperm of a male fish and the eggs of a female fish. special use authorization - A permit, term permit, lease, or easement that allows occupancy or use rights or privileges on National Forest System lands (36 CFR 261.2). special-use permit - A special-use authorization that provides permission, without conveying an interest in land, to occupy and use National Forest System lands or facilities for specific purposes, and which is both revocable and terminable. species of concern - An unofficial status for a species whose abundance is at low levels. species composition - The mix of species that occur within a vegetative unit. This is actually not unique to vegetation. Should vegetation be used as an example of species composition and this should say ―A mix of species that occurs‖? species richness - A measure of biological diversity, referring to the number of species in a given area. split estate - Lands where ownership of the surface estate and mineral estate has been separated. stand - See forest stand. standard - As Forest Plan management direction, a standard is a binding limitation placed on management actions. It must be within the authority and ability of the Forest Service to enforce. A project or action that varies from a relevant standard may not be authorized unless the Forest Plan is amended to modify, remove, or waive application of the standard.

State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) - A person appointed by a state’s Governor to administer the State Historic Preservation Program. stream - A natural watercourse of perceptible extent, with definite beds and banks, which confines and conducts continuously or intermittently flowing water. Definite beds are defined as having a sandy or rocky bottom that results from the scouring action of water flow. strongholds - For fish, strongholds are watersheds that: (1) include all major life-history forms (resident, fluvial, adfluvial) that historically occurred there; (2) have numbers that are stable or increasing, with local populations at least half of their historical size; and (3) have populations with at least 5,000 individuals or 500 adults. structure - The size and arrangement, both vertically and horizontally, of vegetation. subbasin - A fourth field hydrologic unit that nests within the hierarchical system developed by the U.S. Geological Survey to describe watersheds. Typically 800,00 to 1,000,000 acres in size, a subbasin is smaller than a river basin (third field unit), and larger than a watershed (fifth field unit).

Glossary-30 Glossary subpopulation - A well-defined set of interacting individuals that compose a proportion of a larger, interbreeding population. substrate - The composition of a streambed, including mineral and organic materials. subwatershed - An area of land that drains to a common point. A subwatershed is smaller subdivision of a watershed but is larger than a drainage or site. Subwatersheds are often synonymous with sixth-field hydrologic units, which are nested within larger watersheds (fifth-field units), and are comprised of smaller drainages, sites, and stream reaches. subwatershed vulnerability - Subwatershed vulnerability is an assessment of a subwatershed’s sensitivity to disturbance and its resiliency or natural ability for restoration. The disturbance may be human-caused and/or natural. This assessment uses several criteria, including soil erosion rates, natural sediment yields, and percentage of landslide-prone areas within the subwatershed. succession - The replacement in time of one plant community with another. The prior plant community (or successional stage) creates conditions that are favorable for the establishment of the next stage. These changes often occur in a predictable order. More specifically, the gradual and natural progression in composition and structure of an ecosystem toward a climax condition or stage. suitability - For Wild and Scenic Rivers, an assessment or determination as to whether eligible river segments should be recommended for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System by Congress or the Secretary of the Interior. Wild and Scenic River suitability involves determining the best use of the eligible river and the best method to protect the outstandingly remarkable values within the river corridor. suited land - Forest land designated in the Forest Plan to be managed for timber production on a regulated basis. sustainability - The ability to maintain a desired condition or flow of benefits over time. sustainability outcome - A characterization of the potential capability of the Forest to support focal species and their habitat.

Outcome A – Suitable environments are either broadly distributed or of high abundance compared to their historical distribution. The combination of distribution and abundance of environmental conditions provides opportunity for continuous or nearly continuous intraspecific interactions for the focal species. Species with this outcome are likely well-distributed throughout the planning area. Outcome B - Suitable environments are either broadly distributed or of high abundance compared to their historical distribution, but there are gaps where suitable environments are absent or only present in low abundance. However, the disjunct areas of suitable environments are typically large enough and close enough to permit dispersal among subpopulations and to allow the species to potentially interact as a metapopulation. Species with this outcome are likely well-distributed throughout most of the planning area. Outcome C – Suitable environments are distributed frequently as patches and/or exist at low abundance. Gaps where suitable environments are either absent or present in low abundance are large enough such that some subpopulations are isolated, limiting opportunity for intraspecific interactions. There is opportunity for subpopulations in most of the planning area to interact, but some subpopulations are so disjunct or of such low density that they are essentially isolated from other populations. For species for which this is not the historical condition, reduction in the species’ range in the planning area may have resulted. Species with this outcome are likely well-distributed in only a portion of the planning area. Outcome D – Suitable environments are frequently isolated and/or exist at very low abundance. While some of the subpopulations associated with these environments may be self-sustaining, there is limited opportunity for population interactions among many of the suitable environmental patches. For species for which this is not the historical condition, reduction in species’ range in the planning area may have resulted. These species are likely not well-distributed and in the planning area. Outcome E – Suitable environments are highly isolated and exist at very low abundance, with little or no possibility of population interactions among suitable environmental patches, resulting in strong

Glossary-31 Clear Prong Final EIS potential for extirpations within many of the patches, and little likelihood of recolonization of such patches. There has likely been a reduction in the species range from historical, except for some rare, local endemics that may have persisted in this condition since the historical time period. Species with this outcome are not well-distributed throughout much of the planning area. sweet smelling toilet - Vault toilet construction and management technology that has been developed specifically to reduce odor problems associated with vault toilets. temporary effects - Effects lasting from 0 to 3 years in duration. temporary road - Roads authorized by contract, permit, lease, other written authorization, or emergency operation, that are not intended to be a part of the forest transportation system, and that are not necessary for long-term resource management. thermal cover - Vegetation used by animals to lessen the effects of weather. For elk, thermal cover is typically a stand of conferous trees, 40 feet or taller, with an average crown closure of 70 percent or more. threatened species - Designated by the FWS or NMFS; a plant or animal species given federal protection because it is likely to become endangered throughout all or a specific portion of its range within the foreseeable future.

Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) - TMDL is the sum of waste load allocations for point sources, non-point sources, natural background, and a margin of safety. A TMDL specifies the amount of a pollutant that needs to be reduced to meet water quality standards set by the state. TMDL is used in a process to attain water quality standards that (1) identifies water quality problems and contributing pollutant sources, (2) allocates pollution control responsibilities among sources in the watershed, and (3) provides a basis for taking actions needed to restore a water body.

Total Soil Resource Commitment (TSRC) - TSRC is the conversion of a productive site to an essentially non-productive site for a period of more than 50 years. Examples include classified or unclassified roads, inadequately restored haul roads, designated skid roads, landing areas, parking lots, mining dumps or excavations, dedicated trails (skid trails also), developed campgrounds, other dedicated facilities, and some stock driveways. Productivity on these areas ranges from 0 to 40 percent of natural.

Glossary-32 Glossary

travel corridor - A linear strip of land defined for the present or future location of transportation facilities within its boundaries. This is a common term for wildlife biologists too. For wildlife a travel corridor is a pathway that connects patches of habitat such as migration routes for big game between winter and summer range. travel management - The integrated planning of and providing for appropriate movement of people and products to and through National Forest System lands. travel map or plan - Physical documentation of the outcome of the travel management process reflecting the access decisions (travel orders) issued by the responsible official to restrict, prohibit, or allow the use of a described area or transportation facility to entry or mode of travel. travelway - Travelways existing on the national forest but not inventoried as part of the forest development transportation system. These routes vary in width, length and structure. Their origin is typically from off- road public travel, but may also be abandoned routes from past management activities such as mining, oil and gas exploration, grazing, and timber harvesting (see also unclassified roads). These roads may also include roads referred to as ―two-tracks,‖ ―non-system roads,‖ or ―ghost roads‖. tree size class - The categorization of trees for a vegetative unit to a descriptive class based on the largest trees that meet a set of criteria. Classes are Grass/Forb/Shrub/Seedling (GFSS), sapling, small, medium or large. uncharacteristic wildfire - A fire that is burning in a way that does not emulate historical effects. This may include fire intensity, severity, size, and landscape patterns. uncharacteristic wildfire hazard - Conditions with the potential to lead to undesirable outcomes, in this case an uncharacteristic wildfire. unclassified road - Roads on National Forest System lands that are not managed as part of the forest transportation system, such as unplanned roads, abandoned travelways, and off-road vehicle tracks that have not been designated and managed as trails. Unclassified roads also include those roads that were once under permit or other authorization and were not decommissioned upon the termination of the authorization (36 CFR 212.1). undertaking - Any project, activity, or program that can result in changes in the character or use of any historic properties located in the area of potential effects (36 CFR 800.2). The project, activity, or program must be under the direct or indirect jurisdiction of a federal agency or licensed or assisted by a federal agency. undeveloped character - In the context of land management, an area of land retaining its primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation, which is managed so as to preserve its natural conditions and which generally appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature, with the imprint of man’s work substantially unnoticeable. unroaded areas - Areas that do not contain classified roads. unstable areas - Land areas that have a higher probability of increased erosion, landslides, and channel adjustment disturbances during climatic or physical events such as major storms or fires. urban - ROS classification for areas characterized by a substantially urbanized environment, although the background may have natural-appearing elements. Renewable resource modification and utilization practices are often used to enhance specific recreational activities. Vegetative cover is often exotic and manicured. Sights and sounds of humans are predominant on the site. Large numbers of users can be expected both on the site and in nearby areas. Facilities for highly intensified motor use and parking are available with forms of mass transit often available to carry people throughout the site.

Glossary-33 Clear Prong Final EIS utility corridor - A linear strip of land defined for the present or future location of utility facilities within its boundaries. variety class - A measure of the degree of variety within a visual landscape. There are three variety classes that identify the degree of variation of the natural landscape:

Class A - Distinctive Class B - Common Class C - Minimal verification - Testifying, ascertaining, confirming, or testing the truth or accuracy of, asserting or proving to be true (Prellwitz et al. 1994). viable population - A population that is regarded as having the estimated numbers and distribution of reproductive individuals to ensure that it will continue to exist over time and will be well distributed within a given area.

Visual Management System (VMS) - A system for the management of scenery resources instituted by the Forest Service in 1974. It provides criteria for identification and classification of scenic quality on National Forest System lands. Scenic quality objectives are expressed in terms of Visual Quality Objectives (VQOs) that define the extent of allowable alteration of the natural-appearing landscape character. VQOs are determined based on a combination of natural landscape features and human use zones as expressed by Variety Class and Sensitivity Level.

Visual Quality Objective (VQO) - Categories of acceptable landscape alteration measured in degrees of deviation from the natural-appearing landscape. The categories include Preservation, Retention, Partial Retention, Modification, and Maximum Modification. vulnerability - Refers to lack of animal security during the hunting season. Vulnerability can be affected by conditions such as road density, road closures, openings, and hunting pressure. Also means ―Increased susceptibility to hazards.‖ The hunting season definition seems too narrow and only applicable to species that are hunted rather than affected by humans or activities in other ways. water quality integrity - Water quality integrity is an assessment and comparison of existing water quality conditions with historical conditions that existed before Euro-American settlement. Physical, chemical, and biological water conditions are assessed to determine how their integrity and resilience may have changed due to effects from past or current human-caused (road construction, timber harvest, livestock grazing, etc.) or natural (wildfire, floods, etc.) disturbance. Conditions or values assessed include streambank damage, sediment loads, channel modification, flow disruption, thermal changes, chemical contamination, and biological stress. Relative integrity ratings are assigned at the subwatershed scale and are based on whether any designated beneficial use is not fully supported or any condition/value is seriously degraded. water quality limited water bodies - Denotes streams or other water bodies not meeting state Water Quality Standards. For purposes of Clean Water Act listing, these are waters that will not meet standards even with application of required effluent limitations. watershed - Region or area drained by surface and groundwater flow in rivers, streams, or other surface channels. A smaller watershed can be wholly contained within a larger one, as watersheds are hierarchal in structure. For this document, watersheds are often synonymous with 5th field hydrologic units, which are nested within larger subbasins (4th field units), and are comprised of smaller subwatersheds (6th field units).

