2010 General Management Plan

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Montezuma Castle National Monument National Park Service Mo n t e z u m a Ca s t l e Na t i o n a l Mo n u m e n t • Tu z i g o o t Na t i o n a l Mo n u m e n t Tuzigoot National Monument U.S. Department of the Interior Ge n e r a l Ma n a g e m e n t Pl a n /En v i r o n m e n t a l As s e s s m e n t Arizona M u z e t n o

Mo n t e z u m a Ca s t l e Mo n t e z u m a We l l Tu z i g o o t m G a l a r e n e C e l t s a M N e g a n a l a n o i t a m t n e M P u n o n a l m / E t n e n o r i v n • T t o o g i z u m l a t n e N A l a n o i t a s s e s s m t n e M u n o m t n e

Na t i o n a l Pa r k Se r v i c e • U.S. De p a r t m e n t o f t h e In t e r i o r Ge n e r a l Ma n a g e m e n t Pl a n /En v i r o n m e n t a l As s e s s m e n t

General Management Plan / Environmental Assessment MONTEZUMA CASTLE NATIONAL MONUMENT AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENT Yavapai County, Arizona January 2010 As the responsible agency, the National Park Service prepared this general management plan to establish the direction of management of Montezuma Castle National Monument and Tu- zigoot National Monument for the next 15 to 20 years. The general management plan provides comprehensive, integrated guidance for preserving cultural resources, perpetuating natural systems, providing opportunities for visitor enjoyment and understanding, and establishing the organizational mechanism to accomplish the plan. The previous general management plan for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments was completed in 1975. Since then, much has changed, including visitor use patterns, land uses in the Verde Valley outside the monuments, and area populations. These changes affect how visitors access and use the national monuments, the facilities needed to support those uses, management of resources, and how the National Park Service manages its operations. Therefore, a new plan is needed to allow the monuments to achieve desired conditions that implement goals of the National Park Service and the public for management and preservation of cultural and natural resources. The environmental assessment that was prepared to determine the impacts of the general management plan considered three alternatives: • Alternative A, the no-action alternative; • Alternative B, which is the National Park Service preferred alternative and emphasizes opportunities to connect the monuments, including Montezuma Well (a detached unit of Montezuma Castle National Monument), with improved regional orientation to the Verde Valley; and • Alternative C, which emphasizes self-discovery of the monuments’ resources. The environmental assessment was prepared in compliance with the National Environmen- tal Policy Act to provide the decision-making framework that 1) analyzes a reasonable range of alternatives to meet objectives of the proposal, 2) evaluates potential issues and impacts to the monuments’ resources and values, and 3) identifies mitigation measures to lessen the degree or extent of these impacts. Resource topics included in this document because impacts may be greater than minor include cultural resources, natural resources, visitor use and experience, socioeconomics, and monument operations. Other resource topics were dismissed because the plan would result in negligible or minor effects. No major effects are anticipated as a result of this plan. Public scoping was conducted to assist with the development of this document, and comments received during scoping are to a great extent reflected in the con- tent of this document and were considered in the development of the action alternatives.

U.S. Department of the Interior ● National Park Service

HOW TO COMMENT ON THIS PLAN

If you wish to comment on the environmental assessment, you may post comments online at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/moca. You may mail comments to Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments General Management Plan National Park Service Denver Service Center Attn: Cynthia Nelson P.O. Box 25287 Denver, CO 80225 You may also hand deliver comments to Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monu- ment Headquarters, 527 South Main Street, Camp Verde, Arizona. This environmental assessment will be on public review for 30 days. Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment – including your personal identifying information – may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.

SUMMARY

PURPOSE AND NEED FOR A changes affect how visitors access and use GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN the national monuments, the facilities needed to support those uses, manage- The purpose of this general management ment of resources, and how the National plan is to establish a clear vision for the Park Service (NPS) manages its opera- direction of management of Montezuma tions. Therefore, a new plan is needed to: Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments for the next 15 to 20 years. The general • Set forth the basic management phi- management plan will provide compre- losophy or vision for Montezuma Cas- hensive and integrated guidance for pre- tle and Tuzigoot national monuments serving cultural resources, perpetuating and provide strategies for achieving natural systems, providing opportunities identified management objectives for visitor enjoyment and understanding, (“desired future conditions”). and establishing the organizational me- • Clearly define resource conditions chanism to accomplish the plan. and visitor use and experience to be Montezuma Castle National Monument achieved in the monuments. was established in 1906 under the authori- • Identify the kinds of resource protec- ty of the Antiquities Act. Since then, Con- tion, management, use, and develop- gress passed legislation in 1937, 1959, ment that will be appropriate in 1978, and 2003 expanding the boundary of achieving and maintaining those con- the monument to better protect the natu- ditions. ral and cultural resources adjacent to the cliff dwellings. • Identify future partnerships and collaborative planning efforts that would Montezuma Well was added as a detached facilitate the realization of the monu- unit of Montezuma Castle National Mo- ments’ goals. nument by an Act of Congress in 1943. Congress expanded the boundary of the • Provide a framework for the monu- well site in 1959 to protect resources adja- ments’ managers to use to make deci- cent to the well and for administrative sions about protecting Montezuma purposes. Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments’ resources, provide quality visi- Tuzigoot National Monument was estab- tor use and experience, manage visitor lished by presidential proclamation on use, and determine the kinds of facili- July 25, 1939, to protect the prehistoric ties, if any, to develop in and near the structures. The boundary was expanded monuments. by an Act of Congress in 1965 and again in 1978. Additional lands were conveyed through a land exchange in 2005. The last comprehensive planning effort (general management plan) for Montezu- ma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments was completed in 1975. Since then, much has changed, including patterns and types of visitor use, land uses in the Verde Valley outside the monuments, and area populations. These

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• Ensure that the basic foundation for tions and visitor facilities would remain in decision-making has been developed place. Opportunities for close contact be- in consultation with interested stake- tween visitors and the natural and cultural holders and adopted by the NPS lea- resources at the sites would continue to be dership after an adequate analysis of limited. The interpretive emphasis would the benefits, impacts, and economic continue to focus on the three primary costs of alternative courses of action. sites within the monuments, with little connection among the sites in terms of • Investigate the potential for boundary interpretation. modifications. At Montezuma Castle, resource activities ALTERNATIVES AND would continue to focus on stabilizing the THEIR IMPACTS primary site, with intensive preservation treatment and regular cyclic maintenance. This General Management Plan and Envi- Visitor opportunities would continue to ronmental Assessment presents three alter- focus on viewing the Castle and visiting natives for management of Montezuma the visitor center. Existing administration Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments. facilities would remain the same. They include: At Montezuma Well, resource activities • Alternative A, the no-action alterna- would continue to focus on monitoring tive (continue current management); water quantity. Visitor opportunities • Alternative B, the National Park Ser- would continue to focus on viewing Mon- vice preferred alternative, which em- tezuma Well and visiting the well outlet. phasizes opportunities to connect the The picnic area would continue to be a three sites with improved regional major draw for local visitation. orientation to the Verde Valley; and At Tuzigoot, resource activities would • Alternative C, which emphasizes self- continue to focus on stabilizing the prima- discovery of the monuments’ re- ry site, with intensive preservation treat- sources. ment and regular cyclic maintenance. Visi- tor opportunities would continue to focus The alternatives, which are based on the on exploring the pueblo and visiting the monuments’ mission, purpose, and signi- visitor center/museum. ficance, present different ways to manage resources and visitor use and improve fa- Although the no-action alternative may cilities and infrastructure. Additional ac- not meet all goals set forth for this general tions and alternatives were considered but management plan, it serves as the baseline were dismissed for the reasons described against which the action alternatives are in chapter 2. evaluated. The important impacts of continuing existing management conditions Alternative A: The No-Action and trends would include the following. Alternative (Continue Current • Ongoing management actions would Management) continue to allow current hydrological This alternative would continue current conditions to persist in Tavasci Marsh management direction and trends at Mon- in Tuzigoot National Monument, tezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- which would have a long-term, minor numents. It provides a baseline for com- to moderate, adverse impact on wet- parison in evaluating the changes and im- land functions and habitat. pacts of the action alternatives. • Informal access to the Verde River at Natural resources would be protected by Tuzigoot National Monument would being in the monuments. Existing opera-

iv Summary

continue, representing a long-term, area. Visitors would be introduced to all minor, adverse effect on wildlife. three sites and their related interpretive themes through coordinated messaging • Change in the Tavasci Marsh habitat among the three sites. Visitors would tra- exposure could have a long-term ef- vel to the sites to learn firsthand about fect on flycatcher habitat and the Yu- elements of the prehistoric and historic ma clapper rail, but would result in a stories associated with human settlement “not likely to adversely affect” deter- of the Verde Valley. mination. The National Park Service would increase • Alternative A would result in continu- resource stabilization and monitoring ef- ing minor, beneficial impacts resulting forts. Partnerships would improve orien- from the continued opportunities to tation at the sites and other opportunities view the monuments’ prime cultural in the Verde Valley. More of the monu- resources. However, minor, adverse ments’ cultural and natural resources impacts from crowding and conges- would be available for visitors to explore tion during peak-use time periods via trails. The National Park Service would would continue. acquire 16 acres of privately owned land • The lack of adequate interpretive and riparian and bluff land within Montezuma education facilities for regular and di- Well and most of the privately owned verse programming would continue to lands within Tuzigoot’s legislated bounda- have a minor, adverse impact to visi- ries except for the land owned by Freeport tors. McMoRan Copper and Gold, Inc., which contain mine tailings; this land would be • Long-term, minor, adverse effects on removed from the legislated boundary. monument operations would continue The mine tailings do not contain resources because of congestion and crowding related to the purpose and significance of in Montezuma Castle National Mo- the monument, are highly disturbed by nument; very limited opportunities at mining activity, and are contaminated by Montezuma Well for site orientation hazardous substances. The monument is and interpretation; facilities which particularly interested in acquiring the limit the monument’s ability to pro- relatively intact acreage on the bench vide consistent and diverse interpre- northwest of the ruins, which has archeo- tive programming; and the lack of effi- logical sites. cient distribution of staff among the three sites and the headquarters and At Montezuma Castle, the existing facili- maintenance buildings, which are out- ties for visitor services would remain side the monuments. much as today. Some natural-surface trails with interpretive signs may be sited across • Actions at Montezuma Castle and Tu- the creek to provide views to the castle. A zigoot national monuments would re- corridor along Montezuma Castle Road sult in minor benefits and would have would accommodate regional trail activi- no adverse effect on archeological re- ties for horseback riding, hiking, and sources, prehistoric and historic struc- mountain biking. The equipment shed tures and buildings, cultural land- (determined eligible for listing in the Na- scapes, and ethnographic resources of tional Register of Historic Places on July the monuments. 13, 1994) would be rehabilitated and adaptively reused. Alternative B, Preferred At Montezuma Well, the existing facilities The main emphasis of this alternative is to leading to and around the well would re- connect the three sites with improved remain much as today. The amount of inter- gional orientation to the Verde Valley

