White Clouds Wilderness and Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol White Clouds Wilderness and Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Chelsea Phillippe, Wilderness Ranger Katy Nelson, Lead Wilderness Ranger Liese Dean, Wilderness Program Coordinator

October 2016 Introduction

On August 7, 2015, the White Clouds and Hemingway-Boulders received federal protection as designated wilderness from the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Jerry Peak Wilderness Additions Act (PL 114-46). This Act assigned the majority of management responsibility, the protection of these two wilderness areas into perpetuity, to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area (Sawtooth NRA). As defined by the Wilderness Act of 1964, wilderness is “in contrast with those areas where man and his own works dominate the landscape… where man himself is a visitor who does not remain… (and where) the imprint of man's work (is) substantially unnoticeable” (PL 88-577). The Sawtooth NRA must administer these lands “for the use and enjoyment of the American people in such manner as will leave them unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as wilderness, and so as to provide for the protection of these areas, the preservation of their wilderness character, and for the gathering and dissemination of information regarding their use and enjoyment as wilderness” (PL 88-577).

This document is a Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol, providing framework and guidance for the Sawtooth NRA to adapt and implement long-term Recreation Site Monitoring in both the White Clouds Wilderness and Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness. This Protocol meets the requirements of, but should be used in conjunction with; the Sawtooth National Forest Management Plan (2012), Wilderness Stewardship Performance (USDA 2015), National Minimum Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol (2015), and is consistent with the Sawtooth Wilderness Inventorying and Monitoring (SWIM) Project Manual (2013) Campsite Monitoring Protocol and the Boulder - White Clouds Inventory of 2003.

Background

Wilderness protection provides the visitor an opportunity to experience unconfined recreation in undeveloped, primeval, and natural conditions. In an ideal world these would coalesce. Unfortunately, recreation leaves a footprint, or impact, on wilderness lands. Research on recreation trends and use impacts began in the 1960s- 1970s when visitors began venturing into wilderness areas at record numbers (Cole and Hall 1992). Managers feared this high use was unsustainable and began to quantitatively inventory and monitor recreation impacts, especially at campsites. As use plateaued and eventually recessed in the late 1990s, monitoring programs continued to provide managers with consistent data, increasing their ability to gain insight about user trends and habits, and therefore make informed decisions on how to best manage wilderness.

Monitoring can be defined as “the process of repeatedly measuring an attribute over time to determine changes in location or condition” (Landres, et. al. 2001). Continuous monitoring provides quantitative data for wilderness managers to statistically evaluate impacts and set limits for resource damage - such as indicator numbers, or thresholds, for sustainable use. Managers use this data to measure where, and how these thresholds have been exceeded, often through measurable resource damage. Due to the slow rate of recovery of deteriorating site conditions a 5 percent or more increase in site impact index is considered a degrading trend (Landres, et.al. 2016). When this occurs management should take action by using adaptive management strategies such as increasing education efforts, or implementing regulations, to protect an area’s wilderness character. Research helps support successful wilderness management programs by utilizing effective monitoring and inventorying plans (Colistra and Flood 2005).

In 2003 the Sawtooth NRA conducted a thorough survey of campsites within the Boulder-White Cloud recommended wilderness, inventorying over 75% of all sites (2003). This 2003 Campsite Inventory and Monitoring Survey (renamed Recreation Site Monitoring in 2016) inventoried over 320 campsites, from both within and outside of the proposed wilderness. In 2016 a resurvey of the area was completed focusing on the White Cloud Wilderness and Hemingway-Boulder Wilderness. All sites from 2003 were resurveyed, if they were in the new wilderness areas, as were additional off-trail destinations. This 2016 survey, collected from nearly 350 sites, provides baseline data for the new wildernesses to be analyzed to establish user impacts upon designation, which will allow wilderness managers to protect the area as is, or better. Additionally, this crucial data should be used to set standards and indicators for the Wilderness Management Plan (released for public scoping November 2016).

Summary of Recreation Site Monitoring Procedures/Protocol Data collection for recreation sites within the White Clouds and Hemingway Boulders Wilderness areas must occur in all likely locations, in both wildernesses, with a goal of visiting >95% of recreation sites, and must occur at least every 5 years to meet the requirements of the Wilderness Stewardship Performance (USDA 2015), and of the National Minimum Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol (2015). The 2016 detailed field collection was completed using the, “Recreation Site Monitoring Data Sheet,” which includes all required fields and measurements to meet the minimum standards and remains consistent with the Sawtooth Wilderness Inventorying and Monitoring (SWIM) Campsite Monitoring Protocol (2013) and the Boulder/White Clouds Inventory of 2003. Additionally, all structures (administrative and other) must be documented and recorded during field surveys. Managers should feel confident using this data to develop and set indicator standards. The consistency in protocol and data collection procedures allows for accurate comparison of impact trends over time. When conditions are not compliant with management direction for protecting wilderness character, managers can use the data as a tool to understand when management action is necessary.

Summary of 2016 Field Season The White Clouds and Hemingway-Boulder Wilderness areas cover more than 158,000 acres, with over 80 miles of trails, and contain many popular destinations such as high alpine lakes, streams, and off-trail routes. A hard working crew of 4 successfully inventoried and monitored these areas during the 2016 field season. Quality recreation site inventorying necessitated a detailed oriented, well trained monitoring crew working in pairs to assure objective data collection. The 2016 recreation site monitoring season ran from June to September with teams typically consisting of one to two Wilderness Rangers and one to two volunteers. Ten hitches (of 4-5 days) with 2 teams of 2 were necessary to cover both wilderness areas successfully. Additional days (approximately 20) were needed for training, office preparation of materials, day trips, and data analysis, to complete the survey and meet the minimum requirements. The next 14 pages (pages 5 - 18) can be used as a stand-alone document for training.

Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol

Objective The objective for recreation site monitoring is to gain an understanding of where recreation impacts are occurring and their magnitudes. This includes, but is not limited to campsite densities, impact levels, tree damage, and campfires. Initial monitoring provides baseline data. Subsequent monitoring tracks change over time. Monitoring information can be used to determine if and when management actions are needed to protect wilderness character and to maintain standards established for wilderness.