Watershed Condition Indicator (WCI) - WCIs are an integrated suite of aquatic (including biophysical components), riparian (including riparian –associated vegetation species), and hydrologic (including uplands) condition measures that are intended to be used at the a variety of watershed scales. They assist in determining the current condition of a watershed and should be used to help design appropriate

Glossary-34 Glossary management actions, or to alter or mitigate proposed and or ongoing actions, to move watersheds toward desired conditions. WCIs represent a diagnostic means to determine factors of current condition and assist in determining future conditions associated with implementing management actions or natural restoration over time. wetlands - Land areas that are wet at least for part of the year, are poorly drained, and are characterized by hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology. Examples of wetlands include swamps, marshes, and bogs. wilderness areas - Areas that are without developed and maintained roads, and that are substantially natural, and that Congress has designated as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. wildfire - An unwanted wildland fire. Wildfires can be further described by two basic categories:

(a) characteristic, which produce effects similar to those that occurred in the historical fire regime, or (b) uncharacteristic, which produce effects much different than those in the historical fire regime. wildfire risk - Wildfire risk comprises the probability of an undesired wildfire event and the outcome of it. The undesired event realizes a hazard. wildland fire - Any fire not involving a home or other structure, other than prescribed fire, that occurs in the wildland. wildland fire use (for resource benefits) - The management of naturally ignited wildland fires to accomplish specific prestated resource management objectives in predefined geographic areas outlined in Fire Management Plans. wildland fire use planning area - Portions of the Forest that may be considered for wildland fire use consistent with the selected alternative. Delineation of the planning area or areas consider proximity to designated Wilderness, area size, location of administrative boundaries, adjacency to wildland-urban interface, and other factors. Further refinements to identify a feasible implementation area may take place during Fire Management Planning.

Wildland/Urban Interface (WUI) - The line, area, or zone where structures and other human developments meet or intermingle with wildland or vegetative fuel. Interface is further delineated into the following types:

(a) wildland/urban interface—developed areas with residential structures where many structures border wildland on a broad front. (b) wildland/rural interface—developed areas with private residential structures where developments are few in number scattered over a large area surrounded by wildland. wild river - In the National Wild and Scenic River System, a rivers or river segment that is generally inaccessible (no roads) except by trail, with watersheds or shorelines that are essentially primitive (free of impoundments and polluted waters). winter range - An area or areas where animals (usually ungulates such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep) concentrate due to favorable winter weather conditions. Conditions are often influenced by snow depth, and the availability or forage and thermal cover. xeric - Dry conditions. Can refer to a habitat characterized by, or a species adapted to dry conditions, rather than hydric (wet) or mesic (moderate) moisture conditions.

Zone of Influence (ZOI) - The area that is economically and socio-economically influenced by Forest Service management.

Glossary-35 Clear Prong Final EIS

ACRONYMS AND SYMBOLS

ACS Aquatic Conservation Strategy ADC Animal Damage Control AMR Appropriate Management Response AMS Analysis of the Management Situation APHIS Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service ASQ Allowable Sale Quantity ATV All Terrain Vehicle AUM Animal Unit Month BA Biological Assessment BAER Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation BE Biological Evaluation Bg Background (visual quality distance) BLM Bureau of Land Management BMP Best Management Practice BO Biological Opinion CAA Clean Air Act CAP Continuous Assessment and Planning CCC Civilian Conservation Corps CFR Code of Federal Regulations CPI Conservation Principle Indicators CWA Clean Water Act CWD Coarse Woody Debris DBH Diameter at Breast Height DC Desired Condition DD Detrimental Disturbance (soils) DEIS Draft Environment Impact Statement DFC Desired Future Condition EA Environmental Assessment EAWS Ecosystem Analysis at the Watershed Scale EFH Essential Fish Habitat EIS Environmental Impact Statement EM Ecosystem Management EPA Environmental Protection Agency ERU Ecological Reporting Unit ESA Endangered Species Act ESP Environmental Site Potential EVT Existing Vegetation Types FACA Federal Advisory Committee Act FEIS Final Environmental Impact Statement FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Fg Foreground (visual quality distance) FSH Forest Service Handbook FSM Forest Service Manual GFSS Grass-Forb Shrubl Seedling GI Geomorphic Integrity GIS Geographic Information System HRV Historical Range of Variability HU Hydrologic Unit HUC Hydrologic Unit Code ICB Interior Columbia Basin ICBEMP Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project IIT Interagency Implementation Team IRA Inventoried Roadless Area IWM Integrated Weed Management

Glossary-36 Glossary

KEC Key Environmental Correlates KEF Key Ecological Function LRMP Land and Resource Management Plan LTSYC Long-Term Sustained Yield Capacity LUCID Local Unit Criterion Indicators M Modification (visual quality category) MBF Thousand board feet MFSR Middle Fork Salmon River Mg Middleground (visual quality distance) MIS Management Indicator Species MM Maximum Modification (visual quality category) MMBF Million Board Feet MOU Memorandum of Understanding MPC Management Prescription Category NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NF National Forest NFMA National Forest Management Act NFS National Forest System NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOI Notice of Intent NRI Nationwide Rivers Inventory NWPPC Northwest Power Planning Council OHV Off Highway Vehicle ORV Outstandingly Remarkable Value (for Wild and Scenic Rivers) P Preservation (visual quality category) PAOT Persons At One Time PFC Properly Functioning Condition PILT Payment in Lieu of Taxes PNWRS Pacific Northwest Rivers Study PR Partial Retention (visual quality category) PVG Potential Vegetation Group PVT Potential Vegetation Type R Retention (visual quality category) RAP Roads Analysis Process RARE Roadless Area Review and Evaluation RCA Riparian Conservation Area (from ICBEMP) RHCA Riparian Habitat Conservation Area (from Pacfish/Infish) RMO Riparian Management Objective RNA Research Natural Area ROD Record of Decision ROS Recreation Opportunity Spectrum RPA Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 RVD Recreation Visitor Day SFSR South Fork Salmon River SMS Scenery Management System SINMAP Stability Index Mapping SNRA Sawtooth National Recreation Area SST Sweet Smelling Toilet SWRA Soil-Water-Riparian-Aquatics resources TEPC Threatened, endangered, proposed/petitioned, and candidate (species) TEPCS Threatened, endangered, proposed/petitioned, candidate, and sensitive (species) TES Threatened, endangered, and sensitive (species) TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load TOC Threshold of Concern

