Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path Project Environmental Assessment United States Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District Department of Deschutes National Forest Agriculture Deschutes County, Oregon
Forest Service
March 2013 Township 19 South, Range 11 East, Sections 16, 17, 20-26 Willamette Meridian
For More Information Contact: Scott McBride 63095 Deschutes Market Road Bend, OR 97701 Phone: 541-383-4712
Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building,
14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250- 9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA
COMMONLY USED ACRONYMS ABA Architectural Barriers Act AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials BA Biological Assessment BBC Birds of Conservation Concern BE Biological Evaluation BMP Best Management Practices BO Biological Opinion CEQ Council of Environmental Quality CFR Code of Federal Regulations DBH Diameter at Breast Height DEQ Department of Environmental Quality EA Environmental Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement EPA Environmental Protection Agency ESA Endangered Species Act of 1973 FHWA Federal Highways Administration FS Forest Service FSH Forest Service Handbook FSM Forest Service Manual FSR Forest Service Road FSTAG Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines GIS Geographical Information System IDT Interdisciplinary Team LLVC Lava Lands Visitor Center LRMP Deschutes National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan also referred to as Forest Plan MIS Management Indicator Species NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NFS National Forest System NFMA National Forest Management Act NNVU Newberry National Volcanic Monument NRF Nesting, Roosting, and Foraging Habitat (Spotted Owl) ODOT Oregon Department of Transportation ODFW Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife ORV Outstanding Remarkable Value PAOT Persons at One Time PDC Project Design Criteria RHCA Riparian Habitat Conservation Area ROS Recreation Opportunity Spectrum S&Gs Standards and Guidelines TES Threatened, Endangered and, Sensitive Species Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Commonly Used Acronyms ...... 3 Table of Contents ...... 4 Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action ...... 1 Changes Between the 30-Day Comment Period EA and the Final EA ...... 1 1.1 Introduction ...... 1 1.2 Background ...... 2 1.3 Project Area Description ...... 2 1.4 Purpose and Need ...... 4 1.5 Proposed Action ...... 4 1.6 Management Direction ...... 5 1.7 Decision to be Made ...... 8 1.8 Issues ...... 8 1.8.1 Key Issues ...... 8 1.8.2 Analysis Issues ...... 15 Chapter 2 – Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action...... 16 Changes Between the 30-Day Comment Period EA and This EA ...... 16 2.1 Introduction ...... 16 2.2 Alternative Development Process ...... 16 2.3 Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study ...... 16 2.3.1 Alternative A – Do not pave the path...... 16 2.3.2 Alternative B – Do not cut trees over 16 inches diameter at breast height (dbh) or any that display old growth characteristics ...... 17 2.3.4 Alternative C – Implement a Sunriver use fee by non-property owners and install gates on bike paths that enter into Sunriver ...... 17 2.3.5 Alternative D – Eliminate segments 1 through 5 ...... 17 2.3.6 Alternative E – Use existing paths or keep path along existing roads ...... 17 2.3.7 Alternative F – Provide at least 40 vehicle slot parking lot and toilets at the Sunriver end ...... 18 2.4 Alternatives Considered in Detail ...... 19 2.4.1 Alternative 1 – No Action ...... 19 2.4.2 Alternative 2 ...... 19 Paved Path ...... 19 Path Design and Construction ...... 22 Roads ...... 24 Benham East Day Use Area ...... 25 Lava Land Visitor Center Parking Lot ...... 25 2.5 Comparisons of Alternatives ...... 29 2.6 Project Design Elements ...... 29 2.6.1 Resource Protection Measures ...... 30 Recreation ...... 30 Wildlife ...... 31 Fisheries and Water ...... 31 Scenery ...... 32 Noxious Weeds ...... 32 Soils ...... 32 Engineering/Roads ...... 33 Cultural Resources ...... 34 Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA
2.6.2 Monitoring ...... 34 Fisheries and Water ...... 34 Cultural Resources ...... 34 Recreation ...... 34 Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences ...... 36 3.1 Introduction ...... 36 3.2 Cumulative Actions and Activities ...... 36 3.3 Best Available Science ...... 38 3.4 Project Record ...... 38 3.5 Alternative Evaluation ...... 38 3.5.1 Recreation ...... 38 Introduction ...... 38 Existing Condition ...... 39 Effects Analysis ...... 43 3.5.2 Wildlife ...... 51 Introduction ...... 51 Existing Condition for Federally Listed Species ...... 51 Effects Analysis for Federally Listed Species ...... 52 Existing Condition for Sensitive Species...... 53 Effects Analysis for Sensitive Species ...... 55 Exiting Condition for Management Indicator Species ...... 62 Effects Analysis for Management Indicator Species ...... 77 Existing Condition for Migratory Birds ...... 84 Effects Analysis for Migratory Birds ...... 89 3.5.3 Fisheries and Water ...... 90 Introduction ...... 91 Existing Condition ...... 91 Effects Analysis ...... 92 Effects on Listed Fish, Fish Habitat and Sensitive Species ...... 93 3.5.4 Scenery ...... 94 Introduction ...... 94 Existing Condition ...... 94 Effects Analysis ...... 94 3.5.5 Botany ...... 95 Introduction ...... 95 Existing Condition ...... 95 Effects Analysis ...... 95 3.5.6 Invasive Plants ...... 96 Introduction ...... 96 Existing Condition ...... 96 Effects Analysis ...... 97 3.5.7 Soils...... 97 Introduction ...... 98 Existing Condition ...... 98 Effects Analysis ...... 99 3.5.8 Heritage ...... 101 Introduction ...... 101 Existing Condition ...... 101 Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA
Effects Analysis ...... 101 3.5.9 Road Engineering ...... 102 Introduction ...... 102 Existing Condition ...... 102 Effects Analysis ...... 103 3.6 Required and Additional Disclosures and Consistency with Laws, Regulations, Policy and Procedures ...... 105 3.6.1 Forest Plan Amendments ...... 105 3.6.2 National Forest Management Act ...... 105 3.6.3 The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended ...... 105 3.6.4 Endangered Species Act ...... 106 3.6.5 The American Antiquities Act of 1906 ...... 106 3.6.6 Tribal Treaty Rights ...... 106 3.6.7 Energy Requirements ...... 107 3.6.8 Clean Water Act ...... 107 3.6.9 Clean Air Act ...... 107 3.6.10 Wild and Scenic Rivers, Prime Farmlands, Range Land, and Forest Land ...... 107 3.6.11 Inventoried Roadless, Wilderness, Research Natural Area, Experimental Forests...... 107 3.6.12 Research Natural Areas, Experimental Forests, Wilderness and Federal State and Local Laws107 3.6.13 Public Health and Safety ...... 108 3.6.14 Rehabilitation Act of 1973 - Persons with Disabilities ...... 108 3.6.15 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources ...... 109 3.6.16 Incomplete and Unavailable Information ...... 108 3.6.17 Probable Adverse Environmental Effects that Cannot Be Avoided ...... 108 3.6.18 Short-term Uses and Long-term Productivity ...... 109 3.6.19 Biological Diversity ...... 109 3.6.20 Executive Orders ...... 110 Executive Order 13112 (Invasive species) ...... 110 Executive Order 13186 (January 10, 2001), and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act ...... 110 Executive Order 12898 Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-income Populations (February 11, 1994) ...... 111 Executive Orders 11988 Wetlands and 11990 Floodplains ...... 111 Chapter 4 – Consultation and Coordination ...... 112 4.1 Public Involvement and Scoping ...... 112 4.2 Consultation with Others ...... 112 4.3 Recipients of the EA ...... 112 4.4 Interdisciplinary Participation ...... 113 Literature Citied ...... 114
Appendix A – Management Direction Appendix B – Response to Public Comments Appendix C – Recreation Development Scale Appendix D – Wildlife Analysis Area Map Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION
CHANGES BETWEEN THE 30-DAY COMMENT PERIOD EA AND THE FINAL EA
The primary changes made in Chapter 1 since the 30-day comment period EA were in response to public comment and refined project design. Additional background information was added to enhance the readers understand of why this project came to be using information provided by ODOT (charter, letters of support, grant application, Transportation Assistance Group report, all incorporated and referenced for this project and are located in the project record). Clarification on the amount of trees to be removed if the paved path would parallel Forest Service Road 9702 was provided, section 1.8.1. Confusion over whether Sunriver and its bike paths were private or not still existed. Clarification from the Sunriver Owners Association Board has been included in section 1.8.1. Reference to Appendix A Management Direction has been included. Additional information on plan direction has been added. Other minor edits were made in this chapter.
1.1 INTRODUCTION ______
The Forest Service has prepared this Environmental Assessment (EA) in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other relevant Federal and State laws and regulations. This EA discloses the direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental effects that would result from the proposed action. This document is organized into five parts:
Purpose and Need for Action: This section includes information on the history of the project proposal, the purpose of and need for the project, the proposal for achieving that purpose and need, and key issues used to formulate alternatives, develop mitigation, and track effects and other issues that did not drive alternatives but were addressed in this analysis.
Alternatives: This section provides a more detailed description of the proposed action as well as alternative methods for achieving the stated purpose. This discussion also includes mitigation measures.
Environmental Consequences: This section describes the environmental effects of implementing the proposed action and other alternatives. This analysis is organized by resource areas (i.e. recreation, wildlife, botany). Within each section, the effect of the no action alternative provides a baseline for evaluation and comparison of the other alternatives that follow are described in this section.
Consultation and Coordination: This section provides a list of prepares and agencies consulted during the development of the environmental assessment.
Appendices: The appendices provide more detailed information to support the analyses presented in the environmental assessment.
Additional documentation, including more detailed analyses of project area resources, data specific to the project, public notifications and their responses, and miscellaneous documentation, may be found in the project record located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, Bend, Oregon.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
1.2 BACKGROUND ______
Planning for a paved path originally began in 2009 and was very well supported by commenting parties. A decision memo was signed April 30th, 2010. After further review of the decision and site- specific implementation planning, it was determined that changes and additional actions were needed. One such change was adjusting the proposed center line of the path to avoid removing large trees and maintaining a narrower vegetation clearance width for the path (refer to Proposed Action section below). It was decided that an environmental assessment is needed to evaluate the new actions proposed and this decision would supersede the 2010 decision.
In 2009 the Interagency Transportation Assistance Group prepared the Transportation Observations, Considerations, and Recommendations for the Deschutes National Forest, (Interagency Transportation Assistance Group, 2009) which cited the need to enhance the bicycle connections between Sunriver and the Deschutes National Forest, and proposed paved bike paths between Bend, Sunriver, Lava Lands Visitor Center. The report concluded that there are opportunities to use alternative transportation to benefit Forest visitors while supporting central Oregon communities. Opportunities exist to improve the visitor experience, prevent resource degradation, and partnerships with businesses and communities to mitigate the negative impacts of transportation and visitation, and to improve the quality of life for all those who visit or live in central Oregon. Communities and advocates in central Oregon have been working over the last several years to develop connections that would connect the cities of Bend, Sisters, and Sunriver with a network of paths located off of state highways. The proposed path from Sunriver to Lava Lands is a critical segment of this plan (2011 ODOT Charter)
Local residents, including the Sunriver Owners Association and the neighboring community has expressed support for this path.
1.3 PROJECT AREA DESCRIPTION ______
The Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path project is located on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District approximately 18 miles south of the City of Bend and directly northeast of Sunriver. The project area includes existing roads and adjacent area between Sunriver, Benham East Day Use Area, and Lava Lands Visitor Center (Figure 1-1).
Legal descriptions are as follows: Township 19 South, Range 11 East, Sections 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Figure 1-1: Vicinity map displaying the paved path and the communities of Sunriver and Bend
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
1.4 PURPOSE AND NEED ______
The purpose of this project is to provide for existing outdoor recreation use levels on public lands by creating a safe route for bicyclists and pedestrians to travel from the community of Sunriver to Lava Lands Visitor Center and the Deschutes River Trail and recreation sites. The need for such a path has been expressed and supported by, to name a few, Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, Oregon Department of Transportation, Sunriver Owners Association, Bend City Councilors, Deschutes County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, Deschutes County on Recreation Assets, Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization, local residents and the neighboring community (additional supporting letters are located in the project record).
Path proposals of this nature shall comply with the applicable provisions of Federal and Forest Service accessibility guidelines and standards (FSM 2330). Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG) apply to trails in the National Forest System and provide guidance for maximizing accessibility of trails while recognizing and protecting the unique characteristics of their natural setting.
The Newberry National Volcanic Monument Plan (Monument Plan) supports providing diverse, high- quality recreational experiences while providing equal opportunity (including barrier-free access) for all people to enjoy the Monument (pages 7, 43, 66-67). The Monument Plan identified areas of opportunity and planning issues for areas within each management Zone. The project area is within Areas 5a and 6 of the Lava Butte Zone. Within these areas, the Plan highlights the opportunity for a trail between Lava Lands Visitor Center and Benham East Day Use area (referred to as Benham Falls day use area in the Plan) (pages 95-97).
The Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic River Management plan supports bicycles use on trails (no off- trail/off-road use within the river corridor) along with trail design to minimize adverse effects on riparian vegetation, streambank stability, and soils (pages 37, 39). The Wild and Scenic Final Environmental Impact Statement identified a list of probable actions. These are actions which, at the time the plan was prepared, would most likely be needed to achieve the goals or standards and guidelines of this plan. For recreational value within the Wild and Scenic plan a probable action that is envisioned is construction of a surfaced, primary bike trail from Bend Urban Growth Boundary to Sunriver (page 65).
A forest-wide management goal in the Deschutes Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP also referred to as Forest Plan) is to provide equal opportunity to all persons regardless of race, color, creed, sex, marital status, age, handicap, religion or national origin (LRMP 4-2, 4-83). The Forest Plan also supports maintaining existing trail systems and providing additions or modifications to the system which would meet the increasing and changing demands (LRMP 4-32).
1.5 PROPOSED ACTION ______
The Deschutes National Forest proposes to pave an approximate six mile, ten foot wide path from the community of Sunriver to Lava Lands Visitor Center (LLVC) and the Deschutes River Trail and recreation sites stemming from Benham East Day Use Area. This multi-use1 path would serve non- motorized visitors by providing a safe and accessible route for bicyclists and pedestrians while addressing the larger goals of connecting communities and providing visitors the option of avoiding driving on the Highway.
1 The path is considered a non-motorized multi-use which means all motorized uses are not allowed unless meeting the definition provided in 36 CFR 212.1, unless needed for administrative or emergency purposes.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
The path and associated facilities would be engineered to be compliant with Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG), Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (FSORAG) and Architectural Barriers Act (ABA). Mobility devices that meet the definition provided in 36 CFR 212.1 may use this path. The paved path would allow for administrative purposes and emergency vehicle access. Where feasible, the path would be located in areas that have already experienced disturbance. Winter use would not be encouraged, snow plowing and/or grooming would not occur along or provide access to this path. For project specifics please refer to Chapter 2.4.2 Alternative 2.
A collection of Forest Service Roads (FSR) would be closed or decommissioned based on this and prior analyses. Road closure actions are outlined in detail in Chapter 2, Table 2-2.
A powerline would be buried in a portion of FSR 9702600 to energize proposed railroad warning light and arms.
The existing entrance/exit at LLVC would be widened to allow for two-way traffic. A new gate would be installed which would allow for access to the northwest parking area when the visitor center is closed. A new exit with a small number of large vehicle parking pullouts would also be constructed.
Restroom facilities for the trailhead would be constructed at the southwest end of the LLVC parking lot where the paved path connects to the parking area. A three-panel kiosk with a paved access route and connecting sidewalk to the existing Trail of Whispering Pines would be constructed. The Black Rock trail termini would shift approximately 70 yards to the west off of the paved path. A new double vault toilet facility would be constructed and a bike rack would be installed.
This project is designed to be consistent with the Forest Plan, Newberry Monument Plan and the Wild and Scenic River Plan.
1.6 MANAGEMENT DIRECTION ______
This environmental assessment is tiered to the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the Deschutes National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan as amended. The Forest Plan guides all management activities on the Forests. It establishes overall goals and objectives, and standards and guidelines for proposed activities, including specific management area guidance for resource planning. Major Forest Plan amendments that pertain to this project are: the Newberry National Volcanic Monument Management Plan (Monument Plan), the Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic River and State Scenic Waterway Comprehensive Management Plan (UDWSR), Inland Native Fish Strategy (INFISH), and Eastside Screens guides all natural resource management activities within the project area and provides standards and guidelines for the Deschutes National Forest.
A majority of the proposed path would traverse through the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which was established in 1990. Overall Monument management goals that pertain to this project are: a) ensure that the values and resources for which the Monument was designated for are protected, conserved, enhanced and interpreted, b) provide a diversity of high- quality recreational experiences while increasing opportunities for interpretation and education, c) provide equal opportunity for all people, d) keep the Monument a beautiful place, where people enjoy playing, exploring and learning about nature, e) protect the health and safety of visitors to the Monument. The Monument is divided into zones and this proposed project lies within the Lava Butte Zone. Which serves as the primary interpretive, day use and information hub of the Monument. Objectives include providing a large number of visitors with various recreation opportunities and to redesign access to this area to improve safety and the visitor experience.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
The path is also within a portion (segment 4b) of the Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic River and State Scenic Waterway Comprehensive Management Plan (management area - M17a), as signed in 1996. The 1990 Forest Plan goal for this management area (M17) is to protect and enhance those outstandingly remarkable values that qualified segments of the Deschutes River for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System (LRMP 4-155). The Forest Plan provided interim standards and guidelines for the Upper Deschutes River Corridor until completion of this management plan. The UDWSR general standard for this area is to provide a variety of recreational values within a predominantly natural setting without adversely affecting other river values.
The Monument Plan and UDWSR Plan have been coordinated for consistency. Where the two plans are concerned, Monument Plan direction governs for all lands within the Monument and above the high water mark of the upper Deschutes River’s eastern bank.
The Monument Plan supersedes any Forest Plan direction that is inconsistent with the purposes for which the Monument was established. The Forest Plan only applies in situations in which the Monument Plan does not speak to a particular issue and Forest Plan direction on that issue is consistent with the intent of the Monument legislation.
A portion of the paved path that is not covered by the Monument or Wild and Scenic River plans is within Scenic Views (M9) of the LRMP. The general goal for this area is to provide Forest visitors with high quality scenery that represents the natural character of central Oregon (LRMP 4-121).
The project area is also within Ryan Ranch Key Elk Area, as designated in the Forest Plan (LRMP 4-56 to 4-58; Appendix 16-2). Elk are found in certain key habitat areas, within which land management is designed to provide conditions needed to support summering and wintering elk.
Additional management direction can be found in Appendix A of this EA and in resource reports located in the project record.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Figure 1-2: Management Areas in the Project Area
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
1.7 DECISION TO BE MADE ______
The responsible official for deciding the type and extent of management activities in the Sunriver to LLVC analysis area is the District Ranger of the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District on the Deschutes National Forest. The responsible official can decide on several courses of action ranging from no action, to selecting one of many possible combinations in the project area. The responsible official will consider the following factors when making a decision:
1. How well the alternative(s) meets the project’s purpose and need.
2. How well does the alternative respond to the issue(s).
3. Have public comments been considered during this analysis.
4. What are the likely environmental effects of the proposed action and alternative(s), and have mitigation measures that would apply to project implementation been identified.
1.8 ISSUES ______
The Interdisciplinary (ID) team of Forest Service resource specialists evaluated input from public scoping. All issues raised during the life of this project are addressed in this EA. Issues and concerns are used to formulate and develop alternatives or develop constraints and mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate environmental effects.
Issues are generally divided into two groups: key issues and analysis issues.
1.8.1 KEY ISSUES
Key issues are defined as those directly or indirectly caused by implementing the proposed action. Key issues are used to formulate and develop alternatives to the proposed action, prescribe mitigation measures, or analyze and disclose environmental effects. The proposed action did not elicit any key issues. Therefore, no additional alternatives were developed (see Ch. 2.2 and 2.3).
Comments brought forth from public scoping were evaluated. Public respondents presented concerns that were considered but were determined to be non-key issues because of a variety of reasons, such as, the issue is outside the scope of this project; is already decided by law, regulation or other higher level decision; is conjectural and not support by scientific or factual evidence; is adequately addressed in alternatives (including project design features and/or mitigation measures). The following table (Table 1-1) summarizes issues brought forth in scoping and provides rationale why this issue has been determined to be a non-key issue.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Table 1-1: Non-Key Issue Summary and Rationale
Issue Issue Rationale Number
Use of paths within Sunriver is out of our jurisdiction and outside the scope of this analysis. In coordinating with the Sunriver Owners Association Board they have stated that “Sunriver is a private community open to the public (and) has been for over 40 years”. An information board at the Sunriver boundary may be installed to aid in informing potential visitors of the Sunriver regulations. Select Sunriver information may be displayed at other kiosk locations.
Adding information and education at the boundary between Sunriver and the National Forest would improve visitor understanding of Sunriver regulations and the special management areas visitors would likely travel via the proposed path. Sunriver area information may be posted here to avoid conflicts between Sunriver residents, visitors and other forest users. Several Sunriver homeowners raised concern that The proposed path is located on National Forest Lands and it is out of the users would access the private bike paths of Sunriver. Forest Service’s jurisdiction on how the community of Sunriver chooses to Recommendations to the Forest Service were to regulate their paths. Chris Christensen, Sunriver Owners Association 1 inform users that Sunriver paths are private and Board Vice President, has stated in an email dated 9/11/2012 that “Sunriver restricted, to install gates that would prohibit access, is a private community open to the public (and) has been for over 40 years”. and pay for police to monitor for violators using the Whether or not to change the rules of Sunriver regarding their bike paths these paths. and/or if this community would become a closed community is up to Sunriver. Nothing in this analysis should preclude Sunriver from considering gates and/or user fees. Coordination is ongoing with the Sunriver Owners Association Board.
Bob Nelson, President of the Sunriver Owners Association, provided a letter of support (dated 1/28/2013) for the proposed path and provided clarification on Sunriver’s bike path:
“In light of the recent comments you have received during the comment period for the Sunriver to Lava Lands Visitor Center Bikeway proposal, the Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) board of directors would like to reiterate their support for the proposal. From the pathway plan's inception, the SROA has followed, participated in the design of, and supported the efforts by the Forest Service and other
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Issue Issue Rationale Number agencies, for the construction of a paved pathway connecting Sunriver to the Lava Lands Visitors Center. Contrary to any letters you may have received challenging the design & need, we want to once again confirm our support.
Sunriver pathways, roads and amenities, while privately owned by the SROA, have always been considered premises open to the public. Our roads and pathways currently connect with areas, services and amenities outside the boundaries of Sunriver. It's also important to note that SROA worked cooperatively in the past with the Forest service to connect mountain bike trails from the Benham Falls parking lotto Sunriver. It is our belief that these additional amenities benefit the owners and visitors to Sunriver by granting them better and safer access to the attractions and National Monuments offered by the National Forest Service that they otherwise wouldn't have.
SROA greatly appreciates your efforts in this endeavor to bring such an amenity to Sunriver's doorstep and want you to know that you have the board's unanimous support.”
On January 30th, 2013, Bill Peck, Sunriver Owners Association General Manager, provided an additional letter of support and clarification on the Sunriver bike paths:
“You recently received a letter from the Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) Board of Directors restating their support for the Sunriver to Lava Lands Visitor Center Bikeway proposal. While I believe that the Deschutes National Forest (DNF) clearly understands the status of SROA's pathways by the fact that DNF acknowledges in its EA that Sunriver is a private community that is open to the public and that DNF does not have jurisdiction to regulate SROA's pathways, out of an abundance of caution, I want to confirm that SROA's pathways are indeed common area property owned by SROA and subject to its administrative authority. SROA's support of the Project does not convey (expressly or impliedly) any property rights to DNF or the public generally to use or regulate SROA's pathways or other SROA property.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Issue Issue Rationale Number I also think that it is important to mention that when the pathway is complete, SROA will be placing signage where the Project connects to SROA's pathways informing the public that they are entering SROA, a private planned community, and that the public’s use of SROA's pathways is permissive and subject to regulation by SROA, which could be revoked in the future.
Please understand that my comments are intended to only provide clarity to some of the questions presented to the DNF and in no way changes the SROA Board of Director's support for the project”
Rather than merge, the Black Rock trail termini would shift approximately 70 yards to the west along the proposed paved path from where it leaves the LLVC parking area. This nominal conversion of Black Rock single track to Concern was raised over merging this paved path 2 paved path would not change the trails overall character. The Black Rock with the Black Rock Trail. trail’s natural character is not realized until the trail separates from the parking lot and Whispering Pines interpretive loop trail, which after the shift, is approximately where Black Rock trail would begin.
Funding for this project has been secured by Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) who applied for the grant dollars through the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Public Lands Highway Some commenters, in light of this economic climate, Discretionary Program. Grant dollars received are slated for particular 3 questioned whether funding a paved path is the best purposes such as this proposed path and are not available to the Forest use of dollars. Service to re-purpose for other Forest or public priorities. If approved, this project would initiate multiple construction contracts and employ local contractors and small businesses. If not approved, the remaining funds would be absorbed back into the FHWA Discretionary Program.
Concern was raised over safety in the area and safety a. Shooting is currently prohibited across Forest development roads or of the path. bodies of water and within 150 yards of a residence, building, developed 4 recreation site or occupied area pursuant to 36 CFR 261.10(d) . a. This area has been used for target shooting which could put paved path users at risk. b. Following American Association of State Highway and Transportation b. Paving a path would increase the speed of Officials and FSTAG guidelines for hard, all-weather pavement surfaces
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Issue Issue Rationale Number users making it unsafe for children on the are generally preferred over those of crushed aggregate, sand, clay or path. stabilized earth. Unpaved surfaces provide a lower level of service; it may cause users to more easily loose traction and could potentially need more maintenance. On unpaved surfaces bicyclists and other wheeled users must use a greater effort to travel at a given speed when compared to a paved surface. This pathway is intended to accommodate modest speeds as an alternative transportation route.
The proposed path has been designed to avoid as many trees as possible, especially larger trees (over 21 inches dbh), and is mostly aligned on previously disturbed roadbeds. If the path were to be constructed along the FSR 9702, there would need to be a ten foot separation between the road and path. Considering the ten foot buffer and trail clearing limits, there would be approximately 50 feet of vegetation clearing from road edge. A greater number of trees would need to be removed along with more fill material needed in low areas and more excavation would be required in high areas in order to get the desired path grade of 5%. It is estimated that is the path were to parallel FSR 9702 for 3.1 miles that 700 to 800 trees would need to be removed (based on site visit best estimations). A considerable amount of cover and screening vegetation along the road would be removed which is in conflict with the Newberry Monument Plan. Some commenters felt that ecological impacts could This wider vegetation clearing in addition to existing road clearing would 5 be minimized by building the path along adjacent introduce safety concerns as wider clearing indirectly encourages greater roads as much as possible. speeds for motorized vehicles. In addition, the character along the road would change and the project would impact an alignment not previously disturbed.
If the path was made into a single bike lane along the road, then this project’s purpose and need would not be fully met by providing for an alternative to traveling along roadways and a safer experience. Lane construction and additional clearing would need to occur along both sides of the road. Clearing along the north and south side of FSR 9702 would further reduce concentrations of screening and cover, which is critical to maintain in the area.
Aligning the path along FSR 9702 may further facilitate vehicles parking along the roadway. This would likely present conflicts between motorized
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Issue Issue Rationale Number and non-motorized users, safety concerns and education/enforcement challenges.
On shared use roads (bicycles and vehicles) road use and travel speeds would increase due to the improved road surface, this would also increase risk for mixed use conflict. Shared use roads also do not serve pedestrians, people with mobility impairments or other non-motorized users and does not provide direct paved access to existing recreation facilities.
The proposed path would have no more than 5% grade, at a given point. The path and associated facilities would be engineered to be compliant with Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG) and the Concern was raised over the usability of the path that Architectural Barriers Act (ABA). As with any trail, visitors need to 6 the grade (hills) throughout the path would be too understand what they are embarking upon and their own personal steep for the average users. limitations. Information and maps would be made available for visitors to educate themselves at path termini at Lava Lands, the Sunriver area boundary and Benham Bridge.
While providing for scenic views is not part of this project’s purpose and need, scenic views are an important experience. There would be opportunities to open views for path users by selectively thinning tree limbs and/or removing three to four trees along segment 8. This project would provide safe travel and a connection to nature through interpretation and A commenter mentioned that this path would not 7 scenic views for bikers and pedestrians as they travel from Sunriver to Lava provide for scenic views. Lands.
Design of the path meets the standards and guidelines for scenic quality such as using material that would blend with the surrounding landscape character.
Pervious projects have closed roads in and around this project which Wildlife impacts such as migration corridors and improves wildlife migration corridors and hiding cover. This project has 8 hiding cover could be impacted by this path. evaluated whether additional roads could be closed and whether roads that have been closed under other decisions have been effectively enforced on the ground. Refer to Alternative 2 description in Chapter 2.4.2, and the
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
Issue Issue Rationale Number Wildlife and Transportation section in Chapter 3.
The scoping letter, dated June 29th, 2012, explained why trees within this project area had been painted and/or cut. Planning for a paved path began There was confusion over trees within the project in 2009 and a decision memo was signed April 30th, 2010. After further 9 area that were either marked with paint or had been review of the decision and site-specific implementation, it was determined cut. that changes and additional actions were needed; therefore, it was decided to evaluate new actions and changes in this environmental assessment. All trees within the project area have been reevaluated with this analysis.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need
1.8.2 ANALYSIS ISSUES
Analysis issues, as used in this EA, were identified as those that do not drive an alternative, or address the purpose and need, and that can be addressed through standards and guidelines, mitigation, analysis needs or monitoring. These items did not result in differing design elements among alternatives but are important for providing the Responsible Official and the public with complete information about the effects of the project.
The following elements were not considered to be key issues but are relevant to the project and tracked through the analysis:
1. Recreation 2. Wildlife a. Management Indicator Species b. Proposed, Endangered, Threatened, and Sensitive Species c. Big Game d. Migratory Birds 3. Water Quality, Fisheries, and Riparian Habitat 4. Scenery 5. Proposed, Endangered, Threatened, and Sensitive Plant Species 6. Invasive Species 7. Soil Quality 8. Heritage Resources 9. Engineering/Access and Travel 10. Safety 11. Standing and Down Woody Material 12. Air Quality and Smoke Management
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
CHAPTER 2 – ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PROPOSED ACTION
CHANGES BETWEEN THE 30-DAY COMMENT PERIOD EA AND THIS EA
The primary changes made in Chapter 2 since the 30-day comment period EA was more detail on path design, a better estimate of the number and size of trees that would need to be removed for path construction, percent of new ground disturbance for each segment, and clarification in alternatives considered but eliminated from detailed study. Discussion of the travel analysis was added. Other minor edits were made in this chapter.
2.1 INTRODUCTION ______
This chapter describes and compares the alternatives considered for the Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path project. This chapter is intended to present the alternatives in comparative form, sharply defining the issues and providing a clear basis for choice among options by the decision maker and the public (40 CFR 1502.14).
2.2 ALTERNATIVE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
An ID team evaluated information from public scoping. Of the concerns raised, the ID team did not identify any key issues. Since no key issues were identified an additional action alternative was not developed.
This chapter outlines project design elements that have been built into the alternative to ensure compliance with Forest Plan standards and guidelines, laws, regulations and other policies. It also includes resource protection measures that are designed to minimize potential resource impacts by the project.
2.3 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED BUT ELIMINATED FROM DETAILED STUDY
The following alternative options were considered during the development of this analysis but were eliminated from detailed study as described below.
