Rael Ranch Management Plan

Home , Caja del Rio, Ericameria nauseosa, Juniperus monosperma

Santa Fe County, New Mexico

DOI-BLM-NM-F020-2020-0018-EA

Taos Field Office 226 Cruz Alta Road Taos, New Mexico· 87571-5981 575.758.8851

Table of Contents CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION 6 1.1 Background 6 1.2 Purpose and Need 7 1.3 Plan Conformance 7 1.4 Identification of Issues 8 1.4.1 Relevant Issues 8 1.4.2 Issues Dismissed from Detailed Analysis 9 CHAPTER 2. ALTERNATIVES 10 2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 10 2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 12 2.3 Alternative C – No Action 13 2.4 Alternatives Considered but Dismissed 14 2.5 Cumulative Actions 14 2.5.1 Past and Present Actions 14 2.5.2 Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions 14 CHAPTER 3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 15 3.1 Issue 1: How would the proposed Alternatives impact (negative or beneficial effects) terrestrial, aquatic, and fish species? 15 3.1.1 Affected Environment 15 3.1.2 Environmental Impacts 15 3.1.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 16 General Wildlife 16 Migratory Birds 16 3.1.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 17 3.1.2.3 Impacts of Alternative C – No Action 17 General Wildlife 17 Migratory Birds 17 3.2 Issue 2: How would the proposed Alternatives impact (negative or beneficial effects) Federally listed Threatened or Endangered species and BLM Sensitive species? 18 3.1.2 Affected Environment 18 3.2.2 Environmental Impacts 18 3.2.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 18

3.2.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 19 3.2.2.3 Impacts of Alternative C – No Action 19 3.3 Issue 3: How would riparian restoration projects and the opening of allotment 546 impact sedimentation and water quality of the Santa Fe River in both the short-term and long-term. 19 3.3.1 Affected Environment 19 3.3.2 Environmental Impacts 20 3.3.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 20 3.3.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 21 3.3.2.3 Alternative C – No Action 22 3.4 Issue 4: How effective would each alternative be in providing for the protection, preservation, restoration, and enhancement of the Rael Farmstead Historic District? 22 3.4.1 Affected Environment 22 3.4.2 Environmental Impacts 22 3.4.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 22 3.4.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 25 3.4.2.3 Alternative C – No Action 26 3.5 Issue 5: Potential impacts to livestock grazing opportunities and operations from adjusting the boundary of allotment 546 to exclude the Rael Ranch and riparian habitat south of the Rael Ranch boundary 26 3.5.1 Affected Environment 26 3.5.2 Environmental Impacts 27 3.5.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 27 3.5.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 27 3.5.2.3 Alternative C – No Action 27 The No Action Alternative would result is loss of forage use and historic grazing use in the area. 27 3.6 Issue 6: Consideration for using grazing as a tool for invasive species control and maintenance within the canyon and in close proximity to the riparian zone 27 3.6.1 Affected Environment 27 3.6.2 Environmental Impacts 27 3.6.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 27 3.6.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 28

3.6.2.3 Alternative C – No Action 28 3.7 Issue 7: Opportunities for recreational access to the Santa Fe River and overlook of the Rael Ranch 28 3.7.1 Affected Environment 28 3.7.2 Environmental Impacts 28 3.7.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 28 3.7.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 29 3.7.2.3 Alternative C – No Action 29 3.8 Issue 8: How would riparian restoration projects and the opening of allotment 546 impact riparian resources? 29 3.8.1 Affected Environment 29 3.8.2 Environmental Impacts 30 3.8.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources 30 3.8.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use 30 3.8.2.3 Alternative C – No Action 31 CHAPTER 4. CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION 32 4.1 Summary of Consultation and Coordination 32 4.2 Summary of Public Participation 32 4.2.1 Public Comments Analysis 32 4.3 List of Preparers 32 REFERENCES 33

Appendices

CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

This Environmental Assessment (EA) has been prepared by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to disclose, analyze, and to assess the potential impacts for a management plan for the approximately 462- acre Rael Ranch acquired within the 13,390 acre La Cienega Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). See Map 1. This analysis is intended to guide subsequent site-specific management activities of lands acquired by the BLM within La Cienega ACEC. The final phase of the ranch property acquisition occurred in 2011, and the environmental review document for that action (DOI-BLM-NM- F020-2012-0002-EA) stated that a subsequent plan for this property would be completed at a later date focusing on maintenance and enhancement of facilities, recreation and interpretive opportunities with the participation of the local community. This analysis may also reference an EA from an acquisition in 2007 DOI-BLM-NM-2007-021-EA.

The Rael Farmstead Historic District is a 34.6-acres parcel within the larger Rael Ranch. See Map 1. It was farmed for more than two centuries by the descendants of one of the original Spanish colonial families to settle in northern New Mexico approximately four hundred years ago. The farmstead contains many significant cultural features including an adobe farmhouse, an historic agricultural field, the Rael Farm Acequia, a 1715 acequia (irrigation ditch) system, historic petroglyphs, remnants of a vineyard and heritage fruit tree orchards. The (Alonzo) Rael Farm Acequia, with 1718 priority water rights, predates those of Santa Fe. The Santa Fe River running through the property provides the BLM Taos Field Office (TAFO) some the longest continuous stretches of riparian habitat within the TAFO managed lands. Currently, the acquired property is part of the La Cienega ACEC and Cieneguilla Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) and is managed as such.

Management objectives for the acquired Rael Ranch are established by the Taos Resource Management Plan (RMP) as well as the EA that evaluated the decision to acquire the property. These objectives, outlined below, are the BLM’s primary considerations in its management of the property.

Taos RMP objective (paraphrased), per Section 2.2.10.1, Areas of Critical Environmental Concern: • To provide special management attention to La Cienega ACEC to ensure its relevant and important values—cultural, riparian, scenic, and wildlife habitat—are protected and preserved from irreparable harm

Management objectives and guidelines for the Cieneguilla SRMA (paraphrased), per Section 2.2.6, Recreation: • Provide opportunities for interpretation of cultural and historic resources • Provide opportunities for hiking • Manage the area in partnership with other agencies, neighbors, and conservation groups

2012 Rael Property Acquisition EA (DOI-BLM-NM-F020-2011-0002-EA): • To ensure protection of important cultural and natural resources . . . • To improve public access to the Santa Fe River canyon

1.2 Purpose and Need

As described above, the purpose of this management plan is to provide site-specific management guidelines for the historic Rael Farmstead and to ensure the protection of significant cultural resources and riparian habitat along the Santa Fe River. The purpose is also to provide for reasonable pedestrian access to the Santa Fe River canyon.

The need for this management plan is to provide for public access and resource use opportunities, in response to public interests, while protecting and managing for significant cultural resources and riparian habitat within the overall property and particularly the Rael Farmstead Historic District. The BLM needs to provide for the preservation and protection of the characteristics that qualify the district for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.

The need for site-specific management is further established by the Taos Resource Management Plan, which outlines planning needs for La Cienega ACEC and Cieneguilla SRMA, including site-specific opportunities for interpretation, recreation, livestock grazing, and other potential uses.

In addition, the BLM is required to use its irrigation water right in a beneficial manner as a condition for maintaining the right under State law. This plan is needed to guide the BLM’s exercise of its allocated water use, consistent with the terms of the right.

1.3 Plan Conformance

The action alternatives would be in conformance with the Taos Resource Management Plan (RMP), approved in May 2012, and would help the BLM to meets its goals and objectives established in the RMP. Relevant objectives are provided below. Also, as indicated above, general prescriptions for the ranch property are those described for the La Cienega ACEC and Cieneguilla SRMA.

Other objectives from the Taos RMP that are relevant to the Rael Ranch include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Identify, preserve, and protect significant cultural resources and ensure that they are available for appropriate uses by present and future generations (Section 2.1.2) • Promote stewardship, conservation and appreciation of cultural resources through education and public outreach programs (Section 2.1.2) • Manage riparian areas with emphasis on protection and restoration, and focus treatments on reestablishment of willows and cottonwoods, as well as other riparian vegetation, to stabilize stream banks and promote sinuosity and width/depth ratios appropriate to the site (Section 2.1.7.1) • Monitor riparian areas and conduct rangeland health assessments to document progress toward achieving and maintaining proper functioning condition (PFC) (Section 2.1.7.1) • Manage livestock grazing on public rangelands to provide maintenance or enhancement of the natural resources (Section 2.2.4) • Enhance recreation access, opportunities and experiences by increasing the level of management presence through signs and basic onsite controls (Section 2.2.6) • Maintain or enhance communities of priority species or habitats to provide desired ecological functions and values (Section 2.1.7.2) • To provide for proper functioning condition (PFC) of vegetative communities by managing for viable and resilient native wildlife species and their associated habitats (Section 2.1.7.1)

• Moving riparian and wetland communities toward and/or remaining in PFC such that riparian communities would be sustainable, provide physical stability and adequate habitat for a wide range of wildlife species, and support healthy, diverse, and abundant populations of fish and associated aquatic and riparian dependent species (Section 2.1.7.1)

In addition, section 2.2.8 of the Taos RMP limits motorized travel within the Santa Fe River canyon area. The Taos RMP further specifies, “Public access will be on a system of nonmotorized trails.” The RMP also closes the canyon area, including the Rael Ranch, to recreational target shooting.

1.4 Identification of Issues

An interdisciplinary team of BLM resource specialists conducted a series of internal scoping meetings during the fall of 2019 to coordinate on the preparation of this management plan and to identify the relevant issues and concerns that warrant analysis in this EA. In addition to these internal scoping efforts, the TAFO has led public scoping meetings and reached out via email and telephone to the community of La Cienega, interested parties, and relatives of the Rael Family. Scoping meeting notes from the last several years have been revisited as part of this analysis and considered during internal scoping meetings with the interdisciplinary team at the TAFO.