Glossary-37 Clear Prong Final EIS

TSPQ Total Sale Program Quantity TSRC Total Soil Resource Commitment UCRB Upper Columbia River Basin USDA United States Department of Agriculture USDI United States Department of Interior USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service VMS Visual Management System VQO Visual Quality Objective WARS Watershed and Aquatic Recovery Strategy WCI Watershed Condition Indicator WCS Wildlife Conservation Strategy WQI Water Quality Integrity WQLWB Water Quality Limited Water Body WSR Wild and Scenic River WUI Wildland Urban Interface ZOI Zone of Influence > Greater than < Less than

Glossary-38

INDEX

Index

A Air Quality……………………………………………………………………………………….. 1-8, 3-37 Alternative A…………………………………………………………………………………………. 2-11 Alternative B……………………………………………………………………………………….… 2-11 C Canopy Cover……………………………………………………………………………………..….. 3-11 Coarse Woody Debris……………………………………………………………………………..….. 3-73 Created Openings……………………………………………………………………………………... 3-24 Cultural Resources………………………………………………………………………..…….. 1-11, 3-56 D Design Features………………………………………………………………………………………… 2-6 Detrimental Disturbance ……………………………………………………………………..… 2-18, 3-73 F Fisheries………………………………………………………………………………...… 1-10, 2-19, 3-82 Financial Assessment………………………………………………………………………………… 3-58 Forest Plan Direction……………………………………………………………………..… 1-1, 1-7, 2-17 I Inventoried Roadless Areas…………………………………………………………………..…. 2-18, 3-40 Irreversible and Irretrievable………………………………………………………………………… 3-138 Issues…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1-12, 2-1 L Landslides/Landslide Prone Areas…………………………………………………………………..... 3-69 M Management Indicator Species (MIS)…………………………………………………… 2-19, 3-96, 3-98 Monitoring…………………………………………………………………………………………..... 2-10 N Noxious Weeds……………………………………………………………………………………….. 3-29 O Old Forest Habitat...……………………………………………………………………… 2-14, 2-19, 3-98 P Potential Vegetation Group (PVG)……………………………………………………………………. 3-1 Proposed Action………………………………………………………………………………..... 1-2, 2-11 Project Area……………………………………………………………………………………………. 1-2 Purpose and Need……………………………………………………………………………………… 1-2 R Range…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3-57 Recreation…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3-48 Reforestation/Regeneration…………………………………………………………………………… 3-25 Responsible Official…………………………………………………………………………………… 1-7 Riparian Conservation Areas (RCAs)……………………………………………………... 2-8, 3-87, 3-94 S Scenic Environment…………………………………………………………………………..… 2-18, 3-53 Scoping……………………………………………………………………………………… 1-12, 2-1, 4-1 Sensitive Species…………………………………………………………….. 1-10, 2-19, 3-30, 3-82, 3-97 Significant Issues………………………………………………………………………………… 1-12, 2-1 Snags…………………………………………………………………………………………….……. 3-26 T Threatened and Endangered Species………………………………….…….. 1-10, 2-19, 3-30, 3-82, 3-97 Total Soil Resource Commitment…………………………………………………………….… 2-18, 3-73 Trails………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3-48 Tree Size Class………………………………………………………………………....….. 2-14, 2-18, 3-4 TMDL…………………………………………………………………………….…….... 2-16, 2-18, 3-60 W Watershed/Soils……………………………………………………………………………………..... 3-59 Wetlands…………………………………………………………………………………………….... 3-79 Wildlife…………………………………………………………………………………… 1-10, 2-19, 3-97

Index-1

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bibliography

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McNabb, D.H., and Swanson, F.J. 1990. Effects of Fire on Soil Erosion. IN: Walsted, J.D., Radosevich, S.R., Sandberg, D.V., editors. Natural and prescribed fire in Pacific Northwest forests. Corvallis, OR: Oregon State University Press: 159-176 pp.

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Bibliography-9

APPENDIX A DETAILS OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ANALYSES

Appendix A

APPENDIX A Details of Cumulative Effects Analyses

1.0 Introduction

40 CFR 1508.7 defines cumulative impact as the impact on the environment which results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions regardless of what agency (Federal or non-Federal) or person undertakes such other actions. In its simplest terms, the procedure for assessing the cumulative impacts of an action on any resource consists of identifying the conditions of the resource prior to the action, and determining the incremental effects of the proposed action on those attributes.

In the case of past actions several factors complicate determination of the resource’s characteristics prior to those activities. Many of the past activities occurred several decades ago, in some cases before enactment of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969. Site-specific data predating most of these past management activities cases is not available. In other cases the data collected was of a type or sampling scheme that is of little value in this type of analysis. In yet other cases the past disturbance was not planned, such as a wildfire or major insect epidemic, and therefore no records documenting site characteristics prior to the disturbance are available. Another complication of past activities is how to reflect the amount and/or type of recovery that has occurred since the activity. Contrary to the perception that once affected a site will never again provide suitable habitat for a given species or attain large tree size class, a past activity that resulted in the loss of a desired characteristic 50 years ago could conceivably have recovered to a point of once again providing that attribute.