2.3.1 ALTERNATIVE A – DO NOT PAVE THE PATH
An alternative which would construct the path without an asphalt surface was considered; however, this alternative was not analyzed further because it would not meet the purpose and need. In Table 1-1 issue number 4 further describes the importance and necessity of a paved path for safety and compliance with American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) design guidelines and Forest Service accessibility guidelines and standards. AASHTO design guidelines for shared multi use paths are:
Hard all-weather pavement surfaces are generally preferred over those of crushed aggregate, sand, clay or stabilized earth. Since unpaved surfaces provide a lower level of service, it may cause bicyclists to more easily lose traction (particularly bicycles with narrow, higher-pressure tires), and this type of surface may require more maintenance. On unpaved surfaces, bicyclists and other wheeled users must use a greater effort to travel at a given speed when compared to a paved surface.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Users, such as in-line skaters, are unable to use unpaved paths. In areas of moderate or steep terrain, unpaved surfaces would often erode and are not recommended. It is important to construct and maintain a smooth riding surface on multi use paths.
2.3.2 ALTERNATIVE B – DO NOT CUT TREES OVER 16 INCHES DIAMETER AT BREAST HEIGHT (DBH) OR ANY THAT DISPLAY OLD GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS
An alternative was considered not to remove any trees over 16 inches diameter at breast height (dbh) or that display old growth characteristics. This alternative was not considered in detail because the proposed path design incorporated avoiding large trees to the best of our abilities. The previous path design, as described in the 2010 Decision Memo would have removed approximately four times more trees than this proposed design. The number of trees that are proposed to be felled and/or removed would not change the overall character of the area and the project does not expect to remove trees that display old growth characteristics.
2.3.3 ALTERNATIVE C – IMPLEMENT A SUNRIVER USE FEE BY NON-PROPERTY OWNERS AND INSTALL GATES ON BIKE PATHS THAT ENTER INTO SUNRIVER
Implementing a use fee for recreationalists entering into Sunriver and/or installing gates on the bike paths of Sunriver was suggested by some commenters. This alternative was not considered in detail because it is not in FS jurisdiction to implement a fee and/or install gates on bike paths entering into Sunriver. Currently Sunriver is a private community that is open to the public (conversation with Chris Christensen, Sunriver Homeowners Association Vice President). Whether or not to change the rules of Sunriver regarding their bike paths and/or if this community would become a closed community is up to Sunriver. Nothing in this analysis should preclude Sunriver from considering gates and/or user fees. Chapter 1, Section 1.8.1, Error! Reference source not found. provides clarification from the Sunriver Owners Association Board on Sunriver’s bike paths
2.3.4ALTERNATIVE D – ELIMINATE SEGMENTS 1 THROUGH 5
A comment suggested not including segments 1 through 5 between Sunriver and Benham in order not to encourage more use on the Sunriver trail system. An alternative to not construct segments 1 through 5 was considered but eliminated from detailed study since this would prevent the project from meeting the purpose and need. In addition, it is anticipated that the vast majority of travel between the Forest and Sunriver would stem from Sunriver visitors or residents traveling to the Forest rather than Forest visitors traveling to Sunriver. From May through September, Forest visitors parking at a recreation fee site on the National Forest, such as Benham and Lava Lands, would be subject to a recreation fee. It seems more reasonable that the majority of people wishing to visit Sunriver would prefer to park at Sunriver where there is currently no fee to park.
2.3.5 ALTERNATIVE E – USE EXISTING PATHS OR KEEP PATH ALONG EXISTING ROADS
Commenters suggested either using the existing Black Rock Trail, expanding it to accommodate two- way flow or to use an alignment following FSR 9702600 and then converting the Deschutes River Trail to the proposed pathway along the river to Benham. This alternative was considered but not brought forward for detailed study for the following reasons.
Deschutes River Trail: The single-track, native surfaced character of the Deschutes River Trail is appropriate for a trail immediately adjacent to and paralleling the Wild and Scenic designated river for this distance, rather than a ten foot paved path. This trail provides a more primitive trail opportunity
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives and would exist as an alternative for visitors not wishing to utilize the proposed paved path. In addition, to convert this trail to a paved path, more trees would need to be removed than in the proposed path, which utilizes primarily previously impacted areas comprised of existing or previous road alignments.
Upgrading the existing Black Rock Trail: Upgrading the Black Rock Trail to a ten foot wide paved path with less than 5% running grade would have a greater effect on resources. This existing trail has a tread with of 18 to 24 inches and less than four feet of vegetation clearing was needed for construction, which has re-grown since. Converting the Black Rock Trail to a paved path would change this trails intent to provide mountain bikers or hikers with a more primitive trail opportunity. In addition, to convert the trail to the path more trees would need to be removed than in Alternative 2, which utilizes primarily previously impacted areas comprised of existing or previous road alignments.
Route segment 8 onto FSR 9702: To route segment 8 of this path onto FSR 9702 would not necessarily meet the purpose and need to provide a safe alternative route for bicyclists and pedestrians to travel. Also if the path were to be routed onto FSR 9702 this would not meet accessibility guidelines and standards.
If the path was made into a single bike lane along the road, then lane construction and additional clearing would need to occur along both sides of the road. Clearing along the north and south side of FSR 9702 would further reduce concentrations of screening and cover, which is critical to maintain in the area.
Aligning the path along FSR 9702 may further facilitate vehicles parking along the roadway. This would likely present conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users, safety concerns and education/enforcement challenges.
Paralleling FSR 9702: The proposed path has been designed to avoid as many trees as possible, especially larger trees (21 inches dbh or larger), and is mostly aligned on previously disturbed roadbeds. If the path were to be constructed along the FSR 9702, there would need to be a ten foot separation between the road and path. Considering the ten foot buffer and trail clearing limits, there would be approximately 50 feet of vegetation clearing from road edge. A greater number of trees would need to be removed along with more fill material needed in low areas and more excavation would be required in high areas in order to get the desired path grade of 5%. It is estimated that if the path were to parallel FSR 9702 for 3.1 miles that 700 to 800 trees would need to be removed (based on site visit best estimations). A considerable amount of cover and screening vegetation along the road would be removed which is in conflict with the Monument Management Plan. This wider vegetation clearing in addition to existing road clearing would introduce safety concerns as wider clearing indirectly encourages greater speeds for motorized vehicles. In addition, the character along the road would change and the project would impact an alignment not previously disturbed.
2.3.6 ALTERNATIVE F – PROVIDE AT LEAST 40 VEHICLE SLOT PARKING LOT AND TOILETS AT THE SUNRIVER END
An alternative that would provide at a minimum of 40 parking slots and toilets at the Sunriver end, segment 1, was considered. This alternative was eliminated from detailed study because the purpose and need of this project was to provide a route for bicyclists and pedestrians to travel from Sunriver to LLVC. The intent of the purpose and need is not to develop a sizeable parking facility or toilet structure at the Sunriver community boundary; it is to provide a connection between Sunriver, Benham East Day Use and Lava Lands. Based on public comment, modest parking is proposed with an addition
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives of 10 slots to be provided. This would allow for approximately 14 vehicles (existing and proposed parking area) to park at this location.
2.4 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED IN DETAIL ______
This EA assesses the potential effects of two alternatives: a no action alternative (Alternative 1) and an action alternative (Alternative 2).
2.4.1 ALTERNATIVE 1 – NO ACTION
This interpretation of the no action alternative is that the proposed action would not take place. Under this alternative a paved path for bicyclists and pedestrians would not connect the community of Sunriver to LLVC and Benham East. Facilities and parking would not be added at Lava Lands. The entrance of Lava Lands would not be widened and a gate to provide access during off-hours would not be installed. Road closures would not occur.
2.4.2 ALTERNATIVE 2
During the alternative development process, including further field reconnaissance and input from the ID team the proposed action was modified. Originally, it was proposed to have two separate entrance/exit points at LLVC parking area, Alternative 2 proposes one entrance/exit point at LLVC parking area. This modification still meets the project’s purpose and need.
The Deschutes National Forest proposes to construct a paved path that would create a safe route for bicyclists and pedestrians to travel from the community of Sunriver to Lava Lands Visitor Center and the Deschutes River trail and recreation sites stemming from Benham East Day Use Area. The path would be approximately ten feet wide and six miles in length to serve non-motorized visitors. The path and associated facilities would be engineered to be compliant with Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG) and the Architectural Barriers Act (AbA), and 36 CFR 212.1 which defines a motor vehicle as any vehicle that is self-propelled, other than: Any wheelchair or mobility device, including one that is battery powered, that is designed solely for use by a mobility-impaired person for locomotion, and that is suitable for use in an indoor pedestrian area. Wheelchairs that meet this legal definition may be used anywhere foot travel is allowed. The paved path would be designed to allow for emergency vehicle access. Where feasible, the path would be located in areas that have already experienced disturbance. Winter use would not be encouraged, snow plowing and/or grooming would not occur along or provide access to this path. The proposal includes the following:
Paved Path
Segment 1
The path would end near the Sunriver boundary for potential connection to the Sunriver bike paths. The path would parallel FSR 9702600 (not immediately adjacent to) and 9702655. To provide access to the path, additional parking would be provided off of FSR 9702600. The parking area would provide space for approximately ten vehicles across from the existing parking area to prevent the need for users to cross the road when accessing the path. A short section of the existing non-motorized single track trail would be rehabilitated. A three-panel kiosk, which would include a trail map, visitor information and interpretive messaging and directional signs would also be located at the beginning of this segment.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Adding information and education at the boundary would improve visitor understanding of Sunriver regulations and the special management areas visitors would likely travel via the proposed path. Sunriver area information may be posted here to avoid conflicts between Sunriver residents, visitors and other forest users
Segment 2
FSR 9702655 connecting to FSR 9702660, would be closed to public access by motor vehicle and the path would be constructed over the roadbed.
Segment 3
FSR 9702660 to 9702600 would be closed to public access by motor vehicle and the path would be constructed over the roadbed.
Figure 2-3: Segment 3 of the proposed path at FSR 9702660
Segment 4
The path would parallel FSR 9702600 (the road would remain open to public access by motor vehicle). Power for the railroad safety facilities would be buried in the centerline of the roadway (9702600) and originate from the Midstate Electric Cooperative overhead power line in the area.
Segment 5
From FSR 9702600 the path would continue on former FSR 9702607 until the path intersect with FSR 9702. At the intersection of the path (on FSR 9702607) and the FSR 9702 to Benham East Day Use Area there would be a directional sign. Visitors would cross the 9702 road at this point. FSR 9702607 would continue to be closed to public access by motor vehicle and the path would be constructed over the former roadbed.
Segment 6
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Paralleling the northeast side of FSR 9702 the path would connect to Benham Bridge near the Benham East Day Use Area. This portion of the path would require excavation (approximately 2000 cubic yards) to make the path level with the road and FSTAG compliant. Currently the Black Rock trail parallels FSR 9702 where the excavation is proposed. To provide for public safety approximately 100 yards of the Black Rock trail would be realigned northeast of the proposed path and the excavated area.
Figure 2-4: Segment 6 parallel to FSR 9702 near Benham Bridge.
Where the paved path intersects with Benham Bridge a kiosk would be installed to provide directional signage and a map. A six foot wide compacted fines path would connect Benham Bridge to Benham East Day Use Area (see the proposed actions at Benham East Day Use Area below).
Figure 2-5: Deschutes River trail near Benham East Day Use Area that would connect into the path leading down to Benham Bridge.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Segment 7
The path would continue adjacent to the northeast side of FSR 9702 from the intersection with the 9702607 to the railroad crossing.
Railroad Crossing
A railroad crossing arm, warning lights, barricades and warning signage would be installed at the existing railroad crossing across the 9702 road to provide for additional public safety for motorized and non-motorized visitors crossing the railroad tracks. To power the railroad crossing arm and light system, a power line that would connect into the existing above ground power line would be buried in the centerline of the 9702600 roadway. Funding for this railroad crossing would not be a part of project funds. This crossing was already scheduled to be upgraded for public safety, necessity, convenience and general welfare this project has moved this up hiring on the priority list.
Segment 8
The path in this segment would largely follow former FSR 9702200 to Lava Lands Visitor Center and connect into the Visitor Center parking lot. The sections of FSR 9702200 that are not closed to public motor vehicle use would be closed. To provide for scenic views along the path some trees would be removed and/or pruned at two locations. A standalone trailhead would be better established at the existing Lava Lands Visitor Center parking lot (see the proposed actions for Lava Lands Visitor Center below).
Figure 2-6: Segment 8 near Lava Lands
Path Design and Construction
The path would be paved ten feet wide with one foot compacted gravel shoulders on each side and up to 20 foot vegetation clearing limits. This design is based off of AASHTO standards; however, these standards recommend a two to three foot shoulder but this design is incorporating a one foot should to reduce the paths foot print. The path would be constructed with a hot mix of specified graded material that would be approximately three inches thick. Preparing the sub-base and base of the path clearing and grubbing of small plants could occur. The gravel base would be approximately 6 inches deep
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives consisting of ¾ inch minus graded aggregate and the base rock would consist of three inch minus graded aggregate. The running gradient for the path would be 5% or less with 1% side slopes. Curves and meanders are to be designed based on an 18 mile per hour speed.
Path maintenance would be accomplished by a combination of USFS maintenance schedule actions, future trail improvement grant opportunities and/or by exploring partnerships with stakeholders or non- profit entities.
Directional signage would be installed along the paved path. Turnouts would be constructed along the path to allow visitors a place to rest and enjoy the scenery. Turnouts would be approximately eight feet in width (at the widest point) and 20 feet in length, tapering back into the path. Along the path there would be approximately 14 turnouts or wide spots along the six mile long path. Six would be designed as a turnout and eight are considered wide spots to accommodate signs; however, these wide spots can be utilized by the user to pull off to the side. In areas with turnouts, the total footprint of the path and turnout, at the widest point, would be approximately 20 feet with 30 foot vegetative clearing limits. Benches may be placed in some of these turnouts.
To construct the path, trees would need to be felled or removed in some locations. To the extent possible, large trees would be avoided. Approximately 156 trees (Table 2-1), over the six mile length of the path, would be felled. If feasible, trees would be removed and sold or if needed in some cases to provide down woody material for wildlife, may remain onsite and moved away from the path.
Table 2-1: New Ground Disturbance and Tree Removal Estimates Estimated Percent Estimated Tree Area Project Segments of New Ground Description Count* Disturbance Segment 1 100% 38 trees 8 to 15” Trees grouped over Segment 2 5% dbh 0.13 miles and
intermittent over 1.6 Sunriver Segment 3 5% 6 trees 16 to 20” miles dbh Segment 4 100%
Segment 5 5% 31 trees 8 to 15” Segment 6 100% (Segment 6) dbh Intermittent over 0.5 Benham Including Benham 5% (Benham East miles East Alignments Alignments) 10 trees 16 to 20” dbh Segment 7 100% 37 trees 8 to 15” Lava Lands dbh Segment 8 Intermittent over 3.67 20% miles 13 trees 16 to 20” dbh
Lava Lands Visitor 19 trees 8 to 15” 90% Center Parking dbh
Total Number of Trees To Be Removed 156 * Tree counts typically identify trees over five inches diameter at breast height
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Two trees that have been identified as 21 inches or larger would have fill up to its base, these trees would not be removed. To prevent damage to these two trees the fill would not be over 24 inches at the trees base.
Roads
FSR 9702618, 9702619, 9702662, 9702670 (at the intersection with FSR 9702) and a portion of 9702200 were closed to public motor vehicle access under previous decisions and would be effectively closed as a component of this project’s implementation. Various methods can be used to effectively block access to roads. The Deschutes National Forest Road Closure Guide would be used to create the most effective closure. Error! Reference source not found. below outlines road closures in more detail.
Approximately 1.8 miles of system road would be decommissioned. Decommissioned roads are not needed for future management activities and are not used for administrative needs. Decommissioning involves removing the road from the transportation system and includes subsoiling to make the road impassible to motorized vehicles. Roads identified for closure and decommissioning are listed in Table 3-12 and 3-13. Segments providing access to those facilities or improvements would not be subsoiled until such time as the facilities or improvements were removed or access no longer required. All roads slated for decommissioning would be subsoiled.
Travel Analysis
The Kelsey Roads Analysis overlaps the Sunriver to Lava Lands project area. This analysis looked for opportunities to work towards the goal of the “Minimum Road System” necessary to meet the needs for recreation and natural resource management. This included looking to reduce habitat fragmentation and potential adverse impacts to wildlife from disturbance and harassment by humans. Because the Kelsey Roads Analysis overlaps this project area, the travel analysis can be used to discuss the transportation system in the Sunriver to Lava Lands project area. Additional information on the Kelsey Roads Analysis and this project’s recommendations for road closures is located in the project record.
Approximately 11.33 miles of road would be closed, effectively closed, decommissioned or converted to the path. Closures would occur west of Hwy 97, south of FSR 9702, east of the river and southeast of Sunriver. Closed roads are not needed for current management, but are expected to be needed for future management activities. Closed roads could be used for administrative purposes (permit administration, fire suppression, and future management) or by permittees. Decommissioning removed the road from the Forest inventory system and various techniques would be used to decommission the roadbed and would be subsoiled. Converting the road to a paved path would be closed to motorized except for emergency purposes or future administrative needs. Table 2-2 identifies roads proposed for closure, decommissioning, or conversion to the path.
Table 2-2: Road Closures, Decommissioning, Convert to Path
Close, Road Mtc. Terminate Total Decommission, Number Level Miles From Mile To Mile Convert 4001700 2 FSR 4001 0.00 FSR 9702018 2.46 2.47 Close 9702125 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FS Boundary 1.82 1.82 Close 9702200 2 FSR 9702 0.00 End of road 2.3 2.3 Convert 9702300 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FSR 9702018 1.9 1.9 Close
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Close, Road Mtc. Terminate Total Decommission, Number Level Miles From Mile To Mile Convert 9702612 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FSR 9702600 0.38 0.38 Close 9702617 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FSR 9702600 0.42 0.42 Decommission 9702618* 2 FSR 9702617 0.00 FSR 9702665 0.70 0.70 Decommission 9702619* 2 FSR 9702617 0.00 FSR 9702600 0.15 0.15 Decommission 9702660 2 FSR 9702617 0.00 FSR 9702665 0.62 0.62 Convert 9702662* 2 FSR 9702600 0.00 FSR 9702015 0.49 0.49 Decommission 9702665 2 FSR 9702600 0.00 FSR 9702600 0.60 0.06 Convert 9702670* 2 FSR 9702600 0.00 FSR 9702605 0.20 0.02 Decommission Total 11.33 *Decided for decommission under the Sunriver Hazardous Fuels Reduction Decision.
Benham East Day Use Area
The path from Benham Bridge would connect into the existing boat ramp and continue at six feet wide, connecting the restrooms, picnic area and interpretive trail system. The path would be constructed to meet FSTAG standards. The path would be leveled to have no more than a 5% grade, widened to six feet with a minor realignment around the existing water monitoring site and the surface would be compacted fines (same material that is currently on the trail). Approximately six trees would be felled, five for realignment around the existing gauging station and one at the boat ramp. A small cluster of trees approximately five inches dbh or less would be removed between the boat ramp and the restroom to facilitate connection to the restroom.
Lava Land Visitor Center Parking Lot
The existing entrance/exit would be widened to allow for two-way traffic. A new gate would be installed which would allow for access to the northwest parking area when the visitor center is closed.
Restroom facilities (a double vault toilet) and two large vehicle parking spaces for the trailhead would be constructed at the southwest end of the Lava Lands Visitor Center parking lot where the paved path connects to the parking area. A three-panel kiosk with paved access route and concrete sidewalk provide access to the existing Whispering Pines trail and existing sidewalk system would be constructed. The Black Rock Trail termini would shift from the parking lot to a junction with the proposed path approximately 70 yards west of the parking area. A bike rack would be installed at the northwest side of the parking lot.
Approximately three trees would be felled were the gate installation would take place, 12 trees at the two new large vehicle parking spaces and toilet facility, three at the proposed sidewalk connector and one additional tree to provide a better turning radius for vehicles at the northwest corner of the parking area.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Figure 2-7: Area behind blue marked tree is proposed location of restroom.
Figure 2-8: Large vehicle parking spaces location at LLVC.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Figure 2-9: Paved path project area map
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Figure 2-10: Paved path detailed project map
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
2.5 COMPARISONS OF ALTERNATIVES ______
Table 2-3: Comparison of Alternative 1 and Alternative 2
Alternative Elements Alternative 1 Alternative 2
Path Width (feet) 0 10 Clearing Limits (feet) 0 20 Path Length (miles) 0 6 Paved Path Characteristics 6 turnouts Number of Turnouts/Wide Spots 0 8 wide spots
Segment 1 0 38 trees 8 to 15” dbh Segment 2 0
Segment 3 0 6 trees 16 to 20” Segment 4 0 dbh Segment 5 0 31 trees 8 to 15” Segment 6 dbh Trees to be Removed 0 Including Benham East Alignments (tree numbers represent trees over 10 trees 16 to 20” 5 inches dbh and are an estimate) Segment 7 0 dbh 56 trees 8 to 15” Segment 8 dbh Including Trees to be removed at 0 LLVC 13 trees 16 to 20” dbh Total Number of Trees 0 156
Restroom Facilities at Lava Lands Visitor Center 1 1
10 (proposed) Parking Spaces at Segment 1 4 14 (total)
Close 0 6.57 Roads (miles) Convert to Trail 0 2.98 Decommission 0 1.78
2.6 PROJECT DESIGN ELEMENTS ______
In order to minimize potential resource impacts from project activities, project design criteria have been incorporated into the action alternatives unless otherwise specified. Project design criteria are devised in the pre-analysis and analysis phases to reduce environmental impacts and comply with applicable laws and regulations. They include, but are not limited to, best management practices (BMPs), standards and guidelines, and standard operating procedures.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
2.6.1 RESOURCE PROTECTION MEASURES
Recreation
Analysis of the effects of the action alternative is based on assumptions that the following recreational resource project design criteria would be incorporated.
To maintain the natural appearances of the setting and maintain recreation opportunity spectrum (ROS):
• Limit leaving dead and down material to intermittent locations where necessary for wildlife purposed only, rather than leaving obvious multi-tree accumulations visible from a point along the trail. • Restore existing minor riparian vegetation damage at Benham Bridge caused by user created travel off of trail. • Restore areas impacted or denuded of vegetation as a result of project activities.
To facilitate public safety:
• Ensure American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards are met with regard to trail surfacing, grade and turning radius. • Incorporate adequate distance buffer or a ‘trail-side’ horizontal rail on proposed FSR 9702 guardrail uprights at the corner near Benham Bridge. • Re-align the existing compact aggregate trail at the gauging station segment. • Do not open segment 8 to the public until all standard railroad prescribed safety systems are functioning at the railroad crossing on FSR 9702. • Regarding blasting and major excavation activities near Benham Bridge along FSR 9702, ensure standard safety and visitor awareness signing is installed at Benham Bridge, Black Rock Trail and at key points on FSR 9702. • Prior to any construction activities near Benham Bridge that would impede use of the existing Black Rock Trail, close the affected alignment and detour trail users from the railroad right- of-way area to FSR 9702 and post bikers and hikers on roadway temporary signage. Post the closure and detour information at Lava Lands and Benham East Day Use Area as well as at key points on the trail. • Prior to any construction activities at Lava Lands that would impede use of the Black Rock Trail, close the Black Rock Trail from Lava Lands to beyond the affected segment. Post the closure information at Lava Lands and Benham East Day Use Area as well as at key points on the path.
To incorporate accessibility and universal design features, as well as reduce conflicts between users:
• Incorporate pullouts at regular intervals along the trail alignments. Include benches at some pullouts to provide rest points during long segments for mobility challenged visitors. • Include accessible trail connectivity from Benham Bridge to the restroom at Benham East Day Use Area. • Ensure two parking spaces at the Lava Lands trailhead parking lot are defined as accessible. • Allow mobility devices on the paved path in pursuant to 36 CFR 212.1. • Prohibit recreational use of Class I, II, and II all-terrain vehicles and equestrian use on all paved path alignments.
To minimize impact to federal tax-based or fee-based recreation and facilities funding:
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
• Explore partnership agreements for construction and future maintenance of Sunriver parking area. • Explore a partnership with the Sunriver Owners Association or other partners/volunteers, especially for path segments 1 through 5. Partnership plans should describe routine litter maintenance; path condition, hazard and visitor monitoring; light vegetation control; and clearing the path surface of obstructions which limit accessibility. • Inform the public about volunteer and donation-to-partner opportunities at key locations.
Wildlife
Project Design Criteria
Currently, there are no known nests or roosts within the project area. If raptor or eagle nests are located within ¼ mile of the path, seasonal disturbance restrictions (for construction, not path use) may be applied as per the Deschutes Forest Plan. Species-specific dates are as follow:
Osprey April 1st – August 31st Red-tailed hawk March 1st – August 31st Bald eagle January 1st – August 31st Northern goshawk March 1st – August 31st Cooper’s hawk April 1st – August 31st Sharp-shinned hawk April 15th – August 31st Golden eagle February 1st – July 31st Great gray owl March 1st – June 30th Great blue heron March 1st – August 31st
Mitigation Measures
Due to the current road density in the Ryan Ranch KEA and within deer summer range, as part of the mitigation measure of the proposed path, posted signs or other methods to effectively block access to FSR 9702300 and 4001700 based on recommendations from the Deschutes National Forest Road Closure Guide would occur. Blocking access to these roads along with closing, decommissioning, or converting to path an additional 6.96 miles of existing road would help reduce fragmentation and minimize human disturbance to deer and elk.
Discourage winter use of the path by not plowing nearby roads or grooming the path.
Fisheries and Water
Project design features for this project have incorporated the following Forest Service National Best Management Practices (USDA, 2012):
• Within riparian habitat conservation area (RHCA) path segment, out slope corners and crown path to disperse water run-off and prevent overland flow into the Deschutes River. (BMP Rec- 4). • Place a sediment fence between the edge of the water and construction area during construction of paved path near Benham Falls Bridge. (BMP Fac-2) • Remove the surplus of excavated materials and dispose of off-site. (BMP Fac-2). • Refuel equipment in the parking lot 100 feet or more from edge of river. (BMP Road-10). • Place downed wood and/or boulders to limit access to riparian area near bridge to avoid damage. Plant vegetation in presently disturbed areas near the bridge to stabilize soils and aid
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
in limiting overland flow of sediment to the river. Monitor site to evaluate the effectiveness of the structures in protecting the riparian area, see monitoring requirements in the below monitoring section. (BMP Rec-2). • For the gravel section (Benham East alignments), near Benham Falls Bridge, to be widened by one foot, to the extent possible widen the path to the side away from river toward the parking lot. (BMP Rec-4).
Scenery
Design criteria for the paved path should consider the following to meet Forest Plan standards and guidelines for Scenic Views:
• Retain features in the landscape such as large trees or tree groupings and lava rock outcrops. • Locate viewpoints and design interpretive sites that take advantage of any panoramic views or points of interest. • Provide shaded rest stops or pull-outs at least every mile along the route. • Provide signing that is minimal and low key by avoiding shiny or metallic materials and bright or white colors. • Allow curvature in the path layout and alignment so the rider experience is enhanced and views to the surrounding landscape are captured. • Use topography and existing vegetation to create a path that invites non-motorized use and limits access to motorized vehicles. • Restore disturbed native vegetation to edges of path and provide landscape screens around parking areas so vehicles are not visible from surrounding areas. • Use materials on the path that blend with the surrounding landscape character and avoid white or light colored aggregate on the shoulders of the path. • Maintain as many trees as possible so recreationists travel through a natural-appearing setting.
Noxious Weeds
The following project design criteria would be incorporated into the action alternative:
• The known knapweed population near the end of FSR 9702 would be treated and flagged prior to project initiation. • The portion of path near the Benham East Day Use Area, adjacent to FSR 9702 at the weed site would be constructed last. This would reduce but not eliminate the risk of spreading the weed seeds present at the site to un-infested areas. Wash equipment, including trucks, before and after constructing the portion of trail near the weed site. Wash all equipment after hauling contaminated soil. • Any fill material brought into the project would be examined by the district botanist or designee for the presence of invasive plants. • Machinery involved in project activities must be washed prior to entry into the project area.
Soils
Although there are no standards and guidelines relative to soils and dedicated recreational use, appropriate best management practices (BMPs) are typically applied to all ground-disturbing activities, as described in General Water Quality Best Management Practices (USDA, 2012). Specific BMPs commonly used to minimize the effects on the soil resource of road systems, recreation, and administrative sites are briefly described for the activities that would be associated with the construction, use, and maintenance of the paved path.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
• Minimize the extent of new soil disturbance from equipment by implementing appropriate design elements for avoiding or reducing the disturbance footprint to only that which is needed. • Prepare an erosion control plan prior to construction. Apply appropriate erosion control measures to all ground disturbing activities associated with the construction and development of the path. • Refrain from construction operations when soils are wet or during periods of high runoff or snow melt. • Provide for drainage so that runoff is dissipated on-site and infiltrated into the soil. Pathway design should minimize interception and prevent the concentration of runoff. • Utilize swales and vegetated filtering structures placed at key drainage sites to dissipate runoff. • Maintain drainage structures or features so that they remain functional at dispersing runoff adequately. • Re-establish and maintain native vegetation on bare soil surfaces immediately after construction. • Foundation, underlayment, and pavement materials should be of a design and grade that withstands settling, frost heave, weathering, and root expansion so that surface deformation and cracking are minimized over time. • Utilize mulch, top soil or another type of top cover that would help retain soil moisture and support the re-establishment of vegetation where bare soil has been exposed. • Prevent the introduction of invasive species if using off-site mulch or topsoil.
Engineering/Roads
Vehicles with a GVWR rating of 10,000 or less would be allowed to drive on the path for administrative purposes.
Roads that are categorized as maintenance level 1 (roads that are blocked to all vehicle traffic), would be utilized to the extent necessary to support project needs. Upon project completion these roads would be returned to maintenance level 1 status and condition.
Maintenance which is above and beyond normal maintenance for roads would last during the life of project implementation. Construction and restoration of drainage and drainage structures (rolling dips, waterbars and leadouts) are important to achieve the desired effect. Other associated maintenance on these road types would include limited brushing, pre and post use blade and shaping of roadway
Trees along all travel ways and around the project area that are considered a safety risk and identified as a hazard tree in accordance to FSM 7733 would be evaluated and felled. All felled danger trees would be evaluated for removal.
Temporary, un-inventoried, unauthorized user created roads along the new paved path would be removed and restored to a condition suitable for a productive return to the land base. The preferred method for achieving this goal is by subsoiling these areas to reduce compaction and encourage new growth. Utility installation within the roadway shall conform to the following requirements:
Existing roadway surfacing within the excavation limits of trenching operations shall be conserved and reapplied on the roadway trenching locations after backfilling is complete.
The minimum cover between the top of a buried utility and road or ground surface shall be 30 inches.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
The trench shall be backfilled with the excavated or other suitable materials and the entire backfill shall be compacted in layers of not to exceed six inches by use of a mechanical tamper.
All backfilled material shall be compacted to 95% of its relative maximum density when within the roadway to 90% when between the shoulder (or curb) and the right of way line.
Except at locations where the utility line is entering or leaving the roadbed, utilities to be installed in the roadway shall be installed at the centerline of the travel way.
Upon completion of backfilling, the roadbed shall be finished to be smooth, uniform, and shaped to conform to typical sections. The subgrade shall be visibly moist during shaping and dressing, and compaction shall be performed using a vibratory grid roller or approved equal with a minimum weight of ten tons. The surface shall be rolled with at least five full-width passes or until there is no visible evidence of further consolidation. Cultural Resources
Several archaeological sites are known to exist within the project area. The project archaeologist would work with the implementation team leader in order to protect these resources during construction of the trail.
If, prior to, or during construction work, previously unknown items of prehistoric or historical value are discovered or disturbed, activities would cease in the area affected and the project archaeologist would be notified. A mitigation plan would be created in order to protect the artifacts from project implementation.
An interpretative sign at the benchmark stump, which identifies a small section of the old Huntington road within the project area, would enhance the trail experience for the public.
2.6.2 MONITORING
Fisheries and Water
Monitor planted vegetation near Benham Bridge every two years for a five year period after vegetation has been planted. The district fisheries biologist or recreation staff would conduct the monitoring.