Background Recreation site monitoring is designed to inventory the condition of impacted areas, such as campsites, within a wilderness. A systematic approach of monitoring (the collecting and evaluating of data) begins in the field with specific inventorying of recreation sites. This Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol is based on the Wilderness Stewardship Performance (USDA 2015), National Minimum Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol (2015) and the Campsite Inventory Protocol used in the Sawtooth Wilderness between 1992 and 2013 to catalogue and evaluate campsites for consistency. Other documents used to create these protocols include Cole’s (1989) worksheet, and the Sawtooth Wilderness Inventory and Monitoring (SWIM) Project Manual (2013) Campsite Worksheet.

100% of all campsites encountered must be resurveyed using the entire Campsite (CS) survey form so meaningful conclusions and comparisons can be made.

In 2003 a campsite inventory was completed by the Sawtooth NRA for the Boulder White Cloud recommended wilderness, monitoring an estimated 75% of the campsites in the area. A total of 320 campsites were inventoried to provide an initial baseline data set for management to understand physical impacts, changing use patterns, and provide insight for the needed workforce to patrol and manage these wild lands.

On August 7, 2015 President Obama signed legislation passed by the United States Congress (PL 114-46) to create two new wilderness areas within the Sawtooth NRA, the White Clouds Wilderness and the Hemingway- Boulder Wilderness. In 2016 the Sawtooth NRA organized another round of campsite monitoring, now referred to as recreation site monitoring, to inventory impact within the new wildernesses. This baseline data for these new wildernesses influenced the establishment of management zones proposed in the draft Wilderness Management Plan (November 2016).

Methods

Office Preparation Prior to beginning field work, gather information from previously inventoried campsites; GPS coordinates (NAD 83: UTM zone 11N), maps (Quadrangle and ArcMap), photos (download or print), and previous recreation monitoring surveys. These items will aid in the relocation of sites, and alert you when encountering a new site. All photos should be labeled with their Inventory Unit (IU), Drainage Number (DR), Lake Number (LK), and Campsite Number (CS). The 2003 and 2016 data is located in the Sawtooth Wilderness Inventory and Monitoring files located in T:\FS\NFS\Sawtooth\Program\2300Recreation\GIS\SWIM and on paper Quadrangle (quad) Maps in the SWIM filing cabinets in binders labeled 2003 & 2016 Boulder White Cloud Campsite Inventory.

Materials Recreation Site Monitoring Data Sheets 50-Meter Tape 15-20 Colored Flags – delineate impacted area and/or campsite Copy of Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol Frissel Rating Sheet Photos & GPS Coordinates (NAD 83: UTM zone 11N) of each previously inventoried campsite Surveys from previous monitoring years Camera – plus ability to label site identification (IU-DR-LK-CS) within each picture (whiteboard, clipboard) GPS Unit – NAD 83: UTM zone 11N

In the Field A ‘recreation site’ is an area with observable impacts from repeated visitation by humans. This includes vegetation or soil disturbance, fire scarred rocks, tree damage, or ‘improvements’ such as stock ties, log benches, etc. Use GPS coordinates (NAD 83: UTM zone 11N), maps, photographs, and prior survey information to locate all previously inventoried campsites. When unrecorded sites, or new sites, are located, assign a new campsite number. These numbers should begin where the last number from the previous survey, in 2003 or 2016, ended. Survey each campsite documented from both the 2003 and 2016 campsite surveys. If you cannot locate a site from 2003 or 2016 this must be noted in a Recreation Site Monitoring Data Sheet. Old sites may no longer be used, and thus appear to be “recovered or rehabbed.” This is measurable change!

Keep in mind that the data collection must be in a similar format from previous years’ surveys (follow protocol!) so the collected data can be compared to past and future data collections. For surveys to provide meaningful data they must be repeatable. These surveys are objective, measuring visual and physical impacts at the time of the survey using observable, quantitative site characteristics. The survey protocol is specifically designed to eliminate subjectivity and is not meant to predict future human behavior. The objectivity of the surveys is crucial to measuring change over time. Having an accurate measure of change over time can and will influence future management decisions.

Be sure to distinguish natural conditions from those that are human-caused. For instance, when looking at under-story vegetation loss at sites, it is important to examine the surrounding area; does there appear to be an actual difference between onsite vegetation and adjacent, offsite, unused areas? Be mindful not to mistake lightning or wildlife damage to trees as human or stock damage. Sometimes mineral soil is naturally occurring on floodplains, long lasting snow patches, or areas where soil development occurs slowly. Include only human-caused impacts in the evaluation.

Take the time to measure and count parameters objectively. Inventory crews should preferably work in teams of two. Discussion about parameters often leads to stronger estimations.

To aid in future site relocation, record GPS coordinates (NAD 83: UTM zone 11N), comment on distinguishing features (large rocks, trees, etc.) and recreate old photos, which should include the site identification numbers (ex. whiteboard with numbers, or data sheet with I.D. numbers written in). When resurveying, use previously recorded GPS coordinates, photos and comments from the 2003 and 2016 collections to relocate sites. Maps should be clearly labeled with Inventory Units, Drainage Numbers, Lake Numbers and Campsite Numbers. Accurate GPS coordinates, photos and comments about site location are very important for relocation (for new and old sites) enabling an individual unfamiliar with the area to relocate each site.

Rehabilitating campsites (dismantling human structures, campfire rings, and cleaning up trash) occurs after the survey and photos are completed. Disperse ashes from fire pits in dense vegetation (be sure coals are cold first), fire scarred rocks are removed and turned-over so the black scars do not show, and all trash is packed out. To discourage others from building campfire rings, and to encourage regrowth, turn over soil and naturalize by scattering duff and other natural materials over the fire scar.

Recreation Site Inventory Data Sheet Fill out the data sheet header with the start (and finish) times, date, crew taking the inventory, Wilderness and GPS coordinates. The Inventory Unit, Drainage Number, Lake Number and Campsite Number are found on quadrangle maps created by the 2003 Boulder White Cloud Campsite Inventory, and on ArcMap (stored on the O or T drive) by the 2016 White Clouds and Boulder-Hemingway Inventory. This information should be gathered before going into the field.

New Campsite labeling Every previously surveyed site has been assigned a campsite number relative to the lake, drainage, and inventory unit in which it is located. When numbering new sites, assign the next available sequential number for the Lake currently being surveyed. Be sure to recorded accurate GPS coordinates, assign the appropriate campsite number, and take photos to assist in relocation in future inventories.