The TAFO recently entered into an Assistance Agreement with Cornerstones Community Partnerships (Cornerstones) of Santa Fe, who will be assisting with preservation maintenance projects and assisting BLM with community engagement. Cornerstones led the development of the Friends of Rael Ranch from the La Cienega area who focus on planning efforts, site stewardship, and volunteering for maintenance work days at the property. The TAFO met with the friends group three times during the fall of 2019 to discuss potential issues and alternatives for the site management plan.

See section 4.2 for a summary of all public involvement opportunities provided during the development of this analysis.

1.4.1 Relevant Issues

Based on the scoping efforts described above, the issues presented in Table 1.1 have been determined relevant to the analysis of this action:

Table 1-1. Issues Identified for Detailed Analysis

RESOURCE ISSUE STATEMENT Wildlife and 1. How would the proposed Alternatives impact (negative or beneficial Fisheries effects) terrestrial, aquatic, and fish species?

Special Status 2. How would the proposed Alternatives impact (negative or beneficial Species effects) Federally listed Threatened or Endangered species and BLM Sensitive species?

Water Resources 3. How would riparian restoration projects and opening of allotment 546 impact sedimentation and water quality of the Santa Fe River in both the short-term and long-term.

Cultural 4. The Rael Farmstead Historic District is a historically significant National Register of Historic Places-nominated property and in order to protect the values that make it nationally significant, management actions should serve to protect, preserve, restore and enhance those qualities without causing effects that could damage those values (adverse effects). How effective would each alternative be in providing for the protection, preservation, restoration, and enhancement of the Rael Farmstead Historic District?

Grazing 5. Potential impacts to livestock grazing opportunities and operations from adjusting the boundary of allotment 546 to exclude the Rael Ranch and riparian habitat south of the Rael Ranch boundary

6. Consideration for using grazing as a tool for invasive species control and maintenance within the canyon and in close proximity to the riparian zone

Recreation 7. Opportunities for recreational access to the Santa Fe River and overlook of the Rael Ranch

Riparian Resources 8. How would riparian restoration projects and issuing a permit for grazing allotment 546 impact riparian resources?

1.4.2 Issues Dismissed from Detailed Analysis

Table 1-2. Issues not Analyzed in Detail

ISSUE STATEMENT RATIONALE FOR DISMISSING Potential impacts to the breeding and As part of the proposed management plan, any nesting of Migratory Birds implementation of riparian restoration activities or infrastructure development would avoid the breeding and nesting season. Therefore, this issue has been resolved and requires no further detailed analysis.

CHAPTER 2. ALTERNATIVES

This BLM is giving consideration to two action alternatives, neither of which is identified, at present, as the proposed action or preferred alternative. The BLM is does not anticipate determining its preference on an alternative until further in the NEPA process, if not until it makes a final decision on the management plan, to be disclosed in a Decision Record.

The first alternative, Alternative A, emphasizes the preservation of the components that contribute to the eligibility of the Rael Farmstead Historic District. Alternative A also takes into consideration of opportunities for uses of the area, such as for public land access, recreation, and livestock grazing, but in a manner compatible and consistent with preserving the Historic District.

Alternative B is developed to provide for a broader range of compatible uses of the area by the public, such as recreation, interpretation, filming, livestock grazing, crop production, and other uses, to the extent they are consistent with the overall goal of preserving the integrity of the Historic District.

The third alternative, Alternative C, is the no action alternative, which accounts for the general management activities allowable under the Taos RMP, and subsequent activity-level decisions.

2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

Under Alternative A, the BLM would manage the Rael Farmstead Historic District to preserve, protect, and restore and/or enhance as necessary the characteristics that qualify the district for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), and to consider potential contemporary and compatible uses of the property. The BLM would give priority to the protection and preservation of the historic farmhouse, associated outbuildings, and agricultural features, including the acequia, pond, field, orchard, and what remains of a vineyard. The BLM would also meet its water right obligations through the maintenance of the field and orchard. The BLM would also provide for access to the Santa Fe River via a pedestrian trail with an overlook of the Rael Farmstead Historic District itself. See Map 2.

The following are specific management actions that would be implemented under this alternative:

Cultural Resources

• Maintain the historic integrity of the house and associated facilities by following the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties, 1995 during any necessary maintenance • Manage and maintain cottonwood trees and heirloom apple trees to maintain and enhance the historic integrity of the Rael Farmstead Historic District • Repair/restore and maintain the agricultural features (field, earthen pond, orchard, vineyards, acequia, canals) in a historically compatible manner, following Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties, 1995 and restore as necessary any features that would return the farmstead to a historically functioning condition. • Adaptively reuse the adobe farmhouse for temporary residency when such use would benefit BLM’s objectives for the Rael Farmstead Historic District (to help keep building maintained) • Develop partnerships to assist BLM in managing the Rael Farmstead Historic District. Partnerships may be formalized by Assistance Agreements. Potential partners could include educational institutions, non-profit organizations, local and state agencies, local residents,

permittees and other interested parties for the purposes of managing and operating the Rael Farmstead Historic District. • Agricultural Field: maintain for historical use or fallow state (native grass) • Acequia and canals: repair and maintain for historical use • Earthen Tank: repair and maintain for historical use (water storage) • Orchard, vineyards, and cottonwoods: maintain for historical use

Riparian Restoration

● Continuation of the riparian restoration efforts in the Santa Fe River Canyon, including the river segment within the Rael Ranch and approximately one mile south of the acquisition boundary. See Map 3. Treatment in these areas would consist of removing existing Russian olive, Siberian elm, and saltcedar cover via the use of heavy equipment (e.g., trackhoe) to excavate the root balls of large shrubs and trees, as well as manual control methods (chainsaws and hand tools) to remove smaller specimens. Removed above-ground non-native vegetation would be mechanically chipped and scattered on site. Comparable amounts of native woody species (approximately equal aerial coverage when mature) would be established by planting Rio Grande cottonwood, Goodding’s willow, and coyote willow in wetter areas by augering four- to eight- foot deep holes and planting poles and whips of the species. Other containerized species (e.g., chokecherry, New Mexico olive, wild plum, silver buffaloberry, skunkbrush sumac, and trumpet gooseberry) would be planted by hand in areas of more mesic moisture regimes. (Refer to DOI- BLM-NM-F02-2010-0007-EA, Santa Fe River Canyon Riparian Forest Restoration Project for detailed analysis of treatment methodology; planning, education, and monitoring; conservation measures; and timeline.) Project goals include the following activities: o Controlling and removing invasive, non-native vegetation and subsequently aiding in the re-establishment of native plant cover (except in certain cases where historically planted vegetation contribute to cultural significance of the farmstead and the eligibility of the Historic District); o Promote restoration and maintenance of floodplain functions as measured by agency standards; and o Improving wildlife and migratory bird habitat for a variety of terrestrial, avian, and aquatic species, especially migratory bird species of concern, by increasing the quality and production of desirable native plant species, species diversity, and riparian forest community vertical and horizontal structure. ● In addition to the treatment methodology outlined in DOI-BLM-NM-F02-2010-0007-EA, chemical treatment of non-natives and noxious weeds would occur via use of the appropriate herbicide that is safe for waterbodies and has been previously identified and approved for use within the 2007 Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement, Vegetation Treatments using Herbicides on BLM Lands in 17 Western States (BLM 2007).

Livestock Grazing

● Range allotment 546, now vacant, would be made available by permit application with a new boundary that would exclude the Rael Farmstead Historic District and riparian area along the Santa Fe River. See Map 3. ● Modifications and improvements to fencing would be necessary to make the allotment operational. ● Livestock watering sources may be developed within each pasture of the allotment by one or more of the following options, to be determined prior to the issuance of a grazing permit: o A new well pumped by solar power or a windmill

o A water right secured from the Santa Fe River and pumped to a trough o Water hauling by the permittee Water gaps along the Santa Fe River would not be allowed under this alternative.

Access and Recreation

● Public parking would not be available at or near the gate of the ranch property at the end of County Road 54. Access to the gate at the ranch site would be limited to handicapped, authorized, or permitted users only. A gravel parking area at the ranch site could accommodate 4-6 authorized vehicles including for handicapped visitors. Less than a half acre would be used for a delineated parking area. ● A gravel parking area, accommodating 4-6 vehicles, would be developed along County Road 54 at an existing location approximately 0.5 miles up the county road from the access gate to Rael Ranch. The delineated parking area would be less than a half acre in size and would include a trailhead with directional and interpretive signage and displays. ● Approximately 1.25 miles of existing pedestrian trails would be designated, improved, and maintained to provide access to the Santa Fe River Canyon and to an overlook of the Rael Farmstead Historic District from the developed trailhead. Trail improvements could include actions such as minor re-routes, installation of water drainage structures, check steps, and grading. ● Walk-through gates would be installed along grazing allotment fence lines, as necessary. ● Dispersed camping on site would be for administrative purposes only, such as for accommodating research, monitoring, or maintenance. No camping infrastructure (e.g., fire rings, tent pads, RV hook-ups, etc.) would be developed, and camping activities would be monitored by the BLM.

2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

Under Alternative B, the BLM would provide for a broader range of compatible uses of the Rael Farmstead Historic District, such as using the earthen pond for species reintroduction, enhanced recreation, interpretation of the property, and commercial uses (media filming, livestock grazing, crop production) to the extent they are consistent with the overall goal of preserving the integrity of the Rael Farmstead Historic District. Under this alternative, the actions listed under Alternative A for Cultural Resources and Riparian Restoration would be implemented as described.

As under Alternative A, the BLM would manage the farmstead to preserve, protect, and enhance as necessary the characteristics that qualify the district for nomination to the NRHP, and to consider potential contemporary and compatible uses of the property. Also, as under Alternative A, the historic integrity of the house and associated facilities would be maintained by following the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties, 1995 during any necessary maintenance. Under Alternative B, the following actions would be considered since they may be compatible with preserving, protecting, and enhancing the property:

Adobe Farmhouse

• Water plumbing would be installed within the adobe farmhouse to provide a domestic potable water source as well as an associated septic tank for waste. • Rehabilitate the adobe for use as a meeting space/visitor contact/workshops and for filming projects within the house, and throughout the Rael Farmstead Historic District.