Cultural Resources
During project implementation (all ground disturbing activities) an archeologist would be on-site to ensure the protection of known resources that need to be avoided.
Recreation
To determine use patterns, reduce conflicts, raise public awareness or mitigate potential or continued resource damage occurring from related visitation within the Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic River corridor:
Consider tracking use with a trail counter from Memorial Day thru Labor Day just north of the path junction at FSR 9702. Track prior to construction should opportunity to be realized.
Benham Bridge kiosk should be recognized to serve as an Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic River corridor information and orientation portal rather than a Monument focused station.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 2 – Alternatives
Identify expanding path braiding and stream bank damage between Benham Bridge and Benham Falls overlook along the Deschutes River Trail. Consider developing a restoration action plan to address conditions of concern identified.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
CHAPTER 3 – ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
CHANGES BETWEEN THE 30-DAY COMMENT PERIOD EA AND THIS EA
Information about past road closures from Sunriver HFRA and Hwy 97 projects were added in cumulative actions section and in the Wildlife section. Other minor edits were made in this chapter.
3.1 INTRODUCTION ______
This chapter discusses the existing condition of resources in the Sunriver to Lava Lands project area and discloses the direct, indirect, and cumulative effects each of the alternatives (including the no action) would be expected to have on resources. The duration of these effects may vary depending on the resource in question. This chapter concludes with a discussion of specifically required disclosures.
3.2 CUMULATIVE ACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES ______
Cumulative effects are analyzed in this chapter. All known present and reasonably foreseeable future activities used by the Interdisciplinary team for their cumulative effects analyses, are located in Table 3-1 below. The duration of direct, indirect, and cumulative effects varies, and is addressed by each resource and subject area to follow. In general, the analysis area would be the project area. If the resource being analyzed necessitates extending the analysis area outside the project area for an appropriate analysis, then the extent of the analysis area is documented under each resource area below and in the specialist reports located in the project record. The project area is within the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed.
For the purposes of this EA, the cumulative impacts are the sum of the existing condition (which represents all past actions), present actions, and reasonably foreseeable future actions. Reasonably foreseeable as defined in 36 CFR 220.3 are those Federal or non-Federal activities not yet undertaken, for which there are existing decisions, funding, or identified proposals. Identified proposals for the Forest Service is that the Forest Service has a goal and is actively preparing to make a decision on one or more alternative means of accomplishing that goal and the effects can be meaningfully evaluated (36 CFR 220.4 (a)(1)). The purpose of the cumulative effects analysis in the EA is to evaluate the significance of the no action and action alternative contributions to cumulative impacts. A cumulative impact is defined under federal regulations as follows:
"...the impact on the environment which results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions regardless of what agency (federal or non-federal) or person undertakes such other actions. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time" (40 CFR 1508.7).
In order to understand the contribution of past actions to the cumulative effects of the alternatives, this analysis relies on current environmental conditions as a proxy for the impacts of past actions. This is because existing conditions reflect the aggregate impact of all prior human actions and natural events that have affected the environments and might contribute to cumulative effects. “CEQ regulations do not require the consideration of the individual effects of all past actions to determine the present effects of past actions” (40 CFR 1508.7). This cumulative effects analysis does not attempt to quantify the effects of past human actions by adding up all prior actions on an action by action basis. One reason for taking this approach is because focusing on past individual actions
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences would be less accurate than looking at the existing condition, because there is limited information on environmental impacts of individual past actions and no one can reasonable identify each and every action over the last century that has contributed to the existing condition.
Table 3-1:Past, Present and Future Activities
Activity Project Name and/or Site Location Size of Project Area or Activity Past Activities 6,368 acres commercial thinning Sunriver HFRA 9,815 acres mowing to reduce fuel Vegetation Kelsey EA, loading Management Katalo East and West EA 3,450 acres precommercial East Tumbull thinning OZ Research 12,262 acres prescribed fire to reduce fuel loading 120 acres, highway widening and two big game underpasses, Highway 97 Expansion including high fence Roads/Wildlife Closed/decommissioned 26.9 miles of existing roads Decommission 16.1 miles of Sunriver HFRA existing roads Recreation Lava River Cave Circulation EA 2 acres
Wildfire Green Mountain Fire of 1995 223 acres Ongoing or Planned Activities Railroad Oregon railroad
Lava River Cave Day Use/Hiking
Lava Lands Visitor Center/Lava Butte Day Use/Hiking Benham East Parking area/boat ramp, Slough, Dillon Falls, Lava Island & Developed Recreation Day Use Aspen boat ramps, Ryan Ranch areas along the Deschutes River Recreation Meadow & trail Benham West trailhead, Big Eddy TH, Designated Trails – hiking and Black Rock trail, Sunriver horse trail biking Various in the western part of the Designated snowmobile trails watershed Potential paved trail connections from proposed path to Highway 46 Biking and walking Welcome Station and on to Bend Oregon 25,700 acres and 22, 682 acres Vegetation West Bend EA (ongoing) commercial thin, precommercial management Rocket EA (planning stages) thin, fuels reductions, prescribed fire, and road closures Sunriver resort and community Private Sunriver, OR activities
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
3.3 BEST AVAILABLE SCIENCE ______
Forest Service policy is that proposed projects must be consistent with the Forest Plan and other management direction show consideration of “best available science” (Dillard 2007). Science is not absolute or irrefutable and much of what we know in a science context is constantly evolving (Moghissi et.al. 2008). This means what constitutes best available science might vary over time and across scientific disciplines (Dillard 2007). An objective of considering best available science is for scientists “to provide a meaningful context to scientific information so that its validity might be judged and therefore useful to the policymaker” (Moghissi et.al. 2008).
Analysis information provided in this EA was based on a variety of methodologies, models, and procedures (depending on the resource) all of which are derived from scientific sources included in the Literature Cited section. This EA and the accompanying project record identify methods used, reference reliable scientific sources, discuss responsible opposing views, and disclose incomplete or unavailable information, scientific uncertainty, and risk (See 40 CFR 1502.9(b), 1502.22, and 1502.24). Personal opinions were generally judged not to be best available science. Peer-reviewed science was evaluated, and we recognized the value to independent peer review. All Forest Service research literature is peer reviewed following USDA Information Quality Scientific Research Guidelines.
3.4 PROJECT RECORD ______
This EA hereby incorporates by reference the project record (40 CFR 1502.21). The project record references all scientific information that was considered for the analysis, including reports, literature reviews, review citations, academic peer reviews, science consistency reviews, and results of ground- based observations to validate best available science. This chapter provides a summary of the specialist reports, biological assessments, and biological evaluations in adequate detail to support the decision rationale. The project record is available for review at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District Office, 63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, Oregon 97701, Monday through Friday 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
3.5 ALTERNATIVE EVALUATION ______
3.5.1 RECREATION
This section covers the existing conditions and effects on recreation resources. This section incorporates by reference the Recreation Resource Report contained in the project record located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, consistency with Forest Plan, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives evaluated are discussed in this section.
Introduction
This section addresses the effects of the proposed Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path on recreational activities, setting, and experience which collectively comprise the recreational opportunities of the analysis area.
The analysis area is located on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District approximately 18 miles south of the City of Bend and directly northeast of Sunriver. The project area is a linear trail corridor
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences alignment utilizing existing roads and adjacent area between Sunriver, Benham East Day Use Area, and Lava Lands Visitor Center.
Existing Condition
The visitor’s recreation opportunity is described by the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) as a combination of activities, setting and experience. The existing condition discussion has been organized into those same groupings. The project area has been divided into eight trail segments and for analysis purposes, those eight segments have been organized into three analysis areas. The areas each contain a path corridor and associated destinations or termini. Photos displaying the existing condition of segments are displayed in Chapter 2, Figures 2-2 through 2-6.
Segment 1 through 5 – Sunriver
The Sunriver segment spans from the Sunriver community boundary with the Deschutes National Forest to the paved FSR 9702.
Activities
This corridor is an established travel route for Sunriver visitors and residents. This route is used largely to access the Benham Falls and the Deschutes River Trail heading north. Visitors walk, bike, jog, walk dogs and drive through this corridor. While most people walk or bike to this travel way from elsewhere in the Sunriver community, some drive to the forest boundary for quick access. Class I, II or III OHV’s may use this corridor on open authorized roads subject to travel management regulations. Recreation in the adjacent area is dispersed and no developed opportunities exist. Complaints and inquiries regarding shooting near Sunriver segment have been received in the past. Shooting is prohibited across Forest development roads or bodies of water and within 150 yards of a residence, building, developed recreation site or occupied area pursuant to 36 CFR 261.10(d) .
Camping is prohibited in segments 1 through 5 pursuant to Forest Order DES-2006-01.
From the community, a high volume of motorized traffic runs immediately parallel to the .15 mile segment of existing trail on the FSR 9702600 to access the Deschutes River. Visitors use the route on a year round basis with the largest volume of travel occurring during the summer season from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Setting and Experience
The ROS classification for the area is Roaded Natural.
There are no signs, information or management controls where visitors travel a combination of a 0.15 miles single track and unimproved forest roads to gain access to the Benham area from Sunriver. Contact with other visitors may be common and frequent during peak season. The surrounding forest maintains its natural character with evidence of past vegetation management or timber harvest.
The roads are open to motorized use subject to the Deschutes National Forest travel management rule. Road surfacing is largely native material and receives little road maintenance. During dry periods, extremely dusty conditions prevail especially when motorized vehicles pass thru. During wet and thaw periods, sections of the road become slippery and riddled with pooling. The short segment spanning approximately ¼ mile and connecting to FSR 9702 is a former roadbed accommodating the existing non-motorized use. FSR 9702 is surfaced with asphalt and is the only motorized access route to Benham East Day Use area.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
Visitors to the Forest from Sunriver are comprised of homeowners, vacationing guests and general public. Existing uncontrolled Forest access is assumed to be a desirable amenity for Sunriver parties who contribute to the Sunriver economy. Sunriver, a private community, is open to the public.
Segment 6 – Benham East
The Benham segment includes the currently undeveloped proposed path alignment immediately connecting Benham Bridge and Benham Day Use Area to the proposed segments of path terminating at Sunriver and Lava Lands.
Activities
The Benham East Day Use Area provides opportunities for fishing, paddling, picnicking, trail-based interpretive learning, mountain biking and hiking the Deschutes River trail #2.1 towards Bend and the single track Black Rock Trail #3935 to Lava Lands. Forest visitors originating from Sunriver via the proposed path alignment or the Deschutes River Trail or parking on-site at Benham East, enjoy access to the remarkably outstanding Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic/State Scenic Waterway. The most popular destination is the Benham Falls Day Use Area and Viewpoint approximately ½ mile from Benham East. Benham Falls parking is located about a ½ mile downstream from the Benham East Trailhead and has motorized accessed from FSR 41. Shooting is prohibited across Forest development roads or bodies of water and within 150 yards of a residence, building, developed recreation site or occupied area pursuant to 36 CFR 261.10(d) .
Camping is prohibited in segment 6 pursuant to Forest Order DES-2006-01.
Setting and Experience
The ROS classification for the area is Roaded Natural.
Benham East Day Use Area is located on the southeastern bank of the Deschutes River in a grove of large, old, Ponderosa Pine. Existing signage at Highway 97 directing visitors to this area is misleading (‘Benham Falls’) as Benham Falls is over ½ mile from the parking. Key signage and information lacking at this site is both a standard Monument site identification, Wild and Scenic River information and a map of the vicinity’s trails.
Other site regimentation includes standard traffic parking signs and physical barriers defining the edge of the aggregate parking area. There is a self-service recreation fee station and information board on-site. Other amenities include a double-vault toilet, garbage dumpster, and five picnic units comprised of new concrete tables and the undesirable angle style fire pits. There is a compact ‘fines’ outdoor recreation access route (ORAR) from the parking area to the restroom and first picnic unit where the route to the picnic unit is less than standard width. There is a short accessible cultural history interpretive loop that extends southwest from this site along the edge of the river. Cautionary signs are placed at the concrete boat ramp access to the Deschutes River and trailhead signs are seen at intersections of the trail. Near the boat ramp at the parking area is a large information board identified as a Boy Scout project and incorrectly titled Benham Recreation Area.
Benham East does not have a regulated open season and day use regulations apply. Use increases during the summer in conjunction with the increased number of visitors when the Lava Lands Visitor Center opens. According to fee compliance data in recent years, an average of 11 vehicles are parked at this trailhead during the peak season of May to October. Persons at one time (PAOT) is currently set at 25 visitors. Development Scale for the site is 3 (refer to Recreation report, located in the project record).
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
FSR 9702 provides vehicular access to Benham East. The road is paved then turns to dirt and gravel just before the parking area. Hikers and bikers may access the area from the Deschutes River trail, which follows the river corridor to another parking area known as Benham West Day Use Area. There are several other trailheads farther downstream from Benham West that may also be used for parking to access the project area. Benham East has a boat launch ramp used by rafters, paddlers and fishermen. The trailhead also provides the main access to the Deschutes River Trail from the east side of the river. The trail extends the length of the river all the way downstream to the City of Bend. The trail accommodates hikers, bikers and stock users.
Fees are collected by authority of the Recreation Enhancement Act and are used to maintain and operate the Benham East Day Use Area during established fee seasons.
Segment 7 through 8 – Lava Lands
The Newberry National Volcanic Monument Comprehensive Management Plan (Monument Plan) identifies segments 7 and 8 of the project area as the Lava Butte Zone, which serves as the primary interpretive, day-use and information hub of the Monument. Objectives include providing a large number of visitors with various recreation opportunities. The planning criterion set forth in the Monument Plan designates this area as Rural and Roaded Natural within the ROS system.
Activities
The Lava Lands Visitor Center is the main information hub and interpretive center for the Monument. Majority of users come to this location seeking information and day use recreation relatively short in duration. The Visitor Center has many resources about the surrounding area, which users can access at the information desk and bookstore. During operating hours, visitors can watch educational films and receive detailed information about the volcanic, natural and cultural history of the area in a variety of experiential methods. A large topographical model provides an overview of the entire Monument’s landscape.
There are several paved paths in the area immediately surrounding the visitor center. The Trail of the Molten Land is a mile long paved path that crosses the 7,000 year-old lava flow. In 2012, approximately 1/3rd of the path was reconstructed to comply with accessibility standards. New interpretive panels with colorful designs and detailed information were also added at intervals along the entire duration of the path in 2012. The Trail of Whispering Pines is a ¼ mile paved path also accessed from the visitor center parking area and has been updated to be a self-guided interpretive loop described by a tri-fold handout.
When the visitor center is closed, 39 parking spaces remain open for visitors to access all facilities described above. This parking area serves as a day use area providing visitors the opportunity to picnic, bike and hike with direct access to Black Rock Trail, Trail of Whispering Pines, and Trail of the Molten Land and Lava Butte roadwalk.
The Black Rock Trail #3935 offers 4.4 miles of outstanding single track biking and hiking opportunity with termini at Lava Lands and Benham East Day Use Area which accesses the Deschutes River Trail. Shooting is prohibited across Forest development roads or bodies of water and within 150 yards of a residence, building, developed recreation site or occupied area pursuant to 36 CFR 261.10(d) .
Camping is prohibited in segment 7 pursuant to Forest Order DES-2006-01. Lava Lands Visitor Center is a day use facility. Public reports and physical evidence suggest that camping occurs at some points in segment 8.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
There is a memorial near the trail adopted from the period of history when the county held jurisdiction and ownership of a portion of the project area. The Annette Dodds Cross Memorial plaque access via road or trail is to be preserved by name and stipulated as such on maps. The actions are recognized in a Memorandum of Agreement between the Deschutes County and Deschutes National Forest in 1990 and is located at SW ¼ NE ¼ Sec. 22, T. 19 S. R. 11 E., W.M.. The plaque is not visible from the FSR 200 and the proposed path alignment.
FSR 9702 and 9703 serve as motorized access to the key destinations in the Monument as well as a loop or one-way route for road or mountain bikes between the Deschutes River Trail, Sunriver and Lava Lands.
Fees are collected by authority of the Recreation Enhancement Act and are used to maintain and operate the Lava Lands complex during established fee seasons.
Setting and Experience
Motor vehicle access to the visitor center is from Highway 97 South and FSR 9702. LLVC operating season is May through September and is open five days a week (Thursday to Monday) from 9:00am to 5:00pm. During the peak season (Mid-June to Labor Day Weekend) LLVC is open seven days a week from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
When open, LLVC received a high volume of visitors. In 2012, an average of 459 visitors per day was recorded entering the site from May through September spanning 146 days. The total number of visitors to Lava Lands as recorded by the counts conducted at the welcome station for the 2012 season was 66,995. The area received continued visitation at much lesser volume when the visitor center is closed on a year round basis. The number of visitors per year has increased by nearly 10,000 from 58,013 in 1999. Persons at one time (PAOT) is currently set at 350 visitors. Development Scale for the site is 5 (refer to Recreation report, located in the project record).
LLVC was constructed in 1970 with a major reconstruction and grand re-opening completed in 2009. Within the visitor center is a bookstore, an extensive interpretive exhibit hall and theatre room. An information and sales desk is staffed during operating hours. Several days a week, Rangers and volunteers provide interpretive talks and walks in the area.
LLVC parking area is a striped asphalt surface with 65 single vehicle spaces on the south zone and a lot designated for buses, RVs and trailers in the north zone. The parking areas have extensive small to large cracks and breaks and the paint striping has faded dramatically. There are two accessible parking spaces with one being van accessible.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
Figure 3-1: Existing parking at Lava Lands and stakes showing proposed path connection point.
There are ten concrete picnic tables across the Lava Lands grounds and one on Lava Butte. There are eight wooden benches at multiple points along pathways, two drinking fountains functioning during summer and one vault toilet at the top of Lava Butte. The Lava Lands grounds around the visitor center have flush toilets open only when the visitor center is open, no other toilet facilities are present. There is one floating rebar bike rack near the visitor center.
The Lave Butte scenic viewpoint is accessed from the Visitor Center area. The summit of Lava Butte has an active fire lookout and a ¼ mile loop trail that follows the crater of the cinder cone. The road and parking area on the summit are paved and have a red cinder cosmetic surfacing. On the summit are ten parking spaces, one being van accessible. Access is regulated by a time pass system when LLVC is open.
Lava River Cave is approximately one mile from the visitor center and may be accessed via an underpass by visitors when the cave is open from May through September. This site has a one mile underground trail, seven concrete picnic tables, a visitor welcome station and two double vault toilets. Tours are offered on a daily basis when the cave is open.
The FSR 9702200 (proposed path alignment) corridor to Benham East currently has no developed recreation facilities and the area is occasionally patrolled by USFS field rangers.
Effects Analysis
Direct, Indirect Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
Access
Sunriver Segments 1-5: There would be no developed non-motorized access connectivity between Sunriver, Benham and Lava Lands. Recreational cyclists and walkers would continue to use existing road and trail networks to access these locations. Conflicts between cyclists and motorists would continue along roads and safety of cyclists may be compromised. Shooting and other
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
dispersed, unmanaged recreation would continue in the area. Visitors would continue to access the area by car. Those who bike would continue to use the FSR 9703 to travel from Sunriver. Non- motorized access would not be provided for those that require mobility devices.
Benham Segment 6: Existing conditions prevail where mixed use conditions remain.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: Black Rock Trail and FSR 9702 would continue to be options for travel, limiting alternative transportation options from Benham and Sunriver.
Facilities and Site Management
Sunriver Segments 1-5: Existing primitive road network between the Sunriver and the Forest destinations would exist. Accessibility and recreational opportunities for those requiring mobility devices would not improve.
Benham Segment 6: The same facilities would exist at the Benham East Day Use Area. Visitors requiring mobility devices or in need of mobility accommodations would be more challenged to recreate or use an alternate mode of transportation to access the area other than by vehicle.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: No additional facility would be provided. Lava Lands would lack a restroom facility and proper ingress/egress. Accessible alternative transportation options would not exist to Sunriver and Benham East Day Use Area. The former FSR 9702200 would remain a forested setting.
Social Encounters
Sunriver Segments 1-5: There would be no change to current trends and mixed use travel conditions would continue.
Benham Segment 6: There would be no change to current trends and mixed use travel conditions would continue.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: There would be no change to current trends and mixed use travel conditions would continue on FSR 9702. The frequency of contact with others who use the single- track for walking or cycling would remain the same or increase over time as more visitors seek routes to walk and bike
Visitor Impacts
Sunriver Segments 1-5: No signage, facilities or information would be provided. Air quality would continue to be poor when visitors travel the roads when conditions are dry.
Benham Segment 6: Parking pressure at Benham East Day Use area would continue and de facto parking along road would not change. Potential issues with safety and parking into vegetation may continue. Repair of existing user created trail braiding would continue to be needed at Benham Bridge and near Benham falls.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: No restroom would be provided and human waste exposure may become a factor at current Lava Lands trailhead parking when the visitor center and flush restrooms are not open.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
Visitor Management
Sunriver Segments 1-5: Visitors would be less informed and education about unique situations at Sunriver and special management areas on the Forest. Motorized travel would continue at current levels on authorized roads creating a mixed-use experience.
Benham Segment 6: No visitor management or information facilities would be installed and information about the Wild and Scenic River corridor would be lacking.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: Safety for motorized and non-motorized traffic on FSR 9702 would be reduced if warning systems at the railroad tracks are not installed. Mixed use travel on FSR 9702 would continue at light frequency and expose non-motorized visitors to a less safe situation than the proposed action provides.
Economics
Sunriver Segments 1-5: There would be no additional costs for installing facilities and path infrastructure. Road maintenance schedules would continue and be limited.
Potential economic benefit assumed to occur due to the amenity of developed access to the Monument and river corridor would not be realized by Sunriver.
Benham Segment 6: No additional costs required as no actions would be implemented.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: There would be no additional costs required as the proposed facilities would not be installed. Status quo remains where fee collection would not likely change from existing condition.
Alternative 2
Access
Sunriver Segments 1-5: Providing more parking on the path side of FSR 9702600 would facilitate greater access to the forest and reduce the number of cars potentially parked on the sides of roads in the area, thus making path access safer. The network of non-motorized paved paths in Sunriver would primarily feed the proposed path in a natural transition should future connections be made by Sunriver. It is assumed that the majority of use would occur in a direction originating from Sunriver traveling to the unique forest destinations. Parking at the Sunriver boundary would likely not require a parking pass or fee, where parking on the forest would continue to require fees during fee season at developed recreation sites along the Deschutes River and within the Monument.
The types and modes of travel would change and visitor safety and comfort would improve. Motorized vehicles and equestrians would no longer be permitted on road segments identified for conversion to the paved path. Closure of other road segments identified outside of the path alignment would prohibit motorized use. Other than mobility devices, only non-motorized traffic would have access to the paved path. From this segment, visitors may continue to access Benham East Day Use, Deschutes River Trail and Wild and Scenic River corridor or Lava Lands Visitor Center.
Non-motorized activities limited by the existing primitive road conditions, such as road biking, would now be provided for. Motorized activities would be prohibited, except for motorized mobility device. Those visitors desiring a less developed trail opportunity to Benham East and
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beyond would still have the option of biking or walking from Sunriver via the Deschutes River Trail originating from the same point as the proposed path.
Benham Segment 6: The path would establish and improve access to the Deschutes River Trail network and Wild and Scenic River corridor from Lava Lands or Sunriver and vice versa. The Black Rock Trail would have to be realigned north of the paved path but would remain a primitive single-track trail with natural surface.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: The paved path would add the option to access the visitor center with alternative modes of transportation over the highly developed motorized access via Highway 97 and FSR 9703/Cottonwood Road. Visitors may access the area with more opportunity for solitude than traveling on FSR 9702 and have a more developed option than that which Black Rock Trail provides. Essentially, use already occurring on either FSR 9702 or Black Rock Trail or not occurring due to challenge levels or mixed use safety concerns would be provided for with this paved trail alignment.
Facilities and Site Management
Sunriver Segments 1-5: The short-term effect of adding facilities is a slight reduction of trees in the localized area. Given the modest development and adjacency to a residential neighborhood, the effect is neutral. The ten space aggregate parking lot, three-panel information kiosk, paved path construction and access route to the kiosk would alter the localized setting but would not dominate the character of the area. This modification would still be within the norm as described in the Roaded Natural classification of the area. Facilities such as restrooms and trash would continue to not be provided.
The paved path is a synthetic surface designed for the convenience and safety of visitors in transit. The proposed path would dramatically improve accessibility conditions and would be in compliance with AbA and Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines. Pullouts or wide spots along the path would allow travelers to safely pull off the path to rest or allow others to pass.
Benham Segment 6: Near the bridge, the paved path construction and excavation activities would modify roadside conditions. This action would change the character of the excavated immediate area, yet the change would not be stark as the excavation is immediately adjacent to the paved FSR 9702. Undesirable de facto parking that has proliferated at the corner would be obliterated potentially displacing some overflow motorized visitors but improving visitor safety. A single trail junction map would be installed where Lava Lands and Sunriver trails meet thus improving visitor orientation. Modifications to the day use area are minimal and limited to two short aggregate trail re-alignments. A 30 foot aggregate new trail construction segment and an increase in the width (by one foot) of the existing path are necessary to meet standards.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: There would be a long-term positive effect to environment and the visitor by installing new facilities. All facilities would collectively further define the identified parking area as a standalone day use facility, address potential waste management issues and provide greater comfort, orientation and convenience for visitors. Facilities installed at Lava Lands would include a new restroom, paved access routes, bike rack, two oversized vehicle parking spaces, a gate and a widened ingress/egress. A fee tube may also be installed for after- hours use of the facilities during fee season. The vault style restroom would also serve as an accessible back-up facility for periods in which the flush toilets at LLVC are not functioning. This would eliminate the future need for restroom rentals during unexpected repair periods.
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Social Encounters
Sunriver Segments 1-5: Due to improved identification, access and facilities, use may increase from Sunriver to forest destinations. It is not anticipated that significant numbers of forest visitors would generally recognize Sunriver as the ultimate destination of travel from National Forest sites. Visitor stay durations would be limited to the amount of time orientation may occur near the kiosk area. Frequency of encounter may be moderate to high during peak season weekend periods typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Encounters with the sights, sounds and potential hazards of shooting activities would be reduced or eliminated with shooting closure or no-shooting sign improvements.
Encounters occurring in the existing mixed use environment would be reduced to non-motorized encounters. Frequency would be moderate to high during peak season. Opportunities for socializing would improve.
Benham Segment 6: Effects to social encounters would be neutral at Benham East. During the peak season and especially on weekends, contacts with other visitors at the trailhead are frequent. Visitors accessing the area by foot or bike from the proposed path may decrease the number of cars and crowding in the parking area at the Benham East Day Use Area. Conversely, the paved path may increase the number of visitors to the Benham Day Use Area potentially serving as a point of interest or simply a restroom break. Duration of visitor stays is anticipated to continue to be limited.
The potential social effect to the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River corridor stemming from Benham Bridge is unknown. The corridor is and would continue to be a likely destination for travelers from Benham East, Sunriver and Lava Lands. We can assume that improvements to and addition of the path may increase use; however, the use may be simply changing from vehicle based trailhead parking access to bike or foot access. This uncertain use patterns should be further tracked at the bridge to develop baseline data at this collective entry point to the river corridor.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: Any increased use at Lava Lands would not negatively affect social encounters given the function (serves as an interpretive hub) and high development scale of the site. Contact with other visitors is already high in frequency and number in this area, especially during peak use. Use of the area when LLVC is not open may increase the number of encounters visitors experience after hours or during the shoulder season, but of no anticipated consequence.
Improving the abandoned road alignments to path status would provide a positive change from a recreation perspective. The option for a visitor to eliminate exposure to traffic encounters by traveling the proposed path rather than FSR 9702 would provide a high quality recreation opportunity and safe alternative transportation route. There is little to no use of the proposed path alignment in its current condition, thus any use would be from visitors choosing a paved path rather than road or single track trail (Black Rock) to travel.
Visitor Impacts
Visitor impacts to other resource areas would largely not be addressed here, but in the reports of specialists addressing each discipline. This following discussion recognizes existing or likely impacts and focuses on how much change would be allowed and which actions are appropriate for control.
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Sunriver Segments 1-5: Installation of aggregate parking of modest size would positively affect the area by providing defined parking for those otherwise parking along roadways near Sunriver or on the Forest. This type of roadside parallel parking can slowly creep into vegetation and expand incrementally over time, damaging vegetation and reducing safety. Installing an information and education kiosk and paved access is a modest development with positive effect of keeping visitors traveling in either direction informed of unique features, regulations and path networks.
Reconstructing and paving the existing road alignments would improve the air quality by eliminating the cause of the extremely dusty conditions where road is converted to the path. Due to the linear nature of the path corridor and associated asphalt, the extent of paving is acceptable for Roaded Natural classifications. Most of the alignment is a conversion of former or existing road to path, where much of the construction would occur in previously disturbed areas. Should FSR 9702600 be resurfaced with aggregate after power has been buried in the road, air quality would further improve and visitors would be less exposed to dusty environments in this corridor during dry periods.
Benham Segment 6: At Benham East Day Use Area, short trail alignments and widening of the aggregate surface is modest and would have a positive effect, especially for those requiring accessible pathways. The paved path and associated information kiosk at the bridge would introduce some additional site hardening, but would serve to define the travel way in the bridge area where social trails are impacting riparian vegetation.
The Wild and Scenic River corridor between Benham Falls viewpoint and Benham Bridge would see a positive effect to the resource should the design features to repair and restore trail braiding areas be implemented, monitored and continued.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: Due to the linear nature of the paved path, the extent of paving is acceptable for the Roaded Natural classification. Most of the alignment is a conversion of former road to trail, where much of the action occurs in previously disturbed areas. The parking area at the trailhead for the paved path is already paved. Distance and screening from vegetation between the paved path and the Black Rock trail would preclude a loss of character for the Black Rock trail.
Visitor Management
Trail Corridor (Sunriver Segments 1-5): Adding information and education at the boundary would improve visitor understanding of Sunriver regulations and the special management areas visitors would likely travel via the proposed path. Sunriver area information may be posted here to avoid conflicts between Sunriver residents, visitors and other forest users. Adding map and path length information, increasing parking capacity on the path side of FSR 9702600 and providing an accessible path alignment at this location would positively affect visitor safety in the immediate area. With proper signage and information visitors traveling in either direction can better orient and match group ability levels with distances shown on maps.
Paving a distinct path would provide an obvious and unobstructed travel area for visitors, which may prevent some users from straying off trail or taking a wrong turn on the primitive road system. The addition of an orientation map near FSR 9702 at the Sunriver/Lava Lands trail junction would provide key directional information to the visitor.
Installing traffic control features at points in which proposed road closures would be implemented would prevent motorized traffic from traveling onto the paved path. Removable bollards would be installed where appropriate to facilitate administrative or emergency motorized travel on the paved pathway. The proposed path would provide an opportunity for improved safety for cyclists and
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pedestrians by removing a mixed use travel environment. Motorized traffic would be encountered at only a primitive road crossing at FSR 9702600 a crossing at FSR 9702. Applicable safety signage and/or marking would be employed.
Providing turnouts for visitors at intermittent points along the pathway would allow visitors to pull aside for wider or faster traffic as well as safely rest outside of the thoroughfare of the path. This, along with a ten foot wide paved path design, would reduce potential user conflicts between pedestrians and bikers traveling at higher speeds.
Benham (Segment 6): The paved path would provide a safer alternative travel route for pedestrians and cyclists to access Benham East Day Use Area and the Wild and Scenic River corridor. Non-motorized visitors would no longer need to utilize FSR 9702 or the mixed use primitive roads network from Sunriver.
Trail Corridor (Lava Lands segments 7-8): Adding information and education at Lava Lands would improve visitor understanding of the special management areas visitors would likely travel via the proposed pathway. Adding map and trail length information, increasing parking capacity and providing an accessible path alignment at this location would positively affect visitor safety in the immediate area. With proper signage and information visitors might better orient and match group ability levels with distances shown on maps. Providing added information may also deter potential misuse of the National Forest.