The first step, once a site has been located (or a new site found), is to delineate the area considered to be the ‘site’ with flags. Generally, this is considered to be the area of barren ground and the trampled vegetation around it. For any of the proceeding measurements relating to “onsite,” only the area inside the flags is to be considered.

Frissel Rating Options: 0-5 This is a quick method for evaluating the condition of a campsite. It is based on a scale of 0 - 5, 0 meaning least impacted and 5 meaning the heaviest impact. (See Frissel Rating Sheet).

Site Locale Options: Forest, Rock, Meadow, Forest Rock, Forest Meadow, Rock Meadow This identifies the habitat in which the site is located.

CS Distance from Trail Options: 0-100 ft., >100 ft. Determine this from the edge of the site to a Forest Service System trail. Forest Service System trails are named or numbered trails that appear on an official Forest Service maps. Do not include social/user created routes or trails.

Firewood Availability Options: 0-100 ft.., >100 ft. Firewood is considered to be dead and downed wood, is naturally occurring, and is no thicker than two inches in diameter (about wrist size). Indicate if enough of this wood is present near the campsite to have a fire. Searchable radius from the campsite should be no more than 100 feet.

Firewood Natural Options: Yes, No If firewood is not present, state whether firewood would be present in a natural condition. Remember some areas are naturally devoid of natural downed and dead firewood (such as very high alpine zones) and will not be lacking firewood due to human-caused firewood depletion.

Onsite Vegetation Cover Options: 0-5%, 6-25%, 26-50%, 51-75%, 76-100% Estimate the percent of vegetation cover within the campsite compared to bare ground or rock exposure. TIP - Mentally “lump” the onsite vegetation into one part of the site to visualize the percent of vegetation cover. Then divide the site roughly into quarters. If the area of vegetation would cover less than one-quarter of the site, divide that quarter-area again into quarters. If the total vegetation would cover less than that smaller quarter, then it falls into the 0-5% coverage class. If the vegetation would cover more than one of the small quarter-sections, but less than one-quarter of the total site, then it falls into the 6-25% coverage class, and so on. Another useful tool is the “Coverage Class Estimate Guidelines” sheet found in this document.

Offsite Vegetation Cover Options: 0-5%, 6-25%, 26-50%, 51-75%, 76-100% Estimate the percent of vegetation cover outside of the campsite (outside of the flagged area) compared to bare ground or rock exposure. It is important to find an offsite control area that is similar to the campsite with respect to plant species, aspect, shade, and soil moisture, even if it must be some distance away.

Vegetation Class Loss Options: No difference, 1 Class, 2+ Classes The difference between onsite vegetation cover and offsite vegetation cover from the two fields above. Vegetation Class Loss is reported as the difference in on and offsite vegetation cover classes. Ex. 1: Onsite Vegetation Cover is 0-5%, Offsite Vegetation Cover is 26-50%, Vegetation Class Loss = 2+ Classes. Ex. 2: Onsite Vegetation Cover is 51-75%, Offsite Vegetation Cover is 76-100%, Vegetation Class Loss = 1 Class. Ex. 3: Onsite Vegetation Cover is 6-25%, Offsite Vegetation Cover is 6-25%, Vegetation Class Loss = No difference Note: Trees are not included in this estimation.

Onsite Mineral Soil Exposure Options: 0-5%, 6-25%, 26-50%, 51-75%, 76-100% Estimate the percent of mineral soil exposure cover within the campsite compared to vegetation, duff or rock exposure. Mineral soil is considered soil where the duff layer, or organic horizon, is absent. (The duff layer is comprised of decomposing organic materials such as leaves, needles, etc.) The dusting of recently fallen needles or leaves is the litter layer, and is not considered organic soil. Sometimes, naturally occurring mineral soil is encountered, such as in the sub-alpine zone, or on flooded sites, which should not be measured as a human- caused impact.

TIP - Mentally “lump” all onsite mineral soil into one part of the site and estimate the percent of the site area that the mineral soil would cover or use the “Coverage Class Estimates Guidelines” sheet.

Offsite Mineral Soil Exposure Options: 0-5%, 6-25%, 26-50%, 51-75%, 76-100% Estimate the percent of mineral soil exposure outside of the campsite (outside of the flagged area) compared to vegetation, duff or rock exposure. Naturally occurring mineral soil does occur, so be sure to have an offsite control area that is similar to the campsite for a control, to be sure you are not labeling naturally occurring mineral soil as human-impact caused. Mineral Soil Class Increase Options: No difference, 1 Class, 2+ Classes Note the difference between onsite mineral soil exposure and offsite mineral soil exposure from the two fields above. Mineral Soil Class Loss is reported as the difference in on and offsite mineral soil exposure classes. Ex. 1: Onsite Mineral Soil Exposure is 0-5%, Offsite Mineral Soil Exposure is 26-50%, Mineral Soil Class Increase = 2+ Classes. Ex. 2: Onsite Mineral Soil Exposure is 51-75%, Offsite Mineral Soil Exposure is 76-100%, Mineral Soil Class Increase= 1 Class. Ex. 3: Onsite Mineral Soil Exposure 6-25%, Offsite Mineral Soil Exposure is 6-25%, Mineral Soil Class Increase = No difference

# of Trees with Scars Options: Write in # Record the number of scarred trees you find within the site that have scars caused by humans. Scars may occur from nails, stakes, rope burns, hatchet, axe or knife marks, carvings, snapped off branches, etc. Inspect all sides of trees considered to be onsite. If damaged trees are offsite, within 20 ft. of site perimeter (flagged area), and can be associated with the site, record damage. Do not include damaged trees within the boundaries of other sites.

The Minimum National Protocol (2015) only counts scars that exceed 1000 cm2 (1 ft.2). To remain consistent with previous inventories we measure for more detail by including all scars found on trees.

# Trees Fell Options: Write in # Record the number of trees that have been purposely felled. If trees have multiple stems or trunks (Whitebark Pines often have multiple trunks), consider each trunk a felled tree if it has been cut off. Include all felled trees associated with the site and those within 20 feet of the perimeter (flagged area), meaning some may be located offsite.