v SUMMARY pretation and interaction with resources • Marsh restoration and ongoing ditch associated with the long history of prehis- maintenance activities at Tuzigoot Na- toric and historic farming in the area tional Monument would have long- would increase. The area just south and term, negligible to minor benefits on west of the picnic area would include nat- flycatcher foraging habitat and on rail ural surface trails improved on existing habitat. formal and informal trail routes. An addi- • Moderate to major, beneficial effects tion to the visitor contact station (shade would result from connecting the ramada) would be constructed in the three sites and from the increased di- parking lot near the well. versity in opportunities to view and At Tuzigoot, the areas east, north, and learn about the monuments’ prime south of the pueblo would provide natural cultural resources. surface trails along the marsh and riparian • Providing more trail opportunities and area. Through collaboration with part- cultural programs would make visits ners, these trails may link with trails in to each site more exciting, interesting, Dead Horse Ranch State Park and Coco- and inviting for repeat visitation. nino National Forest. The existing visitor facilities would remain much as today. • Long-term, minor to moderate, bene- There would be increased cultural dem- ficial effects on monument operations onstrations in and around the pueblo. would result from increased and im- Access would be provided via trails to the proved space for monument opera- river. Active marsh restoration and man- tions and from improved capability to agement activities would begin at the Ta- manage visitors and resources. There vasci Marsh. A boardwalk would be con- would be long-term, minor, adverse structed through the marsh. If assessment impacts due to the addition of facilities determines that there would be no conflict that would require increased opera- with preservation of significant cultural tions and maintenance. resources, this would be constructed • Actions at Montezuma Castle and Tu- along an existing old road alignment. A zigoot national monuments would re- modest workspace and storage building sult in minor benefits and would have with emergency visitor services would be no adverse effect on archeological reconstructed near the residential area. sources, prehistoric and historic struc- The important impacts of implementing tures and buildings, cultural land- alternative B would include the following. scapes, and ethnographic resources of the monuments. • Active marsh restoration activities at Tuzigoot National Monument would Alternative C have a negligible to minor, long-term, beneficial effect on wetland habitat The main emphasis of this alternative is to functions at Tavasci Marsh. provide increased opportunities for visitors to self-discover the beauty and won- • Trail development would have neglig- der of the natural and cultural resources ible to minor, short-term, adverse im- of the monuments. Resources would still pacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat at receive the highest level of protection, and Montezuma Castle National Monu- visitors could interact with and explore a ment. wider range of the resources found in the • The boardwalk at Tavasci Marsh in monuments. Tuzigoot National Monument would Protection of natural resources would be have long-term, negligible to minor, reduced compared to alternative B be- adverse impacts on wildlife species. cause of the larger development footprint

vi Summary in this alternative. More of the monu- that there would be no conflict with pre- ments’ cultural and natural resources servation of significant cultural resources, would be available for visitors to explore mountain bicycling opportunities may al- via trails. Visitor stays would increase at so be provided on old roadbeds in the each of the three sites. The National Park area. The existing visitor facilities would Service would acquire most of the private- remain much as today. The monuments ly owned lands within the legislated would cooperate with the Arizona State boundaries except for the mine tailings at Parks on the Verde River Greenway Man- Tuzigoot, which would be removed from agement Plan proposal for a small parking the legislated boundary. The mine tailings area and launch for small boats on state- do not contain resources related to the owned land on the east side of the monu- purpose and significance of the monument entrance road. ment, are highly disturbed by mining ac- The important impacts of implementing tivity, and are contaminated by hazardous alternative C would include the following. substances. • Construction of a new headquarters At Montezuma Castle, the existing visitor and access and parking on the plateau facilities would remain much as today. A at Montezuma Castle National Mo- new headquarters would be located at the nument would have long-term, neglig- beginning of the entrance road to the mo- ible to minor, adverse impacts on ve- nument. Access over the creek via a new getation and soils. bridge and some picnic facilities on the south bank of the creek would be pro- • At Tuzigoot, the adverse impacts of vided. In addition, self-guided, designated trail development on vegetation and trails would follow the river corridor. To soils would be negligible to minor. provide better views of the river valley, a • The long-term, adverse impacts of an small number of private vehicles would be extended trail and boardwalk at Tuzi- allowed access to the plateau above the goot on wildlife and their habitat cliff dwelling. A corridor along Montezu- would be local and negligible to mi- ma Castle Road would accommodate re- nor. gional trail activities for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. • Marsh restoration and ongoing ditch maintenance activities at Tuzigoot Na- At Montezuma Well, the existing visitor tional Monument would have long- facilities would remain much as today. A term, negligible to minor benefits on new visitor center is proposed at the en- flycatcher foraging habitat and on rail trance of the road to Montezuma Well. habitat. Designated natural-surface trails would be improved along existing disturbed align- • Moderate beneficial effects would re- ments to and along the riparian area of sult from the increased diversity in Wet Beaver Creek, and a natural-surface, opportunities to view and learn about designated trail would be located near the the monuments’ prime cultural re- prehistoric ditch that extends from Mon- sources. tezuma Well and along Wet Beaver Creek. • Providing more trail opportunities and A trail would also extend from the visitor cultural programs would make visits center to Montezuma Well, following the to each site more exciting, interesting, road. The pit house along the entrance and inviting for repeat visitation. road would be accessible with a trail. • Long-term, moderate to major, bene- At Tuzigoot, most of the monument ficial effects on Montezuma Castle would be zoned to provide natural- National Monument operations surface trails. If assessment determines would result from increased and im-

vii SUMMARY

proved space for monument opera- anticipated environmental changes. Full tions, and improved capability to implementation could be many years in manage visitors and resources. There the future. Once the General Management would be long-term, minor, adverse Plan has been approved, additional feasi- impacts due the addition of facilities bility studies and more detailed planning, that would require increased opera- environmental documentation, and con- tions and maintenance. sultations would be completed, as appropriate, before certain actions in the se- • Actions at Montezuma Castle and Tu- lected alternative can be carried out. zigoot national monuments would result in minor benefits and would have Future program and implementation no adverse effect on archeological re- plans, describing specific actions that sources, prehistoric and historic struc- managers intend to undertake and ac- tures and buildings, cultural land- complish in the monument, will tier from scapes, and ethnographic resources of the desired conditions and long-term the monuments. goals set forth in this general management plan. • A new visitor center at Montezuma Well would improve visitor orientation and interpretation services and contribute to better visitor understanding and appreciation of the resources of the monuments and the region, and would result in long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on visitors.

THE NEXT STEPS After the distribution of the general management plan and environmental assessment, there will be a 30-day public review and comment period, after which the NPS planning team will evaluate comments from other federal agencies, tribes, organizations, businesses, and individuals regarding the plan. The National Park Ser- vice expects that it will then be able to prepare a finding of no significant impact documenting the NPS selection of an alternative for implementation. After the finding has been approved by the regional director, the plan can be implemented.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PLAN The approval of this plan does not guarantee that the funding needed to implement the plan will be forthcoming. The implementation of the approved plan will depend on future funding, and it could also be affected by factors such as changes in NPS staffing, visitor use patterns, and un-

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CONTENTS

Chapter 1: Purpose of and Need for the Plan

Introduction 3 A Guide to This Document 3 Brief Description of the Monuments 4 Montezuma Castle National Monument 4 Tuzigoot National Monument 6 Purpose of the Plan 10 Need for the Plan 11 Establishment and Administration of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments 11 Montezuma Castle National Monument 11 Tuzigoot National Monument 15 Guidance for the Planning Effort 17 Mission Statement 17 Purpose and Significance 17 Purpose 17 Significance 17 Fundamental Resources and Values 18 Cultural Connectivity 18 Structures and Related Resources and Values 19 Natural Features 19 Other Important Resources and Values 19 Objectives 20 Cultural and Natural Resources 20 Visitor Use and Experience 20 Monument Operations 20 Partnerships 20 Primary Interpretive Themes 20 Special Mandates and Administrative Commitments 21 Servicewide Mandates and Policies 21 Guiding Management Principles and Strategies 22 Manage and Protect Cultural Resources 22 Manage and Protect Natural Resources 24 External Influences - Private and Public Partners, Owners of Adjacent Land, and Government Agencies 28 Ensure Sustainability by Employing User (Carrying) Capacity 28 Provide Orientation, Interpretation, and Education 29 Implementing the Approved Plan 30 Relationship to Other Planning Efforts 31 Plans of Federal Agencies 31 U.S. Forest Service Plans 31 Park Museum Collection Storage Plan 31

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CONTENTS (Continued)

State of Arizona Plans 31 Plans by Others 31 Verde River Greenway Management Plan 31 Sinaguan Circle Tour 32 Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold, Inc. Mine Tailings Project 32 Yavapai-Apache Nation Native American Visitor Center 32 Montezuma Castle Highway Regional Multi-Use Trail 32 Soda Springs Ranch Development 32 Expansion of the Yavapai- Apache Casino Resort 32 Verde Valley Regional Land Use Plan 32 Planning Issues and Opportunities 33 Issues and Opportunities 33 Issues not Addressed in the General Management Plan 35 Vanishing Treasures 35 Fire Management 35 Impact Topics: Resources and Values at Stake in the Planning Process 36 Impact Topics to Be Considered 36 Cultural Resources 36 Natural Resources 36 Visitor Use and Experience 37 Socioeconomics 37 Monument Operations 37 Impact Topics Dismissed from Further Consideration 37 Cultural Resources 37 Natural Resources 38 Transportation 39 Conflicts with Land Use Plans, Policies, or Concerns 39 Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential 39 Indian Trust Resources 39 Natural Sounds 40 Lightscape Management 40 Environmental Justice 41

Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Preferred Alternative Introduction 45 Management Zones and Alternatives 45 Formulation of the Alternatives 46 Identification of the Preferred Alternative 46 Management Zones 47 Alternative A: No-Action Alternative 51 Concept and General Management Strategies 51 Boundary Adjustments, Land Purchases, and Easements 52 Alternative B (Preferred) 56 Concept and General Management Strategies 56 Conditions and Actions Common to All Three Sites 56

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CONTENTS (Continued)