Providing restroom facilities would improve the health and safety of visitors in this area. The restroom would contain human waste preventing potential exposure to other visitors. More people using the paved path to bike may create potential conflicts between cyclists and motorists in the parking area or cyclists and pedestrians using the pedestrian only trails at Lava Lands. Adding visitor use prohibitions, visitor routing or use awareness signage would limit conflict.
Providing turnouts for visitors at intermittent points along the pathway would allow visitors to pull aside for wider or faster traffic as well as safely rest outside of the thoroughfare of the paved path. This, along with a ten foot wide paved path design would reduce potential user conflicts between pedestrians and bikers traveling at higher speeds.
Installing traffic control features at points in which proposed motorized traffic would be prevented from traveling onto the paved path would eliminate conflicts arising from unauthorized vehicle travel on the pathway. Where applicable, removable bollards would be installed to facilitate administrative or emergency motorized travel on the path.
Installation of railroad warning lights and barrier arms would dramatically improve public safety at this the railroad crossing. All visitors would have the benefit of very obvious warning and barrier when train traffic is approaching. Path users would encounter motorized traffic only at the railroad crossing on FSR 9702 where mixed use would occur to facilitate the crossing of the railroad right- of-way. Safety signage and roadway marking would be employed where this short distance of mixed use occurs.
Economics
Sunriver Segments 1-5: The presence of a developed accessible path stemming directly from Sunriver to Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic River corridor is assumed to add to the desirability for some visitors or of Sunriver. It is unknown and not assumed that recognizable economic benefit would result from patronage of Sunriver businesses.
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Pursuing a partnership agreement with Sunriver or other partners to maintain the information kiosk and patrol path segments 1 through 5 at the Sunriver boundary would meet sustainable recreation goals and objectives.
Benham Segment 6: Fees collected by authority of the Recreation Enhancement Act would continue to be used to maintain the Benham East Day Use Area during established fee seasons.
Lava Lands Segments 7-8: There may be an increase to visitors parking at LLVC when the visitor center is not open, potentially increasing recreation fee revenue. Providing non-motorized access to Lava Lands may decrease parking when the visitor center is open and may reduce revenues realized by charging per vehicle at the welcome station.
Describing volunteer opportunities at the bike rack station may improve volunteerism and offset potential loss of revenue due to alternative transportation being provided.
For all segments of the path, maintenance would be accomplished by a combination of USFS maintenance schedule actions, future path improvement grant opportunities and/or by exploring partnerships with stakeholders or non-profit entities.
Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
There are no direct or indirect effects on recreational resources from the no action alternative. Direct and indirect do not overlap in time or space, any residual effects from past projects, or expected effects from foreseeable projects; therefore there are no cumulative effects.
Alternative 2
Coupling the proposed path project with the completion of the Highway 97 underpass to FSR 9703 and Cottonwood road in 2011 provides a complete paved road biking loop opportunity not previously realized. The key link to this opportunity is completing the paved path on segments 1 through 5 from Sunriver to FSR 9702. From that point, road bikers may either travel FSR 9703 to connect with FSR 9703 or travel the proposed path along segments 7 and 8 to connect to FSR 9703.
Future potential paved path/trail connections from this proposed project to the future Highway 46 Welcome Station and on to Bend have been discussed in concept. Studies plan to be conducted in the future as a part of an alternative transportation feasibility study which would explore potential alignments and economic impacts of the larger scale paved path network. Such a system may reduce use of roads and motorized traffic, support sustainable operations goals and see the existing and potentially new use shift from traditional motorized travel utilizing trailheads to bike travel using a paved path network.
Improved accessible opportunities at LLVC complex coupled with recent upgrades and continued development of interpretation facilities broadens the overall opportunity for outdoor recreation in the local area.
Road closures associated with past projects combine with proposed road closures would improve the recreation experience for some visitors would be improved. In contrast, closures would further reduce motorized access in the.
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3.5.2 WILDLIFE
This section covers the existing conditions and effects of implementation on wildlife resources. This section incorporates by reference the Wildlife Resource Report and Biological Evaluation contained in the project record located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, consistency with Forest Plan, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives are discussed in this section.
Introduction
Species listed in Tables 3-2, 3-3 and 3-4 were considered when determining if the proposed project would have an impact on species or habitats. NatureServe Explorer was referenced for rankings or degree of concern for the species. Rankings are given for global, national, and state levels; however, for the purpose of this project only the state rankings were used in this analysis and are displayed in the status column of each list.
Federally listed wildlife species were evaluated using direction from Forest Service Manual 2672.4, Table 3-2, 3-3, and 3-4 displays candidate, endangered, threatened or sensitive species that could potentially occur on the Deschutes National Forest. Species displayed in bold are known, suspected, or have some potential to occur within or adjacent to the project area.
Past actions that are listed in Table 3-1 provide a basis of the existing conditions, older past actions are not listed because these actions are no longer having effects that would overlap in time or space with this proposed project. The cumulative effects bounding area used for determining potential cumulative effects is the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed. This spatial boundary was chosen due to the most recent past actions occurring in the short-term within the watershed, the ongoing recreational activities and because this landscape would provide a range of habitat conditions that occur for a number of species, including deer and elk.
Existing Condition for Federally Listed Species
The following tables display wildlife species that could potentially occur on the Deschutes National Forest and were considered when determining project impacts.
Table 3-2: Federally Listed Species NatureServe Wildlife Species Federal Status Habitat Needs Ranking Northern spotted owl Old growth mixed conifer Strix occidentalis caurina T, MIS S3 forests with Douglas-fir & and designated critical true firs habitat units No particular habitat Gray wolf canus lupus E SH preference (forest generalist) Oregon spotted frog Wetlands, riparian areas, C, S S2 Rana pretiosa slow water California wolverine Cirque basins for denning, C, S, MIS Gulo gulo luteus S1 mixed conifer, high
elevation Pacific fisher Mixed conifer forest, C, S S2 Martes pennanti pacifica complex forest structure
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Federal Status: E=Endangered, T=Threatened, C=Candidate for Federal listing, P=Proposed for Federal listing, S = Regional Forester Sensitive species, MIS = Deschutes National Forest Management Indicator Species NatureServe Ranking is the database ranking for the state of Oregon: S1= critically imperiled, S2 = imperiled, S3 = vulnerable, S4 = apparently secure, S5 = secure, B = breeding, N = non-breeding, SH = possibly extirpated.
Effects Analysis for Federally Listed Species
Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects for Federally Listed Species
Northern Spotted Owl
Alternative 1 No Action and Alternative 2
The proposed project area is located outside the Northwest Forest Plan and the range of the northern spotted owl, PDCs in the Programmatic BA do not apply. Implementation of this project would have no effect (direct, indirect or cumulatively) to the owl or its habitat, including nesting, roosting or foraging, designated critical habitat, or dispersal/connectivity due to the lack of habitat in or near the project area. The project occurs east (outside) of the spotted owl home range.
Gray wolf
Alternative 1 No Action and Alternative 2
There is no particular habitat preference for gray wolf, they typically can be found in areas with few roads. This project, whether Alternative 1 or Alternative 2 selected, would have no effect (direct, indirect or cumulatively) on the gray wolf due to the lack of breeding populations in or near the project area.
Oregon Spotted Frog
Alternative 1 No Action and Alternative 2
A small portion of the project is along the Deschutes River where a path connects Benham Bridge to Benham East Day Use Area. It is unlikely that this portion of the project area along the river would have Oregon spotted frogs due to the current compaction of the path, the lack of understory vegetation and the high human use that occurs in this area. There are also no known Oregon spotted frogs within or adjacent to this stretch of the Deschutes River, but spotted frogs are known to occur approximately 1 ½ miles downstream. Alternative 1 or Alternative 2 would have no impact (direct, indirect or cumulatively) on Oregon spotted frogs or their habitat due to the lack of habitat in or near the project area, this project is consistent with the PDCs in the Programmatic BA.
California Wolverine
Alternative 1 No Action and Alternative 2
There is no known denning habitat within the project area; however, since wolverines have an extremely large home range, it is reasonable to assume that an individual may travel through the project area if dispersing across Oregon, but the likelihood is low, given the proximity to the community of Sunriver. Alternative 1 or Alternative 2 would have no impact (direct, indirect or cumulatively) on California wolverine due to the lack of habitat in or near the project area.
Pacific Fisher
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Alternative 1 No Action and Alternative 2
Fisher populations are considered to be extremely low in Oregon, Washington, and parts of the Rocky Mountains. There are only two known populations of fisher in Oregon—one on the Rogue River National Forest and the other in southwestern Oregon along the Oregon-California border. The project area is not likely to provide suitable fisher habitat due to the lack of snags. Alternative 1 or Alternative 2 would have no impact (direct, indirect or cumulatively) on Fisher or their habitat due to the lack of habitat in or near the project area.
Existing Condition for Sensitive Species
The following table displays sensitive species that could potentially occur on the Deschutes National Forest and were considered when determining project impacts. Species in bold are known, suspected, or have some potential to occur or have potential habitat within or adjacent to the project area. The remaining species are dismissed from further evaluation because they utilize habitats that are not present in the project area, and/or there are no known populations.
Table 3-3: Regional Forester’s Region 6 Sensitive Species.
Species Status* Habitat Habitat Presence Birds Lakeside or Northern Region 6 Sensitive, riverside with large Yes, discussed below bald eagle MIS, S4B, S4N trees American Region 6 Sensitive, peregrine Riparian, cliffs Yes BCC, S2B falcon There is no sagebrush habitat within or adjacent to the proposed path. Greater sage Region 6 Sensitive, Sagebrush flats Sage grouse habitat only occurs on grouse BCC, S3 the Fort Rock side of the District approximately 17 to 18 miles away. Open ponderosa Region 6 Sensitive, pine forests, large Lewis’ MIS, BCC, Landbird diameter dead or Yes woodpecker focal species, S2, dying trees, burned S3B forests Region 6 Sensitive, Large mature & White- MIS, BCC, Landbird open ponderosa pine headed Yes, discussed below. focal species, S2, forests; weak woodpecker S3B excavator Harlequin Region 6 Sensitive, Rapid streams, large No, there are no breeding records in Duck MIS, S2B, S3N trees Deschutes County. There is no lake habitat within or Region 6 Sensitive, adjacent to the proposed path, but Bufflehead Lakes, snags MIS, S2B, S5N there is documented use on the slower parts of the Deschutes River. There is no lake habitat within or Horned Region 6 Sensitive, Lakes, emergent adjacent to the proposed paved trail, grebe MIS, S2B, S5N vegetation therefore no suitable habitat. Habitat is not present but there is Region 6 Sensitive, Yellow rail Marshes potential suitable habitat adjacent to BCC, S1B the project area – see discussion
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Species Status* Habitat Habitat Presence below.
There is no lakeside habitat within or Tricolored Region 6 Sensitive, Lakeside, bulrush adjacent to the proposed path, blackbird BCC, S2B therefore no suitable habitat. Wooded swamps, Habitat is not present but there is Northern Region 6 Sensitive, bogs, & rivers potential suitable habitat adjacent to waterthrush S2B bordered by willow the project area – see discussion & alder below. Seasonal migrant Habitat is not present but there is Tule white- Region 6 Sensitive, (spring and fall), potential suitable habitat adjacent to fronted S2, S3N marshes and the project area – see discussion goose wetlands below. Mammals Proposed Federal Mixed conifer Pacific Addressed in the Federally listed Candidate, Region 6 forest, complex fisher species section. Sensitive, S2 forest structure Mixed conifer California Region 6 Sensitive, Addressed in the Federally listed habitat, high wolverine S1 species section. elevation There is no sagebrush habitat within or adjacent to the proposed path. Pygmy Region 6 Sensitive, Sagebrush flats Potential habitat only occurs on the rabbit S2 Fort Rock side of the District approximately 17 to 18 miles away. Townsend’s Region 6 Sensitive, Caves and old big-eared Yes, discussed below. MIS, S2 dwellings bat Arid desert and grasslands with rock Region 6 Sensitive, Pallid bat crevices, caves, old Yes, discussed below. S2 mines, trees, old buildings
Caves and rock Spotted bat Region 6 Sensitive, Yes, discussed below. crevices S2 Caves, mines, rock
Fringed crevices, in desert, Region 6 Sensitive, myotis grasslands and Yes, discussed below. S2 woodlands Invertebrates Habitat is not present but there is Crater Riparian, Region 6 Sensitive, potential suitable habitat adjacent to Lake perennially wet S1 the project area – see discussion Tightcoil vegetation zone below. Habitat is not present but there is Silver- Wet meadows, open Region 6 Sensitive, potential suitable habitat adjacent to Bordered riparian bogs, and S2 the project area – see discussion Fritillary marshes below. Conifer (western There is no habitat within the project Johnson’s Region 6 Sensitive, hemlock, red firs, area because there is no old growth Hairstreak S2 and gray or digger western hemlock, red fir, gray or
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Species Status* Habitat Habitat Presence pines) forests with digger pine. The project area the mistletoe consists of lodgepole pine and Arceuthobium ponderosa pine. Habitat is not present but there is Perennially wet Evening Region 6 Sensitive, potential suitable habitat adjacent to meadows in forested field slug S1,S2 the project area – see discussion habitats below. Native wildflowers, Western Region 6 Sensitive, rodent burrows for Yes, discussed below. bumblebee S2 wintering Amphibians Habitat is not present but there is Slow streams, Columbia Region 6 Sensitive, potential suitable habitat adjacent to marshes, ponds, spotted frog S2, S3 the project area – see discussion lake edges below. Federal Candidate, Slow streams, Oregon Addressed in the Federally listed Region 6 Sensitive, marshes, ponds, Spotted Frog species section. S2 lake edges Note: *Regional Forester’s Sensitive species come from the Region 6 Threatened, Endangered, & Sensitive species list for the Deschutes National Forest (February 2012); Management Indicator Species come from the Deschutes National Forest Land & Resource Plan (LRMP)[1990]; Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) come from the US Fish & Wildlife Service BCC – BCR 9 (Great Basin) [2008]; Landbird Focal Species come from the Conservation Strategy for Landbirds of the East-Slope of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon & Washington (Altman 2000); Oregon Sensitive Species determined from the Natureserve database for Oregon: S1 = critically imperiled, S2 = imperiled, S3 = vulnerable, S4 = apparently secure, S5 = secure, B = breeding, N = non-breeding
Effects Analysis for Sensitive Species
Cumulative effects for all sensitive species evaluated below are discussed at the end of this section.
Direct and Indirect Effects for Sensitive Species
Northern Bald Eagle
Bald eagles have been sporadically observed adjacent to the project area along the Deschutes River and Highway 97. Bald eagle use is incidental, occurring primarily during the fall and winter months when a few have been observed feeding on road-killed animals. Bald eagle use of the area is considered to be low due to the level of human disturbance from the community of Sunriver and from the recreation that occurs along the Benham Falls Bridge and boat ramp area. There are no Bald Eagle Management Areas (BEMAs) as identified by the LRMP or bald eagle nest sites within or adjacent to the proposed paved path. There are a total of 11,335 acres of suitable bald eagle habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 7% of the 155,006 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, the current habitat conditions would remain the same, while the level of human disturbance may also remain the same in the short-term, but could gradually increase due to the increase of population and recreation.
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Alternative 2
Trees proposed to be removed from project activities are not preferred nesting trees due to the type and size of trees. The removal of the smaller diameter trees may slightly enhance foraging habitat due to less density of trees. Since there are no known nests, and bald eagle use of the project area is incidental during the fall and winter seasons, project activities and path use would not likely have an impact during the summer months. Disturbance to bald eagle foraging may occur during fall months, but would be limited since recreation use is less prevalent in the fall and Lava Lands Visitor Center closes in the early fall season. Disturbance to bald eagle foraging during the winter months would be mitigated by effectively closing roads adjacent to the project area and not encouraging winter use of the area.
Determination
In view of the project’s direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, Alternative 2 may adversely impact individual bald eagles but is not likely to result in a loss of viability in the planning area nor cause a trend toward federal listing. This determination is based on bald eagle population on the Deschutes have been increasing, there are no bald eagle nests in or adjacent to the project area, bald eagle use is seasonal and incidental, and potentially minor level of human disturbance if foraging in the area. The project is consistent with LRMP standard and guideline (S&G) WL-1, the area is incidental use and non-essential habitat.
American Peregrine Falcon
The project area has the potential to provide foraging habitat, but high quality habitat exists along the riparian corridor of the Deschutes River. There are no cliffs in the project area, but there are cliffs directly across the small stretch of proposed path from the Benham Bridge and boat ramp that may provide potential suitable nesting habitat. No surveys were conducted for this project, and there are no records or data indicating peregrine presence in these particular cliffs. There is a high level of human presence occurring mostly during the summer months at the boat ramp, Benham Bridge, and on the Deschutes River near the cliffs. There is a historic eyrie in the vicinity of Benham Falls in the 1960’s and 1970, but has been inactive since the early 1990’s. There have also been incidental peregrine sightings south of the Benham boat ramp area. Based on these conditions, peregrines are given a moderate probability of occurrence. There are a total of 114 acres of suitable peregrine falcon habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or less than 1% of the 17,590 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, existing peregrine habitat conditions would remain the same, while the level of human disturbance may also remain the same in the short-term, but gradually increase due to the increase of population and recreation.
Alternative 2
The trees that are proposed to be removed for the path or parking would not have an impact on nesting habitat since preferred nesting occurs on cliffs. The removal of these smaller diameter trees should not have an impact on foraging habitat because it would not change the forest structure or reduce the overall avian abundance in the area. Although, clearing the ground vegetation for path construction would decrease potential habitat for peregrine prey base species. It is assumed that human presence could increase by implementing the paved trail, therefore potentially causing human disturbance to peregrines if foraging or nesting in the project area. Human disturbance to peregrines
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Determination
In view of the project’s direct, indirect and cumulative effects Alternative 2 may adversely impact individual peregrine falcons but is not likely to result in a loss of viability in the planning area nor cause a trend toward federal listing. This determination is based on there are no known nests in or adjacent to the project area, use is seasonal and incidental, and potentially minor level of human disturbance if foraging in the area. This project is consistent with LRMP S&G WL-41, the area is incidental use and non-essential habitat.
Lewis’ Woodpecker
Forest-wide habitat modeling shows there are three small patches of potential habitat in the project area. Based on field reconnaissance, there are a few existing large ponderosa pine trees, but this vegetation type would not be considered old forest, single-storied stands, and the vegetation mostly consists of small to medium sized ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine trees. Although, there is a small patch of single-storied ponderosa pine adjacent to the Benham East parking area that would provide suitable habitat. Additionally, there have been no recent stand replacement fires, there are no cottonwood trees within or adjacent to the project area, and District records do not show Lewis’ woodpecker occurrence or breeding or wintering habitat in the project area. Snags are fairly well distributed, but most are of smaller diameter, are lodgepole pine and there are only a few large scattered ponderosa pine snags. Based on these conditions, Lewis’ woodpecker habitat would be considered marginal and are given a low probability of occurrence. There are a total of 3,495 acres of suitable Lewis’ woodpecker habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 4% of the 84,978 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, the current Lewis’ woodpecker habitat conditions would remain the same, while the level of human disturbance may also remain the same in the short-term, but could gradually increase due to the increase of population and recreation that may occur in the area.
Alternative 2
The trees that are proposed to be removed for project activities may remove current or future nesting and foraging habitat for Lewis’ woodpecker. Most of these trees are currently not preferred nesting trees because they are of smaller diameter ponderosa pine and/or lodgepole pine trees. Clearing the ground vegetation for path construction may cause fragmentation/edge effects. Additionally, trampling would occur beyond the ten foot wide area during implementation, and thus increase the susceptibility of noxious weeds. These impacts may decrease potential foraging habitat for Lewis’ woodpecker (i.e. loss of habitat for insects). There are areas on the old road bed where bitterbrush is naturally reoccurring, but bitterbrush is heavy in areas where the meandering trail is proposed. It could be expected that there would be an increase in human presence in the area due to the proposed path, therefore increasing the potential of disturbance or nest failure if Lewis’ woodpeckers were nesting in the area.
Determination
In view of the project’s direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, Alternative 2 may adversely impact individual Lewis’ woodpecker or habitat but is not likely to result in a loss of viability in the planning
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences area nor cause a trend toward federal listing. This determination is based on no removal of large snags, there are no known nests in or adjacent to the project area, habitat is marginal, and impacts are limited to potential human disturbance if foraging in the area. The project is consistent with LRMP S&Gs WL-37 and 38, snags would be maintained.
White-headed Woodpecker
Similar to Lewis’ woodpecker the project area may potentially provide suitable habitat due to some existing large ponderosa pine trees in the project area, but would not be considered old forest, single- storied stands. The only patch of single storied ponderosa pine is adjacent to the Benham East parking area. Past, ongoing, and future vegetation management actions within the general area tend to focus on reducing beetle and wildfire risk and/or promoting ponderosa pine and large tree habitat (e.g. Sunriver HFRA, Katalo, East Tumbull), therefore white-headed woodpecker habitat is expected to increase over the landscape in the long-term (30 years plus). There have been no recent stand replacement fires within the project area, and District records do not show white-headed woodpecker occurrence in the project area. Based on these conditions, white-headed woodpeckers are given a moderate probability of occurrence. There are a total of 14,935 acres of suitable white-headed woodpecker habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or less than 8% of the 198,330 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, current white-headed woodpecker habitat conditions would remain the same, while the level of human disturbance may also remain the same in the short-term, but gradually increase due to the increase of population and recreation that may occur in the area.
Alternative 2
Alternative 2 would not remove many large trees, therefore minimal current nesting habitat loss would occur, while the removal of the smaller and medium trees may reduce future nesting habitat. While the decrease in shrub cover may benefit white-headed woodpeckers, the path may cause fragmentation/edge effects for the length of the path. It could be expected that there would be an increase in human presence in the area due to the proposed path, therefore increasing the potential of disturbance or nest failure if white-headed woodpeckers were nesting in the area. By converting an open road to a system trail, it may reduce the risk of loss of snags for personal firewood.
Determination
In view of the project’s direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, Alternative 2 may adversely impact individual white-headed woodpecker or habitat but is not likely to result in a loss of viability in the planning area nor cause a trend toward federal listing. This determination is based on no removal of large snags, there are no known nests in or adjacent to the project area, marginal habitat is and limited impacts are from potential human disturbance if foraging in the area. The project is consistent with Deschutes LRMP S&Gs WL-37 & 38, as snags would be maintained.
Western Bumublebee
Populations of the western bumblebee in central California, Oregon, Washington and southern British Columbia have mostly disappeared. It is difficult to accurately assess the magnitude of these declines since most of this bee’s historic range has not been sampled systematically. No surveys were conducted for western bumblebee. It is a newly listed Regional Forester sensitive species that was added in February 2012, therefore there is no district or Forest data to determine occupancy or
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences acres of suitable habitat on the district or project area. Since bitterbrush is the dominant plant species that occurs in the project area and is a flowering plant, it is assumed that it may potentially provide western bumblebee habitat.
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, current western bumblebee habitat conditions would remain the same. The potential increase of invasive plants form implementing the path and fragmentation of potential habitat may not occur.
Alternative 2
The trees proposed to be removed for path construction would not remove western bumblebee habitat. Assuming that bitterbrush and other plants provide suitable habitat, clearing the ground vegetation for the path may cause fragmentation or edge effects and possibly habitat loss. Additionally, trampling would occur beyond the path during implementation and thus increases the susceptibility of noxious weeds. However, mitigation measures are in place to reduce the impacts from noxious weeds.
Determination
In view of the project’s direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, Alternative 2 may adversely impact individual western bumblebee or habitat but is not likely to result in a loss of viability in the planning area nor cause a trend toward federal listing. This determination is based on bitterbrush is widespread and common across the Deschutes National Forest and plant diversity is limited in the project area. There is no specific LRMP S&Gs applicable to this species.
Riparian/Wetland Dependent Species
Bufflehead, yellow rail, northern waterthrush, Tule white-fronted goose, Crater Lake Tightcoil, Silver-Bordered Fritillary, and Columbia spotted frog share similar riparian/wetland habitat. Since these species share similar riparian/wetland habitat and since this project area provided no suitable habitat effects discussions for these species have been grouped together.
Based on field reconnaissance, the approximately 500 foot stretch of riparian area along the Deschutes River from Benham Bridge to the boat ramp is not providing suitable habitat for the above species because of the current compaction, the lack of understory vegetation on the existing trail, the large parking lot and restroom facilities in the area, and the high human disturbance (recreation) that occurs in the area to between the recreation site facilities and the bridge. There is approximately a 1 ½ acre wetland adjacent to the project area, a few feet downslope of the path to the north that may potentially provide suitable habitat for these species. This area does not appear to receive much human use, such as trampling, but would be considered marginal habitat quality due to the high human disturbance in the area that occurs. The riparian area to the north and south of the parking lot/bridge area may also provide habitat for these species since there is no motorized traffic and less human disturbance. Much of the human use is directed to the bridge and continued on the designated trail. No surveys were conducted for any of these species, so it is assumed that the areas described are providing potential suitable habitat. There are also no District records indicating presence. Habitat loss and degradation, and/or human disturbance from recreational activities are the most common threats to these species. There are a total of 1,479 acres of suitable riparian habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 2% of the 71,027 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, the vegetation on the 500 foot stretch of riparian area along the Deschutes River would remain the same (compacted) and unsuitable habitat due to the level of human disturbance. The adjacent small wetland may also remain the same in the short-term, but has the potential to be degraded due to the increase of population and recreation that is expected to occur in the area. No kiosk would be installed near the Benham Bridge to direct foot traffic, thus the wetland would remain at a higher risk of disturbance.
Alternative 2
Where the paved path intersects with Benham Bridge, a kiosk including a map would be installed to assist in providing foot traffic direction. Given the potential of increase in human disturbance to the general area, this would assist in minimizing the impact to the adjacent wetland habitat and minimize human disturbance if these sensitive species are present in the area. Adding compacted fines to the existing path from the Benham Bridge to the Benham East Day Use Area would not have an impact to these sensitive species since the current compacted path is not providing habitat. The trees proposed for removal on the remaining path, the railroad arm, and parking lot would not impact riparian/wetland dependent species since these areas do not provide habitat.
Determination
In view of the project’s direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, Alternative 2 may adversely impact individual bufflehead, yellow rail, northern waterthrush, tule white-fronted goose, silver bordered fritillary and Columbia spotted frog but is not likely to result in a loss of viability in the planning area nor cause a trend toward federal listing. This determination is based on there would be no impact or reduction in habitat, and only potential disturbance to adjacent habitat. LRMP S&Gs would be met because no activities are proposed within the wetland.
Bats
Since Townsend’s big-eared bat, pallid bat, spotted bat, and fringed myotis share similar habitat effects discussions for these species have been grouped together. There is suitable foraging habitat for these bat species in the forested project area, with high quality foraging habitat available along the Deschutes River riparian area. Roosting habitat in the project area is limited due to the lack of large snags and live trees. There are no caves or mines within the project area, but the crevices in the adjacent lava flow, cliffs across the Deschutes River, and the Lava River Cave just east of Highway 97 provide roosting habitat.
Lava River Cave is one of the longest lava tubes in the state of Oregon, with a length of approximately one mile. Forest survey records from 1993 to 2008 show a small hibernating population of three to five Townsend’s during winter. Hibernation by other species is not known as they often hibernate in cracks and crevices and are difficult to detect.
There are approximately 60,000 visitors to Lava River Cave annually. The cave is closed from October 15th to May 1st to reduce disturbance to hibernating bats. The current short chain link cyclone fence does not prevent illegal visitation, even though signs are posted. An unknown number of visitors enter the cave illegally during the winter season which likely results in disturbance to Townsend’s big-eared bat and other bat species. During heavy winters, the entrance to Lava River Cave discourages visitation due to the formation of ice which makes the entry treacherous. This cave historically may have provided habitat for a large number of bats, prior to the use of the cave as a recreational site.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
A recently identified threat to bats in the U.S. is white-nose syndrome (WNS), which has significantly reduced populations of five bat species in nine eastern states since 2006. WNS is associated or caused by a newly described, psychrophilic (cold-loving) fungus, Geomyces destructans.(Gargas et al. 2009). Termed “white-nose” due to the presence of this white fungus on their nose, it also may appear on their ears, forearms, and wing/tail membranes. Bats have been found exhibiting abnormal behavior (flying to different locations in the cave or flying outside the cave in search of food) or dying during hibernation, often in large numbers. Transmission is thought to be primarily bat-to-bat contact although other agents of transmission may occur. Bats may transmit WNS through contact at fall swarming (mating) cave sites as well as during hibernation.
There is a growing concern that WNS could eventually move west from bat to bat transmission or jump to new locations further west via spores, possibly carried by humans. Show caves including Lava River Cave may be at heightened risk of transmission due to the large number of visitors that come from throughout the U.S., including WNS-affected states.
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, current bat foraging and roosting habitat conditions would remain the same, while the level of human disturbance may also remain the same in the short-term, but gradually increase due to the increase of population and recreation that may occur in the area.
Alternative 2
Alternative 2 would not likely reduce bat roosting habitat because the trees that are proposed to be removed for project activities are smaller diameter ponderosa pine and/or lodgepole pine trees (see Chapter 2 Section 2.4.2 for tree sizes) and no large snags are proposed for removal. Clearing the ground vegetation such as shrubs and/or plants for path construction may cause fragmentation or edge effects to foraging habitat. Additionally, trampling would occur beyond the ten foot wide path during implementation, and thus increase the susceptibility of noxious weeds. These impacts may decrease potential foraging habitat for bats (i.e. loss of habitat for insects). There are areas on the old road bed where bitterbrush is naturally reoccurring, but bitterbrush is more abundant in some areas where the meandering trail is proposed.
It could be expected that there could potentially be an increase in human presence, including vehicle traffic in the area due to the proposed path. Human disturbance to foraging bats should be minimal since bats are nocturnal and the impacts would be limited to early mornings or evenings. There could be some level of risk to bats due to vehicle collisions. Indirectly, an increase in human visitation could occur at the adjacent Lava River Cave, therefore increasing the potential risk of WNS and disturbance to any bats occurring in the cave.
Determination
In view of the project’s direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, Alternative 2 may adversely impact individual Townsend’s big-eared bat, pallid bat, spotted bat, fringed myotis or habitat but is not likely to result in a loss of viability in the planning area nor cause a trend toward federal listing. This determination is based on minimally reducing foraging habitat, unknown increase in the amount of disturbance and human disturbance would be limited due to the Lava River Cave closure period from October 15th to May 1st and Lava Lands Visitor Center closing around the same timeframes. The project is consistent with LRMP S&Gs WL-64 through WL-71.
Cumulative Effects for Sensitive Species
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
Alternative 1 – No Action
By not implementing the proposed project, there would be no direct or indirect effects from proposed project activities therefore there would be no cumulative effects for Alternative 1.
Alternative 2
Since the proposed path would minimally affect habitats through tree removal or paving, the focus of this analysis is on human disturbance and the time and incremental overlap from past treatments that have occurred in the short-term. Human disturbance or recreation activities would have similar effects to these species; therefore, sensitive species were grouped together for this discussion.
The more recent vegetation management treatments that have occurred in the short-term are the Sunriver HFRA, Katalo East and West, East Tumbull, and Kelsey projects (in ponderosa pine habitats) within the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed. At the landscape level, these treatments have minimally removed large trees since the inception of the Eastside Screens, which restricts removing ponderosa pine trees greater than 21 inches dbh. Therefore, quality habitat has increased and/or continuing to improve while tree growth occurs. Some of the objectives for vegetation projects were to enhance and/or promote the large tree component while increasing forest health, and reducing fuel loadings near the town of Sunriver. These types of treatments already have or would continue to increase the quality of nesting habitat in the long-term for those sensitive species that require the large tree components (i.e. bald eagles, Lewis and white-headed woodpeckers, and bat roosting). Foraging habitat has also likely been enhanced as well since tree spacing has increased and tree density has decreased.