Agricultural Field

• The agricultural field would be treated and prepared as outline in Alternative A and then used by a BLM partner, BLM’s Native Plants Material Development (NPMD) program or leased to a private party for use. Part or all of the field would be used to develop native plant materials for use by the BLM. The agricultural field and water rights associated with the Rael Farmstead property offer an opportunity for BLM to develop locally adapted, genetically appropriate native plant material for use in restoration projects. NPMD on Rael Farmstead could take several forms, including native seed propagation research, native seed grow-outs, and a demonstration garden with a public interface. These actions could be carried out through partnerships with non- government organizations, research organizations, or through a lease to a private party.

Earthen Pond

• In addition to water storage for the irrigation of the field, the earthen tank would be used as a refuguium for Northern Leopard Frogs (Lithobates pipiens). In New Mexico L. pipiens is designated as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish; S1- Critically Imperiled by the Natural Heritage Program; and a Sensitive Species by the BLM. An L. pipiens source population has been detected near the Santa Fe River and La Cienega Creek confluence on private land. The recent purchase of the Rael Farmstead along the Santa Fe River gives us an opportunity to use an existing earthen tank that fills seasonally as a breeding area on BLM lands for L. pipiens. Adult and juvenile L. pipiens would be relocated from a source population downstream. Monitoring would be conducted throughout the breeding season and exotic bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeiana) would be removed from the tank when detected. The frogs and tank would be tested for chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) yearly at the breeding area.

Livestock Grazing

Allotment 546 would be made available for livestock grazing with the modifications and maintenance as described under Alternative A. However, under this alternate the BLM would provide for the following difference: • Two water gaps (one per pasture) would be placed along the Santa Fe River to provide for livestock watering. See Map 3.

Access and Recreation

Opportunities for public access and developed recreation would be the same as those described under Alternative A. In addition, the following opportunities would be provided: • An interpretive program would be implemented for the Rael Farmstead Historic District. The program could include interpretive signage around the adobe farmhouse and other historic features within the district. • A vault toilet would be built on the property. A gravel or paved path would provide access the toilet from the parking area. • A gravel parking area for administrative, handicapped, and permitted users would be built at the property, accommodating 4-6 vehicles, as space allows.

2.3 Alternative C – No Action

Under the no action alternative, the BLM would not create a site-specific management plan at this time. The Rael Ranch would continue to be managed as part of the La Cienega ACEC and the La Cieneguilla SRMA, under the general terms provided by the Taos RMP. The BLM would continue to maintain and preserve the adobe structures on site, which would be closed for public use. The BLM would also meet water right obligations (i.e. use the 12.9 acre/ft for beneficial use) and clean and maintain the acequia and earthen pond on an annual basis.

The BLM would continue to do riparian and in-stream habitat monitoring—though the Santa Fe River Canyon Riparian and Forest Restoration Project (DOI-BLM-NM-F02-2010-0007-EA) would not be implemented, as the ranch property was not included in the original riparian restoration project area. No new grazing allotments would be considered or revisions to current grazing allotment boundaries. No public parking areas, clean water sources, or bathroom facilities would be considered. The property would be open for public visitation and dispersed, undeveloped recreation.

2.4 Alternatives Considered but Dismissed

Parking at Ranch: The BLM gave consideration to providing for public parking and associated infrastructure at the ranch property. However, this option was dismissed because (1) the lack of available space to the construction of a parking area so as not to modify or compromise the historic features of the historic district, and (2) to minimize traffic- and parking-associated congestion in the vicinity of an adjacent private residence.

Grazing throughout Historic District: The BLM also considered making all of the Rael properties acquired by the BLM available for livestock grazing. This option was dismissed primarily to protect the characteristics that qualify the district for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. Also, the BLM dismissed this option in order to keep out of the riparian zone along the Santa Fe River. As indicated, the BLM is proposing continued and expanded riparian restoration efforts along the Santa Fe River and has made previous decisions to preclude grazing along the Santa Fe River—at least for the foreseeable future.

2.5 Cumulative Actions

Cumulative impact, as defined in 40 CFR 1508.7, is the impact on the environment which results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions regardless of what agency (Federal or non-Federal) or person undertakes such other action. The relevant past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions discussed below are considered “cumulative actions,” which when viewed with the Proposed Action or alternatives could result in the cumulative impacts disclosed below in Chapter 3. 2.5.1 Past and Present Actions

The TAFO completed the final acquisition of the property in 2011 (DOI-BLM-NM-F020-2011-0002-EA) and previously purchased a tract from the Rael family in 2007 (DOI-BLM-NM-2007-021-EA).

2.5.2 Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions

The BLM and its partner agencies have been actively working to implement the Santa Fe River Canyon Riparian Forest Restoration Project, which was evaluated in an EA completed in 2010 (DOI-BLM-NM- F02-2010-0007-EA). Implementation of this project is incorporated into the action alternatives presented above.

CHAPTER 3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

This chapter describes (1) the affected environment, specifically the existing or baseline conditions relevant to each issue identified in Table 1-1, followed by (2) a description of the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts projected to result from each alternative.

3.1 Issue 1: How would the proposed Alternatives impact (negative or beneficial effects) terrestrial, aquatic, and fish species?

3.1.1 Affected Environment

Habitat types in the area are dispersed vertically and horizontally over the landscape in a patchwork pattern that provides a large amount of “edge” where one habitat type blends into another. The riparian habitat and adjacent upland habitat along the Santa Fe River provides food, cover, and water to a diverse assemblage of wildlife species.

The habitat provided in the project area is likely utilized by many species of mammals, including black bear (Ursus americanus), bobcat (Lynx rufus), chipmunks (Tamias spp.), cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus), coyote (Canis latrans), gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata), mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum), raccoon (Procyon lotor), rock squirrel (Spermophilus variegatus), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), wood rat (Neotoma spp), American badger Taxidea taxus berlandieri, white-tailed jackrabbit Lepus townsendii campanius, black-tailed jackrabbit Lepus californicus, sillky pocket mouse Perognathus flavus flavus; hopiensis, Ord’s kangaroo rat Dipodomys ordii, ringtail Bassariscus astutus, spotted ground squirrel Xerospermophilus spilosoma, northern leopard frog (L. Pipiens), and various species of bats (Order Chiroptera), lizards, snakes and toads. In fisheries surveys conducted by the BLM (2009) fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), Rio Grande sucker (Catastomus plebius), and mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) were observed.

The Rael Ranch is adjacent to the Santa Fe River Canyon, a major migratory corridor for avian species which provides important stopover and breeding habitat for a variety of bird species. It is also part of the National Audubon Society’s Caja del Rio Important Bird Area (IBA). IBA’s are designated sites that provide essential habitat for one or more species of bird that stand out from the surrounding landscape.

The Santa Fe River Canyon is positioned along a major migratory corridor for avian species and provides important stopover, breeding, or permanent habitat for a variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and migratory songbirds. The Santa Fe River Canyon is also part of the 39,807-acre Caja del Rio Important Bird Area (IBA; National Audubon Society 2010). IBA’s are designated sites that provide essential habitat for one or more species of bird, include sites for breeding, wintering, and/or migrating birds, and are usually discrete sites that stand out from the surrounding landscape (National Audubon Society 2010).

Migratory birds are protected by the Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918 (16 U.S.C. § 703-712), the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 (16 U.S.C. §§ 668-668d), the Migratory Bird Conservation Act of 1934 (16 U.S.C. § 715 et seq.), and Executive Order 13186 – Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds (FR 2001).

3.1.2 Environmental Impacts

3.1.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

General Wildlife Wildlife species inhabiting the immediate action area, such as amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals (e.g., rodents), could be temporarily displaced during riparian restoration. In addition, riparian restoration would change the current vegetation composition and structure from a Russian olive- and saltcedar- dominated riparian forest to a more diverse assemblage of native riparian species. The removal of non- native species is expected to result in short-term impacts on wildlife species that utilize the area by temporarily reducing cover and forage until native plantings reoccupy the site. Removing patches of Russian olive and saltcedar from the existing riparian community would alter and/or remove some of the vertical and horizontal structure of vegetation currently found along the Santa Fe River. The replacement of non-native species with native riparian species (e.g., cottonwood and willow) has the potential to also provide adequate foraging and dam/lodge-building material for North American beaver (beaver; Castor canadensis) in the long-term.

Riparian restoration is expected to result in long-term beneficial effects to terrestrial riparian wildlife, such as amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals (e.g., rodents) from improved ecological diversity, increased horizontal and structural diversity, and increased forage diversity once active management of exotics and/or re-introduction of native woody species occurs. In addition, riparian restoration is expected to increase the quality of fisheries habitat by increasing stream shading, reducing nutrient loads, and stabilizing streambanks, which is expected to improve water quality. Restoration activities would not result in a significant reduction in available habitat, and/or foraging opportunities if actively replaced with natives immediately following removal and short-term effects would be outweighed by the long-term benefits of a healthier and more ecologically diverse riparian ecosystem.

According to the 2015 Santa Fe River Riparian Vegetation Monitoring Report: A decade of Vegetation and Channel Change from 2003-2013, which measured long-term changes in the riparian zone due to changes in livestock management (removal of grazing), both positive and negative trends were observed. Although there was an increase in grass cover and woody species, there were increases in exotic species as well. Without active replacement of non-native woody vegetation with natives the research indicates the increase in exotic species would continue over time. Russian olive has become the dominant woody species in the canyon due to the lag in recovery of native species.