Therefore for the purposes of this analysis no attempt was made to quantify the specific impacts associated with each individual past disturbance or the various increments of recovery that have occurred since a particular disturbance. However, the most recent data available was used to identify the existing conditions within the cumulative effects areas, thereby reflecting the impacts of those past disturbances and any recovery that has occurred.

In the case of stand characteristics and/or suitable habitat for terrestrial wildlife species, stand examination data collected in 1997 was used to determine the existing conditions within the 11,056 acre project area. Stand examinations from 1997 were considered adequate for this assessment because no major disturbances such as large wildfires or catastrophic levels of insect-related tree mortality have occurred in the project area since examinations were performed. In addition, field reconnaissance of a representative sample of stands was completed in the summer of 2009 to validate that data. That field reconnaissance indicates that, although a certain amount of tree growth and mortality has occurred, the stand data collected in 1997 still reflects the existing conditions and still represents the best available information as stipulated in the NEPA. Stand characteristics were further validated by reviewing 2004 color digital orthophotoquads (USDA Farm Service Agency NAIP Imagery 2004).

Similarly, the effects of past and ongoing activities, as well as any recovery that has occurred, are reflected in descriptions of the existing conditions for the watershed, soils, and fisheries resources. BOISED modeling completed for this assessment reflects sediment attributable to past harvest and wildfires, as well as existing roads and completed restoration activities. The assessment for Water Yield/ECA relied heavily on stand examination data collected in 1997 to determine the existing conditions and therefore reflects any impacts attributable to past disturbances. Although the specific effects associated with each past activity and/or recovery cannot be quantified, descriptions of the existing characteristics of all resources displayed in Chapter 3 of the EIS reflect the impacts of those past activities as well as any recovery that has occurred.

Rather than repeat the same discussions numerous times throughout this document, those past, ongoing, and foreseeable future activities common to different resource assessments have been combined in the following discussions. The leading paragraph of each section identifies those resource assessments common to that cumulative effects area, followed by a description of the applicable past, ongoing, and foreseeable future activities considered in the assessment for that group of resources.

Appendix A-1 Clear Prong Final EIS

SECTION 2.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Tree Size Class; Canopy Cover; Species Composition; Annual Growth; Forest Insect and Diseases; Snags; Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate, Sensitive, and Forest Watch Plants; Wildfire Susceptibility; Roadless Area Characteristics; Scenic Environment; Cultural Resources; Range Resource; Coarse Woody Debris; Old Forest Habitat; Northern Goshawk; Gray Wolf; Mule Deer; Rocky Mountain Elk; Townsend’s Big-eared Bat, and; Columbia Spotted Frog.

2.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 2-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut shelterwood, final removal shelterwood, preparation cut shelterwood, clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection. In addition to harvest activities described above, roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years where sub-merchantable trees less than eight inches dbh were felled and retained on site.

Table 2-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

2.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 253 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 2-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Appendix A-2 Appendix A

Table 2-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 6 1920 211 2007 18

Figure 2-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

2.3 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Given that the existing conditions reflect the ongoing activity of firewood cutting and that snag densities, in comparison to desired conditions, do not appear to have been greatly affected by this practice, this activity was not considered to be a relevant ongoing activity for the purposes of this cumulative effects assessment.

2.4 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-3 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 2-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-4 Appendix A

SECTION 3.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Created Openings. The discussion in the EIS relative to created openings is specific to those openings caused by management activities. Therefore wildfire was not considered as a potential incremental impact on this resource.

3.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 3-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut, final removal, and preparation cut shelterwoods; clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection. In addition to harvest activities described above, roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years where sub-merchantable trees less than eight inches dbh were felled and retained on site.

Table 3-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

Figure 3-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

3.2 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-5 Clear Prong Final EIS implementation of these actions, it was assumed that they will proceed as described in their respective contracts and/or decision documents. There are no ongoing activities within the cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

3.3 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-6 Appendix A

Figure 3-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-7 Clear Prong Final EIS

SECTION 4.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Aspen and Reforestation Potential. The discussion in the EIS relative to reforestation potential is specific to those openings caused by management activities. There is no requirement to reforest areas affected by a wildfire. Therefore wildfire was not considered as a potential incremental impact on this resource.

4.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 4-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut, final removal, and preparation cut shelterwoods; clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection. In addition to harvest activities described above, roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years where sub-merchantable trees less than eight inches dbh were felled and retained on site.

Table 4-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

Figure 4-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

Appendix A-8 Appendix A

4.2 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Figure 4-2 discloses the locations of ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

4.3 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within the cumulative effects area that would impact the resource addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-9 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 4-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-10 Appendix A

Figure 4-2 Ongoing Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-11 Clear Prong Final EIS

SECTION 5.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Noxious Weeds.

5.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 5-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut, final removal, and preparation cut shelterwoods; clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection. In addition to harvest activities described above, roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years where sub-merchantable trees less than eight inches dbh were felled and retained on site.

Table 5-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

5.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 253 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 5-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Appendix A-12 Appendix A

Table 5-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 6 1920 211 2007 18

Figure 5-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

5.3 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

For the purposes of this analysis any activity currently under contract or with a signed NEPA decision was considered an ongoing activity. Although circumstances such as litigation could prevent or delay implementation of these actions, it was assumed that they will proceed as described in their respective contracts and/or decision documents. The potential impact of livestock grazing on noxious weed introduction or distribution would be similar to that expected with the annual movement of big game animals and therefore considered immeasurable and not considered relevant in this assessment. Ongoing activities within the cumulative effects area that could potentially impact this resource are discussed below.

Figure 5-2 reflects the locations of ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

5.4 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-13 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 5-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-14 Appendix A

Figure 5-2 Ongoing Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-15 Clear Prong Final EIS

SECTION 6.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Wilderness Attributes and Recreation. Although wildfire can certainly impact the vegetative characteristics of an inventoried roadless area (IRA), this is typically considered a natural disturbance that does not result in development of that IRA. Therefore wildfire was not considered as a potential incremental impact on wilderness attributes.