Road densities have been reduced as a result of the past projects, thereby reducing habitat fragmentation to some extent. However, there has been overlapping treatments in terms of time and space in the cumulative effects bounding area in the short-term, coupled with the ongoing recreational activities occurring across the watershed. Lava River Cave and the Visitor Center, and the Day Use Areas along the Deschutes River have the highest human presence within the watershed from the spring through fall, moderate human presence from hiking, biking and from snowmobiles during the winter season in the western part of the watershed.
Alternative 2 would not cumulatively reduce nesting, roosting, or breeding habitat in the watershed for bald eagle, peregrine falcon, bats, or the riparian/wetland dependent species, while minimally affecting potential nesting habitat for white-headed and Lewis’ woodpeckers. Alternative 2 may cumulatively reduce potential foraging habitat for western bumblebee, Lewis’ and white-headed woodpeckers and the bats analyzed due to fragmentation.
Alternative 2, when added to the most recent overlapping past actions, ongoing railroad use, road use, and recreational activities would likely incrementally add an increase in human disturbance to the sensitive species analyzed. From a cumulative standpoint, it could be anticipated that the proposed path would contribute to the increase in human visitation to the Lava River Cave due to the Highway 97 expansion and its access roads during the summer months, but it is unknown by how much and what level of impacts could occur. It is unlikely that the proposed path would incrementally add to human disturbance in the Benham Falls area.
Exiting Condition for Management Indicator Species
Table 3-4 shows the management indicator species (MIS) list for the Deschutes National Forest, their listing status, habitat description for each species and type of habitat within the project area and/or presence across the Forest. The species in bold are species carried forward for further analysis.
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
Table 3-4: Deschutes National Forest Management Indicator Species Summary Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area Mature and old-growth Northern forests; especially high Suitable habitat in and MIS, S3 Vulnerable goshawk canopy closure and large adjacent to project area trees Similar to goshawk, can also MIS, S4 Apparently Suitable habitat in and Cooper’s hawk use mature forests with high secure adjacent to project area canopy closure/tree density Similar to goshawk in Sharp-shinned MIS, S4 Apparently Suitable habitat in and addition to young, dense, hawk secure adjacent to project area even-aged stands Mature and old growth Suitable habitat in and Great gray owl MIS, S3 Vulnerable forests associated with adjacent to project area openings and meadows Riparian edge habitats MIS, S4 Apparently Potential habitat adjacent to Great blue heron including lakes, streams, secure project area marshes and estuaries MIS, BCC, S4 Large open areas with cliffs Potential habitat adjacent to Golden eagle Apparently secure and rock outcrops project area Large snags, open country Suitable habitat in and Red-tailed hawk MIS, S5 Secure interspersed with forests adjacent to project area MIS, S4 Apparently Large snags associated with Suitable habitat in and Osprey secure fish bearing water bodies adjacent to project area Suitable habitat in and Elk MIS, S5 Secure Mixed habitats adjacent to project area Mixed conifer or high No, there is no late elevation late-successional successional complex mixed American marten MIS, S3 Vulnerable forests with abundant down conifer habitat, therefore no woody material suitable habitat. Suitable habitat in and Mule deer MIS, S5 Secure Mixed habitats adjacent to project area MIS Woodpecker Species Region 6 Sensitive, Lewis’ Ponderosa pine forest, burned Addressed in the sensitive MIS, BCC, Landbird woodpecker forests species section focal species, S2, S3B Region 6 Sensitive, Large mature & open White-headed Addressed in the sensitive MIS, BCC, Landbird ponderosa pine forests; weak woodpecker species section focal species, S2, S3B excavator Mature or old growth conifer Williamson’s MIS, Landbird Focal Suitable habitat in and forests with open canopy sapsucker species, BCC adjacent to project area cover; weak excavator There are no hardwoods in Red-naped MIS, S4 Apparently this stretch of the Deschutes Riparian hardwood forests sapsucker Secure River, therefore no suitable habitat. There are no hardwoods in Downy MIS, S4 Apparently this stretch of the Deschutes Riparian hardwood forest woodpecker Secure River, therefore no suitable habitat. Hairy MIS, S4 Apparently Mixed conifer and ponderosa Suitable habitat in and woodpecker Secure pine forests adjacent to project area
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences
Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area Three-toed High elevation and lodgepole Suitable habitat in and MIS, S3 Vulnerable woodpecker pine forests adjacent to project area Black-backed MIS, Landbird focal Lodgepole pine forests, Suitable habitat in and woodpecker species, S3 Vulnerable burned forests adjacent to project area Variety of forest types but Suitable habitat in and Northern flicker MIS, S5 Secure more associated with forest adjacent to project area edges There is no complex old- Pileated MIS, S4 Apparently Mature to old-growth mixed growth mixed conifer forest, woodpecker Secure conifer forests therefore no suitable habitat. MIS Waterfowl Species Very common, increasing Wetlands, rivers, B, M, R; MIS, S5 trends in many areas. Canada goose lake/reservoirs, agricultural Secure Suitable habitat in and & urban areas adjacent to project area. Perching duck species; Small water bodies, slow increasing population and streams, wooded swamps, range expansion; most B, M; MIS, S4 sloughs, marshes, agricultural common in western Oregon; Wood duck Apparently secure areas (orchards, flooded records of breeding on the fields); utilize tree cavities & upper Deschutes river. nest boxes Potential habitat adjacent to project area. Dabbling or puddle duck species (i.e. primarily use surface of water for foraging); common at Flooded meadows, canals, Malheur NWR and other B, M; MIS ponds in summer; larger Gadwall large “tule marshes”; noted to S5 Secure lakes in the fall; marshes & breed on the Fremont NF; reservoirs in migration. use more open ponds for nesting than other ducks. No habitat in or adjacent to project area. Small seasonal & semi- permanent wetlands in prairie, parkland, & river Dabbling species; breed at American deltas for breeding; dense Malheur NWR; potential M; MIS, S5 Secure widgeon willows along small streams migratory habitat adjacent to used for nesting on Malheur project area. NWR; lakes, reservoirs & fields in migration. Temporary & seasonal wetlands early in year followed by permanent water Dabbling species; highly bodies with good aquatic adaptable; most abundant B, M, R; MIS, S5 Mallard insects & emergent game species of duck in Secure vegetation; highly variable North America. Observed nesting sites; during molt use adjacent to the project area. large shallow marshes; may forage in fields.
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Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area Dabbling species; rare species in Oregon; only Uses the moist ecotone present from late spring to M; MIS, S4 between marshes & uplands Blue-winged teal early fall; breeds in Malheur Apparently secure for nesting; emergent plants NWR & Summer Lake. important. Potential migratory habitat adjacent to project area. Dabbling species; fairly Nests in marshes, irrigated common breeder in eastern meadows, & grass/forb Oregon; Malheur NWR, habitats; grassy nest sites Summer Lake, Warner Basin near water; use low are best areas; breeds in both vegetation height habitats; Cinnamon teal B, M; MIS, S5 Secure North & South America; one wet meadows on the Malheur of the earliest spring arrivals NWR with broods; feeds in at Malheur NWR. 85% of estuaries, marshes, meadows, state’s population in eastern shallow waters for seeds & Oregon. Potential habitat midges. adjacent to the project area. Dabbling species; breed in eastern Oregon, but Nests in dense meadow uncommon; confirmed in grasses on the Malheur Green-winged Deschutes County. Potential B, M; MIS, S5 Secure NWR; uses shallow wetlands teal habitat adjacent to the project & ponds mudflats & flooded area. Widespread breeding fields in migration. range, with an upward population trend. Breed in open, shallow wetlands; use a wide range of Dabbling species; possible habitats in migration and breeding in Deschutes Northern winter (marshes, lagoons, County but much more B, M; MIS, S5 Secure shoveler sewage ponds, shallow common to the southeast. lakes); forage primarily on Potential habitat adjacent to small swimming crustaceans; the project area. do not forage on land. Prefer open country but use a variety of habitats; short, open vegetation on the Dabbling species; breeding Malheur NWR; use flooded possible in Deschutes County meadows, shallow lake but mostly in southeastern Northern pintail B, M; MIS, S5 Secure waters & fields during Oregon. Potential migratory migration; forage on marsh habitat adjacent to project plant seeds, waste grain and area. rice; invertebrates important during breeding season. Breeds in large marsh Bay duck species; nesting habitats in emergent record in Deschutes County vegetation over water; but mostly in south central & migration habitats include southeastern Oregon; habitat B, M, MIS, S4 Canvasback large marshes, lakes, losses due to vegetation Apparently secure reservoirs, rivers, estuaries, impacts by carp in western & bays; forage on seeds & Oregon. Potential migratory tubers of pond weed & other habitat adjacent to project plants; use animal diet area.
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Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area readily (mollusks, crabs, fish eggs); uses deeper water for foraging (i.e. “diver” duck). Nests in potholes, sloughs, large marshes and ponds; use Bay duck species; confirmed emergent vegetation over nesting in Deschutes County water & sometimes on land and on the Fremont NF; B, M, MIS, S4 Redhead close to water; migration and common breeder at Malheur Apparently secure winter habitats include large NWR and Summer Lake. marshes, lakes, reservoirs, This habitat does not exist in estuaries, inlets and ocean the project area. bays Nests in shallow but stable wetlands with abundant Bay duck species; submerged and emergent uncommon breeder in vegetation; migration and Oregon; rare at Summer Lake Ring-necked M, MIS, S3 vulnerable winter on larger lakes, ponds and some nesting at Malheur duck and occasionally use canals, NWR. Potential migratory ditches, and smaller ponds; habitat adjacent to project heavily forages on area. vegetation. Breed in seasonal and semi- permanent shallow wetlands and lakes; nest in upland habitats near water; use large wetlands, lakes, reservoirs, Bay duck species; one of the rivers and estuaries during most abundant and migration and winter. Also widespread North American sloughs, backwaters of rivers, ducks; nest at Malheur NWR; Lesser scaup M, MIS, S3B, S4N quarry borrow pits, log ponds migrate later than any and sewage ponds; use another duck species. “broad waters” in winter; Potential migratory habitat heavy foraging on adjacent to project area. invertebrates in the spring; also herring eggs, mollusks, crustaceans, and aquatic insects with some vegetation. Rocky headlands on the coast Sea duck species; no or mountain streams; use 1st breeding records in to 5th order streams with 1 to Deschutes County; nearest 7% gradients including pools, record on the McKenzie chutes and backwaters; heavy River; broods observed on boulder, cobble & bedrock the Middle Fork of the common to streams; nest on Willamette river and the B, M, Region 6 exposed shelves of logs or north and south Santiam Harlequin duck Sensitive, MIS, S2B, rootwads and on the ground Rivers; local reports from the S3N in floodplains, ledges of Metolius, Klamath and White slopes or cliffs; overhead Rivers but very rare; rarely cover for the nest is common; seen in migration; winter feed almost exclusively on primarily on the coast; R6 benthic invertebrates and Sensitive (documented rarely on fish; winter diets on DNF). These specific the coast are more diverse. habitats are not available
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Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area adjacent to the project area, therefore no suitable habitat. Uses the cavities of trees for Bucephala duck species; no nests near high elevation documented breeding in lakes; in migration use lakes, Oregon; documented on B, M, MIS, S4 Common reservoirs, rivers, ponds, Cascade Mountains lakes, Apparently Secure goldeneye estuaries, coastal bays, and Black Butte Ranch ponds,
flooded fields; heavy diet of and Paulina Lake in late fall. animal foods with some use Potential migratory habitat of vegetation. adjacent to project area. Breeds on cold inland waters including alpine and Bucephala duck species; 90% subalpine lakes, reservoirs, of the world population and rivers. Nests in the breeds west of the Rocky cavities of trees (unproven in Mountains; nearest breeding Oregon) or rank stands of records are at Lost and Barrow’s bulrush or cattails; winters B, M, MIS, S3B, S3N Diamond Lakes. Brood goldeneye primarily on the coast; forage observed at Crane Prairie primarily on aquatic Reservoir in 2010. This invertebrates and buds and habitat does not exist tubers of wild celery and adjacent to the project area, pondweed seeds; feed on therefore no suitable habitat. mollusks, salmon eggs and fingerlings in winter. Nests at high elevation forested lakes in the central Cascades using cavities or nest boxes in trees close to water; may use old Bucephala duck species; woodpecker holes; use documented nest cavities at sheltered freshwater lakes, Wickiup reservoir and Davis ponds, sewage ponds, slow- B, M, Region 6 Lake; common at Malheur moving rivers, estuaries, Bufflehead Sensitive, MIS, S2B, NWR on the larger, deeper bays, and backwaters during S5N waters. migration & winter; forage
primarily on animal matter, Addressed in the sensitive especially midge larva; also species section. water boatmen, physid snails, and seeds of smartweed, alkali bulrush, & sago pondweed; may eat herring eggs & rotten salmon. Nest in cavities near undisturbed bodies of water; Mergus duck species; use nest boxes; other times probable nesting in found on woodland ponds, Deschutes County; slightly lakes, and wooded wetlands; B, M, MIS, S4 increasing trend; 11% of the Hooded merganser most common in western Apparently Secure population winters in the Oregon in winter but Pacific states. Unlikely to anywhere on open waters; occur adjacent to the project forages primarily on area due to high disturbance. invertebrates, small fish, crustaceans, and amphibians.
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Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area Prefer hollow trees near water but may use loose boulders, brush, stream bank Mergus duck species; hollows, rocky ledges, cliff concentrate west of the holes, nest boxes, and Cascades in winter; known to sometimes buildings; have concentrations on common breeder in the Wickiup Reservoir in Common B, M, MIS, S4 mountains; migration migration; increasing trend in merganser Apparently Secure &winter prefer deeper, open Oregon possibly linked to waters with fish; forage on available reservoirs; not fish (including salmon and considered a serious threat to sculpins), shrimp, clams, sport fish. This specific nematodes, mayfly larva, fly habitat does not exist near the larva, moss and conifer project area. needles; prefer fish <8” in length. Nest in dense stands of hard Stiff-tailed duck species; stem bulrush or cattail on a potential breeding in platform in lakes and marsh Deschutes County with the complexes; migration & closest record at Diamond winter on deep sloughs, lake; winter primarily in B, M, MIS, S4 estuaries, borrow pits, lakes Ruddy duck western Oregon and on the Apparently Secure and ponds with enough room coast; also in the Klamath for long running take-offs; Basin and Jackson County. forage on midge larva, These specific habitats do not mollusks, sees and vegetative exist adjacent to the project parts of pondweed, bulrushes, area. and wigeon grass. Lacks information to define breeding habitat in Oregon. Cascades lakes are the most likely sites. Elsewhere breed No Deschutes County nesting on lakes, sloughs, marshes, records. Very sensitive to lagoons, and rivers with human disturbance and only abundant fish in clear water. nests at remote sites. Spring Common loon M, MIS, SHB, S5N Nest is on the ground near concentrations have been water. Orient to islands in noted on Wickiup reservoir. lakes. Forage 80% fish. These specific habitats do not Remainder on crustaceans exist adjacent to the project including shrimp, crabs and area. amphipods. At times crayfish, annelids, fish eggs, sea stars, snails, and squid. Nests on lakes, ponds, channels, and sloughs with Primarily breeds in south emergent vegetation; uses central and south eastern floating mass of hardstem Oregon. Potential nesting in bulrush, spikerush stems or Pied-billed grebe B, M, MIS, S5 Secure Deschutes County. Stable algae in Malheur NWR; may population trend. These use small stock ponds; specific habitats do not exist migration and winter uses adjacent to the project area. lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and backwaters. Also
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Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area warm springs. Forages on a variety of fish and invertebrates. Also amphibians, toads and salamanders. Possible breeding in Nests in semi-permanent Deschutes County. Primarily ponds in rush or sedge in S.E. Oregon on Malheur stands. Forages on fish, Horned grebe B, M, MIS, S2B, S5N NWR, Harney, Malheur and crayfish and aquatic insects. Lake Counties. These Winter food dominated by specific habitats do not exist shrimp, prawn and fish. adjacent to the project area. Inland breeding habitat is extensive clear, deep water marshy lakes and ponds in Most documented nesting at timbered regions. In winter Klamath lake with some at occupy lower parts of Diamond lake and Malheur estuaries and protected NWR. One record from Red-necked grebe B, M, MIS, S1B, S4N waters such as the lee side of Deschutes County at Big islands, sheltered coves of the Lava lake. These specific open coast, as well as the habitats do not exist adjacent open ocean. Forage fish, to the project area. crustaceans, vegetation, aquatic insects, and mollusks. Nests near shore on small freshwater lakes and Most abundant grebe in the reservoirs where open water world. Common nester in SE is intermixed with emergents Oregon including Malheur such as hardstem bulrush and NWR. Closest documented cattails. In winter uses nesting in our area at coastal saltwater estuaries. Summer lake. Vulnerable to M, MIS, S4 Eared grebe Mix of salt and fresh water recreational disturbance such Apparently secure bodies during migration. as boating and fishing. Forage on invertebrates such Seasonal water fluctuations as shrimp, brine flies, long- strongly affect breeding legged flies, amphipods, success. These specific water fleas and beetles. habitats do not exist adjacent Mostly insects overall across to the project area. range. Breeds in marshes having Primarily breed east of our open water and on lakes and area, but concentrations in reservoirs supporting spring and fall on Wickiup emergent vegetation along reservoir and other Cascades the shorelines. Use floating water bodies. Surveys often mats of vegetation to support include the related Clark’s nests. Migration and winter grebe. Population cycle is Western grebe M, MIS, S3B, S2S3N habitats add lakes, large closely linked to high water rivers, estuaries, and open cycles (i.e. more forage fish). ocean. Most common on the Vulnerable to wind waves coast in winter. Forage (nest colonies), botulism, mostly on fish (80% +). Also pesticides, oil spills, gill nets, arthropods, crustaceans, etc. These specific habitats salamanders, and worms. do not exist adjacent to the
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Habitat Presence in the Species Status Habitat Project Area project area.
Notes for waterfowl species: Habitat descriptions from Marshall et al. 2006, Bellrose 1916, and Csuti et al. 2001; B= breeding on the DNF, B (?) = no documented breeding on the DNF but noted in other areas of central OR; M = migratory through DNF, R= resident, year-round presence. Notes for all MIS: rankings were determined from the Natureserve database for the state of Oregon: S1, critically imperiled, S2 = imperiled, S3 = vulnerable, S4 = apparently secure, S5 = secure
The following information and concepts in this section are from the assessment conducted by Snetsinger and White (2009) at Mount Spokane State Park, Washington. The purpose of the study was to assess potential impacts of recreation and associated trails on 21 wildlife species of interest. From this list, there are no Region 6 sensitive species with habitat adjacent to or in the proposed trail project area, but there are several from this list that are Deschutes National Forest Management Indicator Species (MIS). Thus, this information was used where applicable and where the information was not available in the individual Deschutes MIS assessments.
Although recreation is widely recognized as an increasingly important factor affecting wildlife, the study of such impacts is still in its infancy. For many less studied species, information on recreational impacts is completely lacking. For others, sources consist primarily of anecdotal information in older natural history-oriented studies. Wide-ranging carnivores and ungulates have received the most detailed attention, along with very recent studies addressing recreational impacts on presence, diversity and density for general species groups or habitat types. Even for those species with the greatest information however, data is often lacking on specific thresholds of disturbance (intensity of use, distance thresholds, temporal effects, etc.). Related to a lack of information on wildlife and human interactions, another confounding factor is the amount of conflicting information for various species. Some species that are described in the literature as relatively tolerant of human disturbance, in other accounts appear to be quite sensitive. Notably more rigorous study is needed for all species to clarify wildlife responses to human recreation.
Behavioral assessments of easier-studied species (i.e. deer/elk) offer additional information but may still miss critical information on how human disturbance affects wildlife. For example, physiological studies of ungulates show animals exhibiting stress responses that may lower their fitness even when behavior does not reveal a notable impact (Creel et al. 2002). Even less understanding exists however, on how such physiological responses affect individual fitness, demographic rates, and population viability.
A wide variety of impacts from recreation on the 21 species of interest were identified in the literature. Impacts on species from recreational trails and various types of trail use (i.e. hiking, biking, etc.) are categorized into the following headings:
1. Stress/physiological response – Studies of heart rates and fecal glucocorticoid levels have shown stress responses to human activity. Chronic stress can make species susceptible to illness and reduce individual fitness (Sapolsky 1992 in Creel et al. 2002). 2. Breeding/rearing disturbance – Species that are considered generally tolerant of human activity may experience higher levels of disturbance at breeding and rearing sites. This may result in reduced attentiveness to young, disruption of feeding patterns, abandonment of nests/dens, and/or cause adults to undertake additional risks to their young by moving them to a new location. 3. Displacement/avoidance – A variety of species often move away from human activity or intentionally avoid associated sites. Sites may be avoided due to the disruption caused by
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human presence or habitat changes associated with the site (e.g. soil compaction, dryness of soils and vegetation along roadsides and trails). Animals displaced by recreation are less likely to survive and reproduce where habitat is unfamiliar or inferior (Gutzwiller 1995). Displacement or avoidance is by far the most common response of species found in the literature. 4. Disease - Domestic dogs are allowed in Washington State Parks, and though regulations specify that they should be restrained at all times, there are undoubtedly many dog owners who do not abide by this rule. A variety of species are vulnerable to diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parasites transmitted by domestic dogs. 5. Animal collection – Although relatively uncommon, certain species (e.g. goshawk chicks for falconry) are sometimes illegally collected. Trail access can increase vulnerability. 6. Habitat fragmentation/edge effects – Habitat fragmentation/edge effects are typically associated with timber harvest and/or roads, however recreational trails can have similar, though typically less intense, impacts. 7. Predator/competitor increased accessibility - Trails, and snowmobile trails in particular, can greatly ease travel and access for species less adapted for movement in deep snows. This may cause greater rates of predation on some species and increased competition for prey for others. 8. Snag/coarse woody debris reduction – Snags and coarse woody debris are used for cover, nesting and denning, and are key habitat components for some species. These components may be lost through trail development, wood gathering around campsites, recreational site development and associated removal of “hazard” trees, and woodcutting for firewood (though against Washington State Parks regulations, trails facilitate illegal firewood cutting). 9. Incidental mortality – Direct collision with motorized vehicles can result in incidental mortality. Snowmobiles may indirectly cause mortality of small mammals by compacting snow and collapsing subnivian tunnels. 10. Habituation – Many species would become habituated to human presence. Habituation often poses risks to animals, resulting in undesirable behaviors, poor nutrition, incidental destruction of property, and a host of other factors.
The following are categories used by Snetsinger and White (2009) for analyzing the impacts by recreation type on the 21 species of interest that were studied. Note that only the categories that may be applicable to the proposed Sunriver to Lava Lands Visitor Center Paved Path Project are shown.
1. Hiking/Backpacking – Hiking is the most common form of recreational activity and likely to be concentrated along trail corridors, although many visitors also hike off trail. Hikers may affect wildlife through direct disturbance, trampling of habitat, and indirectly through discarded food and other items (qtd. in Boyle and Samson 1985). Risk of human-caused wildfires, which affect wildlife and habitat, are greater with higher levels of recreation. Some species are particularly sensitive to approach of humans on foot. Hikers/backpackers can inadvertently lead to the spread of noxious weeds, reducing habitat quality for some species. 2. Mountain Biking - Mountain biking is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities. Although it is often assumed to be more disturbing to wildlife than hiking, very little empirical evidence is available to assess its impacts (Taylor and Knight 2003). Speed and sound-levels of bikers vary from those of hikers and skiers, affecting types of wildlife responses. Being quieter (generally less talking) and quicker, in some ways, mountain biking may seem less predictable to wildlife. On the other hand, animals react most to the human form, and mountain bikers, like vehicles, may seem less threatening (Taylor and Knight 2003). Mountain biking for the most part is limited to trail corridors, adding predictability. Mountain bikers generally travel greater distances and thus, even if disturbance is equal to that of hiking, may provide greater disruption to wildlife on a single outing (Taylor and Knight
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2003a). Mountain bikers may contribute to the spread of noxious weeds, reducing habitat quality for some species. 3. Human presence/wildlife observation – Much of the older scientific literature describes species responses to human presence without specifying the context in terms of a recreational activity (i.e. “generally tolerant of humans”, or “sensitive to human presence around den sites”). This category is used to capture that general information, and is also typically marked whenever a specific type of recreational activity, such as hiking or biking, is documented to negatively impact a species (since obviously human presence always accompanies any form of recreation). Exceptions are when the means of recreation (i.e. horses, snowmobiles) are a factor potentially impacting species’ habitat, and the species is not responding to presence of the human, per se. This category also includes activities involving continuous observation/interaction with wildlife (i.e. photography, wildlife study) - more than would normally occur in the context of a passing hiker or biker. 4. Trail development/presence – This category encompasses all trail types, including snowmobile routes. Mere physical presence of trails may cause avoidance by some species. Trails fragment habitats and provide avenues for infestations of weeds. In winter, compacted snowmobile routes may ease travel and provide increased accessibility for predators/competitors of some species. Habitat loss and reductions of key structural components (snags, coarse woody debris) may occur with trail development and maintenance of trail corridors. 5. Recreation site presence/development – This category is used to encompass areas of high recreational use other than trails, such as campgrounds, trailheads, picnic areas, etc. These sites often have altered vegetation that affects wildlife composition and abundance (i.e. higher concentrations of some small mammals, changes in diversity and type of bird species (qtd in Boyle and Samson 1985). While potential human disruption of or interaction with an animal on a trail (whether hiking, riding, etc.) is likely to be relatively fleeting, human presence at recreational sites is generally more concentrated and of longer duration. Habitat loss and reductions of key structural components (snags, coarse woody debris) may occur with development, use (i.e. wood collecting for campfires), and maintenance of these sites. Northern Goshawk
Goshawk surveys were conducted for the proposed project. Additionally, surveys were conducted for previous projects within the area over the course of several years to determine species presence and potential nest sites, but there were no goshawk responses, nor nests found. The closest recorded nest sites in relation to the proposed path are approximately 2 ½ and 3 miles away. Overall, goshawk habitat in the project area is considered marginal due to the high human disturbance in the area, therefore they are given a low probability of occurrence. There are a total of 29,903 acres of suitable goshawk habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 7% of the 446,402 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Cooper’s Hawk
There are no known Cooper’s hawks nests within or adjacent to the project area. Surveys for goshawks, often can disclose Cooper’s hawk territories and any Cooper’s hawk responses were noted during goshawk surveys. During the 2005 survey for goshawks, a Cooper’s hawk was observed flying through the canopy in the vicinity of the area, but no nest was found. The 2012 goshawk surveys also did not reveal any Cooper’s hawk nests or presence. The closest recorded nest sites in relation to the proposed trail are approximately 2, 2.5, 3, and 5 miles away. Overall, Cooper’s hawk habitat in the project area is considered marginal due to the high human disturbance in the area, therefore they are given a low probability of occurrence. There are a total of 27,310 acres of suitable
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Cooper’s hawk habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 6% of the 446,003 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Sharp-Shinned Hawk
No sharp-shinned hawks were detected during the 2012 goshawk surveys or in the previous years. Sharp-shinned hawk habitat is marginal and limited due to the previous fuels treatments in the area, but habitat still exists where wildlife habitat connectivity corridors were placed from previous projects. Overall, sharp-shinned hawk habitat in the project area is considered marginal due to the high human disturbance in the area and limited habitat, therefore they are given a low probability of occurrence. There are a total of 34,922 acres of suitable sharp-shinned hawk habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 8% of the 426,138 total acres of habitat forest- wide.
Great Gray Owl
Great gray owl surveys were conducted during the 2012 field season. No nests were found, but there were two different responses from across the Deschutes River. Due to other known responses and suspected nesting downstream near Ryan Ranch, it is suspected the owl may be from that area and was called in. There are no meadows within or adjacent to the project area, but the nearby lava flows and riparian area are likely providing foraging habitat. There are a total of 4,006 acres of suitable great gray owl habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 2% of the 197,847 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Great Blue Heron
Habitat modeling was conducted ¼ mile from trailheads or where heavy recreation occurs. Some species, such as mallard ducks are seen adjacent to the Benham Bridge area. It is plausible that some great blue herons may tolerate human disturbance while foraging, but unknown if nesting would occur. There are no known rookeries (nests) in the area. There are a total of 2,440 acres of suitable great blue heron habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 1% of the 210,194 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Golden Eagle
It is unlikely that the adjacent cliffs provide suitable nesting habitat. There are no known golden eagle nests within or adjacent to the project area. However, there are known historic nests in the Benham Falls area. It is unlikely that golden eagles would forage within the project area during the late spring thru early fall season months due to the high level of human disturbance, but may forage on big game carrion during the winter months. Forest-wide habitat modeling did not query suitable golden eagle habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed.
Red-Tailed Hawk
Since red-tailed hawks have an extremely wide tolerance for habitat variation, the general area provides abundant foraging habitat. Red-tails are commonly observed soaring in the area and are common across the District. There are no known nest sites that occur within the project area and the closest recorded nest sites in relation to the proposed trail are approximately four miles away. There are a total of 13,855 acres of suitable red-tailed hawk habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam- Deschutes River watershed or 7 % of the 192,492 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Osprey
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There is no Forest Plan designated Osprey Management Area or nests associated with the project area, but there are historical nests north of Benham Falls. Ospreys feed on fish along the main stem of the Deschutes River and typically nest in the larger trees along the river. There is some probability they could nest closer to the project area, but it is more likely they just periodically fly over due to the high level of human disturbance. There are a total of 14,705 acres of suitable osprey habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 3% of the 495,360 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Elk
Although the Forest contains hunt-able populations of elk, it is not considered a Forest that has the capacity of producing large populations of elk such as other National Forests in northeast Oregon associated with the Blue Mountain Plateau. Prior to development (Sunriver, Highway 97 expansion and LLVC) of the area surrounding the project area the project area provided more effective wintering for elk populations and migration corridors. As Sunriver expanded, there have been social pressures to reduce wildland fire risk in the area. The combination of these activities, including the increase of people and recreation has had impacts to migration and disturbance to wintering elk. Currently, elk concentrations are west in the key elk area (KEA). Elk use adjacent to and within the project area is low due to the various ongoing activities. The longest stretch of the proposed path, where the FSR 9702200 is converted to the path, is adjacent to the 9702 road. Biking and motorized vehicles on FSR 9702 is limited during the winter months since the road is not plowed, use is moderate from late spring to the fall seasons. Due to the vicinity of Sunriver, winter recreation occurs in the area such as cross-country skiing or snow shoeing.
Hiding cover is limited within and adjacent to the project area due to previous fuels reduction projects to protect the town of Sunriver and Lava Lands Visitor Center from wildfire. Furthermore, due to the large amount of lava rock in the Newberry Monument adjacent to the FSR 9702200, trees are minimal in this area. The LRMP defines thermal cover for elk as areas at least ten acres of trees that are at least 40 feet tall and a canopy closure of 40%. Elk hiding cover is defined as an area of at least six acres in size capable of hiding 90% of an adult animal from human view at a distance of 200 feet. As shown in Table 3-5, hiding cover in the Ryan Ranch KEA is currently at 16%, thermal cover is at 21%, and the road density is at 2.77 miles per square mile. The KEA is below the Forest Plan S&G for hiding cover and high in road density partially because it is adjacent to private land and the town of Sunriver. Many of the previous primary objectives or treatments within this Wildland Urban Interface were to reduce the fire risk due to the amount of lodgepole pine. Project activities would not further reduce cover.