Migratory Birds The USDI, BLM TFO established annual breeding bird surveys at various riparian sites in northern New Mexico, including the Santa Fe River within the project area. Hawks Aloft, Inc. began conducting breeding bird surveys at the Santa Fe South site in 1994. The Santa Fe North and La Cienega sites were added in 2000 and 2006, respectively. Each year from 2000-2007, HawkAloft (2007a) consistently recorded the lowest detection rates and species richness for riparian bird species of all the sites at the Santa Fe North and Santa Fe South sites, likely because these corridors were narrow, sparsely vegetated, and subject to grazing pressure. The La Cienega site, which is near the Santa Fe North and South sites, had relatively high detection rates and species richness, which HawksAloft (2007a) attributed to the dense willow patches at the site that are not observed at the two other sites. The La Cienega site contains more cottonwoods and substantial willow patches, providing habitat for several riparian species not typically observed at Santa Fe North or South. More recent, the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) began conducting annual WIFL surveys within the La Cienega site in 2010.

Sixteen riparian obligate or dependent bird species, as defined by the USDI, BLM (no date), have been observed in the Project area, including the following: Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii), Black-chinned

Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri), Belted Kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon), Western Wood-Pewee (Contopus sordidulus), Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii), Bewick’s Wren (Thryomanes bewickii), House Wren (Troglodytes aedon), Yellow Warbler (Dendroica petechia), Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas), Yellow-breasted Chat, Black-headed Grosbeak (Pheucticus melanocephalus), Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea), Lazuli Bunting (Passerina amoena), Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea), Bullock’s Oriole, and Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria).

No direct impacts would occur as a result of the riparian restoration activities. These activities would occur outside the Southwestern willow flycatcher season of April 15 – September 15 overlapping with the riparian obligate species occurring in the area.

The Riparian Restoration activities would temporarily alter and/or reduce the composition and structure, as well as the forage capacity that is provided by the existing non-native shrub and tree community. The short-term reduction in horizontal and vertical structure that would occur with the Proposed Action could impact riparian-dependent migratory bird species that utilize the area. Because treatment areas would remain small, are dispersed throughout the Project area, and would only eliminate a portion (50-75 percent) of the non-native shrubs and trees within the Project area, perch, nesting, and foraging habitat would still be available in the Project area throughout the duration of the Project.

3.1.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

Potential impacts from riparian restoration activities would be the same as those described under Section 3.1.2.1 above.

The 2015 Santa Fe River Riparian Vegetation Monitoring Report: A decade of Vegetation and Channel Change from 2003-2013 study shows that trampling by livestock in the riparian area would increase stream temperatures due to the widening of the channel. Deeper, narrower, channels with vegetated banks can have a positive effect on aquatic fauna. The proposed water gaps would prevent access of the entire riparian reach. Frequent monitoring and reconstruction of water gaps before and after high flood events is essential to riparian recovery. High flood events are known to occur and frequent the Santa Fe River canyon in high precipitation years.

3.1.2.3 Impacts of Alternative C – No Action

General Wildlife Short-term impacts as a result of recreation opportunities and resource use would not occur under the No Action alternative. Long-term adverse effects on breeding and foraging fish, avian species and mammals could occur as a result of degrading riparian ecological processes, and an increase in non- native species. These impacts could result in low populations of wildlife species with reductions in available habitat and a decrease in species diversity.

Migratory Birds The No Action alternative would not result in any short-term impacts to migratory birds on USDA, FS, or USDI, BLM lands. However, long-term impacts could result through continued habitat degradation and the associated decrease of native species within the Project area. This impact could particularly negatively affect insectivorous and cavity-nesting birds, which are already rare within the Project area.

3.2 Issue 2: How would the proposed Alternatives impact (negative or beneficial effects) Federally listed Threatened or Endangered species and BLM Sensitive species?

3.1.2 Affected Environment

Four threatened and endangered species have the potential to occur within the project area. Two endangered species the Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) and the New Mexico meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius luteus) and two threatened species the Mexican spotted owl (Strix occidentalis lucida) and the yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis). Within the project area, the proposed Alternatives has the potential to impact the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher.

Along the Santa Fe River, patches of suitable SWFL habitat are promoted by a braided river channel and consist of sporadic coyote and Goodding’s willow (Salix gooddingii) with an occasional Rio Grande cottonwood and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia). These patches have expanded in recent years due to southward migration of the main river channel. Downstream habitat has declined in recent years due to natural alterations to the river’s alignment. The river due to its location downstream of the City of Santa Fe Wastewater Treatment Plant contains almost perennial water. (See DOI-BLM-NM-F02-2010- 0007-EA, Santa Fe River Canyon Riparian Forest Restoration Project for Southwestern willow flycatcher analysis; conservation measures; and timeline and Appendix D Special Status Species).

There are eleven BLM Sensitive Species that could potentially be found within or adjacent to the Rael Ranch. These species include Western burrowing owl Athene cunicularia, black-tailed prairie dog cynomys ludovicianus, Gunnison’s praire dog, cynomys gunnisoni, pinyon jay Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus, Bendire’s thrasher Toxostoma bendirei, Bell’s vireo Vireo bellii arizonae, Virginia’s warbler Vermivora virginiae, monarch butterfly Danaus plexippus plexippus, Northern leopard frog Lithobates (Rana) pipiens, Rio Grande sucker Catastomus plebius, and Rio Grande Chub Gila pandora.

A description of habitat components of Federally listed threatened and endangered species and BLM Sensitive species can be found in Appendix B.

3.2.2 Environmental Impacts

3.2.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

Although fifteen migrant Southwestern willow flycatchers (SWFL) were detected in 2020 surveys conducted by the Bureau of Reclamation in the La Cieneguilla area adjacent to the acquisition property, no birds have established territories. There is no designated critical habitat for any species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service within or adjacent to the area. It is determined that the potential for occurrence of federally listed threatened or endangered species only occurs for the SWFL adjacent to the project area during migration.

The Proposed Action would be expected to have a long-term positive affect on the SWFL. The re- establishment of native species is expected to increase both species diversity and habitat structure within the Santa Fe River riparian area, and is directly geared toward creating habitat for riparian obligate species such as the SWFL. The outcome of this could positively benefit the SWFL in the future, with one of the ultimate goals being to provide SWFL with the habitat requirements it needs for successful breeding pair establishment. In addition, the re-establishment of native riparian species within the

riparian zone is expected to create a more diverse insect (i.e., prey) base than what is currently present, which could also indirectly benefit the SWFL.

Short-term impacts and long-term positive impacts are expected in relation to the SWFL. Non-native removal and native re-establishment would occur outside of the migratory/breeding season for the SWFL. With the inclusion of the environmental commitments listed in the associated BA/E, the Proposed Action was determined that it “may affect – not likely to adversely affect” the SWFL.

The USDI, Fish and Wildlife Service in the consultation process concurred with this determination in a letter dated May 6, 2011 Consultation #22420-2011-I-0047.

The proposed alternatives would have no impact on BLM Sensitive Species however, riparian restoration projects may have beneficial impacts in the long-term for migratory species adjacent to the project area.

A description of potential threats, and effects to Federally listed threatened and endangered species and BLM Sensitive species can be found in Appendix B.

3.2.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

Potential impacts from riparian restoration activities would be the same as those described under Section 3.2.2.1 above.

3.2.2.3 Impacts of Alternative C – No Action

Southwestern Willow Flycatcher The No Action alternative would not result in short-term impacts to the SWFL on USDA, FS, USDI, BLM lands. However, continued degradation of the Santa Fe River riparian corridor could result in a decrease of potential stopover habitat and the area would not trend toward a direction that would Provide suitable habitat for nesting and breeding pairs.

3.3 Issue 3: How would riparian restoration projects and the opening of allotment 546 impact sedimentation and water quality of the Santa Fe River in both the short-term and long-term.

3.3.1 Affected Environment

The following water quality standards apply to the Santa Fe River and perennial reaches of its tributaries from Cochiti reservoir upstream to the outfall of the Santa Fe wastewater treatment facility (NMAC 20.6.4.113): A. Designated Uses: irrigation, livestock watering, wildlife habitat, marginal coldwater aquatic life, secondary contact, and warmwater aquatic life. B. Criteria: (l) In any single sample: pH within the range of 6.6 to 9.0, temperature 30°C (86°F) or less and dissolved oxygen 4.0 mg/L or more. Dissolved oxygen 5.0 mg/L or more as a 24-hour average. Values used in the calculation of the 24-hour average for dissolved oxygen shall not exceed the dissolved oxygen saturation value. For a measured value above the dissolved oxygen saturation value, the dissolved oxygen saturation value will

be used in calculating the 24-hour average. The dissolved oxygen saturation value shall be determined from the table set out in Subsection N of 20.6.4.900 NMAC. The use- specific numeric criteria set forth in 20.6.4.900 NMAC are applicable to the designated uses listed above in Subsection A of this section. (2) The monthly geometric mean of E. coli bacteria 548 cfu/100 mL or less, single sample 2507 cfu/100 mL or less (see Subsection B of 20.6.4.14 NMAC).

The Santa Fe River below the Santa Fe WWTP is an effluent-dominated system, thus the water quality within the Project area is directly influenced by the discharges of the WWTP. Water quality issues within the segment have prompted the NMED to list this segment of the Santa Fe River (Cochiti Pueblo Boundary upstream to Santa Fe WWTP; Water Quality Segment 20.6.4.113) as impaired and not fully supporting marginal cool-water aquatic life (NMED 2018). NMED (2018) determined causes of impairment, resulting in Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) being established for the following water quality parameters: • Nutrient/Eutrophication Biological Indicators – TMDL established 2018; • Dissolved Oxygen – TMDL established 2018; • Sediment/Siltation – TMDL established 2018; • pH - TMDL established 2018; • Chlorine – TMDL established 2018; and • E-coli – TMDL established 2017.

3.3.2 Environmental Impacts

3.3.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

The proposed riparian restoration is expected to have short-term, localized, negative effects on water quality in the Santa Fe River. Specifically, temporary and localized increases in turbidity and suspended sediments would be expected following construction-related activities, such as machinery crossing the stream. The disturbance of riparian soils and vegetative cover associated with removal of non-native shrub and tree root wads could also temporarily increase upland-generated sediment inputs until native species cover is established. See DOI-BLM-NM-F020-2010-0007-EA for complete analysis (USDI, BLM 2010).