The Minimum National Protocol (2015) only counts trees felled that are at least 10 cm. (4in.) in diameter, and if trees have multiple stems or trunks, consider the tree felled if any trunk is at least 10 cm (4in.) in diameter has been cut off. To remain consistent with previous inventories we account for more detail, by counting all felled trees.

Tree Damage Options: 0-25%, 26-50%, 51%+ Estimate the percent of trees associated with the site that are damaged. This is the percentage of trees associated with the site that are damaged compared to the rest of the trees near the site that are not damaged. Ex: If there are 40 total trees that are within the site and in the 20 ft. perimeter and 5 are damaged and 5 are felled, then 10 of 40 trees are damaged. 10 divided by 40 is 0.25 which equals 25%. Choose option 0-25%.

TIP: This may require a physical count of the trees associated with the site.

Root Exposure Options: 0-25%, 26-50%, 51%+ Estimate the percent of trees, associated with the site, that have root exposure. The trees themselves may be offsite, but should be included if their roots enter the site. Indicate only trees with roots that appear to have been damaged by human-caused soil erosion or trampling by stock. Many trees in shallow soils, especially Whitebark Pines, will have naturally exposed roots. Compare exposed roots with an unused, adjacent area to help identify natural root exposure. The Minimum National Protocol (2015) qualifies root exposure as more than 1m (3 feet) of root that sticks out at least 2.5 cm (1 in) above the ground surface. To remain consistent with previous inventories we account for more detail by including all human caused root damage in our estimate Root Exposure.

Stock Evidence Options: None, Manure/Feed, Manure/Feed/Tree Damage Record whether or not horse feed, manure, or dishing (depressed soils around the base of trees from stock scooping or scraping soil away from roots or tree trunks with their hoofs), or other damage caused by stock is associated with the site.

Stock Tie Post Options: Yes, No Is there is Forest Service stock tie or posts? If yes, complete a Stock Tie Survey Form. User created stock ties should not be inventoried separately and should be included in the campsite survey with which they are associated. In the comment section of the survey note this area was used by stock, had a non-Forest Service Stock Tie, etc.

Development Options: None, 1-2 Structures, 2+ Structures Development includes any visitor-made construction such as rock seats, stock holding pen, logs cut for stools, tables, benches etc. Do NOT include campfire rings in this rating as it is included in a proceeding parameter.

Cleanliness Options: None/Fire Evidence, Fire/Ring/Litter, Ring/Litter/Human Waste This category focuses on trash, human waste, and fire evidence. Observe and record which occur: human- caused fire scars, including fire rings (before you naturalize them). These are still scars that will take time to heal completely. Since human waste will generally not be inside the site boundaries, this can be included in an adjacent area associated with the site. The same may be true for litter.

Number of Fire Rings Options: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, _____ Record the number of fire rings found within the site.

Fire Evidence Options: Yes, No Is there sign of previous fires in the site? Record yes if there are fire ring(s) present or if there is evidence of past fire rings such as charcoal or fire scars on rocks.

Litter Options: Yes, No Thoroughly search the camp, surrounding area, and campfire rings for micro-trash (tinfoil, plastic, toilet paper, etc.) Pack out all trash you find.

# Social Trails Options: 0-1, 2-3, >3 _____ Indicate the number of social trails associated with the site; leading in or out. Social trails are established by users and radiate from a site, connecting it to other sites, water sources, firewood, toilets, or views. Include any trail radiating from the site other than system trails. Social trails are distinguished as having any continuous, defined tread for more than five feet.

# Satellite Sites Options: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 Note how many sites are close to the campsite that look to be used for separate tent sites but are not completely separate sites with their own campfire ring or central area. Look around for physical barriers, or sound barriers that may make it a separate site. Ask yourself if another group would actually camp in this “satellite” site if the main site was occupied. If yes, then it is not a satellite site - it is another site. If no, then it is likely a satellite site. User created stock tie areas can be recorded as satellite sites if the impact zone is clearly delineated from the main site. Record GPS coordinates, and take photos for each satellite site.

CS Length Options: Write in Measure the length of the campsite in feet with the measuring tape.

CS Width Options: Write in Measure the width of the campsite in feet with the measuring tape.

CS Area Size (L X W) Options: Write in Calculate the area (length x width) of the main site (without satellite sites) in square feet.

CS Area Estimate (ft.2) Options: 0-500 ft2, 501-1500 ft2, >1500 ft2 Combine the CS Area with the measured areas of all associated satellite sites and/or areas used by stock (non-Forest Service stock ties) to classify the site size. Ex: Main campsite size is 450 ft2 and satellite site is 110 ft2 then CS Area Estimate= 501-1500 ft2

Photos Photos are taken for two reasons. First, they aid in relocating a site (especially when distinguishing landmarks or easy to identify objects are used in the picture). Second, it's a visual record of the site that can be used as a history of how the site has changed over time. When taking a photo include a record of the site’s identification (Inventory Unit, Drainage #, Lake # and Campsite #) within the photo (use a white board or piece of paper). This will ensure every photo is always labeled correctly. Also ensure that the photo includes the boundary flagging, site identification, plus any significant landmarks and campfire rings.

Comments Use this space to elaborate on site location, conditions, and any other pertinent information. The right comments can help site relocation in the future. This area is NOT to be left blank! “When in doubt, Write it out” Recreation Site Monitoring Data Sheet

Time: start ______finish______Wilderness: ______Date: ______Coordinates: Northing ______Crew: ______UTMs: Nad 83 Zone 11 Easting ______Weather: Sunny, Partly Cloudy, Overcast, Rain, Snow

Inventory Unit ______Drainage # ______Lake # ______Campsite # ______Lake Name ______