Management Zones and Related Actions at Each Site 57 Montezuma Castle 57 Montezuma Well 58 Tuzigoot 58 Boundary Adjustments, Land Purchases, and Easements 59 Alternative C 64 Concept and General Management Strategies 64 Conditions and Actions Common to All Three Sites 64 Management Zones and Related Actions at Each Site 65 Montezuma Castle 65 Montezuma Well 66 Tuzigoot 66 Boundary Adjustments, Land Purchases, and Easements 67 Cost Estimates 71 Development of Cost Estimates 71 Initial One-Time Costs 71 NPS Facilities Model 71 Summary of Comparative Costs 71 User Capacity 73 Park Operations Zone 73 Interpretive Historic Zone 73 Interaction and Discovery Zone 74 Resources and Research Zone 75 Mitigation Measures Common to All Alternatives 76 Cultural Resources 76 Natural Resources 77 Air Quality 77 Nonnative and Exotic Species 77 Natural Sounds 78 Soils 78 Threatened and Endangered Species and Species of Concern 78 Vegetation 78 Water Resources 79 Wildlife 79 Wetlands 79 Visitor Safety and Experiences 79 Hazardous Materials 80 Scenic Resources 80 Socioeconomics 80 Sustainable Design and Aesthetics 80 Future Studies and Implementation Plans Needed 81 Environmentally Preferred Alternative 82 Alternatives and Actions Considered but Dismissed from Detailed Evaluation 84 Montezuma Castle 84 Castle Site 84 Well Site 84 Tuzigoot 84 Summaries 85

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CONTENTS (Continued)

Chapter 3: Affected Environment Introduction 103 Cultural Resources 104 Overview of Verde Valley Cultural History 105 Introduction 105 Prehistoric Period 105 Historic Period (about AD 1500 to Present) 106 Cultural Resources in the National Monuments 107 Archeological Resources 107 Montezuma Castle National Monument 108 Tuzigoot National Monument 109 Ethnographic Resources 111 Cultural Affiliation Study 111 Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act Inventory Information 112 Prehistoric and Historic Structures and Buildings 113 List of Classified Structures 113 Cultural Landscapes 114 Montezuma Castle National Monument 115 Tuzigoot National Monument 115 Properties Listed in the National Register of Historic Places 115 Montezuma Castle National Monument 115 Tuzigoot National Monument 117 Properties Determined Eligible for Listing in the National Register of Historic Places 118 Other Structures of Potential Historic Significance 118 Montezuma Castle Visitor Center 118 Back Cabin and Smokehouse 118 Natural Resources 119 Floodplains 119 Wetlands 120 Soils and Vegetation 120 Montezuma Castle National Monument 120 Tuzigoot National Monument 121 Wildlife 122 Threatened and Endangered Species 122 Southwestern Willow Flycatcher 123 Yuma Clapper Rail 124 Yellow-billed Cuckoo 124 Visitor Use and Experience 126 Visitor Use Characteristics for All Three Sites 126 Visitor Safety at All Three Sites 131 Montezuma Castle National Monument 131 Visitor Experience and Recreational Opportunities 131 Orientation, Information, and Interpretation 134 Access for Disabled Visitors 134

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CONTENTS (Continued)

Montezuma Well 134 Visitor Experience and Recreational Opportunities 134 Orientation, Information, and Interpretation 135 Access for Disabled Visitors 136 Tuzigoot National Monument 136 Visitor Experience and Recreational Opportunities 136 Orientation, Information, and Interpretation 137 Access for Disabled Visitors 138 Regional Recreational Opportunities 138 Monument Operations 141 Socioeconomics 144 Regional Economy 145 Employment 146 Labor Force Participation 147 Unemployment 147 Personal Income 147 Commuting 149 Poverty 149 Population and Demographics 149 Population 149 Age and Average Household Size 149 Race and Hispanic Origin 149 Migration 150 Projected Long-term Population Growth 150 Housing 150 Adjacent Land Use 151 Economic Contributions of the National Monuments to the Local Economy 151 Visitor Spending 151 Monument Operations 153 Total Economic Contributions 155

Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences Introduction 159 Cumulative Impact Analysis 159 Impairment of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments Resources 160 Unacceptable Impacts 160 Methods and Assumptions for Analyzing Impacts 162 Cultural Resources 162 Cultural Resources Listed, or Eligible to Be Listed, in the National Register of Historic Places 162 Ethnographic Resources 163 Natural Resources 164 Floodplains 164 Soils 165 Vegetation 165 Wetlands 165 Wildlife 166 Threatened and Endangered Species and Special Status Species 166

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CONTENTS (Continued)

Visitor Use and Experience 167 Monument Operations 168 Socioeconomics 169 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) 170 Cultural Resources 170 Archeological Resources 170 Prehistoric and Historic Structures and Buildings 173 Cultural Landscapes 176 Ethnographic Resources and Traditional Cultural Properties 180 Natural Resources 182 Floodplains 182 Soils and Vegetation 183 Wetlands 184 Wildlife 185 Threatened and Endangered Species 186 Visitor Use and Experience 188 Visitor Experiences of Monument Resources 188 Access to Orientation, Interpretation, and Education 189 Visitor Safety 190 Cumulative Effects 190 Conclusion 191 Monument Operations 191 Montezuma Castle National Monument 191 Tuzigoot National Monument 191 All Sites 191 Cumulative Effects 192 Conclusion 192 Socioeconomics 193 Cumulative Effects 194 Conclusion 194 Impairment Conclusion For Alternative A 194 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) 196 Cultural Resources 196 Archeological Resources 196 Prehistoric and Historic Structures and Buildings 197 Cultural Landscapes 197 Ethnographic Resources and Traditional Cultural Properties 198 Natural Resources 199 Floodplains 199 Soils and Vegetation 201 Wetlands 204 Wildlife 205 Threatened and Endangered Species 207 Visitor Use and Experience 210 Visitor Experiences of Monument Resources 210 Access to Orientation, Interpretation, and Education 212 Visitor Safety 212 Cumulative Effects 212 Conclusion 213

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CONTENTS (Continued)

Monument Operations 214 Montezuma Well 214 Tuzigoot National Monument 214 All Sites 214 Cumulative Effects 215 Conclusion 215 Socioeconomics 215 All Sites 215 Montezuma Castle National Monument 215 Montezuma Well 216 Tuzigoot National Monument 216 Cumulative Effects 216 Conclusion 216 Impairment Conclusion For Alternative B 216 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C 217 Cultural Resources 217 Archeological Resources 217 Prehistoric and Historic Structures and Buildings 218 Cultural Landscapes 218 Ethnographic Resources and Traditional Cultural Properties 219 Natural Resources 220 Floodplains 220 Soils and Vegetation 222 Wetlands 227 Wildlife 228 Threatened and Endangered Species 229 Visitor Use and Experience 232 Visitor Experiences of Monument Resources 232 Access to Orientation, Interpretation, and Education 233 Visitor Safety 234 Cumulative Effects 234 Conclusion 235 Monument Operations 235 Montezuma Castle National Monument 235 Montezuma Well 236 Tuzigoot National Monument 236 All Sites 236 Cumulative Effects 237 Conclusion 237 Socioeconomics 237 Montezuma Castle National Monument 237 Montezuma Well 238 Tuzigoot National Monument 238 All Sites 238 Cumulative Effects 238 Conclusion 239 Impairment Conclusion For Alternative C 239

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CONTENTS (Continued)

Chapter 5: Consultation and Coordination History of Public Involvement 243 Public and Agency Development 243 Public Meetings and Newsletters 243 Section 7 Consultation (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) 244 Arizona State Agency Consultation 244 Section 106 Consultation (Arizona State Historic Preservation Office) 244 Consultation with Native Americans 245 County and Local Government Consultation 246 List of Preparers 247 Core Planning Team 247 Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments 247 Denver Service Center 247 Consultants 248 Parsons 248 National Park Service, Southern Arizona Office 248 Western Archeological and Conservation Center 248 Western National Parks Association 248 e2M (Engineering Environmental Management) 248 List of Recipients 249 Federal Agencies 249 U.S. Senators and Representatives 249 State Agencies 249 State Officials 249 Native American Tribes Traditionally Associated with the National Monuments 249 Local and Regional Government Agencies 249 Organizations and Businesses 250

References Bibliography 253 Index 257 Appendix A: Legal Mandates 261 Enabling Legislation 261 Antiquities Act of 1906 and Presidential Proclamation 696, December 8, 1906, Establishing Montezuma Castle National Monument 261 Presidential Proclamation 2344, July 25, 1939, Establishing Tuzigoot National Monument 266 Laws and Policies Guiding Management of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments 269 Fish and Wildlife 270 Threatened and Endangered Species 270 Wetlands 271 Water Resources 271 Cultural Resources 272 Coastal Zone and Floodplains 273 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence 275 Appendix C: Threatened and Endangered Species 301

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CONTENTS (Continued)

MAPS

Vicinity – Arizona 5 Montezuma Castle Site – Parcel Map 7 Montezuma Well Site – Parcel Map 8 Tuzigoot National Monument – Parcel Map 9 Alternative A – No Action, Montezuma Castle National Monument, Castle Site 53 Alternative A – No Action, Montezuma Castle National Monument, Well Site 54 Alternative A – No Action, Tuzigoot National Monument 55 Alternative B – Castle Site, Montezuma Castle National Monument 61 Alternative B – Well Site, Montezuma Castle National Monument 62 Alternative B – Tuzigoot National Monument 63 Alternative C – Castle Site, Montezuma Castle National Monument 68 Alternative C – Well Site, Montezuma Castle National Monument 69 Alternative C – Tuzigoot National Monument 70

FIGURES

1: Montezuma Castle National Monument Annual Visitation, 1940-2007 127 2: Montezuma Well Annual Visitation, 1992-2007 127 3: Tuzigoot National Monument Annual Visitation, 1940-2007 128 4: Visitation by Month at Montezuma Castle National Monument, 2002-2007 129 5: Visitation by Month at Montezuma Well, 2002-2007 129 6: Visitation by Month at Tuzigoot National Monument, 2002-2007 130 7: Percentages of Visitors Seeing One or More Sites 132 8: Top Five States of Residence for Visitors 132 9: Full-Time and Part-Time Employment, Yavapai County, 2002 147 10: Population Forecasts to 2030, Coconino and Yavapai Counties 150

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CONTENTS (Continued)