The removal of non-native shrub and tree species also has the potential to cause short-term impacts to water quality by reducing nutrient uptake by plants, which could result in a localized pulse of nutrients to the Santa Fe River. Soluble nutrients (e.g., nitrogen) would likely enter the stream via groundwater, while nutrients adsorbed to soil particles (e.g., phosphorous) could be carried to surface water via runoff. Streams draining red alder forest in the Pacific Northwest, chaparral in California, and grasslands in California and Arizona have shown increased nitrate concentrations following vegetation disturbance (Binkley and Brown 1993). The Santa Fe River has already been documented as nutrient enriched, and increased nutrient loading could lead to additional algal blooms and eutrophication of the Santa Fe River. Removal of streamside vegetation could temporarily increase water temperatures resulting from the loss of stream shade and concurrent increase in solar radiation reaching the stream surface. While most of the non-native species within the Project area are not located directly on the stream/land interface (see Project area photos in Appendix B) and do little to provide shade to the stream surface during the summer months (i.e., when stream temperature loading is an issue), removal of non-native shrubs and trees where they do limit solar inputs would be expected to have minimal impacts to temperature fluctuations within the Santa Fe River.

There would be risks to water quality associated with the use of heavy machinery or mechanized equipment used to treat vegetation, as fuel leaks and spills could occur. Releases of fuel would be more likely to affect surface water than groundwater, and would have the greatest effects to water quality if fuel was released directly into the water. All equipment used within the Project area would be equipped with spill kits and personnel would be trained in their use. In addition, all fueling and lubing activities would take place outside of the riparian area to limit risk.

Alternative A is expected to have long-term beneficial impacts on water quality. The strategic planting of native willows along the streambank throughout the Project area is expected to increase shade to the stream surface, thereby decreasing solar inputs that algae require for survival. With more shade provided to the stream a subsequent decrease in algal growth, and therefore, respiration (i.e., the conversion of oxygen to carbon dioxide) would also decrease. The shade provided by streambank vegetation would result in higher dissolved oxygen levels, stabilized pH, as well as lowered and moderated surface water temperatures. In addition, riparian shrubs have been shown to directly and indirectly mediate many nutrient cycling processes, and, for example, can reduce levels of nitrogen and other minerals from stream or ground water (Schade et al. 2001). No impacts to the Community of La Bajada domestic water well are expected.

Once planted streambank vegetation becomes established, increased vegetation biomass is also expected to aid in the removal of excess nutrients from the surface water and riparian zone, and would serve to stabilize streambanks and decrease sediment discharge (Lowrance et al. 1984; Lowrance et al. 1995). A study in British Columbia, Canada, determined that major bank erosion was 30 times more prevalent on non-forested versus forested meander bends (Beeson and Doyle 1995). In addition, increased riparian zone roughness near the stream channel would help attenuate peak flows (i.e., slow floodwaters), which would allow floodwaters to infiltrate the floodplain soils and recharge groundwater. Forested riverbanks result in slower floodwaters and more stabilized streambanks than herbaceous lined areas, which allow the riparian zone to function as a site of sediment deposition, that builds stream banks and point bars, for which native riparian vegetation requires for its natural establishment (Beeson and Doyle 1995; Geyer et al. 2000; Wynn and Mostaghimi 2006).

The use of a well, pump, or water hauling for purposes of watering livestock in each pasture rather than water gaps would not result in direct or indirect impacts to water quality in the Santa Fe River.

3.3.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

Impacts associated with riparian restoration activities are the same as those described under Section 3.3.2.1 above.

The construction of water gaps for allotment 546 would have direct and indirect impacts to the water quality of the Santa Fe River. The water gaps would be a small percentage of riparian and instream habitat in the project area, however, their concentrated use could cause negative impacts that include increases in erosion, soil compaction, vegetation destruction, and water quality degradation (Agoudidis et al. 2005). Areas that attract cattle will have an increase in manure (USDA-NRCS, 1997). Cattle manure would add more phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) into the already nutrient rich stream potentially lowering the dissolved oxygen and increasing eutrophication of the river. Cattle manure would be directly deposited into the Santa Fe River. Fecal coliform bacteria in cattle manure that is deposited into a stream can remain alive for 12-24 months as compared to 7-21 days for manure deposited on land (Hudson 2008).

3.3.2.3 Alternative C – No Action

The No Action alternative would not result in direct impacts to water quality in the Santa Fe River, However, the No Action alternative would not address chronic NMED-listed impairments (e.g., excessive nutrients, low dissolved oxygen, and sedimentation) that cause the river to not fully support marginal cool-water aquatic life.

3.4 Issue 4: How effective would each alternative be in providing for the protection, preservation, restoration, and enhancement of the Rael Farmstead Historic District?

3.4.1 Affected Environment

The Rael Farmstead Historic District (Rael Farmstead) is a 34.6-acres farmstead that is located within the larger 392 acre Rael property, and the 13,390 acre La Cienega ACEC. Located within Santa Fe Canyon, and straddling the Santa Fe River, the Rael Farmstead contains standing structures and historic agricultural features associated with the historic-period occupation of the farm by the Rael family over multiple generations. The land encompassing the Rael Farmstead Historic District has either been owned and/or occupied by the Rael family for over 300 years (from 1692 until 2011). The built environment of the District is represented by two episodes: construction of an acequia around 1710; followed by the 1860 settlement and occupation of the farmstead by Rael family through the modern era (2011). The District includes 49 features, of which most are linear structures such as rock piles, fence lines, telephone lines, an acequia and irrigation laterals/canals. Other feature types include an adobe house, corrals, outbuildings, refuse dumps, orchards and vineyards, historic inscriptions on rocks, earthen depressions, and an earthen pond.

The Rael Farmstead is a significant historical resource that has been determined to be eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) under criteria A, B and D (36 CFR 60.4). A NRHP nomination package was prepared by BLM and is currently going through the process of being listed on the NRHP as the Rael Farmstead Historic District.

The Section 106 process of the National Historic Preservation Act requires that the BLM assess potential effects from our actions upon any historic property (defined as a site that is eligible for on listed on the NRHP) within the area of potential effects. The BLM consults with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) regarding both the eligibility of a property to the NRHP as well as for adverse effects from a project to historic properties. An adverse effect is found when “an undertaking may alter, directly or indirectly, any of the characteristics of a historic property that qualify the property for inclusion in the National Register in a manner that would diminish the integrity of the property’s location, design, setting, materials, workmanship feeling or association” (36 CFR 800.5 (a)(1)). Informal consultations with the New Mexico SHPO have been conducted with the intent of achieving agreement that the BLM’s proposal for the Rael Farmstead would result in a “no adverse effect” to historic properties. Formal consultation will be completed prior to BLM making a decision under the NEPA.

3.4.2 Environmental Impacts

3.4.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

Under this alternative, the Rael Farmstead and its values would be protected from degradation and destruction by performing necessary repair and maintenance on the buildings and the agricultural features including the acequia, the earthen pond, field, orchard, vineyard, and other historic vegetation features. In addition, proactive management actions would be performed to enhance the historical cultural and natural features of the farmstead.

Adobe Farmhouse

The farmhouse would be carefully rehabilitated for adaptive reuse for temporary residency when such use would benefit the BLM’s objectives for the Rael Farmstead Historic District. Having any structure occupied contributes to the long-term viability of the building because regular maintenance and emergency needs are typically attended to more promptly due to daily attention by the inhabitants, and the need for repairs to keep the place habitable.

Both native and non-native trees are currently threatening the farmhouse and must be professionally removed to protect the integrity of the building. The cottonwoods close to the building are very large and both the root structure and the large limbs pose a threat to the building. The non-native ailanthus are large and numerous and mostly pose a threat to the foundation.

Acequia

The acequia needs substantial repairs to restore it to a proper functioning condition. There are myriad ways in which to do this with some requiring the use of modern materials and techniques. These ideas would be explored and detailed in the management plan but the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties, 1995 would be the prevailing guidance used for any treatments. To the extent practicable, the acequia would be kept clean and functioning without changing the physical location and using historically compatible materials as much as possible. The head gates for canals coming off the acequia would be repaired and re-established so that water distribution would be restored to a historical functioning condition.

Agricultural Field

The historical condition of the field would be restored using Keyline design which entails establishing a furrow system that follows contour lines from upslope to downslope that better distributes the water to achieve an evenly watered field. This technique slows the water, leading to increased saturation and reduced degradation from water moving too quickly down the hill. This method would break up areas with soil compaction, improve the root zone and capillary activity, improve infiltration of precipitation, increase moisture retention, and generally stabilize the soils and field perimeters. This technique would improve the functioning of the landscape to return the field to an irrigated function and build resiliency by encouraging soil building and reducing loss that occurs with wind and water erosion. The establishment of diverse, beneficial native plants would support all manner of wildlife including insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals.

The order of work would be seeding, ditching or furrowing, then Keyline plowing if soil compaction is determined to be an issue. A soil penetrometer would be used to test this. The seed mix would be a diverse blend of plants that grow and seed throughout the year. The benefits of a diverse mix include building soil biology, covering bare ground, giving competition to weed pressure, providing insectary plants for beneficial insects such as predators and pollinators. The goal is to have no bare ground in the field. For the furrowing/ditching, an Eversman V ditcher would be used to create laterals on contour, to take water out of its fall line and bring it out into the dry parts of the field. The V ditcher cuts a shallow,

wide lateral ditch, replicating the way water was moved on that land for centuries. These ditches allow for high volume and low velocity to eliminate potential for erosion.

Later in the season, crimping is done to cover crops at the appropriate time, with a Dixon land imprinter that imprints and crimps. This would accelerate the break down and decomposition of the bio-mass, would put the seeds back in the soil, and act as a nurse site for the perennial plants that are also in the seed mix.