Campsite Description______CIRCLE ONE Frissel # Social Trails Rating # Satellite Sites Site Locale CS Distance from Trail Firewood Availability CS Length (ft) Firewood Natural CS Width (ft) CS Area (L x W) Onsite Veg Cover CS Area Estimate (ft) Offsite Veg Cover Vegetation Class Loss Onsite Mineral Soil Exposure Offsite Mineral Soil 0 1 2 3 4 5 Exposure Forest Rock Meadow Forest & Rock Forest & Meadow Rock & Mineral Soil Class Increase Meadow 0-100 ft >100 ft # Trees with Scars 0-100 ft >100 ft # Trees Fell Yes No Tree Damage Root Exposure 0-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76- 100% Stock Evidence 0-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76- Stock Tie Post 100% Developments No Difference 1 2+ Cleanliness 0-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76- # of Fire Rings 100% Fire Evidence 0-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76- Litter 100% No Difference 1 2+ None 1-2 Structures 2+ Structures None/Fire Evidence Fire Ring/Litter Ring/Litter/Human Waste ______0 1 2 3 4 ______Yes No 0-25% 26-50% Yes No 51%+ 0-1 2-3 >3 ______0-25% 26-50% 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 51%+ GPS ______None ______Manure/Feed ______Manure/Feed/Tree 0-500 ft2 501-1500 ft2 >1500 ft2 *includes satellite sites & non FS stock Damage tie Yes No * if Yes, Comments: complete Stock Tie Survey Photos should include flags delineating area and campsite identification Form numbers. The “Basics” for Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol Objective: Collect detailed inventory records of recreation sites, focusing on the measurement of human caused impacts. Continuous monitoring will allow for observation of change in user trends over time, which through critical evaluation of the data, may influence management actions in the protection of wilderness character.

Goal: Detailed inventories that are repeatable, allowing for accurate monitoring to measure change over time.

Tips: Measure ONLY human-cause impacts by comparing the survey area with the non-impacted surrounding area Rehabilitate all campsites AFTER the inventory is completed.

Recreation Site Monitoring Data Sheet Inventory Unit, Drainage Number, Lake Number, and Campsite Number are found on the maps created by the 2003 Boulder White Cloud Campsite Inventory. This information should be gathered before going into the field.

New Campsite labeling - Assign the next available sequential number (after the 2003 inventory numbers) for the lake currently surveying. Record accurate GPS coordinates and take photos that will be helpful in future relocations of the site.

Frissel Rating - A quick method for evaluating the condition of a campsite. (See Frissel Rating Sheet).

Site Locale - Identifies the habitat the site is located in.

CS Distance from Trail - Determined from the edge of the site to a Forest Service System trail (appears on a map).

Firewood Availability - Dead and downed wood, naturally occurring, no thicker than two inches in diameter. Firewood Natural - If firewood is not present, state whether firewood would be present in a natural condition. Some areas are naturally devoid of natural down/dead wood (high alpine zones) and not lacking firewood due to human collection.

Onsite Vegetation Cover - Estimate the % of veg cover within the campsite compared to bare ground/rock exposure. Offsite Vegetation Cover - Estimate the % of veg cover outside of the campsite compared to bare ground/rock exposure. Vegetation Class Loss - Difference between onsite vegetation cover and offsite vegetation cover. (Ex. Onsite Veg Cover is 0-5%, Offsite Veg Cover is 26-50%, the Class loss is 2+)

Onsite Mineral Soil Exposure - Estimate the % of mineral soil exposure within the campsite compared to veg/duff/rock. Mineral soil where the duff/organic layer (decomposing organic material like leaves/needles) is absent. The dusting of recently fallen needles or leaves is the litter layer, and is not considered organic soil. Offsite Mineral Soil Exposure - Estimate the % of mineral soil exposure outside of the campsite compared to veg/duff/rock Mineral Soil Class Increase - Difference between onsite mineral soil exposure and offsite mineral soil exposure. (Ex. Onsite Mineral Soil Exposure is 0-5%, Offsite Mineral Soil Exposure is 6-25%, the Class increase is 1)

# of Trees with Scars - Record the # of trees within 20 feet of the flagged perimeter of the campsite with scars. # Trees Fell - Record the # of trees felled within 20 feet of the flagged perimeter of the campsite (count multiple stems) Tree Damage - Estimate the % of trees associated with the site that are damaged. Root Exposure - Estimate the % trees with root exposure- trees may be offsite as long as their roots enter the site.

Stock Evidence - Record if horse feed, manure, or dishing are associated with the site. Stock Tie Post - If there is Forest Service stock tie complete a Stock Tie Survey Form.

Development - Any visitor-made construction (rock/log seats, benches, tables, stock holding pen) NOT campfire rings! Cleanliness – Count human-caused fire scars (fire rings), human waste & litter associated with the site. Number of Fire Rings - Record the number of fire rings found within the site. Fire Evidence – Record evidence of a campfire, even if the campfire ring is gone (charcoal, scarred rock, etc.). Litter - Search the camp & surrounding area and campfire rings areas for microtrash (tinfoil, plastic, toilet paper, etc.)

Social Trails - Distinguished as having any continuous, defined tread for more than five feet, leading in/out of site. # Social Trails - Record how many social trails are actually leading in and out of the site. # Satellite Sites – Sites associated with the campsite that are used for tent sites and are not quite separate sites (record GPS).

CS Length - Measure the length of the campsite in feet with the distance tape. CS Width - Measure the width of the campsite in feet with the distance tape. CS Area - Calculate the area (length x width) of the site (without satellite sites) in feet. CS Area Estimate (ft2) - Combine the CS Area with measured satellite sites areas and/or stock ties (non- Forest Service).

Photos - In all photos include (or preclude related photos) the Inventory Unit, Drainage #, Lake #, Campsite #, capture boundary flags, campfire rings and significant landmarks.

Comments - do NOT leave this area blank!! Frissel Rating (1978)

Condition Visible Indicators Class 0 No evidence of use. Site indistinguishable from surrounding area. 1 Ground vegetation flattened, but not permanently injured. Minimal physical change except for possibly a simple rock fireplace.

2 Ground vegetation worn away around fireplace or center of activity. 3 Ground vegetation lost on most of the site, but humus and litter still present in all but a few areas. 4 Bare mineral soil widespread. Tree roots exposed on the surface. 5 Soil erosion obvious. Trees reduced in vigor, or dead.

Cover Class Estimates Guidelines Stock Tie Monitoring Data Sheet

Date______Wilderness ______Crew ______Coordinates Northing ______UTMs: NAD 83 Zone 11 Easting______Inventory Unit______Drainage # ______Lake # ______Lake Name ______Campsite # ______

Site Locale Forest Rock Meadow Forest Rock Forest Meadow Rock Meadow Type Post/Ring Rock/Ring Cable Highline Clearly Signed Yes No Ring Condition Strongly Attached Loosely Attached Missing/Not Serviceable Post Condition Strong/Standing Weak/Standing Down/Unusable/Missing Highline Condition Tree Savers/Tight Tree Savers/Slack No Tree Savers/Cable Down Highline Anchor to Trees Dead Yes No Dead Trees in Area 0-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Evidence of Recent Use Yes No Distance From Trail >100 ft <100 ft

Comments

Photos Stock Tie Monitoring Protocol

Site Local - Use this field to describe the environment that the stock tie is located in.