6.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 4,019 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 6-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut shelterwood, final removal shelterwood, preparation cut shelterwood, clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection.

Table 6-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Railroad Pass 1964 138 Railroad Pass 1965 3 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 261 Eureka Point 1973 496 Stony Ridge 1974 163 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 232 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Stud 1976 181 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 Railroad Pass Salvage 1991 19 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 425 Summit Salvage 1992 107 Stony Ridge Post & Poles 1995 4 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

Appendix A-16 Appendix A

6.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 3,235 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 6-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Table 6-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 362 1920 211 1934 86 2002 108 2007 2,450

This cumulative effects area currently has roughly 62 miles of road open to motorized use during the snow- free season and an additional 31 miles of trail are present. Figure 6-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known. Although Figure 6-1 also displays past wildfires, as explained above, those activities were not considered as potential incremental effects on the wilderness attributes addressed in this assessment.

6.3 Ongoing Activities within the 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project – This project occurs in the 6th field HUC immediately to the east of the Clear Prong Project Area. Noise from harvest-related operations, particularly helicopter yarding, would reduce or diminish feelings of solitude and remoteness in those portions of the IRAs within the project area. This would be a temporary impact on solitude for an estimated 2 or 3 weeks. During active harvest operations (two to three years), users of existing open roads and dispersed campsites would be displaced by harvest activities in the project area. Frequent users of these roads and/or dispersed campsites would likely take advantage of similar opportunities on other road systems in the vicinity. Users of Trails #033, #078, #101, #106, #107, and #110 could also be temporarily displaced by active harvest operations over a period of two to three years. However, displacement associated with any one trail would likely be for no more than a few weeks. Users of these trails would likely take advantage of other trails in the vicinity. This project does not include any activities adjacent to the remaining trails in the project area. The use of these other trails would be unaffected by this project.

Figure 6-2 reflects the locations of ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

6.4 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-17 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 6-1 Past Activities within 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-18 Appendix A

Figure 6-2 Ongoing Activities within 26,937 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-19 Clear Prong Final EIS

SECTION 7.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Water Quality; Water Yield/ECA, and; Fisheries.

7.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 16,693 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Roughly 34 percent of this 16,693 acre 6th field HUC, used as the analysis area in this case, occurs on private lands with a small percentage administered by the State of Idaho. Since 1950 an estimated 8,144 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area; 5,476 acres of which occurred on private or state lands. Table 7-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut, final removal, and preparation cut shelterwoods; clearcut; salvage; sanitation, and; individual tree selection.

Table 7-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres Private 1950 78 East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Private 1964 247 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Private 1970 256 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Private 1972 71 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 Private 1980 1,153 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Private 1985 1,594 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34 Private 2002 489 Private Unknown 1,199 State Unknown 389

Appendix A-20 Appendix A

7.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 16,693 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 379 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 7-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Table 7-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 126 1920 211 1935 6 2007 18

7.3 Past Road-related Activities within the 16,693 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Roughly 115 miles of road exist within this cumulative effects area with over half (66 miles) occurring on private or state lands and the majority open to motorized traffic during the snow-free season. Although the exact dates of closures are unknown in some instances roughly 0.1 mile of road was closed in 1961; 1.8 miles in 1963; 4.0 miles in 1965; 5.9 miles in 1971; 0.1 mile in 1974; 0.2 miles in 1978; 1.4 miles in 1980; 0.1 mile in 1982; 3.1 miles in 1986, and; 1.3 miles in 1991. The level of vegetation on these closed roads varies considerably dependent upon how long the roads have been closed and the method of closure.

In addition, a number of road restoration activities were implemented within the analysis area in 2002. Specifically these activities included replacement of a damaged relief culvert and graveling roughly 0.1 mile of the #407X road; rounding the cutslope, installation of drivable dips, extending existing culverts, armoring the ditchline, and graveling the surface of 0.8 miles of the #406 road; installation of an additional relief culvert on the #405B road; graveling the surface of roughly 0.1 mile of the #405 road, and; installation of six additional relief culverts and spot graveling 1.2 miles of the #405C road.

Figure 7-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

7.4 Ongoing Activities within the 16,693 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no ongoing activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact water yield/ECA. Livestock grazing in the Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment and on private lands would not have a measurable effect on water yield/ECA, nor would recreational activities. Therefore, even though reflected in the following discussions and figures, these ongoing activities were not considered in the cumulative effects assessment for water yield/ECA. Ongoing activities within this cumulative effects area that could impact water quality or fish/fish habitat are discussed below.

Recreational Activities on Private Land - Concentrated recreational activities on private lands below the Forest boundary include camping, picnicking, ATV and motorcycle use, and fishing. Given the

Appendix A-21 Clear Prong Final EIS

unregulated nature of these activities, camping and off highway vehicle (OHV) use in the riparian meadows along Clear Creek has led to a progressive deterioration of vegetation and has resulted in small, but chronic sources of sedimentation.

Figure 7-2 discloses the locations of ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

7.5 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 16,693 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

While additional timber harvest and/or development on privately owned land is probable in the future, there are no foreseeable future harvest or development activities known at this time. Foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that could impact water quality or fish/fish habitat are discussed below.

Appendix A-22 Appendix A

Figure 7-1 Past Activities within 16,693 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-23 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 7-2 Ongoing Activities within 16,693 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-24 Appendix A

SECTION 8.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Slope Stability.

8.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 8-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut, final removal, and preparation cut shelterwoods; clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection. In addition to harvest activities described above, roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years where sub-merchantable trees less than eight inches dbh were felled and retained on site.