TABLES

1: Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments Management Zones 48 2: Cost Summary for Each Alternative 72 3: Environmentally Preferred Alternative Analysis 83 4: Summary of the Alternatives 86 5: How the Alternatives Meet the Objectives 90 6: Summary of Impacts of the Alternatives 93 7: Endangered, Candidate, and Special Status Species with the Potential to Occur at Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments 124 8: Regional Parks, Monuments, and Recreational Areas 140 9: Full-Time Equivalent Employees for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments 142 10: Number of Establishments, by Industrial Sector and Community, 2003 146 11: Average Annual Unemployment Rates 147 12: Personal Income among Verde Valley Households, 1999 148 13: Annual Visitor Spending in the Verde Valley by Visitors to Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments 152 14: Direct Economic Impacts of Visitor Spending in the Verde Valley, 2003 154 15: Direct Economic Impacts in the Verde Valley of the Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments Operations, Fiscal Year 2004 154 16: Total Economic Impacts In the Verde Valley of the Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments, 2003 154

xviii CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

INTRODUCTION

This General Management Plan and Envi- • Director’s Order 12 on conservation ronmental Assessment presents and ana- planning, environmental impact analy- lyzes alternative future directions for the sis, and decision-making (NPS 2001); management and use of Montezuma Cas- • Section 106 of the National Historic tle and Tuzigoot national monuments. Preservation Act (16 United States The two monuments, approximately 20 Code 470 et seq.); miles apart, are managed together. Within this plan, alternative B is preferred by the • Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, National Park Service (NPS). The poten- section 800, Protection of Historic tial environmental impacts of the alterna- Properties; and tives have been identified and assessed. • Cultural resource management guide- General management plans establish and lines in chapter 5 of Management Poli- articulate a management philosophy and cies 2006 and Director's Order 28 and framework for long-term (15 to 20 years) its associated guidelines. decision-making and problem solving in Chapter 1: Purpose and Need sets the units of the national park system. framework for the entire document. It de- Actions directed by general management scribes why the plan is being prepared and plans or in subsequent implementation what needs it must address. It gives guid- plans are intended to be accomplished ance for the alternatives that are being over time. Budget restrictions, require- considered, which are based on the Mon- ments for additional data or regulatory tezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- compliance, and competing NPS priorities numents’ legislated missions, their pur- prevent immediate implementation of poses, the significance of their resources, many actions. Major or particularly costly special mandates and administrative actions could be implemented 10 or more commitments, and servicewide mandates years into the future. The approval of this and policies. plan does not guarantee that the funding This chapter also details the planning op- for proposed actions will be forthcoming. portunities and issues that were raised The implementation of the approved plan, during public scoping meetings and initial no matter which alternative is selected, planning team efforts that served as the will depend on future NPS funding levels basis for developing the alternatives pre- and servicewide priorities. sented in chapter 2. It presents the fundamental resources and values that guide A GUIDE TO THIS DOCUMENT planning and decision making, the guiding This document contains the general man- management principles that shape the agement plan and an environmental as- monuments’ management, and the rela- sessment that discloses the impacts asso- tionship to other plans that could affect ciated with each of the alternatives. It con- implementation of this general manage- forms with: ment plan. This chapter concludes with the scope of the environmental impact • The Council on Environmental Quali- analysis, including the identification of the ty’s (1978) implementing regulations impact topics that were analyzed in detail. for the National Environmental Policy Act; Chapter 2: Alternatives, including the Preferred Alternative, begins by describ- • NPS planning guidelines in chapter 2 ing the management prescriptions that will of Management Policies 2006 (NPS be used to manage Montezuma Castle and 2006);

3 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

Tuzigoot national monuments in the fu- The references at the end include the bib- ture. Alternative A describes the continua- liography, index, and appendixes with tion of current management and trends in supporting information for the document. Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments. Alternative B (preferred) and BRIEF DESCRIPTION alternative C, collectively called the action OF THE MONUMENTS alternatives, provide other approaches for Montezuma Castle National Monument managing the monuments. (including Montezuma Well) and Mitigation measures to minimize or elimi- Tuzigoot National Monument are NPS nate the impacts of some proposed actions units in central Arizona. The monuments are described. A discussion is also pro- are within a 30-minute drive of each other vided of the alternatives considered by the and are managed collectively under a National Park Service and dismissed from single administrative organization. The further analysis. The chapter concludes Vicinity - Arizona map shows the with summary tables of the three alterna- locations of these NPS units. tive actions and the environmental consequences of implementing those alternative Montezuma Castle National Monument actions. Montezuma Castle National Monument is Chapter 3: Affected Environment de- approximately 3 miles east of I-17 exit 289. scribes the areas and resources that would The National Monument has a visitor cen- be affected by implementing actions under ter, a bookstore, and a museum that in- the alternatives. These include cultural clude exhibits and artifacts depicting the resources, natural resources, visitor use lifestyle, history, and culture of the Sina- and experience, and socioeconomics. guan Indians, who built Montezuma Cas- tle. The Castle itself is not open to the Chapter 4: Environmental Conse- public, but a trail below the Castle offers quences analyzes the impacts of imple- many panoramic viewpoints. The monu- menting the alternatives on the impact ment also contains restrooms, a picnic topics that were identified in chapter 1. area, and a parking facility for cars and Methods used for assessing the impacts in recreational vehicles. Several administra- terms of the intensity, type, and duration tive buildings housing ranger operations of impacts are outlined at the beginning of are south of the parking facility. Monte- the chapter. zuma Well, about 4 miles east of I-17 exit Chapter 5: Consultation and Coordina- 293, contains a picnic area, restrooms, hik- tion describes the history of public and ing trails, a visitor contact station, bulletin agency coordination during the planning boards displaying visitor information, a effort and lists agencies and organizations small parking area, and several administra- that will receive copies of this document. tive buildings east of the Back ranch area.

4 L Grand Canyon ak e M National Park e a 160 d Canyon de Chelly 180 C National Monument o 264 lo Kaibab ra d o National Forest R 191 . H 89 a va su C r . Peach Springs 180 Wupatki National Monument 64 191 Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument 77 Kingman 40 89 Walnut Canyon 87 Kaibab National Forest Flagstaff National Monument

Winslow 93 Prescott Coconino National Forest National Forest Paulden Sedona L itt le Tuzigoot National Monument Holbrook C Petrified Forest 191 Prescott Clarkdale o Chino Valley lo National Park National Forest Jerome ra Cornville do R Cottonwood 179 . Prescott 17 Montezuma Well 93 377 180

260 Montezuma Castle Camp Verde

National Monument V 96 e r d e R . Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

260 89 Payson 60

Springerville

Tonto National Forest 87 60 17 260 288 72 60 60 New River

. R Peoria lt a Surprise S 101 Scottsdale Glendale 188 Tonto National Monument 10 Phoenix Fountain Hills 191 Avondale 88 Goodyear 101 Mesa

Vicinity - Arizona Interstate City Areas 0 10 20 40 Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monument Miles US and State Highway National Forest United States Department of the Interior / National Park Service State and County Highway National Park DSC - 309 - 20027 - May 2009 Background data source: ESRI StreetMap North America CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

Montezuma Castle National Monument Montezuma Well was added in 1943 as a was established in 1906 by Presidential 260-acre detached unit of Montezuma proclamation under the authority of the Castle National Monument through an Antiquities Act. This proclamation and Act of Congress (October 19, 1943, 57 other legal mandates relating to the Stat. 572). It preserves an unusual example monuments are provided in appendix A. of a spring-fed, large, limestone sink, plus ruins and sites of prehistoric Hohokam The monument preserves a prehistoric and Sinagua periods and historic Apache structure known as Montezuma Castle, sites. In 1959, 17 acres were authorized by which is a 20-room, five-story cliff an Act of Congress (June 23, 1959, 73 Stat. dwelling of the prehistoric Sinagua 108) “to facilitate the administration and culture. It is one of the best-preserved cliff protection” of the monument. This land dwellings in America. The legislation has not been acquired and remains in states it “is of the greatest ethnological private ownership. value and scientific interest” (Presidential Proclamation No. 696, December 8, 1906, Today, Montezuma Castle National 34 Stat. 3265). Subsequent boundary Monument contains 1,004 acres within its changes are as follows: boundary. This includes the 727-acre Castle site and the 277-acre Well site. • In February 1937, 360 acres of land Land ownership and key features within adjacent to the monument were add- these sites are shown in the following ed, with a subsequent addition of 90 maps: acres, as “required for the proper care, management, and protection of the • Montezuma Castle Site – Parcel Map; said prehistoric ruins and ancient cliff and dwellings” (Presidential Proclamation • Montezuma Well Site – Parcel Map. No. 2226, February 23, 1937, 50 Stat. 1817). Tuzigoot National Monument • In 1959, the boundaries were again Tuzigoot National Monument is approx- enlarged by 42 acres “in order to facili- imately 20 miles northwest of I-17 exit 287 tate the administration and protec- (Arizona Highway 260), near the town of tion” of the monument by an Act of Clarkdale, Arizona. Tuzigoot contains a Congress (June 23, 1959, 73 Stat. 108). visitor center and museum with a collec- • Another boundary change came in tion of Sinaguan artifacts, a nature trail, 1978 with an Act of Congress to in- restrooms, an administrative building, and corporate the adjacent fossil mammal a parking facility. tracks and exclude an area used as Tuzigoot National Monument was right-of-way for the freeway (Public established by Presidential proclamation Law 95-625, November 10, 1978, 92 No. 2344 on July 25, 1939. This Stat. 3473). proclamation and other legal mandates • The boundary was adjusted in De- relating to the monuments are provided in cember 19, 2003 to further protect the appendix A. riparian areas of Beaver Creek (Public Law 108-190), increasing the monument area by 157 acres.

6 Coconino 8 National 01-111 Forest 17 9 01-113

01-107

Montezuma Castle

Visitor Center 01-101

National Forest National

National Forest National Coconino Coconino Coconino Coconino 01-108

01-110

01-109 16 17

01-102

Montezuma Castle Site - Parcel Map Montezuma Castle National Monument United States Department of the Interior / National Park Service DSC - 309 - 20022 - May 2009 Data Sources: Tract Boundary: National Park Service, Land Resources Division (10/3/2007) Interstate Tract Boundary

State & County Hwy Federal Local or Rural Road Private Section Boundary Authorized/Legislated Boundary 0 0.125 0.25 Miles Quarter-quarter Section Boundary Tract Register Tract Owner Date Status NPS Interest Held Acreage 01-101 National Park Service July 1973 Federal Fee Simple 2.17 01-102 National Park Service August 1973 Federal Fee Simple 40 01-107 National Park Service February 1937 Federal Fee Simple 360 01-108 National Park Service December 1906 Federal Fee Simple 161.41 01-109 National Park Service February 1937 Federal Fee Simple 90 01-110 National Park Service April 1940 Federal Fee Simple 114.15 01-111 National Park Service July 1979 Federal Fee Simple 14.84 01-113 National Park Service December 2007 Federal Fee Simple 157

T15 N; R6E T15N; T15 N; R5E T15N;

01-104

36 Well

01-105 01-103

Montezuma Well Site - Parcel Map Montezuma Castle National Monument United States Department of the Interior / National Park Service DSC - 309 - 20023 - May 2009 Data Sources: Tract Boundary: National Park Service, Land Resources Division (10/3/2007)

Interstate Tract Boundary

State & County Hwy Federal Local or Rural Road Private Section Boundary 0 0.125 0.25 Authorized/Legislated Boundary Miles Quarter-quarter Section Boundary