Type - Mark the appropriate type of stock tie that you are surveying. More than one type can be present, be sure to completely search the surrounding area (Rock/Ring can be difficult to see at times.) -Post/Ring: Buried, upright wooden post with metal ring. -Rock/Ring: Natural stone with metal ring attached by a metal post inserted into hole drilled in rock. -Cable Highline: Consists of two anchor trees with tree savers holding a taut cable with swivel ties.

Clearly Signed - Is the sign to the stock tie area in good condition, readily visible from the trail, and orientated correctly, if so mark “yes”. If the sign is missing, damaged, not visible, or poorly orientated, mark “no” and describe why in the comments.

Ring Condition - Ring Condition Class 1: Rings in place and strongly attached. 2: Rings in place and loosely attached. 3: Rings missing or not serviceable.

Post Condition - #/ Cond. of Posts - How many posts of each condition class are present. Post Condition Class 1: Post is strong and standing. 2: Post is weak and standing. 3: Post is down and unusable or missing altogether. If posts in condition class three are present, burned, or set aside to be burned, note in comments the actions taken.

Highline Condition - If cable is slack, try to tighten by turning turnbuckle. Highline Condition Class 1: Tree savers in place, cable is tight and serviceable. 2: Tree savers in place, cable is slack but serviceable. 3: Tree savers missing or damaged, cable is down or otherwise unserviceable.

Highline Anchor to Dead Trees - Determine if one or both of the anchor trees that support the highline are dead. If a tree has red flagging due to beetle kill, note that the tree is dying.

Dead Trees in Area - Determine percent of dead trees within 100 ft of designated stock tie area.

Evidence of Recent Use - Note whether or not it appears that the designated stock tie is being used by the public. Note if user created stock ties are sprawling outside of the designated area in the comments section.

Distance from Trail - Note how far from the trail the stock tie area is in feet. Data Management and Analysis

Data Management

Topographical Organization For the initial survey of the Boulder-White Clouds in 2003, the monitoring team organized the area into large Inventory Units that were further broken down into Drainages. Each Lake was then individually numbered (all unique) and each campsite received a number. In other words, each inventoried campsite was assigned a unique numeric identifier consisting of Inventory Unit (IU), Drainage Number (DR or DRNG), Lake Number (LK), and Campsite Number (CS), or IU-DR-LK-CS. The 2016 survey continued this identification system for consistency.

The White Clouds Wilderness contains 5 inventory units while the Hemingway-Boulder Wilderness consists of 2 inventory units. White Clouds Wilderness = Inventory Units 17, 18, 26, 27, 28 Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness = Inventory Units 25, 30

Extent of Survey Area In 2016, both the White Clouds Wilderness and Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness were thoroughly surveyed. Every site survey from 2003 was repeated. Additionally, all known off-trail high alpine lakes and destinations were visited and surveyed. Additional research time was spent interviewing local wilderness experts and Forest Service employees, reading local guidebooks, plus checking popular websites and blogs so as not to omit any potential recreation sites. It is with confidence that the 2016 recreation site monitoring crew believes they successfully surveyed 95 percent of recreation sites within the new wilderness areas. During the same 2016 season Solitude Monitoring occurred in selected areas throughout the White Cloud and Hemingway- Boulders Wildernesses. Well trained “solitude monitors” worked for a minimum of 4 hours in predetermined areas and completed 102 monitoring sessions. During the 102 monitoring sessions, the solitude monitors did not find any additional evidence of recreation sites with measurable impacts that were not already inventoried by the recreation site inventory crew in 2016. This speaks to how thoroughly the two wilderness areas were surveyed.

The combination of thoroughly surveying both wildernesses with the accrued knowledge from observation and research of user numbers and trends in the White Clouds and Hemingway-Boulder Wildernesses, provided the confidence to statistically calculate the average impact indexes for the 4 Wilderness Management Zones in each of the two new wildernesses. (Hemingway-Boulders and White Clouds Wilderness Management Plan November 2016 draft). Admittedly, the average impact index for the Hemingway-Boulders is calculated using a relatively small number of campsites. However, the low number of campsites reflects the reality of what is “on the ground” in the Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness. This wilderness is truly wild with low visitation and an even lower level of human caused recreational impacts. With less than 30 miles of maintained trails (none of which lead to high alpine lakes nor lend themselves to “loop” style travel), steep rugged terrain, and few alpine lakes, far fewer visitors venture into the Hemingway-Boulders than into the White Clouds Wilderness. Perhaps this area historically received more use, but the majority of the 2003 campsites that were resurveyed in 2016 showed little to no remaining impacts. Only a few campsites near trails showed signs of light impact.

Data Collection, Recording, and Entry The 2016 data was recorded using pen and paper. Attempts to use Juno Trimble units proved unreliable in the field resulting in the trusty pen and paper method. Data collection was supported by Garmin GPS units for accurate location recording, and cameras captured photos- with site labels included in each photo to assist in later site relocations. Future surveys may be able to utilize new technologies such as GIS offline data collection apps. When choosing new data recording and collecting methods, adherence to the survey protocol is of paramount importance to the integrity and utility of the data. Back in the office data was meticulously entered into Excel spreadsheets. Knowing that entering paper and pencil forms into a digital medium has potential for error, the hand entered information was double checked for accuracy.