Table 3-5: Ryan Ranch KEHA Habitat Assessment. Open Road Hiding Cover % of Hiding Thermal Cover % of Thermal KEHA Name KEHA Acres Densities Acres Cover Acres Cover mi./sq.mi. Ryan Ranch 21,470 2.77 3,437 16% 4,478 21%
Mule Deer
The project area or adjacent areas is not recognized in the Forest Plan as deer winter range; however, ODFW classifies the area as biological winter range. The broader area, including the project area is classified as deer summer range in the Forest Plan. Historically, the general area between Sunriver and the Lava Lands Visitor Center has been known as a migration corridor. The Forest Plan provides guidance to linking stands meeting clumps, such as hiding areas or hiding cover to provide for travel corridors. A portion of the project area (FRS 9702200) falls within the Newberry Management Plan,
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences which provides guidance for big game migration corridors. Travel corridors were established from previous treatments in the area.
As part of the Highway 97 project to widen the highway and to create access roads to the Lava Lands Visitor Center and connecting to the Lava River Cave, two big game underpasses were created under Highway 97 to minimize vehicle collisions and to assist with big game migration. Additionally, a high fence was installed on each side of the highway to funnel big game towards the underpasses, including electric pads on the access roads. Due to the infancy of the underpasses, it may take time for mule deer to truly utilize them and migrate. However, mule deer tracks have been observed at the north underpass, elk tracks were observed at the southern underpass. Recently, ODFW and ODOT game cameras have monitored mule deer going through the southern underpass.
The Highway 97 project (US 97 Lava Butte to Sunriver EA) closed and decommissioned 26.9 miles of existing roads and the Sunriver Hazardous Fuels Reduction project decommissioned 16.1 to help off-set the negative effects of reduced cover, to reduce fragmentation, and minimize human disturbance.
Table 3-6 shows there are a total of 20,520 acres or 25% of suitable hiding cover habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed (compared to 30% required by the LRMP) or 5% of the 1,592,631 total acres of cover forest-wide and Table 3-7 shows the road density within the watershed. As shown, hiding cover is meeting Forest Plan goals in the Lockit Butte and the town of Sunriver-Deschutes River subwatersheds, slightly below in Lava Island Falls-Deschutes River, but below in the Town of Sunriver and the Overturf Butte-Deschutes River. The Overturf Butte- Deschutes river subwatershed is below because approximately half of this subwatershed is within the City of Bend city limits and private land is not included for the analysis. The Town of Sunriver subwatershed is also within the town of Sunriver, and many of the previous primary objectives or treatments within this Wildland Urban Interface were to reduce the fire risk due to the amount of lodgepole pine. Project activities would not further reduce cover.
Table 3-6: Deer Summer Range Hiding Cover Assessment by Subwatershed Acres of % in Hiding Watershed Sub-watershed Acres of Sub- Cover by Sub- (HUC 10) (HUC 12) Hiding Cover watershed watershed Benham Falls-Deschutes 22,550 5,644 25% River Lava Island Falls- 11,093 3,001 27% Deschutes River North Unit Lockit Butte 8,220 4,691 57% Diversion Dam- Overturf Butte-Deschutes 19,305 1,494 8% Deschutes River River Town of Sunriver 9,585 1,601 17% Town of Sunriver- 12,574 4,089 33% Deschutes River Table 3-7: Open Road Density in Deer Summer Range Watershed Sub-watershed Open Road Density Miles of Open Roads (HUC 10) (HUC 12) mi./sq.mi Benham Falls-Deschutes 121.63 3.34 River Lava Island Falls-Deschutes 49.70 2.24 River North Unit Lockit Butte 40.46 2.97
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Diversion Dam- Overturf Butte-Deschutes 187.22 2.98 Deschutes River River Town of Sunriver 57.07 3.20 Town of Sunriver- 89.06 2.91 Deschutes River Williamson’s Sapsucker
No Williamson’s sapsuckers were observed during field reconnaissance. Given that habitat is marginal due to the lack of hardwoods in the area and habitat is limited to interior ponderosa pine, they are given a low probability of occurrence. There are a total of 14,805 acres of suitable Williamson’s sapsucker habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 6% of the 243,364 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Hairy Woodpeckers
Hairy woodpeckers were observed during field reconnaissance. Although, current habitat conditions would be considered marginal due to no post-fire habitats and limited to ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine. There are a total of 45,004 acres of suitable hairy woodpecker habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 9% of the 507,921 total acres of habitat forest- wide.
Three-Toed Woodpecker
No three-toed woodpeckers were observed during field reconnaissance. There is no post-fire environment within the area, but lodgepole pine snags do exist to provide habitat. Most of the lodgepole pine is on the southern end of the project area. There are a total of 10,832 acres of suitable three-toed woodpecker habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 3% of the 367,499 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Black-Backed Woodpecker
There are small patches of suitable habitat in the project area, but primarily in the southern end. There are a total of 16,359 acres of suitable black-backed woodpecker habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 4% of the 446,003 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Northern Flicker
Flickers were observed in the project area. Suitable habitat is present and occurs mostly towards the southern end of the project area. There are a total of 16,028 acres of suitable northern flicker habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 7% of the 219,576 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Waterfowl Species
Based on field reconnaissance, the 500 foot stretch of riparian area along the Deschutes River from the Benham Bridge to the boat ramp is not providing suitable habitat within the project area for the species in Table 3-4, above, because of compaction, the lack of understory vegetation on the existing trail, the large parking lot and restroom facilities in the area, and the high human disturbance (recreation) that occurs in this area to and from the facilities to the bridge. There is approximately a 1 ½ acre wetland adjacent to the project area, a few feet downslope of the trail to the north that may potentially provide suitable habitat for these species. This area does not appear to receive much human use, such as trampling, but would be considered marginal habitat quality due to the high
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences human disturbance in the area that occurs. The Deschutes River to the north and south of the parking lot/bridge area may also provide habitat for these species. Much of the human use is directed to the bridge and continued on the designated trail. No surveys were conducted for any of these species, so it is assumed that the areas described are providing potential suitable habitat. Habitat loss and degradation, and/or human disturbance from recreational activities are the most common threats to these species. There are a total of 1,479 acres of suitable riparian habitat in the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed or 2% of the 71,027 total acres of habitat forest-wide.
Effects Analysis for Management Indicator Species
Direct and Indirect Effects for All MIS Species
The amount of suitable habitat in a species home range directly lost from the proposed path construction would be minimal. Although recreation is widely recognized as an increasingly important factor affecting wildlife, the study of such impacts is still in its infancy. For many less studied species, information on recreational impacts is lacking. For others, sources consist primarily of anecdotal information in older natural history-oriented studies. Therefore, the most plausible impact from the project could be from potential human disturbance, fragmentation, and edge effects. Some species whom have similar characteristics or share similar habitats are grouped together where applicable.
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, habitat conditions for MIS brought forward for analysis would remain the same in the short-term. As regeneration occurs, it may improve and increase habitat for species such as sharp-shinned hawks or hiding cover for deer and elk. Shrub cover would be expected to increase or expand within the short-term. The level of human disturbance may also remain the same in the short- term, but could gradually increase due to the potential increase of population and recreation that could occur in Sunriver or central Oregon.
Alternative 2
Goshawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Sharp-Shinned Hawk
Alternative 2 would not remove any large trees (Ch. 2, Table 2-1), therefore minimal current nesting habitat loss would occur for goshawks or Cooper’s hawk, while the removal of the smaller and medium trees may reduce nesting habitat for sharp-shinned hawk. Since tree removal would be primarily spread out in singles and/or in pairs along a majority of the path, the integrity of the forest structure or its components is not expected to degrade.
The most logical impact from Alternative 2 would be the result from potential removal of prey base habitat such as shrub removal. This may impact foraging or nesting habitat for small mammals or birds. The edge effects of the trail may also impact those species that prefer more continuous forest or patchy areas. Some literature has shown that human disturbance from hiking or biking may or may not impact nesting accipiters, causing nest abandonment. Should there be an increase in vehicular traffic from the project such as on FSR 9702, the likelihood of vehicle collisions may increase.
Great Blue Heron
Alternative 2 would not remove or result in blue heron habitat loss. The proposed path would occur adjacent to the small wetland and the Deschutes River, but a moderate of human disturbance has
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences already been occurring in the area for years. Human disturbance may or may not reduce nesting productivity.
Elk and Mule Deer
Approximately 156 trees (less than 21” dbh) would be removed to construct this six mile long path. Trees estimated for intermittent removal in segment 8 alone is approximately 50 trees over a stretch of 3.67 miles or approximately 3.12 trees per quarter mile. Approximately 80% of segment 8 is aligned on previous disturbed road bed. By hiding cover definition, hiding cover exists when the vegetation can hide 90% of an adult deer or elk. The LRMP also states that non-hiding areas should be within at least 600 feet of hiding areas. Based on field reconnaissance and familiarity with the area, the entirety of the six mile path alignment does not currently provide hiding cover because existing vegetation in that alignment would not hide 90% of an adult deer or elk from the FSR 9702. For example, in segment 8 facing north, the lava rock within the Newberry Monument could be seen from FSR 9702 in some locations, thus the vegetation between does not hide an adult deer or elk. The lava rock, in some locations, is within 600 feet of FSR 9702. Lava rock does is not considered to provide cover. Better quality hiding cover exists to the south of FSR 9702 or further west and south of the proposed trail where the vegetation transitions into lodgepole pine. Lodgepole pine generally regenerates fairly quickly and provides quality hiding cover.
Overall, Alternative 2 may minimally affect hiding and thermal cover for deer and elk or in some areas would have no impact since tree removal would be spread out in singles and/or in pairs in a six mile linear stretch, therefore not compromising an entire clump of potential cover. As previously discussed, thermal cover is currently at 21% and slightly above the LRMP requirement. The potential removal of thermal cover as a result of some tree removal would still remain within the LRMP requirement of 20%. The proposed project may impact less than 1% of mule deer and elk hiding and thermal cover in the Ryan Ranch KEA or watershed for deer summer range.
Within the next 20 years, the human population in central Oregon is expected to grow. Due to the wildland urban interface hazardous fuels are reduced in order to reduce the risk of wildfire. Reductions in fuels have effects on habitat effectiveness for deer and elk. Maintaining the elements of good habitat (tall shrub forage, and higher canopy closure) can conflict with measures to reduce wildfire risk.
An increase in human population is an increase in recreational pressure on the area because of its proximity to Bend and Sunriver. The type of recreational use that occurs between Sunriver and LLVC includes: hiking, bird watching, off-road vehicle use, target shooting, and hunting, with most activities occurring during the summer to fall months. As use increases, deer and other wildlife may seek “refuge” from these disturbances on private lands where access can be more restricted. This also leads to more wildlife/human conflict within the urban interface. Also, improvements to existing tourist attractions and recreational opportunities adjacent to the area could contribute to increases in recreational pressure, and disturbance to deer and elk.
By converting the FSR 9702200 and portions of the FSR 9702600 to a paved path would reduce the overall open road density in the Ryan Ranch KEA and in deer summer range by approximately six miles, moving towards reducing the overall road density for LRMP requirements. However, travel time for elk increased, while feeding time decreased in response to mountain biking and hiking and was highest in the mornings (Taylor et al. 2009). As the result of the path, there may be potential disturbance impacts from biking or hiking if deer or elk are present in the area or discourage big game migration.
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The Forest Service collaborated with ODFW to identify opportunities to reduce human disturbance impacts to deer and elk. In order to improve big game habitat effectiveness, FSR 9702300 and 4001700 would be closed to motorized traffic to assist in discouraging or keeping motorized traffic out of these areas. These roads are south of FRS 9702 where better thermal and hiding cover is located. After project completion, the Forest Service would monitor the effectiveness of the road closures to determine big game movement and/or illegal motorized use.
Osprey
Impacts that could occur to ospreys are primarily due to the loss of snags, perches, and/or large existing nest trees. Alternative 2 may only remove one or two large trees (less than 21 inches dbh). The most logical impact as the result of this alternative is potential human disturbance if a nesting osprey occurs in the area.
Great Gray Owl, Golden Eagle, Red-Tailed Hawk
As shown in the literature, impacts that could occur to large raptors are primarily due to the loss of snags, perches, and/or large existing nest trees. This alternative may only remove one or two large trees (less than 21 inches dbh). The path may reduce habitats for some of the prey base.
Woodpeckers
Impacts to woodpeckers are primarily due to the loss of snags or live trees. This alternative may reduce some snags for safety reasons (hazard tree removal) and potential nest trees. Since tree removal would be spread out in singles and/or in pairs over the length of the six mile path, not much habitat loss is expected.
In general, little information exists regarding recreation impact on woodpeckers. However, recreational activity affecting woodpeckers is most likely to be sporadic and not focused around nest sites (Hamann et al. 1999). Accounts occurring in the literature vary as to the reaction of woodpeckers to human disturbance. For example, Short (1974) (in Dixon and Saab 2000) described black-backed woodpeckers aggressively defending their nest tree during his repeated observations. Bent (1939) (in Hamann et al. 1999) described several species of woodpeckers as “not shy” in human presence. Given the notably greater habitat concerns for these species, recreational impacts are unlikely to be a limiting factor.
Waterfowl
Where the paved path intersects with Benham Bridge, a kiosk including a map would be installed to assist in providing foot traffic direction. Given the potential increase in human disturbance to the general area, this would assist in minimizing the impact to the adjacent wetland habitat and minimize human disturbance if waterfowl are present in the area. Adding compacted fines to the existing path from the Benham Bridge to the Benham East Day Use Area, and short clearing to the bathrooms would not have an impact to waterfowl since the current compacted path does not provide habitat.
Cumulative Effects for MIS Species
Table 3-8 shows the past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects or actions and there potential cumulative effects to wildlife resources. The cumulative effects analysis area is the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed. This spatial boundary was chosen in part because it encompasses home ranges of some species, especially deer and elk. Appendix D contains a map showing the wildlife cumulative effects analysis area.
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Table 3-8: Summary of Potential Cumulative Effects to Wildlife Resources.
Project or Area Activity Measurement Potential Cumulative Effects to Wildlife Name Past Activities Reduction in big game hiding cover; delayed Commercial recruitment of small diameter (<15”) snags and logs; 6,368 acres Thinning increase in recruitment of larger trees (eventually larger snags and logs), increased shrub cover. Mowing to Sunriver HFRA, Reduced shrub habitat; reduced winter forage, reduce fuel Kelsey EA, Katalo 9,815 acres potential loss of nests, increased retention of trees, loading East & West EA, snags, and logs in event of wildfire. Pre-commercial East Tumbull, OZ Reduced big game hiding cover, and multi-storied 3,450 acres thinning Research stands, increases in recruitment of larger trees. Reduced big game hiding cover and browse, increased Prescribed fire quality of foraging, reduced log densities, increased to reduce fuel 12,262 acres snag densities, reduced shrub habitat, potential loss of loading nests Widening of Hwy 97 to two lanes for 3.8 miles from Highway Lava Butte south to South Century Drive; potential widening impact to big game migration from east/west connectivity on public land, loss of forest habitat Highway 97 2 big game 120 acres (trees, snags, and logs), loss of shrub habitat, reduced Expansion underpasses, hiding cover and forage; overall habitat fragmentation. including high fence The underpasses and high fence were part of the mitigation for big game migration. Ponderosa pine removed to expand parking lot areas; Lava River Cave Recreation 2 acres elevated human disturbance, reduction in forest and Circulation EA shrub habitat, potential impact to big game migration. Green Mountain Fire Wildfire 223 acres Reduction of green trees, increase in snags and shrubs of 1995 Ongoing or Planned Activities Various recreational activities from hiking, biking, Recreation Sunriver Resort floating, swimming; elevated human disturbance in area s relative to forest lands further away from WUI. Periodic noise disturbance; potential collisions with Railroad Oregon railroad wildlife Recreation Lava River Cave Potential increase in human disturbance Lava Lands Visitor Recreation Potential increase in human disturbance Center/Lava Butte Benham East Developed Parking area/boat Potential increase in human disturbance from hiking, Recreation Day ramp, Slough, Dillon Throughout the increase in noxious weeds, there has been many Use areas along Falls, Lava Island & watershed abandoned camp fires historically along the Deschutes the Deschutes Aspen boat ramps, River; reduction in logs or down wood. River Ryan Ranch Meadow & trail Benham West Potential increase in human disturbance from bike Developed trailhead, Big Eddy riding or hiking, or horse riding; potential increase in Trails TH, Blackrock trail, noxious weeds Sunriver horse trail
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Developed Various in the Potential increase in human disturbance to wintering snowmobile western part of the wildlife, compaction of snow may impact foraging trails watershed prey base patterns. Decrease in road density, shrub cover, hiding cover, potential impact to big game migration; decrease in West Bend EA Vegetation 25,700 acres; habitat for some species, while increasing habitat for (ongoing); Rocket management 22, 682 acres some that require a large tree component; potential EA (planning stages) loss of snags from prescribed burning or implementation.
Alternative 1 – No Action
By not implementing the proposed project, there would be no direct or indirect effects from proposed project activities therefore there would be no cumulative effects for Alternative 1.
Alternative 2
Since project activities would minimally affect habitats through tree removal, the focus of this cumulative analysis is on human disturbance and the time and incremental overlap from past vegetation treatments that have occurred in the short-term. Human disturbance or recreation are common effects to MIS species such as accipiters, raptors, waterfowl, deer, elk, and potentially woodpeckers; therefore, MIS species are grouped together for cumulative effects analysis.
Recent vegetation management treatments that have occurred in the short-term within the North Unit Diversion Dam-Deschutes River watershed are Sunriver Hazardous Fuels Reductions, Katalo East and West, East Tumbull, and Kelsey projects (in ponderosa pine habitats). These treatments have partially contributed to the existing conditions (i.e. the below S&Gs for hiding cover for deer and elk) of the area. At the landscape level, vegetation treatments have minimally removed or have not removed large trees since the inception of the Eastside Screens, which restricts removing ponderosa pine trees greater than 21 inches dbh. Therefore, quality habitat has increased and/or continuing to improve the large tree component for species such as the white-headed woodpecker, red-tailed hawks, goshawks, or thermal cover for deer and elk. Within the ponderosa pine habitat type, some of the objectives for these vegetation projects were to enhance and/or promote the large tree component while increasing forest health and reducing fuel loadings to reduce the risk of wildfire near Sunriver. These types of treatments would continue to increase the quality of nesting habitat in the long-term for most MIS species that prefer the large tree component. Foraging habitat has also been enhanced as well since tree spacing has increased and tree density has decreased. In lodgepole pine vegetation, precommercial and commercial thinning has reduced habitats for species such as three-toed woodpeckers, black-backed woodpeckers, deer and elk hiding cover.
As a result of the past projects’ design elements and mitigation measures, road densities have been reduced, thereby minimizing habitat fragmentation and human disturbance to MIS species to some extent, especially for wider ranging species such as deer or elk.
There are overlapping treatments in terms of time and space in the cumulative effects bounding area in the short-term, coupled with the ongoing recreational activities occurring across the watershed. Lava River Cave and the Visitor Center, and the Day Use Areas along the Deschutes River have the highest human presence within the watershed from the spring to fall months, moderate human presence from hiking and biking and snowmobiles during the in the western part of the watershed.
As previously discussed, as part of the Highway 97 project, a big game underpass was placed east of LLVC and another one further south/southeast of Sunriver. Sandra Jacobson (the national and lead wildlife biologist for the Highway 97 project) believes that these underpasses would be effective in
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Given the timing and proximity of the path, the probability of disturbance would likely be greater at the north big game underpass and along one of the wildlife connectivity corridors. The path would connect visitors from LLVC and the Lava River Cave on the access road or through the big game underpass. Since the big game underpass further south provides more solitude and further away from open roads, the proposed trail would have less probabilities of human disturbance. Currently, there is ongoing use of the area and the game cameras would show how much use is occurring. ODFW and ODOT would continue to monitor big game migration to determine the overall effectiveness of the underpasses.
Since there could be an increase in human use in the Benham East Day Use Area, it could be anticipated that this project may cumulatively increase human use further upstream or downstream the Deschutes River (i.e. into the Benham Falls area). It is unlikely that Alternative 2 would incrementally add to human disturbance in the broader area of the watershed (i.e. further west in the watershed or several miles away from the Benham Day Use Area). For wider ranging species such as deer or elk, it is unknown at this time if this human influence would completely compromise the migration corridors.
Determination for MIS Species
Goshawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Sharp-Shinned Hawk
Since this project would impact less than 1% of currently suitable habitat for goshawk, cooper’s hawk and sharp-shinned hawk, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat in terms of fragmentation. This loss of habitat would be negligible at the Forest-wide scale. The Sunriver to Lava Lands project is consistent with the Forest Plan, and thus continued viability of goshawks, cooper’s hawk, and sharp-shinned hawks is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Great Gray Owl
Since this project would not impact currently suitable great gray owl nesting habitat the effects would be limited to potential disturbance and fragmentation of foraging habitat, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. This loss of habitat would be negligible at the Forest-wide scale. This project is consistent with the Forest Plan, and thus continued viability of great gray owl is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Great Blue Heron
Since this project would not impact currently suitable great blue heron nesting habitat the effects would be limited to potential disturbance and fragmentation of foraging habitat, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. This loss of habitat would be negligible at the Forest-wide scale. The Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path project is consistent with the Forest Plan, and thus continued viability of great blue heron is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Golden Eagle
Since this project would not impact currently suitable golden eagle nesting habitat the effects would be limited to potential disturbance and fragmentation of foraging habitat, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. This loss of habitat would be
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Red-Tailed Hawk
Since this project would not impact currently suitable red-tailed hawk nesting habitat the effects would be limited to potential disturbance and fragmentation of foraging habitat, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. This loss of habitat would be negligible at the Forest-wide scale. The Sunriver to Lava Lands project is consistent with the Forest Plan, and thus continued viability of red-tailed hawk is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Osprey
Since this project would not impact currently suitable osprey owl nesting habitat the effects would be limited to potential disturbance and fragmentation of foraging habitat, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. This loss of habitat would be negligible at the Forest-wide scale. This project is consistent with the Forest Plan, and thus continued viability of osprey is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Elk
Since this project would impact less than 1% of currently suitable elk thermal and hiding cover, and the effects would be primarily to potential disturbance, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. However, this decrease would be minimal at the Forest-wide scale. This project is consistent with the Forest Plan by maintaining thermal cover at 20% and would be moving towards reducing the road density as identified in the Forest Plan, continued viability of elk is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Mule Deer
Since this project would impact less than 1% of currently suitable mule deer thermal and hiding cover, and the effects would be primarily to potential disturbance, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. However, this decrease would be minimal at the Forest-wide scale. The Sunriver Hazardous Fuels Reduction project and Hwy 97 project have recently closed approximately 43 miles of roads within the area, this project would close or convert to the path 11.33 miles of roads, and the upcoming Rocket Vegetation Management project would continue to close additional roads that would improve the migration corridor. This project is consistent with the Forest Plan by further reducing the road density as identified in the Forest Plan, but remains below hiding cover. At the Forest-wide scale, continued viability of mule deer is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Woodpeckers
Since this project would treat less than 1% of woodpecker habitat, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat due to potential fragmentation. However, this decrease would be minimal at the Forest-wide scale. This project is consistent with the Forest Plan and continued viability of woodpeckers is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Waterfowl
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This project would not impact currently suitable waterfowl nesting habitat, and the effects would be limited to potential disturbance, the overall direct, indirect, and cumulative effects would result in a small negative trend of habitat. However, this decrease would be minimal at the Forest-wide scale. This project is consistent with the Forest Plan, and continued viability of waterfowl is expected on the Deschutes National Forest.
Existing Condition for Migratory Birds
The following section shows the lists for migratory birds such as focal bird species and birds of conservation concern in their respective lists or conservation plans. Many of these species are also included in other lists, such as the Regional Forester’s sensitive species list, or as MIS in the Deschutes Forest Plan. These species that are on other lists have already been discussed and were not further analyzed in this section. The species in bold letters have potential habitat within or adjacent to the project area, while the remaining species have no habitat presence.
Landbirds in the Columbia Plateau in Oregon and Washington
Riparian, sage-steppe, and juniper habitats are covered in the plan titled “A Conservation Strategy for Landbirds in the Columbia Plateau in Oregon and Washington” (Altman 2000b). The principal issues affecting bird populations include habitat loss and fragmentation resulting from conversion to agriculture; and habitat degradation and alteration from livestock grazing, invasion of exotic vegetation, and alteration of historic fire regimes.
There is about a 1 ½ acre patch of dense willows adjacent to the proposed project area and near the Deschutes River that may provide potential habitat for riparian species such as yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, and willow flycatcher, but this patch would be considered marginal due to high human presence in the area, but mainly marginal due to the very small patch size.
Table 3-9: Landbirds in the Columbia Plateau in Oregon and Washington Focal Species for Habitat Presence in Project Habitat Habitat Feature High Lava Plains Area Shrub Steppe Habitats Native bunchgrass Grasshopper Sparrow Steppe cover Interspersion of tall Loggerhead Shrike Steppe- shrubs and openings Burrowing Owl Shrubland Burrows Deciduous trees and Sharp-tailed Grouse shrubs The shrub steppe habitats do not Large areas of occur within or near the sagebrush with proposed trail. These habitats Sage Grouse diverse understory of occur much further east on the native grasses and Fort Rock side of the District, Sagebrush forbs therefore there is no suitable Large unfragmented habitat for these species. Sage Sparrow patches Brewer’s Sparrow Sagebrush cover Sage Thrasher Sagebrush height Ecotonal edges of Lark Sparrow Shrublands herb, shrub, and tree habitats
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Focal Species for Habitat Presence in Project Habitat Habitat Feature High Lava Plains Area Black-throated Upland sparsely Sparrow (BR and OW vegetated desert scrub only) Scattered mature Juniper- Ferruginous Hawk juniper trees Steppe (savannah) Riparian Habitats Large snags Addressed in the sensitive Lewis’ Woodpecker (cottonwood) species section No, there are no cottonwoods Large canopy trees along this stretch of the Bullock’s oriole (cottonwood) Deschutes River, therefore no suitable habitat. Subcanopy foliage Yellow warbler Woodland Potential (willow shrub) Yellow-breasted chat Dense shrub layer Potential No, there are no cottonwoods along this stretch of the Large structurally Yellow-billed cuckoo Deschutes River providing large diverse patches diverse patches; therefore, no suitable habitat is present. Willow flycatcher Shrub density Potential Shrub-herbaceous No, there are no cottonwoods Shrub interspersion (dense along this stretch of the Lazuli bunting rose, willow, & Deschutes River, therefore no cottonwood) suitable habitat. Unique Habitats No, there is no aspen along this Large trees and snags Red-naped sapsucker Aspen stretch of the Deschutes River, with regeneration therefore no suitable habitat. No, there are no agricultural Bobolink (GB and OW Agricultural fields within or adjacent to the Mesic Conditions only) Fields project area, therefore no suitable habitat. No, there is no juniper woodland Juniper Mature juniper with within or adjacent to the project Gray Flycatcher Woodland regeneration area, therefore no suitable habitat. No habitat, due to the lack of Cliffs and Undeveloped foraging Prairie Falcon arid open grassland and Rimrock areas sagebrush shrublands. No, there is no mountain Mountain Large diameter trees mahogany within or adjacent to Virginia’s Warbler Mahogany with regeneration the project area, therefore no suitable habitat.
Landbirds Eastslope of the Cascades
The Conservation Strategy for Landbirds of the East-Slope of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon and Washington (Landbird Conservation Strategy) outlines conservation measures, goals and objectives for specific habitat types found on the east-slope of the Cascades and the focal species associated with each habitat type (Altman 2000). The Forest is in the central Oregon subprovince.
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Conservation issues include loss of large diameter ponderosa pine trees from timber harvest, grazing, understory fir encroachment from previous fire suppression, and habitat fragmentation. Biological objectives under the Landbird Conservation Strategy include providing the following in ponderosa pine stands to promote late-seral conditions: 1) a mean of greater than 10 trees per acre greater than 20 inches dbh with at least two of the ten trees greater than 31inches dbh for foraging and replacement snags; 2) a mean of 1.4 snags per acre greater than eight inches dbh with greater than 50% of the snags larger than 25 inches dbh in a moderate to advanced state of decay; and 3) a mean canopy closure of 10 to 40%. These actions are recommended, “where ecologically appropriate.” This term refers to the potential vegetation of the sites, considering hydrology, soils, topography, and ecosystem processes.
There is suitable habitat for pygmy nuthatch within and adjacent to the proposed path, mainly occurring near the Benham East parking area. The pygmy nuthatch is a focal landbird species for large trees in open ponderosa pine forests and mixed conifer forests that have a significant ponderosa pine component (Altman 2000). It is a secondary cavity nester that usually uses large trees greater than 21inches dbh for nesting and for foraging, although they would use smaller snags down to 10 inches dbh in a range of stand structural classes, provided larger nest trees are available (Mellen et al. 2006). Nesting territory sizes range from one to three acres. As part of project design, the proposed paved path has incorporated some of these measures to conserve large ponderosa pine trees and snags by designing the path in a meandering way, to avoid cutting large trees.
Table 3-10 Landbirds of the East-Slope of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon and Washington Focal Species for Habitat Presence in Project Habitat Habitat Feature Central Oregon Area
Large patches of old forest Addressed in the sensitive White-headed with large snags species section woodpecker Large trees Pygmy nuthatch Yes No, unlikely due to previous fuels reduction projects Ponderosa Pine adjacent to the proposed trail, Open understory with Chipping sparrow reducing regenerating pines, regenerating pines thereafter, maintenance would occur due to the vicinity of Sunriver. Addressed in the sensitive Patches of burned old forest Lewis’ woodpecker species section This type of habitat does not exist in or adjacent to the Large trees Brown creeper project area, therefore no suitable habitat is present. Large snags Williamson’s sapsucker Addressed in the MIS section This type of habitat does not Mixed Conifer Interspersion grassy exist in or adjacent to the Flammulated owl (Late- openings and dense thickets project area, therefore no Successional) suitable habitat. This type of habitat does not exist in or adjacent to the Multi-layered/dense canopy Hermit thrush project area, therefore no suitable habitat. Edges and openings created This type of habitat does not Olive-sided flycatcher by wildfire exist in or adjacent to the
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Focal Species for Habitat Presence in Project Habitat Habitat Feature Central Oregon Area project area, therefore no suitable habitat. Black-backed Lodgepole Pine Old growth Addressed in the MIS section woodpecker There is no whitebark pine in Whitebark Pine Old-growth Clark’s nutcracker or adjacent to the project area, therefore no suitable habitat. There are no meadows in or Meadows Wet/dry Sandhill Crane adjacent to the project area, therefore no habitat. Large trees with Aspen Red-naped sapsucker Addressed in the MIS section regeneration There is no subalpine fir habitat within or adjacent to Subalpine fir Patchy presence Blue Grouse the project area, therefore no suitable habitat.
Birds of Conservation Concern and High Priority Shorebirds
The Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC, USDI FWS 2008) identifies species, subspecies, and populations of all migratory non-game birds that, without additional conservation actions, may become candidates for listing under the ESA. The goal is to prevent or remove the need for additional ESA bird listings by implementing proactive management and conservations actions. Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) were developed based on similar geographic parameters. BCR 9 (Great Basin) encompasses the District. The U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan (USDI FWS 2004) identifies the conservation status of U.S. and Canadian shorebird populations.
As shown in Table 3-11, most of these species with habitat or potential habitat have been discussed in either the sensitive species or MIS sections, thus will not further be discussed here. The small willow patch adjacent to the proposed trail may provide suitable habitat for the calliope hummingbird.
Table 3-11: Birds of Conservation Concern.