Tract Register Tract Owner Date Status NPS Interest Held Acreage 01-103 Private Ownership Private Not Aquired 16.83 01-104 National Park Service April 1947 Federal Fee Simple 77.74 01-105 National Park Service April 1947 Federal Fee Simple 183.6 T14N; R3E

17 16 Pecks Lake 15

Coconino 01-108 National 01-104 Forest

Clarkdale 01-101 Visitor Center 20 21 22 Broadway 01-102

01-103 01-104

01-105

01-106 01-107

Tuzigoot National Monument - Parcel Map United States Department of the Interior / National Park Service DSC - 309 - 20024 - May 2009

Data Sources: Tract Boundary: National Park Service, Land Resources Division (10/3/2007)

State & County Highway Federal, Fee Federal, Less Than Fee- Local or Rural Road Right of Way

Quarter- quarter Section Boundary 0 0.25 0.5 Private Miles Section Boundary Authorized/Legislated Park Boundary

Tract Register Tract Owner Date Status NPS Interest Held Acreage 01-101 National Park Service May 1939 Federal Fee Simple (Quite Claim from School District No. 39, Yavapai County) 42.67 01-102 National Park Service December 1965 Federal Right-of-Way 9.35 01-103 National Park Service January 1966 Federal Right-of-Way 5.76 01-104 Phelps Dodge Corporation Private Not Aquired 383.43 01-105 State Park Board State Not Aquired 35.08 01-106 State Park Board State Not Aquired 3.92 01-107 State Park Board State Not Aquired 7.93 01-108 National Park Service 2006 Federal Fee Simple (Donation from Phelps Dodge Corporation) 323.75 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

The establishing Presidential • Set forth the basic management phi- proclamation states that “certain losophy or vision for Montezuma Cas- Government-owned lands [43 acres] in tle and Tuzigoot national monuments the state of Arizona have situated thereon and provide strategies for achieving historic and prehistoric structures and identified management objectives other objects of historic or scientific (“desired future conditions”). interest, and … it would be in the public • Clearly define resource conditions interest to reserve such lands as a national and visitor use and experience to be monument to be known as Tuzigoot achieved in the monuments. National Monument.” The Tuzigoot National Monument – Parcel Map shows • Identify the kinds of resource protec- land ownership and key features. tion, management, use, and development that will be appropriate in A 15-acre donation easement was added achieving and maintaining those con- to Tuzigoot National Monument in ditions. December 1965 for the entrance road. The Approach Roads Act of January 31, 1931, • Identify future partnerships and colla- was the vesting power for this addition. borative planning efforts that would facilitate the realization of the monu- Public Law 95-625 (November 1978) ments’ goals. expanded the boundary of Tuzigoot National Monument by approximately • Investigate the potential for boundary 791 acres. The legislation established an modifications, establishing the foun- acquisition ceiling of $1,350,000 and dation for a subsequent boundary ad- authorized the acquisition of lands within justment study. the boundary through purchase, donation, • Provide a framework for the monu- or exchange of other lands administered ments’ managers to use when making by the Secretary of the Interior in Arizona. decisions to protect Montezuma Cas- In December 2005, 324 acres within the tle and Tuzigoot national monuments’ expanded boundary were acquired resources, provide quality visitor use through a land exchange with Phelps and experience, manage visitor use, Dodge Corporation (now Freeport and determine the kinds of facilities, if McMoRan Copper and Gold, Inc.) as mi- any, to develop in and near the mo- tigation for a mining project. The ex- numents. change proposal was made by Phelps • Ensure that the basic foundation for Dodge in 1994 and finalized in 2005 when decision-making has been developed the Bureau of Land Management com- in consultation with interested stake- pleted the National Environmental Policy holders and adopted by the NPS lea- Act process on the mining project. This dership after an adequate analysis of exchange results in the National Park Ser- the benefits, impacts, and economic vice controlling approximately 382 acres costs of alternative courses of action. of the 791 acres that are within the authorized boundary of the monument. Laws that established the National Park Service as an agency and that govern its PURPOSE OF THE PLAN management provide the fundamental direction for the administration of Monte- The approved general management plan zuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- will be the basic document for managing numents (and other units and programs of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national the National Park Service). This general monuments for the next 15 to 20 years. management plan builds on these laws and The purposes of this general management on the legislation that established Monte- plan are as follows: zuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo-

10 Introduction numents to provide a vision for the mo- sources in the monuments. The process numents’ future. The “Guidance for the also considers the impacts of the alterna- Planning Effort” provided later in this tives on the natural, cultural, and socioe- chapter presents the topics that are impor- conomic conditions; on visitor use and tant to understanding the management experience; and on long-term economics direction at the monuments. and costs. The plan defines desired conditions that NEED FOR THE PLAN implement the goals of the National Park A general management plan is needed to Service and the public with regard to natu- meet the requirements of the National ral and cultural resource management and Parks and Recreation Act of 1978 and NPS protection and visitor use and experience. policy, which mandate development of a It also defines facilities that are appropri- general management plan for each unit in ate within each management prescription. the national park system. In the alternatives, the plan will determine This general management plan for Monte- the areas to which resource protection zuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- and desired visitor use conditions should numents is needed because the last com- be applied to achieve the management prehensive planning effort for these na- goals of the monuments. It also serves as tional monuments was completed in 1975. the basis for later, more detailed imple- Since this time, the population of the mentation plans, which will tier from the Verde Valley has increased substantially general management plan. and continues to grow. This growth has resulted in changes in land use near the ESTABLISHMENT AND monuments. Visitation to the monuments ADMINISTRATION OF also has increased over the past 30 years, MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND although some declines have occurred TUZIGOOT NATIONAL within the past decade. Each of these MONUMENTS changes has major implications for visitor expectations, how visitors access and use Increasing Euro-American use of the the monuments, facilities needed to sup- Verde Valley led to disturbance or de- port visitor uses, how resources are ma- struction of many archeological resources naged and protected, and how the Na- during the late 19th and early 20th centu- tional Park Service conducts its opera- ries. Early settlers often robbed ruins for tions. stone, built over ruins, and reused prehistoric canals. The first building constructed This general management plan represents in the original farming community in the a commitment by the National Park Ser- valley was constructed in a Sinagua ruin. vice to the public on how the monuments Later, ranchers, tourists, and others ob- will be used and managed. As such, it is tained relics and artifacts for private col- intended to confirm the mission, purpose, lections from the ruins and burial sites. and significance of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments. Montezuma Castle The general management planning National Monument process is used to determine the best mix The name of Montezuma Castle came of resource protection and visitor use from early settlers who marveled at the beyond what is prescribed by law and pol- structure and mistakenly thought that it icy. This mix is based on the purpose for was Aztec in origin. During the late 19th and significance of the monuments, the century, investigators explored and stu- range of public expectations and con- died Montezuma Castle. Their published cerns, and the natural and cultural re- findings drew increasing public attention

11 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN to the ruins. In 1875, William C. Manning Establishment and Boundary Changes. published an article in Harper’s New By Presidential Proclamation 696 [34 Stat. Monthly Magazine that described Monte- 3265], President Theodore Roosevelt es- zuma Castle, though not by name. Ladders tablished Montezuma Castle as a national leading to the ruins were already in place, monument on December 8, 1906, as au- and Manning noted 10 to 12 inches of “bat thorized under the Antiquities Act of June lime” on room floors from which he and 8, 1906. The proclamation stated that the his companions removed pot sherds. Castle, one of the best-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings in the United States, From 1884 to 1886, Dr. Edgar A. Mearns, was “of the greatest ethnological value and an army surgeon stationed at Fort Verde, scientific interest.” was the first Euro-American to conduct serious study of the ruins. He collected On February 23, 1937, Presidential Proc- artifacts at the site and apparently placed lamation 2226 (50 Stat. 1817) added 360 some objects in the collections of the acres of government land to the original American Museum of Natural History in 160-acre national monument as “required New York. In an 1890 article in The Popu- for the proper care, management, and lar Science Monthly, Mearns published a protection of the said prehistoric ruins description of the Castle, including and ancient cliff dwellings.” ground plans and descriptions of some An Act of Congress (57 Stat. 572) on Oc- rooms and features. tober 19, 1943, authorized purchase of the In 1897, the Arizona Antiquarian Associa- 180-acre Well site, 4.5 miles northeast of tion raised $150 from private sources to the Castle along the banks of Wet Beaver undertake the first repair and stabilization Creek (a tributary to Beaver Creek). The of some of the ruins’ walls under the lea- purpose of this action was to preserve an dership of Dr. Joshua Miller of Prescott, unusual example of a spring-fed, large, the association’s first president. Although natural limestone sink as well as ruins and no settlers occupied the land, many sites associated with the Hohokam and people visited the Castle during the late Sinagua cultures and historic Apache sites. 1890s and early 1900s, and traffic through The legislation established Montezuma the ruins left its mark. Well as a detached unit of the Montezuma Castle National Monument and included In 1888, William B. Back moved with his the transfer of 77.74 additional acres from family on to what would later become Coconino National Forest to the monu- known as the Montezuma Well property, ment to facilitate administration of the irrigating crops by using the lime-coated Montezuma Well site. However, funds for prehistoric ditches built by the Sinagua. the purchase of the Montezuma Well Back built structures on the property, in- property were not appropriated until pas- cluding the family home, a log smoke- sage of the Interior Appropriation Bill for house, and a blacksmith shop and a pig Fiscal Year 1947. On March 3, 1947, the pen in an alcove. Back’s homestead entry property passed into federal ownership. was patented on July 18, 1907, and by 1910 he was operating Montezuma Well as a On June 23, 1959 (73 Stat. 108), 17 acres tourist attraction. After Back died in 1929, were added to the Montezuma Well site William Back Jr. moved to the Montezuma and 42 acres were added to the Castle site Well property with his wife, and con- to “facilitate the administration and pro- structed a stone museum to house the tection” of the monument. numerous artifacts that the family had A land exchange between Coconino Na- taken from ruins surrounding Montezuma tional Forest and the National Park Ser- Well. vice on November 10, 1978 (Public Law 95-625; 92 Stat. 3473), resulted in a net