Calculating the Impact Index The Impact Index is a numerical value from 20-60 that indicates the level of impact at a site. The impact index values have been divided into four “condition classes (I-IV)”. They are as follows:

I. Light impact - sites with an index of 20-30. II. Moderate impact - sites with an index of 31-39. III. Heavy impact - sites with an index of 40-49. IV. Extreme impact - sites with an index of 50-60

Data from the 9 parameters, collected during the site survey, is used to calculate the impact index for each site inventoried. These 9 parameters are Vegetation Class Loss, Mineral Soil Class Increase, Tree Damage, Root Exposure, Stock Evidence, Development, Cleanliness, Social Trails, and Camp Area. For each parameter, each piece of data is assigned a value (1, 2, or 3). Values are assigned based on severity of impact with 1 being the least severe and 3 being the most severe. The values are assigned as follows:

Value (1, 2, or 3) to assign based on data collected: Parameter 1 2 3 Vegetation Class Loss No difference 1 Class 2+ Classes Mineral Soil Class No difference 1 Class 2+ Classes Increase Tree Damage 0-25% 26-50% 51=% Root Exposure 0-25% 26-50% 51=% Stock Evidence None Manure/Feed Manure/Feed/Tree Damage Development None 1-2 Structures 2+ Structures Cleanliness None/Fire Fire/Ring/Litter Ring/Litter/Human Waste Evidence Social Trails 0-1 2-3 >3 Camp Area 0-500 ft2 501-1500 ft2 >1500 ft2

Each value of the 9 parameters is then weighted according to its permanence of impact. Types of impact that are easily remedied receive the lowest weighting, 1. Impacts that are fairly contained (social trails), or could recover fairly quickly with less pressure (such as vegetation) receive a weighting of 2. Impacts that are lasting or very difficult to restore (such as soil loss or tree damage) receive the heaviest weight, 3.

The parameters and weights are as follows:

Parameter Weight of Parameter Vegetation Class Loss 2 Mineral Soil Class 3 Increase Tree Damage 3 Root Exposure 3 Stock Evidence 2 Development 1 Cleanliness 1 Social Trails 2 Camp Area 3

In summary, each piece of recorded data for each of the 9 parameters will have an associated value (1, 2, or 3) and each parameter will have an associated weight (1, 2, or 3). Impact Index should not be calculated in the field. Instead, Impact Index should be calculated when all field surveys have been completed for the season and all have been entered and checked for accuracy in Microsoft Excel. The Impact Index can be calculated using Excel’s formula functions and is calculated as follows: To calculate impact index, multiply the values (1, 2, or 3) from these nine parameters by their weights and then add these numbers to find the Impact Index for the site.

For example: calculate the impact index for a site with the following data: Vegetation Class Loss= 1 Class Mineral Soil Class Increase=No Difference Tree Damage=0-25% Root Exposure=0-25% Stock Evidence=None Development=1-2 Structures Cleanliness=None/Fire Evidence Social Trails=0-1 Camp Area=0-500 ft2

First assign values to each piece of data for each parameter (using Table above). Assigned values are in bold: Vegetation Class Loss = 1 Class = 2 Mineral Soil Class Increase = No Difference = 1 Tree Damage = 0-25% = 1 Root Exposure = 0-25% = 1 Stock Evidence = None = 1 Development = 1-2 Structures = 2 Cleanliness = None/Fire Evidence = 1 Social Trails = 0-1 = 1 Camp Area = 0-500 ft2 = 1

Then multiply the value for each parameter by the weight for that parameter (using Table above). Weight multiplication (highlighted) calculates the weighted values, which are then summed into the campsite’s Impact Index: Vegetation Class Loss= 1 Class =2 x 2 = 4 Mineral Soil Class Increase=No Difference =1 x 3 = 3 Tree Damage=0-25% =1 x 3 = 3 Root Exposure=0-25% =1 x 3 = 3 Stock Evidence=None =1 x 2 = 2 Development=1-2 Structures =2 x 1 = 2 Cleanliness=None/Fire Evidence =1 x 1 = 1 Social Trails=0-1 =1 x 2 = 2 Camp Area=0-500 ft2 =1 x 3 = 3

Finally, add the total of these products to get the campsite’s impact index: 4+3+3+3+2+2+1+2+3=23

Yahoo! The impact index for this site is 23 which falls into the “Light Impact” condition class. (Note: If campsite survey indicates that site is no longer distinguishable as a campsite it will have a Frissel rating of 0 and will not have data for the 9 parameters used to calculate impact index. Therefore, sites that fall into this category will have an impact index of 0.)

The Forest Service Wilderness Character Monitoring Technical Guide (September 2016 draft) sets a 5 percent or more change in impact index to indicate a significant change in trend. Thus, a 5 percent increase in impact index is considered degradation (degradation threshold) and indicates a need for management to take action to protect the wilderness character of the area.

Rationale for Zone Assignment to Lakes for Analysis During the data analysis of the Recreation Site Monitoring Survey of 2016 we discovered several inventoried campsites at a series of lakes which, based on use patterns and impacts, fall into the classification of Zone 3, according to the Zone definitions in the proposed Hemingway-Boulders and White Clouds Wilderness Management Plan (November 2016). We classified the following lakes and their associated campsites as Zone 3 from the data analysis: Sapphire Lake, Cove Lake, Hook Lake, Quiet Lake, and Noisy Lake. The proposed protections in this draft management plan, including the reduction of group size and closure of high alpine lakes to fires, could allow these above-mentioned lakes to recover into Zone 2 areas. Due to high elevations, fragile ecosystems, and distance from system trails, both the natural quality and opportunities for solitude at these lakes would be protected or improved with Zone 2 designation.

Data Analysis

Intro While there are many powerful ways in which to analyze the recreation site monitoring data (and this analysis is strongly encouraged) this section will focus solely on the analysis that applies to the indicator standards outlined in the Hemingway-Boulders & White Clouds Wilderness Management Plan (November 2016 draft). The Indicators for campsites (recreation sites) as outlined in the (draft) Wilderness Plan are: Campsite density: Measured as Campsites per 100 acres per zone (# per unit area per zone) Average Impact/Condition Index per Campsite per zone These indicators were chosen to monitor campsite impacts within the Hemingway-Boulders and White Clouds Wildernesses and are designed to answer the monitoring question, “Are impacts exceeding thresholds for campsite impacts?” (Source: Hemingway-Boulders & White Clouds Wilderness Management Plan, November 2016 draft). Two major ways in which campsites (and their associated trends) can impact the wilderness landscape are: Through an increase in the number of campsites Through the growth in size and impact of existing campsites The two indicators were specifically chosen to monitor these potential sources of degradation. Solitude is also potentially impacted by changes in campsite trends. Impacts to solitude are not to be ignored. However, solitude monitoring does not fall under the scope of this plan and is found instead in the White Clouds Wilderness and Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness Solitude Monitoring Plan (October 2016 draft).