Riparian Area Restoration

Restoration of the riparian area would not cause impacts to the Rael Farmstead if it is performed carefully and with consideration for historic features that are formed by some of these large, non-native trees. The row of trees and basalt boulders along the dirt road on the east side of the river, just north of the farmhouse, appears to have been built to manage flooding and bank loss, and the trees, rock work and banking appear to be functioning as designed. These trees would not be removed because they are part of an important historical feature of the farm.

The removal of deliberately planted non-native trees by the historical owners could be considered an “adverse effect” to the property because those trees were culturally sourced. Had these trees invaded the property on their own, then their removal would not necessarily be an adverse effect. Carefully removing invasive species and select non-native species followed by replacement with native riparian species should not cause any adverse effects because it would restore and enhance the setting and feeling aspects of integrity by returning historically present species to the river corridor.

Livestock Grazing

Livestock grazing under Alternative A would occur on lands outside of the Rael Farmstead Historic District. Under this alternative, water would have to be hauled or pumped from the river and no water gaps would be developed. This would serve to avoid impacts that could result from cattle walking through the farmstead possibly causing inadvertent damage from trampling features or the grazing/browsing of trees or vineyards.

A new well with a windmill or solar panels could cause adverse effects to the historic farmstead if not sited properly, due to the modern technology and appearance of solar panels. A windmill would be a more historically compatible technology and the appearance of a windmill is historically compatible. If the modern elements are within the farmstead or visible from the farmstead, they must be situated and designed in such a way that causes no adverse visual effects to the setting and feeling of the Rael Farmstead Historic District.

Recreation and Access

The access and recreation proposed under this alternative would allow members of the public to have a level of unrestricted access to the Rael Farmstead Historic District and this access could lead to looting, unauthorized digging, and vandalism to the historic features. The physical tread of the trail should cause no impacts since it would be placed in such a way as to cause no physical impacts to the farmstead or any other undiscovered archaeological or historical features or intact deposits.

The proposed parking area at the trailhead would be outside of the Rael Farmstead Historic District. Directional signs and interpretive exhibits in the parking area should serve to better inform visitors and to increase their appreciation of the unique history of the Rael Farmstead, which should serve to prevent or

curtail unwanted behaviors. Camping would be allowed for administrative purposes only, which should not cause impacts since such camping would dispersed, undeveloped, and monitored by the BLM.

3.4.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

Adobe Farmhouse

Under this alternative, the adobe farmhouse would be rehabilitated for use as a meeting space/workshop facility. A water line would be plumbed into the building, and a system for wastewater would be installed. These changes to the house could cause adverse effects because it would require making physical changes to the house that may or may not be compatible depending on siting of the utilities or other features and the techniques and materials used for making these rehabilitative changes. Using the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties as a guide, these changes can be incorporated in such a way as to cause no adverse effects under Section 106. The specific details would be developed and presented in a historic property plan for the Rael Farmstead Historic District.

Agricultural Field

Under this alternative, the agricultural field would be prepared as described in Alternative A, but the seed mixture would be with native plants for the purpose of raising and harvesting native seeds for use in restoration applications on BLM lands. This would be a compatible use for the agricultural field even though it was not used this way historically.

The long-term vision of controlled grazing or haying would be something to work towards once a steward or partner is in place. This would involve fencing, watering sites, and structures to house the animals.

Earthen Pond

Under this alternative, the earthen pond which stores agricultural water also would be used for the reintroduction of frogs. Although this use would require clean-out maintenance and repurposing of the pond, those actions would not cause adverse effects as long as the work is performed carefully, and the historic fabric is maintained. This use is not an historic use, but the presence of frogs in the pond during historic times in unknown, and the reuse for species reintroduction is not incompatible in this setting.

Livestock Grazing

Under this alternative, grazing allotments adjacent to the Rael Farmstead Historic District would be opened for use and two water gaps to the Santa Fe River would be constructed for cattle access. These water gaps would be located adjacent to the boundary of the historic district, not within it. As long as pasture fences are maintained, the cattle would not be able to access the farmstead where they could cause inadvertent damage from trampling features or the grazing/browsing of trees or vineyards.

Recreation and Access

Under this alternative, recreation opportunities at the Rael Farmstead Historic District would include the development and implementation of an interpretive program. This would include interpretive exhibits throughout the historic district, particularly interpreting the adobe farmhouse, agricultural system, and other historic features within the district. In addition, a vault toilet would be built on the property and a parking area for administrative and permitted users would be built within the historic district.

The proposed vault toilet and parking area could cause physical damage to the property as well as introducing elements that may not be compatible to the historic landscape. Siting of these developments in such a way that would reduce or minimize effects may be possible. Also, the materials used for these developments should also be compatible with the setting. An interpretive program with exhibits would provide visitors a deeper context for the farmstead’s physical ad historical setting. A deeper understanding can lead to better appreciation of the resources and tends to support better visitor behavior. However, unaccompanied visitors can also engage in vandalism, looting, unauthorized excavation, and artifact collecting and theft, which causes impacts to the cultural resources of the Rael Farmstead.

3.4.2.3 Alternative C – No Action

Under this alternative, no specific management plan for the Rael Farmstead would be developed and the property would be managed under existing guidance. Under this guidance, the BLM would continue to maintain and preserve the historic structures and keep them closed to the public. The acequia and earthen pond would be repaired and maintained on an annual basis. This would be the minimum level of management for the Rael Farmstead and would be enough to preserve the integrity and qualities of the Rael Farmstead to reach an “no adverse effect” determination through NHPA Section 106 consultation with the New Mexico SHPO.

There would be no impact to the cultural resources of the Rael Farmstead from having no new grazing allotments or revisions to current grazing allotment boundaries. There would be no impact to the cultural resources of the Rael Farmstead from having no public parking areas, clean water sources, or bathroom facilities. The property would be open for public visitation and dispersed, undeveloped recreation which could cause impacts to the cultural resources of the Rael Farmstead from unregulated visitor use, which can lead to looting, unauthorized excavation, and artifact collecting and vandalism.

3.5 Issue 5: Potential impacts to livestock grazing opportunities and operations from adjusting the boundary of allotment 546 to exclude the Rael Ranch and riparian habitat south of the Rael Ranch boundary

3.5.1 Affected Environment

Allotment 00546 Ceniguilla Community is currently unallotted and has been vacant for years. The current acreage of the allotment is 714 acres with 34 AUM’s. Boundary fences are in poor condition and in need of maintenance. The southern part of the allotment is the Santa Fe River canyon, which serves as a natural boundary and there is no fence along the canyon. The only water source for the allotment is the Santa Fe River or water hauling.

The north and south pastures of Allotment 546 consist of primarily upland grasslands and oneseed juniper (Juniperus monosperma) savannas. The northern pasture is comprised of grasslands on flat plains and small slopes dominated by warm-season grasses, primarily blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) with tree cholla (Cylindropuntia imbricata) and broom snakeweed (Gutierrezia sarothrae) common throughout. Oneseed juniper is found scattered across the pasture but occurs more frequently near the rim of the Santa Fe River canyon in the western portion of the pasture. Cool-season bunchgrasses and perennial forbs, including rose heath (Chaetopappa ericoides) and scarlet globemallow (Sphaeralcea coccinea), are found in scattered patches throughout the pasture.

The south pasture consists of oneseed juniper savannas on rocky slopes surrounding Cerro Segura. The rocky slopes are dominated by warm-season sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) and blue grama

grasses. Herbaceous vegetation is sparse on the steeper slopes likely due to the high amount of rock cover in some areas. Common shrubs on the rocky slopes and along upland drainages include mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus), Gambel’s oak (Quercus gambelii), and apache plume (Fallugia paradoxa). Narrowleaf yucca (Yucca angustissima) and a variety of cacti species are common throughout both pastures.

3.5.2 Environmental Impacts

3.5.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

Under this alternative, the boundary would be adjusted to exclude the riparian area and to include uplands of Rael Ranch. Two pastures would be created, one to the north and one to the south. The north pasture would be 427 acres with 64 AUM’s and the south pasture would be 449 acres with 50 AUM’s. The use of water hauling as an alternative to water gaps would result in hardship and difficulty to the permittee. Direct impacts would be caused to vegetation where water trucks would dump water and turn around.

3.5.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

The water gaps would be beneficial from a cattle operation standpoint, but maintenance would be essential in ensuring cattle are not grazing in the riparian area. Maintenance of structures and range improvements would be a term of the grazing permit.

3.5.2.3 Alternative C – No Action

The No Action Alternative would result is loss of forage use and historic grazing use in the area.

3.6 Issue 6: Consideration for using grazing as a tool for invasive species control and maintenance within the canyon and in close proximity to the riparian zone

3.6.1 Affected Environment

The Rael Ranch is adjacent to the Santa Fe River Canyon where riparian habitats occur. In this riparian zone a number of invasive species occur, including Russian olive, Siberian elm, and saltcedar. These invasive species can change soil fertility, nutrient cycling and soil chemistry in the riparian ecosystem. In turn these can affect stream characteristics, water quality, and presence of native species in the riparian area.

3.6.2 Environmental Impacts

3.6.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

Under the proposed action authorized livestock grazing from Allotment 546 Ceniguilla Community would be excluded from the riparian area and therefore would have no impact to riparian vegetation or resources. Targeted grazing may be used in the riparian area for specific vegetation management and the timing and intensity would be carefully managed to minimize impacts to riparian vegetation and resources. Targeted grazing is the application of specific kind of livestock at a specific season, duration and intensity accomplish defined vegetation or landscape goals.

Water hauling and other water sources allowable under this alternative would have no effect on grazing as a tool for invasive species control and maintenance within the canyon and in close proximity to the riparian zone. Livestock would likely remain in the riparian area if given access due to the close proximity to water and abundant green vegetation.