Table 8-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

8.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 253 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 8-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Appendix A-25 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 8-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 6 1920 211 2007 18

8.3 Past Road-related Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Roughly 49 miles of road exist within this cumulative effects area with the majority (43.2 miles) open to motorized traffic during the snow-free season. Closures that took place within the project area generally were planned following timber harvest and consisted of an earthen barrier(s) being placed to stop the flow of traffic. While many of the closure dates are unknown it can be estimated that roughly 0.1 miles of road were closed in 1961, 1.8 miles in 1963, 0.2 miles in 1978, 1.36 miles in 1980, 0.1 miles in 1982, and 1.3 miles in 1991.

A number of road restoration activities were implemented within the analysis area in 2002. Specifically these activities included replacement of a damaged relief culvert and graveling roughly 0.1 mile of the #407X road; rounding the cutslope, installation of drivable dips, extending existing culverts, armoring the ditchline, and graveling the surface of 0.8 miles of the #406 road; installation of an additional relief culvert on the #405B road; graveling the surface of roughly 0.1 mile of the #405 road, and; installation of six additional relief culverts and spot graveling 1.2 miles of the #405C road.

Figure 8-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

8.4 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no ongoing activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment. Livestock grazing in the Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment would not have a measurable effect on slope stability.

8.5 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact slope stability.

Appendix A-26 Appendix A

Figure 8-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-27 Clear Prong Final EIS

SECTION 9.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Detrimental Disturbance; Total Soil Resource Commitment, and; Wetlands/Floodplains.

9.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 9-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut, final removal, and preparation cut shelterwoods; clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection.

Table 9-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

9.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 253 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 9-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Appendix A-28 Appendix A

Table 9-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 6 1920 211 2007 18

9.3 Past Road-related Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Roughly 49 miles of road exist within this cumulative effects area with the majority (43.2 miles) open to motorized traffic during the snow-free season.

Figure 9-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

9.4 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Middle Fork North Sheep Allotment – Roughly 1,392 acres of this allotment falls within the southern end of the project area. This ongoing activity consists primarily of driving sheep herds along the ridgeline during the summer months and allowing the sheep to drift downslope to feed on a daily basis. Sheep are herded down the #405 road to the intersection with road #409 in the early summer and the lambs loaded onto trucks. The adult sheep are then herded back up the #405 road to the ridgeline to resume grazing. This activity occurs, on average, two out of every three years. Given Forest Plan standards prohibiting certain livestock activities within RCAs and restrictions on bed grounds, any undesirable effects on these resources would be considered inconsequential.

Figure 9-2 discloses the locations of ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

9.5 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-29 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 9-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-30 Appendix A

Figure 9-2 Ongoing Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-31 Clear Prong Final EIS

SECTION 10.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: Lynx.

10.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 153,563 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Roughly 28 percent (43,665 acres) of this 153,563 acre cumulative effects area occurs on private lands with a small percentage on land administered by the State of Idaho. Since 1956 an estimated 50,202 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area; 35,644 acres of which occurred on private or state lands. Table 10-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut, final removal, and preparation cut shelterwoods; clearcut; salvage; sanitation, and; individual tree selection.

The acreages of past activities were derived from GIS coverages and databases updated after April of 2005. Therefore these values reflect additional activities that have occurred since that time, and/or correct errors not reflected in the analysis completed for this LAU is association with the Upper Middle Fork Payette River Project.

Table 10-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres Clear Creek 1956 18 Trail Creek 1957 563 Little Creek 1959 448 Two Bit 1959 13 East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Two Bit 1960 9 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Ditch Creek EMTN 1962 7 Horsethief Basin 1962 178 Railroad Pass 1962 65 Horsethief Basin 1963 73 Railroad Pass 1963 267 Johnson Creek 1964 91 Skunk Creek 1964 342 Railroad Pass 1964 239 Clear Creek 1965 116 Johnson Creek 1965 4 Railroad Pass 1965 3 Curtis Creek 1967 250 Tyndall Creek 1967 4 Curtis Creek 1968 59 Snag Creek 1969 39 Stony Meadow 1969 125 Upper Skunk 1969 195 Upper Skunk 1970 138 Stony Meadow 1971 259 Snag Creek 1971 78 Stony Meadow 1971 41

Appendix A-32 Appendix A

Table 10-1 Past Timber Harvest (continued) Sale Name Year Cut Acres Stony Meadow 1972 168 Porcupine 1972 61 Stony Meadow 1972 232 Eureka Point 1973 496 East Clear 1974 228 Clear Stud 1974 212 East Clear 1974 3 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud/Clear Cr. Site Prep 1974 32 Stony Ridge 1974 9 Stony Ridge 1974 154 Scott Valley 1974 69 East Mountain 1975 134 Scott Valley 1976 24 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Stud 1976 180 East Mountain 1976 279 Skunk Trail 1977 157 Scott Valley 1977 1016 Clear Creek Site Prep 1979 42 East Mt. Lookout 1981 55 Delano Creek 1981 95 Larch Snag 1981 20 Big Creek Helicopter 1981 149 Larch Snag 1982 126 LP Flat 1983 19 Hargrave 1983 65 Larch Snag 1983 38 East Mt. Lookout 1984 296 East Mt. Lookout 1984 16 Big Johnson 1986 220 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 Yellow Point 1987 12 Skunk Creek Salv 1988 19 Clear Ditch 1988 543 East Mt. Lookout 1988 127 East Mt. Lookout 1988 99 East Skunk 1988 629 Lost Basin 1989 173 Clear Ditch 1989 443 White Snag 1990 41 Lost Basin 1990 209 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21

Appendix A-33 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 10-1 Past Timber Harvest (continued) Sale Name Year Cut Acres Farside Salvage 1991 10 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Railroad Pass Salvage 1991 19 Little Snag 1991 24 Five Snags 1991 77 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Summit Salvage 1992 67 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Eastside Salvage 1992 197 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Farside Salvage 1992 29 Stony Ridge Post and Pole 1995 4 Lost Basin 1996 76 Stony Ridge Post and Pole 1996 3 Lost Basin 1997 223 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Prince John 1998 532 Rainbow 1998 34 Prince John 1999 462 Clear Commercial Thin 2000 127 Prince John 2001 37 Prince John 2002 181 Prince John 2003 251 Prince John 2004 467 Private/State Unknown 35,644

10.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 153,563 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1908 approximately 28,863 acres have been affected by wildfire. Most recently, the Cascade Wildfire Complex burned a total of 8,023 acres in 2007. Table 10-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Table 10-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1908 424 1910 18 1919 2,484 1919 6 1920 211 1924 204 1931 160 1934 12,653 1935 537 1936 297 1973 1,441 1986 1,256 1989 987 2002 108 2006 54 2007 8,023

Appendix A-34 Appendix A

Figure 10-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

10.3 Ongoing Activities within the 153,563 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Prince John Project –The majority of activities associated with this project were completed in the fall of 2004, however, burning of created slash and reforestation activities are still ongoing.