12 Introduction increase of approximately 18 acres of land ledges, repaired damaged wall and floor to the national monument. This included sections throughout the structure, res- about 13 acres that contained the fossi- tored doorways and lintels, rebuilt por- lized footprints of Pliocene mammals, in- tions of the roof, and cleaned out the inte- cluding mammoth, three-toed tapir, cat, riors of the front room. They also re- and camel. Approximately 5 acres were moved the disfiguring corrugated iron deleted for use as a right-of-way for Inter- roof installed by the Arizona Antiquarian state Highway 17. Association in 1897, and scrubbed off hundreds of names written on the Castle’s On December 19, 2003, Public Law 108- walls. 190 expanded the national monument’s boundaries by adding 157 acres of adja- During 1926 to 1927, Martin Jackson and cent land to protect important riparian his son Earl (who would be hired as a sea- values along Beaver Creek and to preserve sonal ranger in 1928 and later was the first the scenic backdrop for the national mo- full-time employee of Montezuma Castle nument. National Monument) constructed the first ranger cabin and dug the first well at the National Park Service Administration. national monument. The Jacksons also In its early years, the monument was sub- built a new campground and picnic area ject to inconsistent supervision, inade- and set up a display in the cabin for arti- quate management, unanswered requests facts recovered during their annual clean- for better funding, and continued damage ing and repair projects of the ruins. In to the its prehistoric ruins. However, dur- September 1928, Martin Jackson became ing this time, some improvements were the full-time custodian of the monument, made by Martin L. Jackson, a local settler and he continued in that position until who resided on his family’s homestead 1937. The Jacksons built a new structure, several miles from the Castle. Jackson and fashioned the east end of the building contracted with the National Park Service below their residence into a concession to construct a lower trail, which led from shop. Beginning in the 1930s, the National the campground at the base of the Castle Park Service began hiring seasonal rangers to the Castle itself; an upper trail, connect- to help with the growing numbers of ing the top of the cliff and the Castle; and a summer visitors to the national monu- drainage ditch on the cliff above the Cas- ment. tle. In addition, Jackson improved the two Earl Jackson received graduate training at rough roads that provided access to the the University of Arizona and later be- monument from the nearby highway. come an NPS archeologist and replaced In 1921, Jackson was appointed by the Na- his father as full-time custodian of the national Park Service as the national monu- tional monument. From 1937 to 1943, Earl ment’s first part-time custodian. Frank Jackson conducted an archeological sur- Pinkley, who would serve as superinten- vey of the middle Verde River drainage dent of the southwestern national monu- area for his master’s thesis. In 1933 and ments from 1923 to 1939, agreed to over- 1934, Earl, along with Sallie Pierce Van see Jackson’s supervision of the site, in- Valkenburgh, excavated Castle A in the cluding semiannual trips to the national national monument using Civil Works monument to assist with larger ruins re- Administration funding. Recovered repair and stabilization projects. mains included intact vessels, pottery sherds, stone tools, textiles, and grinding During 1923 to 1925, the two men, along slabs. Food remains included corncobs with a hired crew, repaired and re- and husks, plant stems, seeds, beans, and plastered the front wall of the lower two- deer and antelope bones. Artifacts of thirds of the Castle, strengthened the “addition” section, stabilized parts of the cliff

13 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN wood, bone, horn, leather, shell, and tur- cluding a new campground and picnic quoise were found, as were 28 burials. area along Beaver Creek, a boundary fence to keep stray cattle out of the monument, Using funds and labor provided by New a new electrical system, a raised section of Deal public works agencies, the National revetment wall along Beaver Creek, and an Park Service implemented major im- improved entrance road and new roads provements at Montezuma Castle during connecting the campground and resi- the Great Depression, transforming it into dence areas. a “first-rate monument.” New facilities were constructed to accommodate the After World War II, existing buildings on ever-increasing number of visitors, a va- the Montezuma Well site were repaired riety of interpretive and educational pro- and modernized. The former Back cabin grams were developed, and preservation was rehabilitated, two guest houses were activities, including expanded ruins stabi- adapted for storage space and a car stall, lization and repair projects, ensured pro- the stone museum building was rehabili- tection of the monument’s cultural re- tated for new exhibits, a new well and sources. Projects at the national monu- pump were developed to provide domes- ment during 1933 and 1934 included: tic water, and tillable land was leased to the Montezuma Dairy Company for pro- • A new parking lot that left clear the duction of forage crops. Other structures “sacred area” in front of the Castle. in the Montezuma Well site, including a • A rubble revetment to protect the en- shed, barn, chicken coop, and privy, were larged picnic grounds and Sycamore torn down. Trail from frequent Beaver Creek The cliff dwelling ruins were closed to the flooding. public in 1951, but increasing numbers of • A cleared space for a new visitors continued to make it one of the campground. most-visited prehistoric southwestern ruins in the United States. Thus, the Na- • Reconstruction and repair of the en- tional Park Service made extensive im- trance road. provements to the national monument • A flagstone trail connecting a light facilities from 1957 to 1960 as part of its plant engine and a 2000-watt genera- Mission 66 program. These projects in- tor to the museum and ranger’s resi- cluded: dence. • Construction of a visitor center, in- • A rustic stone garage and shed for sto- cluding space for administrative offic- rage of a government car and monu- es and museum exhibits. ment supplies. • Construction of a three-unit apart- • A septic tank and sewer line. ment complex adjacent to the two rustic adobe residential structures. • An interpretive trail passing in front of the Castle cliff and Castle A ruins. • Improvement and enlargement of the monument’s water, sewer, and elec- • Installation of a telephone box. trical systems. In 1939, two new rustic Pueblo-style • Development of a new well and sto- adobe (with stucco coating) residences rage tank. were constructed to provide living quarters for the families of the custodian and • Improvement and development of ranger, and the former custodian’s resi- new roads and trails, an enlarged dence was converted into needed office parking area, and new landscaping. and museum space. The next few years saw the completion of other projects, in-

14 Introduction

• Construction of two new residences at Ruin on the ridge across the Verde River the Montezuma Well site. south of Tuzigoot and the Hatalacva Pueblo west of Tuzigoot, but records of A shelter was constructed over and these activities, other than a few photo- around the pit house excavated by Dale graphs, have not been found. Breternitz, curator of anthropology at the University of Northern Arizona, along the In 1935 and 1936, the Works Progress Montezuma Well site entrance road in Administration (WPA) provided funding 1958. In 1960, seven of the nine rooms in for construction of a rustic stone Pueblo- the Swallet Cave ruin, inside the Monte- style museum building adjacent to the zuma Well rim, were excavated by monu- ruins to house and exhibit the artifacts ment archeologist Edmund J. Ladd. recovered during the excavation. A stone veneer storage tool house, pump house, Tuzigoot National Monument and retaining wall built of local river rock were constructed as support facilities. Early investigators in the Verde Valley probably knew of the Tuzigoot ruins, but At the time, the museum building was on they were not officially recorded until land owned by the Phelps Dodge Corpo- 1933. In that year, the Archaeological ration (now Freeport McMoRan Copper Committee of the Yavapai County Cham- and Gold, Inc.). The corporation deeded ber of Commerce at Prescott sought to the land to School District 29, which in provide prehistoric materials for display at turn transferred the land to the federal the Smoki Museum in Prescott, and chose government. Tuzigoot as a promising site for excava- President Franklin D. Roosevelt on July tion. 25, 1939, via Presidential Proclamation In 1933 and 1934, the site was excavated No. 2344, established Tuzigoot National and partially stabilized by Louis R. Cay- Monument to preserve “historic and pre- wood and Edward Spicer under the guid- historic structures and other objects of ance of Dr. Byron Cummings of the Uni- historic or scientific interest.” The monu- versity of Arizona using funds provided by ment initially included about 43 acres and the Federal Emergency Relief and Civil was set aside to preserve the pueblo, “one Works Administrations. The project re- of the largest in the area.” The museum, sulted in the nearly complete excavation which is one of the few original national of the pueblo, including 86 ground floor monument visitor centers still in use in the rooms, three refuse areas, and 411 burials southwestern United States, was included (429 individuals). In 1934, Caywood and in the parcel and was originally staffed by Spicer reburied nearly all of the Tuzigoot a custodian furnished by the Phelps skeletal remains in the slope below the Dodge Corporation. prehistoric pueblo close to the original Expansion of the national monument oc- cemetery. Less than 10% of the osteologi- curred in December 1965 when a 15.1- cal remains were placed in archeological acre donation easement was added to storage. provide a right-of-way for construction of Caywood and Spicer named the pueblo a new approach road. “Tuzigoot,” the Tonto Apache name for While cultural resource preservation was Peck’s Lake that means “crooked water.” the primary impetus for establishing Tuzi- After the excavation, four rooms in the goot National Monument, the importance Group 4 room block were reconstructed, of preserving the natural setting of the but were later dismantled to their post- monument also was recognized. To excavation condition. Caywood and Spic- achieve that objective, Public Law 95-625 er also apparently directed the excavation (November 10, 1978) expanded the boun- of portions of the Tuzigoot Extension daries of the national monument to in-

15 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN clude approximately 791 additional acres A tract of 47 acres within the 1978 boun- and authorized the acquisition of lands dary expansion is owned by the state of within the expanded boundary through Arizona and managed by Arizona State purchase, donation, or exchange of other Parks. This parcel includes Verde River lands in Arizona administered by the Sec- frontage and is part of the Verde River retary of the Interior. Greenway, a unit of Dead Horse Ranch State Park. In December 2005, the National Park Ser- vice acquired more than 40% of the area Stabilization has been ongoing at the Tu- within the expanded boundary through a zigoot Pueblo since the national monu- land exchange with Phelps Dodge Corpo- ment was established. This work has con- ration. In an action that involved these sisted mostly of maintenance and small two entities and the Bureau of Land Man- stabilization jobs carried out by monu- agement, 324 acres within the expanded ment staff, but it also included four major boundary were transferred to NPS owner- stabilization projects between 1940 and ship as part of the mitigation for a mining the late 1960s. Stabilization work resulted project at another location. in repairs throughout the pueblo and also uncovered an occasional undisturbed Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold, burial or pot cache, indicating that undis- Inc. continues to own about 375 acres turbed deposits still remain. within the expanded boundary of Tuzi- goot National Monument. The National During the Mission 66 program, the Na- Park Service will continue to work coope- tional Park Service constructed a modern ratively with Freeport McMoRan. to triplex residence at the national monu- maintain the resources that caused Con- ment to provide employee housing. gress to include the land in the monument boundary.