3.6.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

3.6.2.3 Alternative C – No Action

The No Action alternative would result in no use of grazing for invasive species control and maintenance with the canyon and the riparian area. This could lead to overgrowth of invasive species in the riparian zone.

3.7 Issue 7: Opportunities for recreational access to the Santa Fe River and overlook of the Rael Ranch

3.7.1 Affected Environment

The project area is within the West Santa Fe-Cieneguilla SRMA, which within close proximity to Santa Fe, New Mexico. The SRMA is home to hiking, horseback riding, biking, petroglyph viewing, guided hikes and exploration. An existing trail leaves the current, unofficial pullout on the side of Santa Fe County Road 54A, headed south, going around an adjacent hill side outside of the Rael Ranch. The trail splits off into two directions, one leading to the Santa Fe River and another to undeveloped overlook of the Rael Ranch. The existing trails and trailhead location are well defined by current surface disturbance.

3.7.2 Environmental Impacts

3.7.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

Designation and maintenance of existing trails would provide recreational opportunities in a more controlled and sustainable manner. The signage that would be provided at the trailhead would give the users more information about the areas they are exploring and the resources in the area. The existing trails range from a 12- to 18-inch width of disturbance in the widest sections. There would be little to no additional environmental impacts to the areas in which in the trails are already established.

The proposed pedestrian access and Rael Ranch overlook trail is currently seeing low levels of recreational use, mostly comprised of hikers using unofficial “user-created trails” outside of the Rael Ranch boundary. These trails provide access to the Santa Fe River, views of La Cienega and the Rael Ranch itself. The existing trails are approximately 0.75 mile from the proposed trailhead to the Santa Fe

River and 0.5 to the overlook of Rael Ranch. Additional minor improvements and maintenance actions would need to be preformed, such as installation of water drainage structures, check steps, and grading. Construction of a sustainable and safe overlook would be completed following biological and cultural resource surveys in order to avoid such resources. The overlook would be no larger than 12 x 12 feet. Construction and maintenance would be completed by BLM staff and partners in groups no larger than 10 at a time with hand tools such as shovels, pick mattocks, Mcleods, and rock bars.

The proposed trailhead along County Road 54A is currently being used by recreationalist hiking in the area. Construction of a new trailhead would provide a safer and more sustainable solution to the disturbed area being used now. Heavy machinery and hand tools would be used to complete the construction of the trailhead.

Developing the trail, trailhead and parking would result in increased use of the trail system.

3.7.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

Pedestrian access and associated impacts are as described under the Alternative A.

Providing for a vault toilet and parking area adjacent to the house permits some control over the use of facilities outside of the house and the potential impacts that could occur without a defined parking being provided at the ranch. Suitable areas for both the vault toilet and parking area would be located following biological and cultural resource surveys in order to avoid such resources. However, developing the parking and other amenities could result in increased visitation of the ranch site.

3.7.2.3 Alternative C – No Action

Under the No Action alternative, the recreation opportunities would remain the same adjacent to the Rael Ranch. Recreationalists would continue to use the undeveloped trailhead and trails that access the Santa Fe River. Trails would not receive maintenance or have sustainable design features.

3.8 Issue 8: How would riparian restoration projects and the opening of allotment 546 impact riparian resources?

3.8.1 Affected Environment

The riparian portion of the Project area consists of a relatively wide (approximately 100 m) floodplain and terrace complex, with an approximately 30 m-wide strip of obligate riparian vegetation to a somewhat restricted floodplain (40-85 m) with a 25-35 m-wide strip of obligate riparian vegetation. The area currently supports closed-canopy Russian olive patches with little or no understory vegetation and open and frequently flooded areas dominated by non-native herbaceous species such as creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera), as well as native herbaceous species such as knotgrass (Paspalum distichum) and alkali muhly (Mulenbergia asperifolia), which are present to a lesser extent. The infrequently flooded terraces are dominated by the shrubs rubber rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa), one-seed juniper (Juniperus monosperma), and Russian olive, with little herbaceous vegetation observed. Very scattered individuals of Gooding’s willow and coyote willow exist in this area.

3.8.2 Environmental Impacts

3.8.2.1 Alternative A – Management Plan: Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Resources

Alternative A would remove approximately 40 acres of non-native vegetation throughout the 80.83 acre restoration zone and concurrently replace it with native species, thus modifying the composition of the vegetation from one that is dominated by non-native species (primarily Russian olive and saltcedar) into one that is composed of a mix of native (primarily Rio Grande cottonwood, Goodding’s willow, and coyote willow) and non-native riparian shrub and tree species. The result of Alternative A is expected to increase plant species diversity, structural diversity (both horizontal and vertical), and forage diversity. See DOI-BLM-NM-F020-2010-0007-EA for complete analysis (USDI, BLM 2010).

Alternative A would temporarily affect existing herbaceous riparian vegetation due to disturbance related to machinery maneuvering and the extraction of non-native shrub and tree root wads. The machinery used for removal and planting moves on tracks (e.g., trackhoe, skidsteer, etc) and would maintain a straight line as much as possible to minimize disturbance. However, the turning of machinery has the potential to disturb and relocate topsoil elements, which could result in areas of bare soil. In addition, herbaceous vegetation that is located near non-native species proposed for removal could also be affected when the root wad is extracted. All attempts would be made to relocate affected herbaceous vegetation by replacing it into the affected area. All areas of disturbed and/or bare soil would be seeded with a native certified weed-free seed mix. Seeds would be raked into the top ½ inch of the disturbed soil.

Riparian resources would be minimally impacted by the opening of allotment 546 as the cattle would not have access to the riparian zone. However, there would be the potential for increased erosion and soil compaction that would decrease infiltration and increase runoff and sediment delivery to the stream.

3.8.2.2 Alternative B – Management Plan: Resource Protection while providing for more Intensive Use

The construction of water gaps for allotment 546 would have potential direct and indirect impacts to the riparian resources of the Santa Fe River. Although the area of impacted riparian would be small, the concentrated use of the water gaps would cause the areas to become heavily grazed resulting in soil compaction and erosion while limiting wildlife habitat through the damage of the vegetation. Dobkin et al. (1998) detected greater numbers and more species of birds within cattle exclosures in Oregon and Krueper et al. (2003) detected increases in bird species in cattle excluded areas of the San Pedro River in southeastern Arizona. The high frequency of flash floods in the Santa Fe River canyon often destroy water gap fencing and other fencing that crosses the river and would need frequent repair. The Santa Fe River has had 5 such events ranging from 500 cfs to 2700 cfs in the last 8 years. Although, the water gaps would be a small portion of the riparian vegetation, when fencing is compromised by flash floods cattle would be able to access the entirety of the riparian zone, increasing the severity of the impacts.

3.8.2.3 Alternative C – No Action

The No Action alternative would not result in direct impacts to riparian vegetation. However, the continued encroachment of non-native shrubs and trees into existing wetland areas could alter the physical characteristics of the riparian ecosystem by reducing these important areas.

CHAPTER 4. CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

4.1 Summary of Consultation and Coordination

In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and its implementing regulations (36 CFR Part 800), the following entities are being consulted:

• New Mexico State Historic Preservation Officer • Comanche Indian Nation • Hopi Tribe • Jicarilla Apache Nation • Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma • Navajo Nation • Pueblo of Cochiti • Pueblo of Isleta • Ohkay Owingeh • Pueblo of Pojoaque • Pueblo of San Ildefonso • Pueblo of Sandia • Pueblo of Santa Clara • Kewa Pueblo • Pueblo of Tesuque • Pueblo of Nambe

4.2 Summary of Public Participation

[To be completed after this EA is made available for public review and comment.]

4.2.1 Public Comments Analysis

[To be completed after this EA is made available for public review and comment.] 4.3 List of Preparers

Specialist Resource Office

Brianna Martinez Livestock Grazing BLM TAFO

Ryan Besser Fisheries, Riparian, and Water BLM TAFO Resources

Jane Childress Cultural BLM NMSO

Elyssa Duran Forester BLM TAFO

Brad Higdon NEPA BLM TAFO

Pam Herrera Olivas Wildlife BLM TAFO

Whit Patterson Project Manager, Lead BLM TAFO Preparer, Recreation

REFERENCES

List all documents referenced, including those incorporated by reference, in this EA. Use a consistent style when citing each document.

If a website or personal communication is referenced, include the date the information was accessed on the website or when the communication occurred.

Agouridis, C.T., S.R. Workman, R.C. Warner, and G.D. Jennings. 2005. Livestock grazing management impacts on stream water quality: A review. Journal of the American Water Resources Association 41(3): 591-606.

Beeson, C.E. and P.F. Doyle. 1995. Comparison of bank erosion at vegetated and non-vegetated channel bends. Journal of the American Water Resources Association 31: 983-990.

Binkley, D. and T. C. Brown. 1993. Management Impacts on Water Quality of Forests and Rangelands. USDA Forest Service. General Technical Report, RM-239. Fort Collins, Colorado.

Dobkin, D.S., A.C. Rich, and W.H. Pyle. 1998. Habitat and avifaunal recovery from livestock grazing in a riparian meadow system of the northwestern Great Basin. Conservation Biology 12(1): 209-221.

Geyer, W.A., T. Neppl, K. Brooks, and J. Carlisle. 2000. Woody vegetation protects streambank stability during the 1993 flood in central Kansas. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 55: 483-486.

Husdon, T. D. 2008. Livestock Management and Water Quality. Washington State University Extension Bulletin EB2021E.

Krueper, D., J. Bart, and T.D. Rich. 2003. Response of vegetation and breeding birds to the removal of cattle on the San Pedro River, Arizona (U.S.A). Conservation Biology 17(2): 607-615.

Lowrance, R., R. Todd, J. Fail, Jr., O. Hendrickson, Jr., R. Leonard, and L. Asmussen. 1984. Riparian forests as nutrient filters in agricultural watersheds. BioScience 34: 374-377.