Six Shooter Project – The NEPA decision for this project was signed in June of 2006. This project, a portion of which occurs within the cumulative effects area, includes harvest of approximately 13 MMbf from about 1,928 acres; converting 2.1 miles of unauthorized road to authorized road; 1.3 miles of road reconstruction; decommissioning about 29.9 miles of authorized roads, and; year-round closures on 17.7 miles of road. The analysis completed for this project concluded that the preferred alternative would not convert any suitable lynx habitat to an unsuited condition.

Figure 10-2 discloses the locations of present and ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

10.4 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 153,563 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Several foreseeable future activities occur within this cumulative effects area and could potentially affect this resource:

Skunk Summit Project – This project could include 500 to 1,500 acres of silvicultural treatments, the construction of 0.2 to 1.5 miles of temporary road, and road maintenance on 0.5 to 3 miles of road. Implementation of this project is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2013.

Figure 10-3 discloses the locations of foreseeable future project areas to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

Appendix A-35 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 10-1 Past Activities within 153,563 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-36 Appendix A

Figure 10-2 Ongoing Activities within 153,563 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-37 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 10-3 Future Activities within 153,563 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-38 Appendix A

SECTION 11.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: White-headed Woodpecker.

11.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 11-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut shelterwood, final removal shelterwood, preparation cut shelterwood, clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection. In addition to harvest activities described above, roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years where sub-merchantable trees less than eight inches dbh were felled and retained on site.

Table 11-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

11.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 253 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 11-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Appendix A-39 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 11-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 6 1920 211 2007 18

Figure 11-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

11.3 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Personal Use Fuelwood Cutting – Fuelwood cutting for personal use is expected to continue into the future. Although quantities of material removed annually is not known, such activities occur primarily adjacent to open roads. Although the existing conditions suggest that firewood cutting does not appear to have greatly influenced snag densities in comparison to desired conditions, given the importance of snags to this species, fuelwood cutting was considered as a potentially relevant ongoing activity.

Motorized Recreation – Motorized use of existing open roads and designated trails would continue into the future. Currently 43.2 miles of road and 4.8 miles of trail are open to motorized use. The remainder of this cumulative effects area is closed to all off-road and off-trail motorized use except snowmobiles.

Figure 11-2 discloses the locations of present and ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

11.4 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-40 Appendix A

Figure 11-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-41 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 11-2 Ongoing Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-42 Appendix A

SECTION 12.0

This section of the document discusses those past, ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future actions considered in the cumulative effects analyses completed for: American Three-toed Woodpecker; Black- backed Woodpecker; Boreal Owl; Fisher; Flammulated Owl; Great Gray Owl; Pileated Woodpecker, and; Wolverine.

12.1 Past Harvest Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1959 an estimated 2,668 acres have been harvested within the cumulative effects area. Table 12-1 displays timber sales by year cut and acres harvested within the cumulative effects area. Silvicultural prescriptions varied greatly in intensity and included seed cut shelterwood, final removal shelterwood, preparation cut shelterwood, clearcut, salvage, sanitation, and individual tree selection. In addition to harvest activities described above, roughly 618 acres of plantations have been precommercially thinned in recent years where sub-merchantable trees less than eight inches dbh were felled and retained on site.

Table 12-1 Past Timber Harvest Sale Name Year Cut Acres East Fork Clear Creek 1959 174 East Fork Clear Creek 1960 243 Railroad Pass 1960 88 Clear Creek 1965 116 Stony Meadows 1969 125 Stony Meadows 1971 259 Stony Meadows 1972 168 Stony Ridge 1974 9 LP Flat 1974 5 Clear Stud 1974 212 Clear Stud/Clear Creek Site Preparation 1974 32 East Clear 1974 229 East Mountain 1976 2 Clear Creek Site Preparation 1979 42 East Mountain Lookout 1981 55 LP Flat 1983 19 East Mountain Lookout 1984 16 Fork Mountain 1986 41 Clear Basin 1987 22 East Mountain Lookout 1988 128 Lost Basin 1990 5 Lost Fir 1990 21 East Fork Clear Creek 1991 39 Farside Salvage 1991 18 Farside Salvage 1992 42 Eastside Salvage 1992 232 Summit Salvage 1992 40 Clear Creek Summit 1997 252 Rainbow 1998 34

12.2 Past Wildfire Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Since 1910 approximately 253 acres within the cumulative effects area have been affected by wildfire. Table 12-2 displays the acreages burned by year.

Appendix A-43 Clear Prong Final EIS

Table 12-2 Past Wildfires Year Acres 1910 18 1919 6 1920 211 2007 18

Figure 12-1 discloses the locations of past activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

12.3 Ongoing Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Figure 12-2 discloses the locations of present and ongoing activities to the extent practicable and where the exact location is known.

12.4 Foreseeable Future Activities within the 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

There are no foreseeable future activities within this cumulative effects area that would impact those resources addressed with this assessment.

Appendix A-44 Appendix A

Figure 12-1 Past Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-45 Clear Prong Final EIS

Figure 12-2 Ongoing Activities within 11,056 Acre Cumulative Effects Area

Appendix A-46