GUIDANCE FOR THE PLANNING EFFORT

enough to warrant the designation as a MISSION STATEMENT national park unit. These statements iden- The mission of the National Park Service tify the resources and values central to is to preserve, protect, and interpret the managing the area and express the impor- structures, objects, and other remnants of tance of the area to our natural and cul- the prehistoric cultures at Montezuma tural heritage. Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments, The primary significance of Montezuma and to perpetuate the cultural and natural Castle National Monument and Tuzigoot landscapes associated with those cultures. National Monument is summarized as follows: PURPOSE AND SIGNIFICANCE • Montezuma Castle is the largest, most Purpose statements reaffirm the reasons accessible, and best-preserved Sina- for which the monuments were set aside guan cliff dwelling in the Southwest. as units of the national park system and provide the foundation for management • Tuzigoot is one of the largest known and use of the monuments. The state- pueblos of Sinaguan origin and serves ments are based on the monuments’ legis- as a benchmark of the Tuzigoot Phase lation and legislative history and on NPS of the archeological record. policies. • The excavation, restoration, and development of Tuzigoot illustrate De- Purpose pression-era (Civilian Works Adminis- The purposes of Montezuma Castle and tration, Works Project Administration, Tuzigoot national monuments are to: and Civilian Conservation Corps) pioneering archeological efforts in the • Preserve and manage prehistoric and Southwest and were instrumental in historic structures and their related re- the preservation and accessibility of sources within Montezuma Castle, this and other national monuments. Montezuma Well, and Tuzigoot. • The monuments’ archeological collec- • Protect and manage ecological tions constitute one of the largest arti- processes and conditions related to fact assemblages, including trade ware, the mix of desert and riparian habitats of the Southern Sinagua culture of the to maintain sustainable cultural and Verde Valley. natural landscapes. • Montezuma Well is a unique, spring- • Promote stewardship through educa- fed, limestone sink connected to rem- tion and interpretation of continuing nants of an extensive prehistoric irri- cultural adaptations to a desert envi- gation system via a natural outlet. ronment. • Because of its unique environment, • Provide opportunities for the explora- Montezuma Well has substantial tion of appropriate ethnological and scientific value and contains species scientific interests. not found in any other waters in the Significance world. • Significance statements build on the mo- The monuments preserve a mixture of nument’s purpose and clearly state why, riparian and desert landscapes that within a national context, the monument’s sustains a diverse ecological system. resources and values are important This system supports life on a local,

17 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

national, and global scale by providing Cultural Connectivity migratory routes and important habi- This category lists the fundamental re- tat. sources and values that support an under- • The monuments represent a conti- standing of the monuments’ role within nuum of land use from pre-Columbian larger geographic networks of explora- cultures through the present and have tion, settlement, resource development, enormous learning potential about the and trade from prehistoric time to today. relationship between humans and The fundamental resources and values in their environment. this category also support an understanding of continuing cultural adaptation to • The natural and cultural resources the desert environment. within the monuments are significant to native tribes, as evidenced by oral • The vistas at the monuments that al- histories, the archeological record, low visitors to experience and under- and continuing practices and beliefs. stand the line-of-sight relationships To this day, eight tribes maintain an among the prehistoric pueblos that affiliation with the monuments. were regularly spaced, approximately 1.8 miles apart, along the major drai- • Montezuma Castle was among the nages of the Verde Valley. The vistas first four national monuments created make it possible to see the following through the Antiquities Act of 1906, pueblos: Sacred Mountain (Well), affording the first federal protection Thoeny (Well), the Salt Mine Pueblo of archeological resources. (Castle), Bridgeport Pueblo (Tuzi- goot), the Tuzigoot Extension (Tuzi- FUNDAMENTAL goot), and Hatalacva (Tuzigoot). RESOURCES AND VALUES • The connection of structures within Fundamental resources and values are the monuments boundaries that reveal monument’s attributes – its features, sys- patterns in prehistoric land use and tems, processes, experiences, stories, the related opportunity to contrast the scenes, sounds, smells, opportunities for similarities and differences in land use visitor enjoyment, or others – that are crit- to man’s relationship with the envi- ical to achieving the monument’s purpose ronment from prehistoric to modern and to maintaining its significance. Other times. important resources and values are the other monument attributes that are im- • The resources and opportunities to portant but not related to the monument’s understand the role of the Verde Val- purpose and significance. This section de- ley as a major trading hub and an ex- scribes the fundamental resources and porter of argillite, salt, and copper de- values and other important resources and rivatives. values of the Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- • The stories, oral histories, and re- goot national monuments. The fundamen- sources revealing the role of the Verde tal resources and values warrant primary River, Montezuma Well, Tavasci consideration during planning and man- Marsh, Beaver Creek, and Wet Beaver agement or are important to monument Creek in prehistoric and historic management and planning. trade, travel, exploration, and settle- The fundamental resources and values are ment of the area. grouped into three categories: cultural connectivity, structures and related resources and values, and natural features.

18 Guidance for the Planning Effort

Structures and Related Hill and the site of a two-to-five-room Resources and Values masonry structure on the eastern slope of Tuzigoot Hill. This category lists the fundamental resources and values that support preserva- Natural Features tion and understanding of the prehistoric and historic structures and related re- This category lists the fundamental resources and values of the monuments. sources and values that support protection and understanding of the significant natu- Montezuma Castle. The prehistoric Sina- ral features and ecological processes of the gua structures and related resources of the monuments. Castle, including four cliff dwellings and • The unique hydrology and geology of five rockshelters on the limestone face of the monuments, including the spring- the north bank of Beaver Creek, three fed, large, limestone sink of Monte- agricultural sites evidenced by small stone zuma Well; the spring-fed Tavasci structures in the floodplain of Beaver Marsh draining onto the fields below; Creek, one or two room masonry struc- the limestone formations of the mo- tures, a bedrock mortar site southeast of numents; Beaver Creek; Wet Beaver the Castle in the inner channel of Beaver Creek; and the Verde River. Creek, and two lithic scatter sites above the Castle and between the Castle’s access • Special species at Montezuma Well, road and Highway 17. including Kinosternon sonoriense (So- noran mud turtle), Hyalella montezu- The high degree of architectural integrity ma (Amphipod), and Erpobdella mon- of the Castle cliff dwelling including the tezuma (leech). boulder/adobe-and-cobble masonry building construction, viga-and-latilla roof • The ecological processes and condi- construction, and the three-sided alcove tions related to the integration of des- niche carved into the limestone cliffs shel- sert and riparian landscapes. tering the cliff dwelling. Other Important Resources and Values Montezuma Well. The prehistoric Ho- The monuments also have the following hokam and Sinagua and historic Apache noteworthy resources and values that are structures and related resources, including less than “fundamental, but that remain 22 rockshelters sites within the inside rim important. of Montezuma Well and the limestone cliffs overlooking arable land or prehistor- For cultural connectivity, these include ic irrigation ditches, two pueblos sites on partnerships with tribes, adjacent land the south rim of Montezuma Well, several owners, and local private and public agen- one or two room masonry structures, agri- cies. cultural features including well-preserved Additional, important structures and re- segments of a prehistoric irrigation canal lated resources and values include the system, artifact scatters, a burial ground, structures (museum and offices, storage and a prehistoric cobble concentration at tool house, pump house, and retaining the edge of a cliff overlooking the irriga- wall) and pioneering archeological tech- tion canal. nologies developed at Tuzigoot by the Works Progress Administration and Civi- Tuzigoot. The prehistoric Sinagua struc- lian Conservation Corps. They also in- tures and archeological evidence used to clude structures and site features asso- understand the sociopolitical organization ciated with 19th century homesteading of this large cluster settlement, including activities, including the Back cabin, the Tuzigoot Pueblo on the crest of Tuzigoot

19 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN smokehouse structure, and irrigation Partnerships ditch. Establish and maintain partnerships to Additional, important natural features in- improve visitor orientation to the sites and clude: other opportunities adjacent to the monuments and elsewhere in the Verde Val- • The function of the Verde River, ley. Beaver Creek, and Wet Beaver Creek as wildlife corridors and habitat for Establish and maintain effective partner- birds and mammals; ships and collaborative planning efforts that facilitate the realization of the monu- • Mesquite bosques found at the Mon- ments’ goals. tezuma Well and Tuzigoot sites; • The night sky vistas at the Montezuma PRIMARY Well and Castle sites; and INTERPRETIVE THEMES • Open space for recreation at Monte- Primary interpretive themes are the key zuma Well. ideas through which the monuments’ resource values are conveyed to the public. OBJECTIVES They connect monuments’ resources and values to the purpose and significance, Objectives are the specific, measurable providing the building blocks on which goals that Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- the interpretive program is based. The goot national monuments will use to man- primary interpretive themes for Monte- age and preserve their resources. zuma Castle National Monument and Tu- Cultural and Natural Resources zigoot National Monument are the following: Implement resource management activi- • ties to improve resource conditions and Land use patterns and human settle- protect the fundamental resources and ment of the Verde Valley illustrate the values of the monuments. continuum of occupation in the Southwest and demonstrate how con- Provide monument facilities and use them temporary cultures are linked to, and in a manner that minimizes adverse im- identify with, this place. pacts on cultural and natural resources. • Riparian areas of the Verde Valley Visitor Use and Experience support a diversity of plants and animals and serve an important role in Provide improved connections between scientific discovery and species sur- the three sites including information, vival as habitat is lost to development orientation, and wayfinding. worldwide. Provide interpretive and education oppor- • Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- tunities that improve visitor understand- tional monuments serve as bench- ing and appreciation of the purpose, signi- marks of pioneering archeological ef- ficance, and fundamental resources and forts in the Southwest and demon- values of the monuments. strate evolving scientific inquiry, methods, and interpretations that help us Monument Operations understand past human experiences Improve efficiency and effectiveness in all and how they inform the present. divisions and functions of monument op- • The experiences of people in the erations. Verde Valley demonstrate how, through migration, travel, and trade

20 Guidance for the Planning Effort

along natural corridors, cultures influ- that are needed to comply with federal ence and affect one another. laws and NPS policies. • The preservation and interpretation of Many management directives are specified Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- in laws and policies guiding the National tional monuments illustrate the Na- Park Service and, therefore, are not sub- tional Park Service mission of protect- ject to alternative approaches. For exam- ing exemplary sites that contribute to ple, there are laws about managing envi- our national identity while providing ronmental quality (such as air quality, authentic places and experiences for threatened and endangered species, and people to connect to their heritage. wetlands), laws governing the preservation of cultural resources (such as the Na- SPECIAL MANDATES AND tional Historic Preservation Act), and laws ADMINISTRATIVE about providing public services (such as COMMITMENTS barrier-free access). A general management plan is not needed to decide, for ex- Special mandates and administrative ample, that it is appropriate to protect en- commitments refer to monument-specific dangered species, control exotic species, requirements. These formal agreements protect archeological sites, conserve arti- are often established concurrently with facts, and provide access to people with the creation of a unit of the national park impaired mobility. system. These include the following: The NPS Organic Act (16 United States • The Beaver Creek Road crosses Code, section 1) provides the fundamental through the Montezuma Well site of management direction for all units of the Montezuma Castle. This road is on National Park Service. In this act, the Na- federal land but is maintained by Ya- tional Park Service is charged to vapai County. The National Park Ser- vice and the county work collabora- Promote and regulate the use of the tively to ensure that this road is main- Federal areas known as national tained for public transit. parks, monuments, and reservations…by such means and measure • The National Park Service has a part- as conform to the fundamental pur- nership with Western National Parks pose of said parks, monuments and Association to manage the sales of in- reservations, which purpose is to con- terpretation-related merchandise, serve the scenery and the natural and such as books, at the Montezuma Cas- historic objects and the wild life there- tle and Tuzigoot visitor centers. This in and to provide for the enjoyment of partnership is governed by the laws of the same in such manner and by such the state of Arizona and NPS policy. means as will leave them unimpaired The sale of merchandise provides a for the enjoyment of future genera- service to visitors and provides funds tions. for management of the monuments. The National Park System General Au- SERVICEWIDE thorities Act (16 United States Code, sec- MANDATES AND POLICIES tion 1a-1 et seq.) affirms that while all national park system units “though distinct To understand the implications of an al- in character, are united through their in- ternative, it is necessary to combine the ter-related purposes and resources into alternative’s management actions with one national park system as cumulative servicewide mandates and policies. This expressions of a single national heritage.” section identifies actions at Montezuma The act makes it clear that the NPS Organ- Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments ic Act and other protective mandates ap-