Species Status* Habitat Habitat Presence Birds BCC, M; MIS Open water with emergent Eared Grebe S4 Apparently Addressed in the MIS section. vegetation secure BCC, R6 Lakeside or riverside with large Addressed in the sensitive species Bald eagle Sensitive, MIS trees section Large open areas with cliffs and Golden eagle MIS, BCC, S4 Addressed in the MIS section. rock outcrops No open sagebrush habitat within BCC, Landbird Ferruginous hawk Open sagebrush flats or adjacent to the proposed paved focal species, S3B path, therefore no suitable habitat. Addressed in the sensitive species Peregrine falcon BCC, R6 Sensitive Riparian, cliffs section Greater Sage Grouse – Addressed in the sensitive species Columbia Basin BCC; R6 Sensitive Sagebrush flats section population
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Species Status* Habitat Habitat Presence Addressed in the sensitive species Yellow Rail BCC, R6 Sensitive Marshes section No sandy beach habitat within or BCC, Shorebird, Snowy plover Sandy beaches adjacent to the proposed paved S2 path, therefore no suitable habitat.. No dry grasslands habitat within BCC, Shorebird, Long-billed curlew Dry grasslands or adjacent to the proposed paved S3B area, therefore no suitable habitat.. No expansive mudflats habitat BCC, Shorebird, Expansive mudflats and sandflats within or adjacent to the proposed Marbled godwit SNA on beaches paved area, therefore no suitable habitat.. No, there are no cottonwoods along this stretch of the Deschutes Yellow-billed cuckoo BCC, SHB Riparian hardwoods River, therefore no suitable habitat. No, this habitat does not exist within or adjacent to the proposed Interspersed grassy openings and BCC, Landbird paved path since the current Flammulated owl dense thickets in late successional focal species, S3B conditions are even-aged, dense mixed conifer forests stands of ponderosa and lodgepole pine. No damp cliff habitat within or Black swift BCC, S2B Damp coastal cliffs adjacent to the proposed pave path. Meadows , riparian aspen, willow, Common spring and fall migrant. Calliope BCC and alder thickets, & other brushy Potential habitat adjacent to the Hummingbird areas in coniferous forests project area. Open ponderosa pine forests, large BCC, R6 Addressed in the sensitive species Lewis’ Woodpecker diameter dead or dying trees, Sensitive, MIS section burned forests MIS, BCC, Mature or old growth conifer forests Williamson’s Landbird focal with open canopy cover; weak Addressed in the MIS section. sapsucker species, S4B, S3N excavator Region 6 Sensitive, MIS, White-headed Large mature & open ponderosa Addressed in the sensitive species BCC, Landbird Woodpecker pine forests; weak excavator section focal species, S2, S3B In Deschutes County, uncommon to locally common summer Open habitat with scattered trees resident, uncommon spring and Loggerhead shrike BCC, S3B, S2N and shrubs fall migrant, and rare winter visitor. No habitat in or near project area. While there is ponderosa pine, Pinyon-juniper woodlands and also these trees are not small, & the open ponderosa pine forests where Pinyon Jay BCC soils are not on the dry side, the soil is dry and trees are small therefore this is not suitable and scattered habitat. Nests in sagebrush steppe and big Occurs on eastern edge of Forest. Sage Thrasher BCC sagebrush shrubland. No habitat in or near project area. Virginia’s warbler BCC, S4 Mountain mahogany No mountain mahogany habitat
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Species Status* Habitat Habitat Presence within or adjacent to the proposed paved path. Arid and brushy foothills with Occurs on the Forest. Not likely Green-tailed Towhee BCC shrubs including ponderosa pine- to occur in the project area due to western juniper woodland the lack of arid foothills. No sagebrush habitat within or Brewer’s sparrow BCC, S4 Sagebrush habitats adjacent to the proposed pave path. Arid brushlands. Nests in Black-chinned Not documented on Forest. No BCC sagebrush steppe and big sagebrush Sparrow habitat in or near project area shrubland. No sagebrush habitat within or Sage sparrow BCC, S4 Sagebrush habitats adjacent to the proposed pave path. Region 6 There is no lakeside habitat within Tricolored Blackbird Sensitive, BCC, Lakeside, bulrush or adjacent to the proposed paved S2B trail, therefore no suitable habitat. Closest occurrence in Steen Rock outcroppings, cliffs, talus for Mountains in eastern Oregon. Not Black-crowned Rosy BCC breeding and snowfields/open documented on the Forest. No Finch ground for feedings habitat in or adjacent to project area. *Oregon Sensitive Species determined from the Natureserve database for Oregon: S1, critically imperiled, S2 = imperiled, S3 = vulnerable, S4 = apparently secure, S5 = secure, B = breeding, N = non-breeding, SNA – status not applicable, SHB – possibly extirpated.
Effects Analysis for Migratory Birds
Direct and Indirect Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under Alternative 1, proposed project activities would not occur; therefore, there would be no direct or indirect from proposed activities. Habitat conditions for yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, willow flycatcher, and calliope hummingbird would likely increase. Without any form of disturbance, the small willow patch adjacent to the project area would likely expand on its own in the short-term. Habitat conditions for pygmy nuthatch would remain the same in the short-term, but improve in the long-term due to the growth of larger trees. The level of human disturbance may also remain the same in the short-term, but could gradually increase due to the increase of population and recreation that could occur in Sunriver or central Oregon.
Alternative 2
Yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, willow flycatcher, calliope hummingbird, and pygmy nuthatch where analyzed for direct and indirect effects. These species were grouped together because they share similar vegetative associations (riparian species) and the effects on species from the proposed path would be similar.
The proposed path would have no effects or impacts on the structural components of nesting and foraging habitat for either of the riparian/shrub dependent species because the small patch of willows are adjacent to the project area.
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Primary nesting habitat for pygmy nuthatch would not be impacted due to project design of avoiding large trees and snags. Some potential nesting trees may be removed, but would be at minimal scale since they would be mostly smaller diameter lodgepole removed as single or paired trees.
Several studies have examined the influence of trails on bird species. Trails may contribute to several impacts to bird species. However, much of this information is anecdotal, and species-specific information is lacking for many bird species.
The most logical impact from the project could assume potential human disturbance, causing a flight response at various distances from people. Nearly all bird species would startle if approached by humans, and larger bird species or those species active near the ground tend to be less disturbance‐ tolerant. Energy that could be used for critical activities such as feeding, territory maintenance and breeding may be spent on avoidance behavior. While trails may reduce nest success for some species, other species show apparently opposite trends. For example, a Portland, Oregon study revealed increased Spotted Towhee reproductive success for nests within 33 feet of a trail, while a Colorado artificial nest study in lowland riparian areas showed lower predation rates closer to trails; birds attacked more clay eggs in artificial nests near trails than away from trails, whereas mammals appeared to avoid nests near trails to some extent. However, artificial nest studies do not necessarily reflect reality. Another researcher in Colorado studied real bird nests in grassland and forest ecosystems and found proportionately more generalist species near trails, fewer birds nesting near trails in grasslands, and reduced nest success near trails in both habitats. Trails did not appear to affect cowbird parasitism. In northeastern California, one study showed greater bird nest desertion and abandonment, but reduced predation, on shrub nests less than 328 feet from off-highway vehicle trails compared to nests further from trails; two of 18 bird species were less abundant at sites near trails than at sites 820 feet from trails, and no species were more abundant closest to trails.
Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
By not implementing the proposed project, there would be no direct or indirect effects from proposed project activities therefore there would be no cumulative effects for Alternative 1.
Alternative 2
Due to no known nests of these species, no loss of primary habitat, and the impacts are limited to potential human disturbance, no cumulative impacts are anticipated for these species.
Determination for Migratory Birds
Alternative 2 may impact individual yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, willow flycatcher, calliope hummingbird, and pygmy nuthatch due to the anticipated increase in recreational use in the area. But overall, the project is consistent with the biological objectives in landbird plans.
3.5.3 FISHERIES AND WATER
This section covers the existing conditions and effects of implementation on fisheries resources. This section incorporates by reference the Fisheries and Water Resources Resource Report and Biological Evaluation contained in the project analysis file located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, consistency with Forest Plan, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives are discussed in this section.
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Introduction
A portion of the path is located adjacent to the Deschutes River near the Benham Falls footbridge, located approximately two miles northeast of Sunriver. Proposed activities that would take place adjacent to the Deschutes River is the leveling the existing path to have no more than 5% grade and widened by one foot. The path would be six feet wide with a minor realignment around the exiting water monitoring sites. The surface would be compacts fines, the same that is currently on the path.
Existing Condition
Water Resources
The flow of the Deschutes River is regulated at Wickiup Dam. The flow regime was historically very stable, with a mean flow of about 1,190 cubic feet per second (cfs) and an annual range from approximately 1,000 to 1,600 cfs measured at Benham Falls. Large flood events were uncommon. The river now experiences a large swing in flow with storage practices for irrigation needs. Flow is reduced in the winter, as low as 20 cfs released upriver at Wickiup Reservoir during low precipitation years, and then is elevated in the summer, with releases at Wickiup as high as 1,800 to 2,000 cfs to meet irrigation demands. This results in a range of flows from approximately 700 cfs to 2,500 cfs measured at Benham Falls. The altered flow regime has led to increased riverbank erosion, widening of the channel, and reduced water quality and fish habitat (USDA, 1996). These effects are most evident in the river upstream of the confluence with Fall River. The additional discharge provided by Fall River, Spring River, and the Little Deschutes tempers the effects of the modified flow regime.
A network of official and unofficial roads, and abundant dispersed campsites are located adjacent to the river between Wickiup Reservoir and Bend. Some of these roads and campsites have impacted riparian areas, compacted soils, and channeled sediments into the river. Riverbanks have been trampled at some sites. Bacteria, nitrogen, and phosphorus are potentially being introduced to the river from unsanitary waste disposal practices at these dispersed campsites.
Fish Species
Fisheries is regarded as an Outstandingly Remarkable Value (ORV) in Segment 4, in part because of the trophy brown trout (Salmo trutta) fishery. Determination of the value of redband trout in Segment 4 has been deferred until a review of the genetic status has been completed. Until that time, the redband population is to be treated as an ORV (USDA, 1996). The Federal Wild and Scenic River and State Scenic Waterway Acts established an overriding goal to protect and enhance the ORV for which the river was designated (USDA, 1996).
Other game species in the river include the native mountain whitefish (Prosopium williamsoni), and rainbow trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss). The redband trout, (Oncorhyncus mykiss gairdneri) a sub- species of rainbow, were native to the river, but have since interbred with various hatchery stocks of rainbow trout. The non-game native sculpin (Cottus spp.) also inhabits the river below Wickiup Reservoir. The genetic make-up of the rainbow in the project area was evaluated in 1996. Samples collected downriver of Benham Falls revealed 7.2% hatchery fish genetic contribution, i.e., on average, the fish were 92.8% pure redband (Phelps, et al, 1996). The river supports natural reproduction of all the above listed species. Species within Wickiup Reservoir that have potential to enter the river via the unscreened outlet are kokanee salmon (Oncorhyncus nerka kennerlyi), brown trout, rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), eastern brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), three-spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), tui chub (Gila bicolor), brown bullhead (Ictalurus nebulosus), and coho salmon (Oncorhyncus kisutch).
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Fish Habitat
The altered flow regime below Wickiup Dam has affected fish habitat. Analysis of aerial photographs and channel morphology data indicates the channel is becoming wider and shallower, reducing maximum and average depths. The effects to fish habitat within the project area are reduced from that observed in upriver reaches because of the flow contribution of the tributary streams previously mentioned above. The channel width has increased approximately 20% since the inception of Wickiup Dam (USDA, 1996). Log drives down the river in the 1930s damaged riverbanks and reduced instream large wood that fish depend on for cover from predators and as velocity breaks for resting. The endpoint for the river log drives was near the Benham Falls footbridge, where logs were loaded onto railroad cars and delivered to the mills in Bend. There is excellent fish hiding cover at this site due to the large accumulation of instream wood. The remainder of the river within the project area is largely lacking instream wood. Recent projects upriver of the project area have re-introduced large wood to the river, but due to limitations of equipment, large wood introductions are limited primarily to trees less than 20 inches dbh. Historically, abundant large ponderosa pines up to four inches dbh were likely found within the channel to provide fish habitat.
Effects Analysis
Direct, Indirect and Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
There would be no direct or indirect effects to aquatic species or water resources since proposed activities would not occur. Since no direct or indirect effects would occur from this alternative there is no overlap in time and space with activities and effects therefore there would be no cumulative effects.
Alternative 2
There is potential for sediment delivery to the Deschutes River from path construction activities or after the path is built. Potential sources are from disturbed soils during construction, concentrated run-off leaving the paved path and finding a course to the river, or from disturbed riparian areas from foot traffic. Project design features would reduce the potential for sediment delivery to the Deschutes River. The 303(d) water quality parameters of turbidity and sedimentation would not be further degraded as there would be no measurable increase in turbidity or sedimentation from implementing the proposed action with implementation of the project design features. None of the other 303(d) parameters would be degraded. Approximately 300 feet of paved path would be built within the RHCA of the Deschutes River but is located entirely outside of riparian vegetation. The gravel path between the boat ramp and the footbridge is approximately 500 feet long, and would be widened one foot. Widening would occur outside of riparian vegetation.
The proposed project would have no effects to INFISH Riparian Management Objectives of large woody debris, water temperature, width to depth ratio, and pool frequency as the project does not impact instream conditions, and does not remove shade trees or future large woody material recruitment.
The fisheries outstanding remarkable values would be protected since there would be no environmental effects to water quality, fish habitat, or fish populations.
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The project would have no effect on Executive Orders 11988 (Floodplains) and 11990 (Wetlands) as adverse effects are avoided. There would be no effects to chinook salmon Essential Fish Habitat from this project. Although the Upper Deschutes 8th field watershed (17070301) is mapped by the National Marine Fisheries Service as Essential Fish Habitat for chinook salmon, there are no present or historical records of chinook populations above Big Falls on the Deschutes River, over 50 miles downriver from the project area.
This alternative is consistent with the Deschutes Forest Plan, Upper Deschutes River Wild and Scenic River Plan, NNVM, and INFISH standards and guidelines. The project design has incorporated BMPs that protect water quality, has minimized impacts to riparian areas, and avoided adverse effects to inland native fish.
Effects on Listed Fish, Fish Habitat and Sensitive Species
The following table displays the species considered in the analysis of the Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path Project. There are no threatened or endangered aquatic species or habitat present within the project area. The only Region 6 sensitive aquatic species or habitat present in the project area is the Columbia Basin redband trout (2011 Region 6 sensitive species list). Two other sensitive aquatic species have been located on the Deschutes National Forest (both invertebrates); Indian Ford juga (Juga hemphilli ssp.), and a caddisfly (Rhyacophila chandleri). Habitat for these two species does not occur within the project area.
Effects Species Scientific Name Status Occurrence Determination Columbia Basin Oncorhynchus mykiss Proposed Action - S D Redband Trout gairdneri NI
Status
S Sensitive species from Regional Forester’s list
Occurrence
HD Habitat Documented or suspected within the project area or near enough to be impacted by project activities D Species Documented in general vicinity of project activities
Effects Determinations
Sensitive Species
NI No Impact MII May Impact Individuals but Will Not Likely Contribute to a Trend Towards Federal Listing WIF Will Impact Individuals with a Consequence that the Action May Contribute V to a Trend Towards Federal Listing BI Beneficial Impact
This project would have No Impact to redband trout. The project is small scale and would have no measurable impacts to water quality. Individuals and habitat are protected by project design features.
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This project would have no cumulative effects to fisheries or water resources since there are no measurable direct or indirect effects to these resources from implementing Alternative 2.
3.5.4 SCENERY
This section covers the existing conditions and effects of implementation on scenery resources. This section incorporates by reference the Scenery Resource Report contained in the project analysis file located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, consistency with Forest Plan, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives are discussed in this section.
Introduction
The proposed activity for this project would be within a scenic travel corridor and would add to providing access to multi-modal alternative forms of transportation connecting communities. The visitor experience would be enhanced on foot or bike with an opportunity to travel safely through a landscape that was previously dominated and more advantageous to motorized vehicles. Interpretive features and information located at kiosks would provide visitors with orientation and direction for their activities.
Existing Condition
Current access to LLVC when heading south is directly off of Highway 97. Access to LLVC when heading north is via the Cottonwood Exit along the Old Dalles-California Highway (FSR 9702208). Access to Benham Falls from LLVC is via FSR 9702 and 9702200 and from Sunriver via FSR 9702600, 9702655, and 9702660. There is an existing mountain bike trail called the Black Rock Trail that provides access along the lava flow and Road 9702 to Sunriver. There are currently no designated paved paths along any of these roads.
Effects Analysis
Direct, Indirect and Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under this alternative, there would be no planned path to provide safe access for bikers or hikers between Sunriver, Lava Lands Visitor Center, Benham Falls Day-Use Area, and Deschutes River Trail and recreation sites. There would be no interpretation, information at kiosks, additional parking, restroom, or entry/exit improvements at the Lava Lands Visitor Center, or additional parking, interpretation, and information kiosk at the Sunriver trailhead.
Alternative 2
Although 156 trees would be removed, the path would weave through existing pine stands which would act as a visual buffer and provide shade in some locations along segment 8, FSR 9702200. The path would follow the contours of the surrounding landscape and blend with existing features in terms of form, texture, scale, and color.
The path would be surfaced and designed to improve safety and accessibility, protect site resources, and enhance scenic views with the use of materials that blend with the surrounding landscape. The Black Rock Trail termini would shift from LLVC parking lot to a junction with the proposed path approximately 70 yards west of the parking area. Additional developments to the trailheads at both
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences ends of the path would include parking areas, kiosks with interpretation and information, and a double-vault toilet, bike rack, and wider entry/exit and gate at the LLVC end of the path.
New parking areas would use landscaping with native vegetation to provide screening. Signing would be minimal and use materials that are not shiny or reflective and with colors that complement the surrounding landscape. The backs of the signs should be painted a neutral color and posts should be dark. Kiosks should reflect the colors and design graphics described in the Monument Plan.
There would be a kiosk where the path intersects with Benham Bridge and an accessible path six feet wide that would connect Benham Bridge to the existing boat ramp and restrooms, picnic area, and interpretive trail. Currently, there are no plans to groom the trail for winter recreation use. There would be a gravel-surface parking area with ten parking spaces and a three-panel kiosk with interpretation and information where the path accesses Sunriver at FSR 9702600.
The proposed project is consistent with standards and guidelines for the Monument Plan Lava Butte Zone, the Upper Deschutes Wild and Scenic River Scenic Segment, and the Forest Plan Scenic Views Management Areas by following the design criteria described in Chapter 2 of this EA.
3.5.5 BOTANY
This section covers the existing conditions and effects of implementation on botanical resources. This section incorporates by reference the Botany Biological Evaluation contained in the project analysis file located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives are discussed in this section.
Introduction
The area is characterized primarily by several plant associations: ponderosa pine/bitterbrush/Idaho fescue; ponderosa pine/bitterbrush-manzanita/fescue; and ponderosa/bitterbrush- snowbrush/needlegrass. Soils are characterized by sandy, pumiceous volcanic ash and pumice lapilli over sandy to loamy buried soils. The elevation ranges from about 4,200 to 4,400 feet. The average annual precipitation measures approximately 15 inches.
Existing Condition
There are no known Proposed, Endangered, Threatened, or Sensitive (PETS) plant species within the project area, or in the immediate vicinity. Plant surveys in the area have occurred over the past 18 years revealing no PETS plant species.
No habitat for PETS plant species exists within the project area. Because there is no high-probability habitat or known PETS sites within the project, project area surveys are not required.
Effects Analysis
Direct, Indirect and Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
There would be no direct or indirect effects to botanical resources since proposed activities would not occur and there are no PETS plant species or habitat within the project area. Since no direct or
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences indirect effects would occur from this alternative there is no overlap in time and space with activities and effects therefore there would be no cumulative effects.
Alternative 2
No known PETS plant species or habitat exist within the project area therefore there would be no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects from the action alternative. Since there are no direct or indirect effects to overlap in time and space with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects there would be no cumulative effects.
3.5.6 INVASIVE PLANTS
This section covers the existing conditions and effects of implementation on invasive plants. This section incorporates by reference the Invasive Plant Resource Report contained in the project analysis file located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, consistency with Forest Plan, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives are discussed in this section.
Introduction
The area is characterized primarily by several plant associations: ponderosa pine/bitterbrush/Idaho fescue; ponderosa pine/bitterbrush-manzanita/fescue; and ponderosa/bitterbrush- snowbrush/needlegrass. Soils are characterized by sandy, pumiceous volcanic ash and pumice lapilli over sandy to loamy buried soils. The elevation ranges from about 4,200 to 4,400 feet. The average annual precipitation measures approximately 15 inches.
Existing Condition
A number of site visits to project area, including a roadside survey of the area in October 2009, have found very few invasive plant sites. Within the project area one known spotted knapweed site exists near the end of FSR 9702 where the path leaves the footbridge and intersects with the road.
Risk Ranking
Factors considered in determining the level of risk for the introduction or spread of noxious weeds are:
X HIGH
Has to be a combination of the following three factors:
1. Known weeds in/adjacent to project area.
2. Any of vectors* #1-8 in project area.
3. Project operation in/adjacent to weed population.
MODERATE
Any of vectors #1-5 present in project area.
LOW
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1. Any of vectors #6-8 present in project area; or
2. Known weeds in/adjacent to project area without vector presence.
*Vectors (if contained in project proposal) ranked in order of weed introduction risk:
1. Heavy equipment (implied ground disturbance) 2. Importing soil/cinders 3. OHV's 4. Grazing (long-term disturbance) 5. Pack animals (short-term disturbance) 6. Plant restoration 7. Recreationists (hikers, mountain bikers) 8. Forest Service project vehicles
Discussion of Ranking
A risk ranking of high is appropriate because there would be heavy equipment working at a known weed site near the end of FSR 9702. Machinery has the potential to spread seeds present in the seedbank, although at least some of the seedbank would be paved.
Effects Analysis
Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
The weed site near Benham East Day Use area would continue to persist and Forest weed technicians would continue to have the option of hand-pulling it. However, with the advent of the new Deschutes-Ochoco Invasives EIS, there is the potential for treating weed sites with herbicide, which would help control weed proliferation faster and more efficiently than hand-pulling.
Alternative 2
Direct and Indirect Effects: As with any ground-disturbing event, and especially where heavy machinery is involved, there is always the possibility that weeds could be spread from the known knapweed site, or new ones introduced.
Cumulative Effects: Because the known weed site has experienced disturbance for years by recreationalists using the area and use would continue with this project and into the future, it can be expected that any remaining seeds would be encouraged to germinate and grow and new weeds could be introduced.
Summary
Alternative 2 has a high risk of introducing noxious weeds into the project area.
3.5.7 SOILS
This section covers the existing conditions and effects of implementation on soils. This section incorporates by reference the Soils Report contained in the project analysis file located at the Bend- Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, consistency with
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Forest Plan, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives are discussed in this section.
Introduction
The discussion of soil effects for this project would be focused on the proposed location of the path. Both a quantitative and qualitative assessment of potential soil impacts was conducted to determine the extent and magnitude of disturbance to soil resources. The analysis has also considered the effectiveness and probable success of BMPs at limiting and containing ground disturbance and controlling surface erosion during construction and use of the trail.
Existing Condition
The climate of the area is generally characterized by hot dry summers and cold dry winters. Average annual precipitation around Lava Butte is about 20 inches. During winter months, snow accumulations average between 12 to 18 inches and persist into the early spring. On average, there are about a dozen seasonal thunderstorms in spring and summer.
The path is situated just south of Lava Butte on a broad gently sloping lava plain that angles downward (two to five percent) in a westerly direction to the Deschutes River. Nearly the entire length of the path would be located on soils consisting of Mazama ash that developed either on basalt lava flows, or over older soils that developed on basalt lava flows. These soils are comparatively young loamy sands that are not well developed and have about four inches of topsoil. They are non- sticky and non-plastic. Overall, they are moderately deep (approximately 40 inches before reaching bedrock), but shallow phases exist and basalt rock outcrops of basalt are common. Soil drainage is good with a high infiltration capacity, coupled with gentle terrain equates to low soil erosion potential. These are relatively dry and cold soil types, exhibiting a moderate degree of productivity.
These soils are moderately resilient in that they are not overly susceptible to compaction or other forms of detrimental disturbance such as displacement, and they currently support fully stocked to dense stands of dry-site ponderosa and lodgepole pine even though the area has been extensively utilized for a variety of uses over the last 100 years. These are not considered to be sensitive soils but they can be somewhat slow to recover if organic and topsoil horizons are removed, which diminishes their ability to retain moisture and store and cycle nutrients.
These soils present some limitations when building a paved path, since a shallow layer of topsoil is common this could be problematic to excavation and surface preparation. Since these soils types are moderately susceptible to frost heave, paved surfaces therefore are susceptible to cracking as a result. These sandy soil types are prone to settling therefore using weight bearing material would require sufficient compaction under a specified moisture status.
Land use in the vicinity has undergone a lot of change over the last 100 years. Early in the 20th Century past activities affecting soils was the harvest of Ponderosa pine to support the local mill industry. Railroads were their primary infrastructure for product transport. Afterward many segments of those rail lines became primary vehicle haul routes. Current land management of the area is focused on: a) minimizing the build-up of forest biomass and fuel residues within the wildland urban interface, b) providing for a diverse group of recreational users, c) environmental education and interpretation, and d) maintaining or enhancing habitat for key wildlife. Segments of those old railways and haul roads are now access routes to the Deschutes River, Benham Falls, and Lava Lands Visitor Center; hiking and mountain bike trails, spur roads needed to thin the forest, and utility corridors for urban/rural home sites nearby. Some of the old road segments have been closed or decommissioned.
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Though the prevailing land use has changed considerably the magnitude of use has increased, particularly during the summer. The vicinity is now heavily used by recreationists and adjacent homeowners. Parking areas, trails and paths, trailheads, picnic sites, boat launches, and existing roads have been converted to a semi-permanent non forested condition. They are heavily compacted, barren of effective ground cover, and often surfaced with crushed cinders or aggregate.
Effects Analysis
Direct and Indirect Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
Management, use and maintenance within the project area would continue as it currently is under the no action alternative. Direct impacts to soil resources would not increase and the extent of hardened and compacted surfaces that currently exist (i.e., existing and former road surfaces) would remain as is in the same location.
Alternative 2
The design, configuration, and size (footprint) proposed for the paved path in Alternative 2 would affect the greatest extent of area (7.0 acres), and includes a small parking lot. Soils would be dedicated to the use of recreation along the pathway and not forest production. The path and trailhead parking site would remain a hardened surface in a semi-permanent non forested condition for the life of the facility’s use. The majority (80%) of the path’s alignment however would be located on existing or former road surfaces where native soils are already heavily disturbed. Co- locating the majority of the path’s alignment on these features minimizes the need to impact new ground, and is a means for containing the growth of detrimental soil disturbance.
About 20 percent of the total length of the pathway would be located on previously unaffected ground, where construction would require additional new disturbance. Direct impacts to soil resources on unaffected ground would be in the form of hardened and compacted surfaces, primarily the path and some of the parking area. The path and trailhead parking site would cover about 1.4 acres of previously unaffected ground.
Construction of the path along its total length would create a larger disturbance footprint, affecting a total of about 14.5 acres. This would include a clearing width averaging about 20 feet, and a corridor where equipment and materials would be used for construction activities. About three acres would be located where segments of the pathway would be constructed on new ground. Half of the ground that would be disturbed during construction would be a temporary impact and restored to native vegetation after completion.
The potential for sedimentation to indirectly affect a water body as a result of construction, use, or maintenance of the pathway is very low or negligible under Alternative 2. Drainage from hardened surfaces would be controlled using design features that prevent the concentration of runoff and erosion. Intercepted runoff from snow melt or occasional downpours would be dissipated using drainage structures and site features designed specifically to distribute it for infiltration on-site. Soils at the site have a high infiltration capacity and are very capable of absorbing dissipated runoff. Most (97%) of the path’s segments are not directly connected to, or within a deliverable proximity to a water body or drainage network.
There are two short segments of the path that are within a deliverable proximity to the Deschutes River. One segment would be adjacent to the river on an existing trail, and the other would lead
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences down to the river from FSR 9702. Combined, both segments amount to less than two-tenths of an acre, an amount of pavement from which a nominal amount of sediment could be intercepted and transported. With the installation of drainage control structures on the path, the effect to water quality and aquatic habitat would be expected to be very small relative to the total intrinsic sediment transport capability of the Deschutes River as to be inconsequential.
Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
Direct and indirect impacts would not occur since proposed activities would not occur. Since no direct or indirect effects would occur from this alternative there is no overlap in time and space with activities and effects therefore there would be no cumulative effects.
Alternative 2
The Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path project area is located entirely on Deschutes National Forest lands. Adjacent to the project area is private ownership, the community of Sunriver. The project area is mostly forested consists mainly of ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, and mixed pine plant associations that have been managed since the early 1900s. Thinning and fuels reduction activities continue to occur.
Timber harvest in the area has almost exclusively always been conducted using ground-based machinery, heavy equipment can cause excessive ground disturbance. Within the vicinity of the project detrimental soil conditions exist resulting from past logging practices (i.e. railroad grades, roads, landings, skid trails). Nearly every acre has been subject to some form of treatment. A majority of the ponderosa pine stands have been treated more than once.
Small wild and prescribed fires have occurred within the subwatershed and the vegetation is in various stages of re-growth. Recreation use is heavy due to proximity to Sunriver and Bend, Lava Lands Visitor Center, Lava River Cave, Benham Falls, the Deschutes River, and associated trails used by a variety of users. Restoration such as subsoiling has been completed on many of the landings that were created for the recent and older timber sales, and several dozen miles of roads that have been closed or decommissioned. Additionally, there have been recent improvements and reconstruction of the adjacent segments of Highway 97, widening the footprint dedicated to the transportation corridor.
Vegetation management, prescribed fire, and intense recreation would continue to occur into the foreseeable future on federal lands, which would necessitate some ground disturbance. Best management practices (BMPs) such as re-use of old landings and skid trails would continue to be implemented to minimize the cumulative effect of ground disturbing activities. Restoration activities, such as subsoiling of detrimental compaction at select sites, tree planting in under-stocked areas, and invasive weed eradication, would also be pursued. Most of these activities happen cyclically from decade to decade as forest vegetation grow and develop.
Soils that are dedicated to recreation development remove small parcels of land from production and preclude other uses for as long as they remain in use. The area proposed for development of the paved path and parking site is comparatively small (less than 1%) within the surrounding area (i.e. the nearly 4,000 acres bounded by Highway 97 to the east, the Deschutes River to the west, the Lava Butte lava flow to the north, and Cottonwood Road/Sunriver to the south), and amounts to an additional seven acres being converted and maintained for a non-forest use. Of that, all but about 1.4
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences acres would be located on existing road surfaces. The majority of land within that surrounding area would remain dominated by a well-stocked productive forest.
3.5.8 HERITAGE
Introduction
This proposed project was analyzed for possible effects to those archaeological sites, known to exist within the project area, that have been deemed eligible for inclusion within the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). This inventory consisted of a pre-field research of the project area, a 2012 pedestrian survey of all ground proposed for the path location, and the recording of newly found cultural sites and materials. In addition, the project area was also part of previous inventories in 1997, 2002, and 2009.
Existing Condition
The project area lies on the northern boundary of the Northern Paiute Tribe. The Klamath Tribe passed through the area on their way to the Columbia River (near the city of The Dalles). The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs are known to have passed through the area on their way to join the Klamath Tribes in raids on the Summer Lake Snake Tribes. The Klickitats from Washington are said to have traveled through the area on their way south to trade with the Modocs located along the present Oregon-California border. It is unlikely that any group maintained permanent residence in this area.
The majority of pre-contact sites (archaic times and up until 1804) within the project area have undergone decades of disturbance to their surface and subsurface contexts from livestock grazing, logging, road building, both natural and prescribed burning across the landscape, natural weathering and erosion, and surface collecting of artifacts by Forest visitors.
The first European visitors to the area was in the mid-1830s, they were traveling the Deschutes River in search of furs. Settlements, mainly along the Deschutes River, were established in the 1870s. Logging of the area began in the early 1900s.