Data Analysis The first and most important step in the data analysis is to have all of the data error checked, organized, and in one clean Excel spreadsheet. Once this is accomplished the fun begins!

The calculations are broken down by wilderness by zone. In other words, there are 8 categories of calculations: White-Clouds Zones 1, 2, 3, 4 and Hemingway-Boulders Zones 1, 2, 3, 4. It is necessary to create a grid within the Excel document (that contains all of the data) for these calculations. Here is an example of the grid with all of the cells needed to calculate the two indicators: Calculating Indicator 2: Average

Impact/Condition Index per Campsite per zone Indicator 2 will be calculated first as the information obtained will be used to calculate Indicator 1.

Using the error-free, clean Excel spreadsheet and the grid created in the steps above, use the “COUNTIFS” formula to count and sum all campsites with both Frissel > 0 and Impact Index > 0 per wilderness area per zone. Here is an example of the formula in Excel:

In the above example, the formula shown for cell AP3 yields the total number of campsites with Frissel and Impact Index greater than 0 in the Hemingway-Boulders, Zone 1. In this case, there are 0 campsites that fit these criteria. In the example formula, Column M would contain Frissel, Column AP would contain Impact Index, Column C would contain Wilderness Name, Column AS would contain Zone Number, and Column AT would contain Site Type. Amend the formula to calculate the total campsites (Frissel and Impact Index > 0) for the remaining 7 categories (HB Zones 2, 3, 4 and White Clouds Zones 1, 2, 3, 4).

Next calculate the average impact index for each category (HB Zones 1-4 and WC Zones 1-4). This will be the sum of all the impact index values for the sites in each category divided by the total number of sites. For example, if there are 5 total sites in Hemingway-Boulders Zone 2 with Frissel and Impact > 0 and the Impact indexes for the 5 sites are 43, 26, 24, 30, and 26 then the average impact index is (43+26+24+30+26)/5 = 149/5 = 29.8

Here is an example of this calculation using the Excel formula SUMIFS:

In the above example, the formula shown for cell AQ3 sums the impact index for specific campsites (Hemingway-Boulders Zone 1, Frissel and Impact Index >0) and divides this by the total number of campsites that meet these criteria (found in cell AP3). In this case, since there are 0 campsites that fit these criteria, cell AQ3 shows a “divide by 0” error. This simply means that because there are no campsites that meet the criteria that average impact index doesn’t exist (because there are no sites from which to calculate this average). In the example formula, Column M would contain Frissel, Column AP would contain Impact Index, Column C would contain Wilderness Name, Column AS would contain Zone Number, and Column AT would contain Site Type.

Amend the formula to calculate the average impact index for the remaining 7 categories (HB Zones 2, 3, 4 and White Clouds Zones 1, 2, 3, 4).

Calculating Indicator 1: Campsite density: Measured as Campsites per 100 acres per zone (# per unit area per zone) Using the error-free, clean Excel spreadsheet and the grid created in the step above, fill in the Zone acreage for each of the 8 categories. (Zone acreages will remain static after the HB/WC Wilderness Management Plan is finalized. The finalized acreages will need to be obtained either from the Zone Layer in ArcMap or from the final version of the Wilderness Management Plan. Acreage shown reflects zoning recommendations as of October 2016). After entering the zone acreages, campsite density per acre is calculated by dividing the total number of campsites that meet the criteria by the total acreage for that zone. Here is an example of this calculation for White Clouds Zone 2 (cell AS9):

Finally, to obtain the Indicator (campsite density: campsites per hundred acres) multiply the results of the step above (campsites per acre) by 100. Here is an example of this calculation for White Clouds Zone 2 (cell AT9) Finish filling in the categories to obtain data for Indicators 1 and 2 for all 8 Categories:

(Note: There are other ways to make the same calculations in Excel and obtain the same answers. Exemplified above is one method.)

Data Analysis Discussion Again, there are many incredibly useful pieces of data that can be pulled from this data set including, but not limited to: -Average Frissel rating -Average campsite size -Impacts at sites with stock evidence vs. impacts at sites without stock evidence -Impacts at sites with fire evidence vs. impacts at sites without fire evidence -Firewood availability -Temporal trends -Spatial trends

However, these options for data analysis are not covered in this plan. References

Boulder - White Cloud Inventory and Monitoring Protocol. 2003. Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Sawtooth National Forest.

Cole, D.N. 1989. Wilderness campsite monitoring methods: A sourcebook. General technical report, INT-259. USDA Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station, Ogden, UT.

Cole, David N., Troy Hall. 1992. Trends in campsite condition: Eagle Cap Wilderness, Bob Marshall Wilderness, and Grand Canyon National Park. Res. Pap. INT-453. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station. 40 p

Colistra, Craig M., Joseph P. Flood. 2005. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Wilderness Campsite Monitoring at Linville Gorge Wilderness. IN: Peden, John G.; Schuster, Rudy M., comps., eds. Proceedings of the 2005 northeastern recreation research symposium; 2005 April 10-12; Bolton Landing, NY. Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-341. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station

Frissell, Sidney S. 1978. Judging Recreation Impacts on Wilderness Campsites. Journal of Forestry. 76(8): p. 481-483

Landres, P., D.R. Spildie, and L.P. Queen. 2001. GIS applications to wilderness management: potential uses and limitations. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRSGTR-80. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station.

Landres, Peter, Steve Boutcher, Elizabeth Mejicano. 2016 – Still in Draft. Wilderness Character Monitoring Technical Guide. USDA Forest Service.

Minimum Recreation Site Monitoring Protocol. 2015. IN: Monitoring Procedures for the Recreation Sites Element of the USDA Forest Service’s Wilderness Stewardship Performance. Retrieved: May 28, 2016 from http://www.wilderness.net/site Public Law 88-577. The Wilderness Act of 1964. September 3, 1964. 78 Stat. 890.

Public Law 114-46. Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Jerry Peak Wilderness Additions Act. August 7, 2015. 129 Stat. 476.

Sawtooth Wilderness Inventory and Monitoring Project Manual. 2013. Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Sawtooth National Forest.

USDA Forest Service, 2012. Sawtooth National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan.

USDA Forest Service, 2015. Wilderness Stewardship Performance: Guidebook. Version 2015.4