Lowrance, R., L. S. Altier, J. D. Newbold, R. R. Schnabel, P.M. Groffman, J. M. Denver, D. L. Correll, J. W. Gilliam, J. L. Robinson, R. B. Brinsfield, K. W. Staver, W. Lucas, and A. H. Todd. 1995. Water

Quality Functions of Riparian Forest Buffer Systems in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. EPA 903-R-95- 004. USEPA: Washington, DC.

New Mexico Environment Department. 2018. Final 2018-2020 State of New Mexico CWA §303(d)/§305(b) Integrated Report, Appendix A – List of Assessed Surface Waters. New Mexico Environment Department – Surface Water Quality Bureau. Santa Fe, NM.

Schade, J.D., S.G. Fisher, N.B. Grimm. and J.A. Seddon. 2001. The influence of a riparian shrub on nitrogen cycling in a Sonoran Desert stream. Ecology, 82: 3363–3376.

USDA-NRCS (U. S. Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service). 1997. Grazing Technology Institute, National Range and Pasture Handbook. NRPH, Fort Worth, Texas. 190p.

USDI, BLM. 2010. Santa Fe River Canyon Riparian Forest Restoration Project Environmental Assessment. DOI-BLM-NM-F020-2010-0007-EA. USDI, BLM-Taos Field Office, Taos, New Mexico.

Wynn, T. and S. Mostaghimi. 2006. The effects of vegetation and soil type on streambank erosion, southwestern Virginia, USA. Journal of the American Water Resources Association February: 69-82.

Appendix A: Maps

00544

iver Fe R Santa

La Cienega ACEC & Cieneguilla SMRA (see legend)

S a n tt a F e C o ..

00545

00546

Location Map

Taos Field Office ¦¨§40

¦¨§25

¦¨§10

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Map 1: Current Management Rael Ranch Acquisition Roads µ Nominated National Historic District BLM Current Grazing Allotments Private No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for State individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes Cieneguilla SRMA not intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map 0 0.2 0.4 0.8 Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. La Cienega ACEC Date: 9/21/2020 Miles Potential Livestock Watering Gap for North Pasture- Alternative B only

iver Fe R Santa

North Pasture- 427 Acres 64 AUM's (8 Cows YL)

Potential Livestock Watering Gap for North Pasture Trail- Restoration Zone Alternative B only 80.38 Acres

546

[ [ [

S a n tt a F e C o ..

Potential Livestock Parking- Administrative Watering Gap & Handicap only

for South Pasture- [ 5

[ [ R

Alternative B only Æü [ Parking [

[

[ [ [

[ # [ Potential [ Overlook Æü

South Pasture- 449 Acres

50 AUM's (5 Cows YL) R 5

546 [ B

[

[ Location Map

[ [ [ [

[ [ Taos [ [ Field Office

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ ¦¨§40

[ [

[ [ [ [ 25 [ ¦¨§ [ [ [ ¦¨§10

¦¨§25

Map 2: Proposed Rael Ranch Management Plan

[ [ Proposed Fences Æü Parking µ Potential Trails Roads No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the Proposed Allotment Boundary- 546 accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for BLM individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes Nominated National Historic District not intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map Private Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. 0 0.2 0.4 0.8 Restoration Zone State Date: 10/9/2020 Miles 544

Potential Livestock Watering Gap for North Pasture- Alternative B only

iver Fe R Santa

North Pasture- 427 Acres 64 AUM's (8 Cows YL)

Potential Livestock Watering Gap for North Pasture Trail- Alternative B only

546 [ [

[ Restoration Zone 80.38 Acres

544 S a n tt a F e C o ..

Potential Livestock

Watering Gap

for South Pasture- [ [

[

Alternative B only [

[

[ [ [ [ [

[

South Pasture- 449 Acres 50 AUM's (5 Cows YL)

546

546 [

[

[ Location Map

[ [ [ [ [ Taos [ [ [ Field Office

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ ¦¨§40

[ [

[ [ [ [ ¦¨§25

[ [ [ [ ¦¨§10

¦¨§25

Map 3: Livestock Grazing and Riparian Restoration [ [ Proposed Fences Restoration Zone

Current allotment Boundary µ Proposed Allotment Boundary- 546 Nominated National Historic District

No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the BLM accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes Private not intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map 0 0.25 0.5 1 Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. State Date: 9/21/2020 Miles

Appendix B: Special Status Species

Federally Listed Threatened and Endangered Species To determine presence or absence of listed species in the project area, information was obtained from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning & Consultation (IPaC) Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS) System for Santa Fe County. It is determined that there is stopover habitat for the Southwestern willow flycatcher which may be present in the project area during migration, therefore, a “May Affect, not Likely to Adversely Affect”, determination is made for this species. There is no designated critical habitat for any species listed by the USFWS within the project area. Therefore, it is determined that the proposed action and no action alternative will have no effect on designated critical habitat.

Species Status Habitat Associations Comments Mexican spotted owl ESA-Threatened Steep, forested, canyon Project site lacks (Strix occidentalis habitats, often with preferred mature or old- lucida) riparian component. growth trees and complex forest structure. Occurrence unlikely; Therefore, the proposed action will have a “no effect” determination for this species. Southwestern willow ESA-Endangered Dense cottonwood-willow Project site lacks dense flycatcher (Empidonax or tamarisk-Russian olive riparian habitat suitable for traillii extimus) habitats along streams nesting and breeding but and rivers, wetlands and may provide migratory marshes. stopover habitat. There is potential for beneficial effects to occur in the long-term for the species as a result of riparian restoration efforts. Presence/Absence surveys at an upstream site are ongoing. Therefore, a “May effect, not likely to Adversely effect” is determined for this species. Yellow-billed cuckoo ESA-Threatened Mature closed canopy Project site lacks (Coccyzus americanus) riparian woodlands with preferred structure of dense under stories. overstory cottonwood

trees and contiguous stands of riparian habitat greater than 81 hectares in size. Therefore, the proposed action will have” no effect” determination for this species. New Mexico meadow ESA-Endangered Dense streamside riparian No mice were detected jumping mouse a minimum of two feet tall during the 2020 surveys

(Zapus hudsonius or wetland vegetation with along two reaches of the luteus) sedges and willow-alder Santa Fe river . The communities near moist proposed action will lowland habitats. have no effect on this species.

Sensitive Species

The following BLM sensitive species may occur or have habitat present within and adjacent to the Rael Ranch analysis area.

Species Status Habitat Associations Comments

Gunnison’s prairie dog BLM Sensitive Great Basin desert scrub Adjacent to the project (Cynomys gunnisoni) from low valleys to area preferred habitat of montane meadows. open grassland or mixed shrubland exists, the proposed Alternatives would have no impact on the Gunnison’s prairie dog. Black-tailed prairie dog BLM Sensitive Shortgrass prairies and Adjacent to the project (Cynomys ludovicianus) plains. area preferred habitat of open grassland or mixed shrubland exists, the proposed Alternatives would have no impact on the black-tailed prairie dog. Bell’s vireo BLM Sensitive Dense shrubland or Adjacent to the project (Vireo bellii arizonae) woodland along lowland woodland habitat is stream courses, with sparse along the Santa Fe willows (Salix spp), river, riparian restoration mesquite activities will occur outside (Prosopis glandulosa), the migratory bird and seepwillows breeding season, the (Baccharis salicifolia).. proposed Alternatives would have no impact on the Bell’s vireo. Burrowing owl BLM Sensitive Grasslands and desert Adjacent to the project (Athene cunicularia scrub. Usually in area preferred habitat of hypugaea) association with burrowing open grassland or mixed rodents. shrubland exists, the proposed Alternatives would have no impact on the burrowing owl.

Pinyon jay BLM Sensitive Pinyon-Juniper The project area does not (Gymnorhinus woodlands. have any pinyon-juniper cyanocephalus) woodlands. Though the pinyon jay may occasionally pass through the project area, the proposed Alternatives would have no impact on the pinyon jay. Virginia’s warbler BLM Sensitive Mixed woodlands with Adjacent to the project (Vermivora virginiae) steep draws, drainages, or woodland habitat is slopes with oak or other sparse along the Santa Fe shrubby vegetation. river, riparian restoration activities will occur outside the migratory bird breeding season, the proposed Alternatives would have no impact on the Virginia’s warbler. Bendire’s Thrasher BLM Sensitive Nest in dense low shrubs, Project is outside of (Toxostoma bendirei) trees, yuccas, or cacti. mapped summer and Live in dry semi-open year-round range. habitats including juniper Preferable habitat is not savannahs, and Sonoran present, the proposed desert with shrubs, cactus Alternatives would have and some grass no impact on the understory. Bendire’s thrasher. Monarch butterfly BLM Sensitive Fields and meadows; Is primarily found along (Danaus plexippus where ever milkweed is riparian areas, riparian plexippus) growing. restoration activities will occur outside of the growing season, the proposed Alternatives would have no impact on the Monarch butterfly. Northern leopard frog BLM Sensitive Aquatic habitats, including Suitable habitat occurs (Lithobates pipiens) marshes, streams, ponds, within the project location. irrigation ditches, wet The riparian restoration meadows, and shallow activities have the portions of reservoirs. potential to benefit this species; Therefore, the proposed action will have a beneficial effect on the Northern leopard frog. Rio Grande sucker BLM Sensitive Cool mid elevation Occurrence likely, suitable (Catostomus plebeius) streams with gravel and or habitat within the project cobble. location. The riparian restoration activities have the potential to benefit this species; Therefore, the proposed action will have a beneficial effect on the Rio Grande sucker. Rio Grande chub (Gila BLM Sensitive Impoundments and pools Occurrence possible: pandora) associated with small to potential suitable habitat.

moderate streams. The riparian restoration Coolwater reaches of the activities have the Rio Grande and Pecos potential to benefit this River (including species; Therefore, the tributaries) in northern proposed action will have New Mexico. a beneficial effect on the Rio Grande chub.