Five archaeological sites were known to exist within the project area, and ten new sites were found during field surveys. Of these sites, 11 are not eligible for inclusion within the NRHP. Four sites are not yet sufficiently evaluated to be judged for eligibility to the NRHP. Those sites would be treated as eligible and would be protected and/or avoided during project implementation and future maintenance. For the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) inventory report, a determination was made of “No Historic Properties Affected.” This report was written during the spring of 2012 and was approved by the Forest Archaeologist on August 8, 2012. The report was then forwarded on to the SHPO for their information. An implementation plan was written which would be followed during project implementation, in order to avoid and protect all known eligible sites within the project area.
Effects Analysis
Direct and Indirect Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
Under this alternative, no proposed activities would be undertaken. Therefore, no cultural resources would be affected by project activities. Know archaeological sites within the project area would
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences continue to be adversely affected by natural weathering, erosion, and possible theft or vandalism. Natural fuels would continue to accumulate, exposing lithic tool sites to the heat of fires and possible damage from fire suppression activities. Alternative 2
Known heritage recommended to be protected and/or avoided would be; therefore, no known heritage resources would be affected by this project. Mitigation measures are in place that would be part of contract specifications should any new cultural sites be discovered during project activities.
With the design criteria included written for this project, this Alternative 2 is consistent with those federal laws and guidelines for the protection of NRHP eligible sites. This alternative would have no impact on the treaty rights of Warm Springs tribal members because no roads would be closed that may affect access to traditional use areas.
Cumulative Effects
Cultural resources within the project area have been and could continue to be affected by both natural and man-made events. Logging associated activities and grazing by livestock and wildlife may have affected a larger amount of sites than is currently documented. Past wildfire suppression activities have also resulted in damage to some sites. Looting, recreation, rock hounding, wood cutting, and off-road activities have also contributed to the current degraded condition of archaeological sites within the project area. Alternative 2 has the potential to also contribute to effects but project design criteria would protect heritage resources therefore there would be no cumulative effects from Alternative 2.
3.5.9 ROAD ENGINEERING
This section covers the existing conditions and effects of implementation on roads. This section incorporates by reference the Roads Engineering Report contained in the project analysis file located at the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District. Specific information on methodologies, assumptions, consistency with Forest Plan, and other details are contained in the report. A summary of the existing condition and predicted effects of the alternatives are discussed in this section.
Introduction
Existing Condition
The primary access for this project is FSR 9702. This paved double lane road is considered a “low volume” road which is closed annually by snow conditions. During peak use, day traffic volume is less than 200 vehicles. Average seasonal daily traffic volume would be considered less than100 vehicles. This road can easily support any increase in use. Within the next three to five years scheduled maintenance for FSR 9702 would include two lift bituminous surface treatments.
During the early developmental stages of this project it was determined that the railroad crossing located on FSR 9702 was inadequate by today’s safety standards. Funding has been secured to upgrade this site. Since the operation of this road does not have a history of any safety related deficiencies, severe or fatal crashes there are no related corrections to the road needed in support of this project.
Local roads in the project area mostly have native surfaces (i.e. dirt roads) and receive very limited if any maintenance. Within this project there are 24.2 miles of these types of roads. Only the roads
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences that are slated to be used to support project activities would receive limited additional work. FSR 9702600 would receive more maintenance primarily in support for the upgrading of the outdated railroad crossing. This road would need to be fully maintained and surfaced.
Roads that are categorized as maintenance level 1 (roads that are blocked to all traffic) would be utilized to the extent necessary to support project needs. Upon project completion these roads would be returned to level 1 status and condition.
Maintenance which is above and beyond normal maintenance for roads would last during the life of project implementation. Construction and restoration of drainage and drainage structures (rolling dips, waterbars and leadouts) are important to achieve the desired effect. Other associated maintenance on these road types would include limited brushing, pre and post use blade and shaping of roadway. A list of local roads and recommendations may be found in the in Table 3-13.
Table 3-12: Roads and recommendations in the project area
Termini Total Maintenance and Reconstruction Road From Mile To Mile Miles Activities Benham 9702 Hwy 97 0.00 3.90 3.90 No Work Falls Shape Roadway, Insufficient Surfacing. SR-North Add 4" compacted depth of 1" minus dense 9702600 FSR 9702620 0.00 1.310 1.310 Cascade Rd graded aggregate. Material located in Gas Station RS.
Trees along all travel ways and around the project areas that can be considered a safety risk and identified as a hazard would be evaluated in accordance to FSM 7733, and be felled by the contractor. All felled danger trees would be evaluated for removal if the opportunity is viable.
Temporary, un-inventoried, unauthorized user created roads along the path would be fully removed and restored to a condition suitable for a productive return to the land base. The preferred method for achieving this goal is by subsoiling these areas to reduce compaction and encourage new growth Effects Analysis
Direct, Indirect and Cumulative Effects
Alternative 1 – No Action
There would be no direct or indirect effects to roads since proposed activities would not occur. Since no direct or indirect effects would occur from this alternative there is no overlap in time and space with activities and effects therefore there would be no cumulative effects.
Alternative 2
Roads identified to be closed (signed, gated, or decommissioned) or converted to path reduce habitat fragmentation and can mitigate both the reduction of hiding cover and the low levels of thermal cover. Road closures or conversions to path enhance the user experience of the path, reduce safety conflicts between motorized use and further assist the Forest in attaining a sustainable road system. Approximately 11.3 miles of existing system roads have been identified and would be either closed, converted to path, decommissioned or considered shared use (Table 3-13). Shared use for this purpose is defined as the path would parallel the road. Roads proposed to be closed would be
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removed from the Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) if those roads have not already been removed (i.e. closed under other decisions but have yet to be effectively closed).
Table 3-13 Road closures, decommissioning, and conversion to the paved path
Terminate Close/ Road Mtc. Total Supporting Decom/ Number Level Miles Document From Mile To Mile Other
4001700 2 FSR 4001 0.00 FSR 9702018 2.46 2.47 Close SR HFRA 9702125 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FS Boundary 1.82 1.82 Close SR-LLVCT 9702200 2 FSR 9702 0.00 End of road 2.3 2.3 Convert SR-LLVCT 9702300 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FSR 9702018 1.9 1.9 Close SR-LLVCT 9702612 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FSR 9702600 0.38 0.38 Close SR HFRA 9702617 2 FSR 9702 0.00 FSR 97026000 0.42 0.42 Decom SR HFRA 9702618 2 FSR 9702617 0.00 FSR 9702665 0.70 0.70 Decom SR HFRA 9702619 2 FSR 9702617 0.00 FSR 9702600 0.15 0.15 Decom SR HFRA 9702660 2 FSR 9702617 0.00 FSR 9702665 0.62 0.62 Shared SR-LLVCT 9702662 2 FSR 9702600 0.00 FSR 9702015 0.49 0.49 Decom SR HFRA 9702665 2 FSR 9702600 0.00 FSR 9702600 0.60 .060 Shared SR-LLVCT 9702670 2 FSR 9702600 0.00 FSR 9702605 0.20 0.020 Decom SR HFRA
Roads to be Closed: Typically these roads are not needed for current management, but are expected to be needed for future Forest management activities. This project has identified 6.6 miles of roads to close. Closed roads can be used for administrative purposes (permit administration, fire suppression, or other emergency vehicles) or by special use permit holders.
Converted to Path or Shared Use Roads: Another benefit of this project to reach a sustainable road system would be converting roads to trail, such as FSR 9702200. A portion of this path would be considered a shared administrative use road/path utilizing FSR 9702660 and 9702665. These roads would be considered closed but available for administrative use as defined above.
Access points off of FSR 9702 that connected to FSR 9702200 would be blocked and identified as closed until administrative use is needed for future management. Future management activities may need to cross or use the path to meet project objectives.
Decommission Roads: Approximately 1.8 miles of system road would be decommissioned. Decommissioned roads are not needed for future management activities and are not used for administrative needs. Decommissioning involves removing the road from the transportation system and subsoiling to make the road impassible to motorized vehicles. Roads identified for closure and decommissioning are listed in Table 3-13.
Cumulative Effects: Road system effects were analyzed at the scale of the project area. This scale was chosen because transportation systems are affected locally by decommissioning and closures of roads. Past, present and reasonably for foreseeable future road decommissioning activities were considered. When combined with past decommissioning activities and proposed activities this would result in a reduction of user created roads, and elimination of system roads that are no longer needed for management purposes. The overall effect would be a reduction in the number of roads (both user
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences created, and system roads) in the area. This reduction would not affect the transportation system or limit user access to the area.
3.6 REQUIRED AND ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES AND CONSISTENCY WITH LAWS, REGULATIONS, POLICY AND PROCEDURES ______
This section discloses the effects of the alternatives on the human environment as specified by law, regulation, policy, or executive order. This section includes a brief summary of those laws, policies, and executive orders that are relevant to the proposed actions considered in this EA.
3.6.1 FOREST PLAN AMENDMENTS
No amendments to the Deschutes National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan would be required for this project.
3.6.2 NATIONAL FOREST MANAGEMENT ACT
The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) directs all action taken on National Forests to be consistent with the Forest Land and Resource Management Plans. The regulations in this subpart set forth a process for developing, adopting, and revising land and resource management plans for the NFS as required by the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974, as amended (hereafter, RPA). These regulations prescribe how land and resource management planning is conducted on NFS lands. The resulting plans shall provide for multiple use and sustained yield of goods and services from the NFS in a way that maximizes the long-term net public benefits in an environmentally sound manner. The Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path project followed the 1982 planning rule.
3.6.3 THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) OF 1969, AS AMENDED
The purposes of this Act are “to declare a national policy which would encourage productive and enjoyable harmony between man and his environment, to promote efforts which would prevent or eliminate damaged to the environment and biosphere and stimulate the health and welfare of man; to enrich the understanding of the ecological systems and natural resources important to the Nations; and to establish a Council on Environmental Quality” (42 U.S.C. Sec. 4321). The law further states “it is the continuing policy of the Federal Government, in cooperation, to use all practicable means and measures, including financial and technical assistance, in a manner calculated to foster and promote the general welfare, to create and maintain conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony, and fulfill the social, economic and other requirements of the present and future generations of Americans. This law essentially pertains to public participation, environmental analysis, and documentation.
The Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path project followed the format and content requirements of environmental analysis and documentation. The entire process of preparing this environmental assessment was undertaken to comply with NEPA. Cumulative effects were assessed and displayed where they occur in the manner most informative and logical to display. Also, the depth of analysis was tailored to the degree of effect. Therefore, a brief discussion is most useful to decision makers and the public to reduce paperwork and the accumulation of extraneous background data and to emphasize real environmental issues and alternatives (CEQ, 1500.2b). In many instances within this
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences analysis, past and present activities were included in the existing condition. Foreseeable actions were also addressed if there was a proposed action and if it is in the public domain.
3.6.4 ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT
Effects to Threatened and Endangered species are evaluated in the Wildlife and Botany sections of Chapter 3 of this EA and in their resource reports. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 requires that actions of federal agencies do not jeopardize or adversely modify critical habitat of federally listed species. A Biological Evaluation has been completed for threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant, and terrestrial species.
The purposes of this Act are to “provide a means whereby the ecosystems upon which endangered species and threatened species depend may be conserved, to provide a program for the conservation of such endangered and threatened species, and to take such steps as may be appropriate to achieve the purpose of the treaties and conventions set forth in subsection (a) of this section". The Act also states “It is further declared to be the policy of Congress that all Federal departments and agencies shall seek to conserve endangered species and threatened species and shall utilize their authorities in furtherance of the purposes of this Act.”
3.6.5 THE AMERICAN ANTIQUITIES ACT OF 1906
This Act makes it illegal to appropriate, excavate, injure, or destroy any historic or prehistoric ruin or monument or any object of antiquity, situated on lands owned by the Government of the United States, without permission of the Secretary of the Department of the Government having jurisdiction over the lands on which said antiquities are situated.
Following guidelines in a 2004 Programmatic Agreement among USDA-Forest Service, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), a finding of “No Historic Properties Affected” was determined under stipulation III(B)1 of the Programmatic Agreement.
In accordance with 36 CFR 800 and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (1966) all sites, despite eligibility status would be avoided. All eligible and potentially eligible (undetermined) sites would be protected throughout the life of the project. Protection of these sites shall be accomplished through avoidance by ground-disturbing activities.
Should unexpected heritage resources be encountered during project implementation, these resources would also be evaluated and significant resources would be avoided or mitigated as described above.
No impacts to any known cultural resources would result from implementation of this project.
3.6.6 TRIBAL TREATY RIGHTS
Treaties provide that Native Americans would continue to have the right to erect suitable buildings for fish curing, privileges of hunting, gathering roots and berries, and pasturing stock on unclaimed lands. Indian treaty rights and privileges were considered throughout this analysis and maintained through appropriate design and layout features, especially related to resources such as fish, wildlife, and riparian areas. All alternatives are equal in their treatment of treaty rights and are expected to maintain treaty rights and opportunities into the future.
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Potentially affected Tribes, the Burns Paiute, The Klamath Tribe and the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, were contacted during the scoping process. No treaty resources were identified by any Tribe as at risk.
3.6.7 ENERGY REQUIREMENTS
There would be no unusual energy requirements for implementing any of the alternatives.
3.6.8 CLEAN WATER ACT
The Clean Water Act of 1972 was enacted to facilitate the restoration and maintenance of the chemical, biological, and physical integrity of the waters of the United States. The Act was amended in 1987 to protect national waters from pollution from point and non-point sources.
In compliance with the Clean Water Act, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality lists the Deschutes River within the project area as a water quality impaired river (303(d) list). The 2010 Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) list of water quality impaired water bodies (303(d) list) includes the Deschutes River within the project area. The ODEQ river reach that most closely fits the project area is river mile 168.2 through 189.4. The parameters within this reach for which standards are not met are dissolved oxygen and temperature year-round, sedimentation (season undefined), turbidity (spring and summer), and chlorophyll a (summer). Management direction regarding 303(d) listed rivers is that any project activity should not further degrade the parameters for which it is listed (Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management Protocol for addressing Clean Water Act Section 303(d) Waters).
Project activities would not compromise the quality of any water sources.
3.6.9 CLEAN AIR ACT
All activities must follow the federal Clean Air Act (CAA), as amended. There are no smoke generating activities.
3.6.10 WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS, PRIME FARMLANDS, RANGE LAND, AND FOREST LAND
Actions taken under any of the alternatives would have no adverse impact on farmland, rangeland or forest land, inside of or outside the National Forest. There are no prime farmlands affected by the proposal. The Deschutes River, a wild and scenic river, would not be affected by this project proposal.
3.6.11 INVENTORIED ROADLESS, WILDERNESS, RESEARCH NATURAL AREA, EXPERIMENTAL FORESTS
None of these special designations occur within the analysis area. None of the project area is adjacent to these special designations.
3.6.12 RESEARCH NATURAL AREAS, EXPERIMENTAL FORESTS, WILDERNESS AND FEDERAL STATE AND LOCAL LAWS
No research natural areas, experimental forests, or wilderness areas are within the project area. There are no known significant cumulative effects between the project and other projects implemented or
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Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path EA Chapter 3 – Environmental Consequences planned on areas separated from the affected area of the project. The physical and biological effects are limited to this analysis area. No actions are proposed which are considered to be precedent setting.
There are no known effects on the human environment that are highly uncertain or involve unique or unknown risks. None of the actions threaten a violation of federal, state, or local law. Alternatives would comply with air and water quality regulations. The effects on the quality of the human environment are not likely to be highly controversial, based on public participation.
3.6.13 PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY
No long-term public safety problems are anticipated from implementation of the action alternatives in this project. Short-term safety hazards, such as construction traffic and falling trees near roads, would be mitigated through contract safety provisions and are not anticipated to impact public safety.
Standing trees that lean over or near roadways and present a hazard to public safety due to conditions such as deterioration or physical damage to roots, trunks, stems, or limbs would be removed from the project area.
3.6.14 REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973 - PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, no person with a disability can be denied participation in a Federal program that is available to all other people solely because of his or her disability. There is no legal requirement to allow people with disabilities use of motor vehicles on roads, trails, or other areas that are closed to motor vehicles. Restrictions on motor vehicle use that are applied consistently to everyone are not discriminatory.
3.6.15 INCOMPLETE AND UNAVAILABLE INFORMATION
The Council on Environmental Quality regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (40 CFR 1502.22) require that a federal agency identify relevant information that may be incomplete or unavailable.
Knowledge is, and always will be, incomplete regarding many aspects of terrestrial and aquatic species and their habitats, geology of specific areas, and the economy. The alternatives were evaluated using the best available information. No missing information was deemed to be essential to a reasoned choice among alternatives being considered.
3.6.16 PROBABLE ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS THAT CANNOT BE AVOIDED
Some impacts caused by implementation of management activities proposed in this analysis that cannot be avoided may be considered adverse according to individual interpretations. Stumps and disturbed areas are not a pleasing sight to some people, visually or environmentally. Construction traffic could compete with public traffic on roads used in common. Construction activities would also create dust and noise. Recreation users may find changes to the areas they have visited in the past, either through reduced or increased access, changed landscape, or changes in vegetation. The pathway and parking site would result in an estimated 1.4 acres being converted from a non-forest use to the recreation use. During the life of use, the hardened and compacted surfaces on the pathway would remain.
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3.6.17 IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENT OF RESOURCES
Irreversible resource commitments are actions that either deplete a non-renewable resource or disturb another resource to the point that it cannot be renewed within 100 years. There are no known significant irreversible resource commitments or irretrievable loss of timber production, wildlife habitats, soil production, or water quality from actions initiated under any of the alternatives.
Loss of cultural sites resulting from accidental damage or vandalism would be an irreversible commitment of resources. Extensive cultural resource surveys and a requirement to avoid and protect cultural sites provide reasonable assurance that there would be no irreversible loss of cultural resources.
Impacts to soil are controlled by management practices and mitigation measures, and would not represent an irreversible resource commitment. The hardened and compacted surfaces of the pathway and parking site would remain in a non-forest condition for the life of the pathway and parking area.
3.6.18 SHORT-TERM USES AND LONG-TERM PRODUCTIVITY
NEPA requires consideration of “the relationship between short-term uses of man’s environment and the maintenance and enhancement of long-term productivity” (40 CFR 1502.16). As declared by Congress, this includes using all practicable means and measures, including financial and technical assistance, in a manner calculated to foster and promote the general welfare, to create and maintain conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony, and fulfill the social, economic, and other requirements of present and future generations of Americans (NEPA Section 101).
The Multiple Use-Sustained Yield Act of 1960 requires the Forest Service to manage NFS lands for multiple uses (including timber, recreation, fish and wildlife, range, and watershed). All renewable resources are to be managed in such a way that they are there for future generations. This chapter and the specialist reports prepared for this project provide the required disclosure of effects from anticipated use associated with the paved path allowed under Alternative 2 and under the current condition, no action, Alternative 1.
The action alternative is not expected to create any impacts that would cause irreversible damage to soil productivity. There is low risk for the proposed activities to cause soil mass failures (landslides) due to the inherent stability of dominant landtypes and the lack of seasonally wet soils on steep slopes. Careful planning and the application of erosion-control BMPs would be used to minimize surface erosion problems and prevent irreversible losses of the soil resource. The development and use of the paved path would compact surfaces and persist on the pathway and remain in that condition for the life of the pathway’s use.
3.6.19 BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
All existing native and desirable introduced species and communities are maintained with all alternatives. For example erosion control measures, such as seeding would use native species when possible. Biological diversity would not be affected by this project.
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3.6.20 EXECUTIVE ORDERS
Executive Order 13112 (Invasive species)
This 1999 order requires Federal agencies whose actions may affect the status of invasive species to identify those actions and within budgetary limits: “(i) prevent the introduction of invasive species; (ii) detect and respond rapidly to and control populations of such species… (iii) monitor invasive species populations… (iv) provide for restoration of native species and habitat conditions in ecosystems that have been invaded;…(vi) promote public education on invasive species… and (3) not authorize, fund, or carry out actions that it believes are likely to cause or promote the introduction or spread of invasive species… unless, pursuant to guidelines that it has prescribed, the agency had determined and made public… that the benefits of such actions clearly outweigh the potential harm caused by invasive species; and that all feasible and prudent measures to minimize risk of harm would be taken in conjunction with the actions.”
There is a high risk for spreading or introducing noxious weeds for the action alternative in this project. A risk ranking of high is appropriate for this project because heavy equipment would be brought into the area (which brings a risk of importing weed seeds or parts with it), and there are known weed populations at and near the site. The Region 6 Invasive Plant Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) Record of Decision (ROD) (USDA Forest Service 2005) adopted Standards and Guidelines that would be followed (Chapter 3, Invasive Plants).
Executive Order 13186 and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918
The purpose of this Act is to establish an international framework for the protection and conservation of migratory birds. The Act makes it illegal, unless permitted by regulations, to “pursue, hunt, take, capture, deliver for shipment, ship, cause to be carried by any means whatever, receive for shipment, transportation or carriage, or export, at any time, or in any manner, any migratory bird, including in this Convention…for the protection of migratory birds…or any part, nest, or egg of any such bird” (16USC 703). The original 1918 statute implemented the 1916 Convention between the United States and Great Britain (for Canada). Later amendments implemented treaties between the Unites States and Mexico, Japan, and the Soviet Union (now Russia).
In compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Deschutes National Forest is currently following guidelines from the “Conservation Strategy for Landbirds of the East-Slope of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon and Washington” (Altman 2000). This conservation strategy addresses key habitat types as well as biological objectives and conservation strategies for these habitat types found in the East Slope of the Cascades, and the focal species associated with these habitats. The conservation strategy lists priority habitats: 1) ponderosa pine; 2) mixed conifer (late successional); 3) oak-pine woodland; and 4) unique habitats, lodgepole pine, white bark pine, meadows, aspen, and subalpine fir).
Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds
Executive Order 13186, signed January 10, 2001, directs federal agencies to protect migratory birds by integrating bird conservation principles, measures, and practices into agency activities and by avoiding or minimizing, to the extent practical, adverse impacts on migratory birds’ resources when conducting agency actions. This order directs agencies to further comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and other pertinent statutes. This analysis is compliant with the National Memorandum of Understanding between the USDA Forest Service and
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Executive Order 12898 Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low- income Populations (February 11, 1994)
Executive Order 12898 directs the agency to identify and address, “...as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of its programs, policies, and activities on minority populations and low-income populations....” The intent of the order is to assure the fair treatment and meaningful involvement and consideration of all people. Fair treatment means that no group of people, including racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic group should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental consequences resulting from the execution of a federal actions. Outreach and public involvement for this project has been extensive and at various scales within various communities of interest.
In order to identify and address environmental justice concerns, the EO states that each agency shall analyze the environmental effects, including human health, economic, and social effects of Federal actions, including effects on minority populations, low-income populations, and native Americans as part of the NEPA process.
There would be no discernible impacts among the alternative in the effects on Native Americans, women, other minorities, or the Civil Rights of any American citizen.
The proposed action does not appear to have a disproportionately high or adverse effect on minority or low-income populations. Scoping did not reveal any issues or concerns associated with the principles of Environmental Justice. No mitigation measures to offset or improve adverse effects to these populations have been identified. All interested and affected parties will continue to be involved with the public involvement and decision process.
Executive Orders 11988 Wetlands and 11990 Floodplains
Executive orders 11988 and 11990 require protection of floodplains and wetlands. The project would have no effect on Executive orders 11988 and 11990 as adverse effects are avoided.
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CHAPTER 4 – CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION
4.1 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND SCOPING ______
Planning for a paved path originally began in 2009 and was very well supported by commenting parties. A decision memo was signed April 30th, 2010. After further review of the decision and site- specific implementation planning, it was decided that changes and additional actions were needed. The need for such a trail has been expressed and supported by Senator Wyden and other key stakeholders, local residents and the neighboring community and as part of the larger Interagency Transportation Assistance Group report (2009).
The Sunriver to Lava Lands Paved Path was published in the Deschutes National Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA), a quarterly publication, in July 2011 and has appeared in each quarterly SOPA since then. This is a quarterly report that is distributed to interested individuals, organizations, and agencies Forest-wide. The SOPA is automatically updated and available on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest webpage at http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/centraloregon/projects.
A description of this project was first published on the web on 6/26/2012 at http://data.ecosystem- management.org/nepaweb/nepa_project_exp.php?project=39685.
A detailed description of the proposed action was mailed on 6/29/2012 to approximately 180 forest users and concerned publics soliciting comments and concerns related to this project. Approximately 40 letters, emails, or phone calls of response were received, which were considered and evaluated. Discussion of evaluating public comments can be found in the Issues section of Chapter 1 and in Chapter 2 Alternative considered but eliminated from detailed study.
On September 14, 2012 a portion of the ID team attend a Sunriver Homeowners Association meeting to provide the board and residents with an update of the project and answer questions about the proposed path. Support of this project from the homeowners and board was again expressed.
On December 13, 2012, a legal notice in The Bulletin (the newspaper of record) initiating the 30-day comment period. Multiple local news sources ran a notice including the Sunriver Scene, The Bulletin, The Source and the Newberry Eagle. Comments were accepted until January 11, 2013. During the comment period, the Forest received approximately 70 comment letters with a range of comments. Comments were provided on various topics, some expressed concern while others provided support or recommendations for the project. All the comments submitted during this planning process have been considered. Response to comments is included in Appendix B of this EA.
4.2 CONSULTATION WITH OTHERS ______
Consultation has occurred with the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) following guidelines in the Regional Programmatic Agreement among USDA-Forest Service, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and the Oregon SHPO. In a letter dated October 6, 2011 the SHPO concurred with the Forest’s recommended protection procedures and the monitoring program outlined in the report submitted to them. The SHPO agreed that the project would have no adverse effect on any known cultural resources.
The consultation with the Burns Paiute Tribe, The Klamath Tribe, and Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs has occurred and coordination would continue.
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4.3 RECIPIENTS OF THE EA ______
Those who commented during the scoping period received either an email or hardcopy mail notification of the Environmental Assessment’s release for comment. Those individuals and organizations that received the initial project proposal during the June 2012 mailing of the scoping letter also received hardcopy mail notification of the Environmental Assessment’s release for comment. All parties described have been sent the link to the electronic copy of the Environmental Assessment and the option to request a hard copy.
4.4 INTERDISCIPLINARY PARTICIPATION ______
Below are the members of the interdisciplinary team responsible for coordination, conducting and contributing the environmental analysis for this project
ID Team Member Title Scotty McBride ID Team Leader, Recreation Alicia Underhill NEPA Oversight, Writer/Editor Ben Hernandez Wildlife Biologist Charmane Powers Botanist Todd Reinwald Soil Scientist Kathleen Martin and Chis Lipscomb Cultural and Heritage Resources Steve Bigby Road Manager Tom Walker Fisheries Robin Gyorgyfalvy Scenery Barbara Schroeder Silviculture
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LITERATURE CITIED -A-
Abele, S.C., V.A. Saab, and E.O. Garton. 2004. Lewis’s Woodpecker (Melanerpes lewis): A Technical Conservation Assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. Available: http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/projects/scp/assessments/lewisswoodpecker.pdf
Altman, B. and A. Holmes. 2000. Conservation Strategy for Landbirds in the Columbia Plateau of Eastern Oregon and Washington. Version 1.0. Oregon-Washington Partners in Flight. 136 pp.
Altman, B. 2000. Conservation Strategy for Landbirds of the East-Slope of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon and Washington. Version 1.0. Oregon-Washington Partners in Flight. 81 pp.
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), 1999. Guide for the development of bicycle facilities.
Anderson, J. 1985. Observations of the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) in central Oregon. Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, Nongame Wildlife Program. Tech. Rpt. 84-3-01. 78 pp.
Anthony, R. G., and F. B. Isaacs. 1989. Characteristics of Bald Eagle nest sites in Oregon. J. wildl. Manage. 53: 148-159. In Birds of Oregon: A General Reference, Marshall, D. B., M. G. Hunter, and A. L. Contreras. Eds. 2003, 2006. Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.
Anthony, R. G., M. C. Hansen, M. Sandler, N. V. Marr, C. A. Schuler, and R. S. Lutz. 1990. Short- term effects of triploid grass carp on waterfowl and Bald Eagles at Devil’s Lake, Oregon Unpublished report. In Birds of Oregon: A General Reference, Marshall, D. B., M. G. Hunter, and A. L. Contreras. Eds. 2003, 2006. Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.
Aubry, K. and C. Raley. 2006. Update to the study Ecological Characteristics of Fishers (Martes pennanti) in the Southern Oregon Cascade Range. Olympia ,WA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 30 p. -B-
Bend/Ft. Rock Ranger District Geographic Information Systems (GIS) layers
Belrose, F. C. 1916. Ducks, geese and swans of North America. Wildlife Management Institute. 3rd. ed. Washington D.C. 540 pp.
Bielefeldt, J., and R. N. Rosenfield. 2000. Comment: Comparative breeding ecology of Cooper’s hawks in urban vs. exurban areas of southeastern Arizona. Journal of Wildlife Management 64:599-600.
Boal, C. W., and R. W. Mannan. 1999. Comparative breeding ecology of Cooper’s hawks in urban and exurban areas of southeastern Arizona. Journal of Wildlife Management 63:77-84.
Boal, C. W., and R. W. Mannan. 2000. Cooper’s hawks in urban and exurban areas: a reply.Journal of Wildlife Management 64:601-604.
Boyle, S.A. and F.B. Samson. 1985. Effects of nonconsumptive recreation on wildlife: a review. Wildlife Society Bulletin 13:110-116.
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Bryan, T. and E. D. Forsman. (1987). Distribution, abundance, and habitat of Great Gray Owls in south central Oregon. The Murrelet, 68, 45-49.
Built Environment Image Guide http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/beig/
Buehler, David A. 2000. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.) Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology; Retrieved from the Birds of North America on: http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/506.
Bull, E. L. and M. G. Henjum. (1990). Ecology of the Great Gray Owl. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR- 265. Portland, Oregon: United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific NorthwestResearch Station. 39 p.
-C-
Cooper, J.M. and E.T. Manning. 2004. Williamson’s Sapsucker. Accounts and Measures for Managing Identified Wildlife. Version 2004. Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection, Victoria, BC. pp. 309- 317.
Copeland, J. P., J. M. Peek, C. R. Groves, W. E. Melquist, K. S. McKelvey, G. W. McDaniel, C. D. Long, and C. E. Harris. 2007. Seasonal habitat associations of the wolverine in central Idaho. Journal of Wildlife Management 71(7):2201-2212.
Creel S., J. E. Fox, A. Hardy, J. Sands, B. Garrott and R. O. Peterson. 2002. Snowmobile activity and glucocorticoid stress responses in wolves and elk. Conservation Biology 16(3): 809-814.
Csuti Blair, Oneil T.A., Shaughnessy M.M., Gaines E.P., Hak J.C. 2001. Atlas of Oregon Wildlife Distribution, Habitat, and Natural History. Oregon State University, Corvallis Oregon. 525 pp.
Craig, G. 1986. Peregrine Falcon. In R.L. Di Silvestro (ed.), Audubon Wildlife Report 1986, National Audubon Soc., N.Y., pp. 807-824.
Crocker-Bedford, B. C. and Chaney, B. 1988. Characteristics of goshawk nesting stands: proceedings of the southwest raptor management symposium and workshop. National Wildlife Federation Scientific and Technical Series No. 12. Port City Press, Baltimore, Maryland, 395 pp.
Cushman, K. A. and C. A. Pearl. 2007. A Conservation Assessment for the Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Region 6 and U.S. Department of Interior Bureau of Land Management, Oregon and Washington: 46 pages.
-D-
DeGraaf, R. M., Rappole, J. H. (1995) Neotropical migratory birds: Natural history, distribution, and population change. Comstock Publishing Associates. Cornell University Press, Ithaca, New York.
DeGraaf, Richard M., Virgil E. Scott, R.H. Hamre, Liz Ernst, and Stanley H. Anderson. 1991. Forest and rangeland birds of the United States natural history and habitat use. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Agriculture Handbook 688. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Online. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/birds/forest/index.htm(Version 03NOV98).
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