21 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN ply equally to all units of the system. Fur- The National Park Service has established ther, it states that NPS management of policies for all units under its stewardship. park units “shall not be exercised in dero- These are identified and explained in the gation of the values and purposes for guidance manual, Management Policies which these various areas have been estab- 2006 (NPS 2006). All of the alternatives lished.” considered in this general management plan, including the no-action alternative, The NPS Organic Act and the General Au- incorporate and comply with the provi- thorities Act prohibit any impairment of sions of these mandates and policies. monument resources. Therefore, chapter 4 of this general management plan in- GUIDING MANAGEMENT cludes determinations of whether the ac- PRINCIPLES AND STRATEGIES tions associated with the alternatives would result in impairment of the re- Guiding management principles and strat- sources that collectively compose the mo- egies shape the ways that monument staff numents’ “scenery and the natural and manage the fundamental resources and historic objects and the wild life therein.” values, within the limitations imposed by servicewide and special mandates, to pre- Unless an activity is required by statute, serve the monuments’ significance, fulfill the National Park Service cannot allow the monuments’ purpose, and achieve the visitor uses in the monuments that would monuments’ mission. These principles involve or result in any of the following, and strategies would guide management which are listed in section 8.2 of Manage- under all three alternatives described in ment Policies 2006 (NPS 2006): this document. • Be inconsistent with a park’s purposes Some of these principles and strategies or values. describe approaches that the monuments • Impede the attainment of a park’s de- are currently taking; others are not cur- sired conditions for natural and cul- rently being implemented but are consis- tural resources as identified through tent with NPS policy and are not contro- the park’s planning process. versial. As appropriate, the National Park Service would provide National Environ- • Create an unsafe or unhealthy environment for visitors or employees. mental Policy Act and National Historic Preservation Act compliance documenta- • Diminish opportunities for current or tion for the implementation of actions un- future generations to enjoy, learn der these principles and strategies and of about, or be inspired by park re- actions taken under the selected alterna- sources or values. tive. • Unreasonably interfere with Manage and Protect - park programs or activities, Cultural Resources - an appropriate use, The protection of cultural resources is es- - the atmosphere of peace and tran- sential for understanding the past, present, quility, or the natural soundscape and future relationship of people with the maintained in wilderness and natural, area. Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- historic, or commemorative locations tional monuments are part of the NPS Va- within the park, or nishing Treasures Initiative, which provides emergency measures to protect - NPS concessioner or contractor structures in imminent danger, evaluates operations or services. structures to determine treatment priority, and trains a younger workforce in the

22 Guidance for the Planning Effort craft skills needed for archeological pre- • Continue to maintain a diverse mu- servation. The strategies identified below seum collection according to NPS pol- will enable the National Park Service to icies. While the collection will contin- preserve unimpaired the monuments’ cul- ue to contain primarily archeological tural resources while encouraging visitors artifacts and archival documents, and employees to understand and appre- managers should look for opportuni- ciate their value. ties to expand holdings of ethnographic, historic biological, paleonto- Archeological, Historic Structures, Cul- logical, and geological specimens. tural Landscapes, and Ethnographic • Continue to improve the conditions of Resources. The strategies for managing artifact and specimen exhibits and sto- these resources will be as follows: rage according to NPS museum stan- • Continue to survey and document or dards. inventory cultural resources in accor- • Maintain and continue to expand op- dance with the National Historic Pre- portunities for researchers to use the servation Act and other applicable artifacts, specimens, and archival ma- regulations and policies. terials in the museum collection. • Gather field data regarding archeological resources to develop a more accu- Relationships with Native Americans. rate predictive model of prehistoric The National Park Service recognizes that site distribution and address related the monuments have long occupied a research questions. prominent position for Native Americans in the Verde Valley. NPS staff members • Continue to evaluate all identified re- will work to ensure that traditional Native sources to determine their eligibility American ties to the monuments are rec- for listing in the National Register of ognized and will strive to maintain posi- Historic Places. tive, productive government-to- • Use avoidance techniques and other government relationships with tribes that measures to prevent impacts on are culturally associated with the monu- known significant sites from visitors ments. The viewpoints and needs of tribes and project-related disturbances. will continue to be respected, and issues that arise will be promptly addressed. Na- • Continue to support research and tive American values will be considered in consultation to increase the under- the management and operation of the standing of all cultural resources. monuments. To enhance its relationship • Consistent with Director’s Order 75A, with the tribes, the National Park Service continue to consult with and seek to will carry out the following strategies and improve working relations with feder- actions: ally recognized tribes and the state his- • Consult regularly and maintain gov- toric preservation officer on surveys, ernment-to-government relations studies, excavations, and actions that with federally recognized tribes that potentially could affect cultural re- have traditional ties to resources with- sources. in the monuments to ensure produc- • Continue the preservation and stabili- tive, collaborative working relation- zation of prehistoric and historic ships. structures when necessary. • Continue to identify and deepen the Museum and Archival Collections. The understanding of the significance of strategies for managing museum and arc- the monuments’ resources and land- hival collections will be as follows: scapes to Native American people

23 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

through cooperative research and al park unit is fundamental to the National sharing. Park Service’s ability to protect and manage that unit. Montezuma Castle and Tu- • Once they have been identified, pro- zigoot national monuments are con- tect and preserve the sites, resources, fronted with increasingly complex and landscapes, and structures of signific- challenging issues, and the National Park ance to the federally recognized tribes Service needs scientifically credible data as required under federal laws and to make management decisions. Invento- Management Policies 2006 (NPS 2006). ries involve compiling existing informa- • Encourage the participation of tribes tion and collecting new information. In- in protecting the monuments’ natural ventories contribute to the accurate and cultural resources of interest and statement of the condition of the monu- concern to them. ments’ resources, especially the natural or unimpaired state. • Involve tribes in the monuments’ interpretation program to promote ac- A long-term ecosystem monitoring pro- curacy of information about Native gram is necessary to enable managers to: American cultural values and enhance • Make better informed decisions; public appreciation of those values. • Provide early warning of changing • Support the continuation of tradition- conditions in time to develop and im- al Native American activities in the plement effective mitigating measures; monuments to the extent allowed by applicable laws and regulations. • Persuade individuals and other agencies to make decisions benefiting the • Continue to consult and collaborate monuments; with tribes concerning issues and proposed actions that might affect Native • Satisfy certain legal mandates; Americans. • Provide reference data for relatively pristine sites for comparison with Manage and Protect areas outside the monuments; and Natural Resources • Evaluate the effectiveness of manage- The protection, study, and management of ment actions and obtain more accu- the monuments’ natural resources and rate assessments of progress towards processes are essential for achieving the management goals. monuments’ purposes and mission goals. The following principles and strategies Using monitoring information will in- will help the National Park Service retain crease confidence in managers’ decisions the ecological integrity of Montezuma and improve their ability to manage natu- Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments, ral resources. including natural resources and processes. Strategies for inventorying and monitor- These actions will help ensure that the ing include the following: monuments’ natural features are unimpaired; the areas continue to be dynamic, • Continue to develop inventories and biologically diverse environments; and the long-term monitoring programs to monuments are recognized and valued as address the status and health of the re- an outstanding example of resource ste- sources. Identify key indicators of re- wardship, conservation, education, and source or ecosystem conditions and public use. monitor them over the long term to record changes in ecosystem health. Inventory and Monitoring. Knowing the • Conduct inventories to identify verte- condition of natural resources in a nation- brate and invertebrate animal species,

24 Guidance for the Planning Effort

vascular and nonvascular plant spe- • Protect the monuments’ noteworthy cies, and air, water, and geologic re- night sky and scenic vistas as natural sources in the monuments. and cultural resources as an inspira- tion for visitor enjoyment. • Continue to participate in the Sonoran Desert Inventory and Monitoring Natural Sounds. Visitors have the oppor- Network. Work with partners and col- tunity in portions of the monuments to laborators to inventory resources and experience natural sounds, and the expe- monitor vital components of the eco- rience of reverence for cultural resources system. This will make it possible to and other experiential qualities of a cul- better assess the condition of monu- tural monument are sensitive to intrusions ments’ resources and trends and to of human-caused noise. It is important to develop databases, data analyses, and protect the natural soundscape for wildlife retrieval tools so that the usefulness of species as well. A natural, intact natural resource information can be soundscape is important for animal com- improved. munication, territory establishment, courtship and mating, nurturing young, Air Quality. Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- and effective use of habitat. The sounds of goot national monuments are designated modern society are generally confined to class II areas under the Clean Air Act. The the developed areas in the monuments. National Park Service has a responsibility Guiding principles and strategies will in- to protect air quality under both the 1916 clude protecting the monuments’ natural Organic Act and the Clean Air Act. Accor- sounds as a contribution to visitor enjoy- dingly, the National Park Service will seek ment and protecting natural sounds for to achieve the best possible air quality in the benefit of wildlife. the monuments to (1) preserve natural resources and systems; (2) preserve cul- Fire Management. Prescribed and wild- tural resources; and (3) sustain visitor en- land fire will be used as a tool to meet re- joyment, human health, and scenic vistas. source management objectives. The fol- Vegetation, visibility, water quality, wild- lowing strategies will ensure that wildland life, historic and pre-historic structures fire will be used effectively to protect re- and objects, cultural landscapes, and most sources: other elements of the monuments’ envi- • Develop and maintain a current fire ronment are sensitive to air pollution. The management plan for the monuments. National Park Service will actively promote and pursue measures to protect re- • Cooperate with adjacent communities, source from the adverse impacts of air groups, state and federal agencies, and pollution. tribes to manage fire in the monuments and the region. The National Park Service will use the following strategies to address air quality in • Use fire as appropriate to maintain the monuments: and restore native plant species and control nonnative plant species. • Eliminate or reduce emissions associated with administrative and recrea- Geologic Features. Montezuma Castle tional use of the monuments. and Tuzigoot national monuments con- • Continue to participate in regional air tain unique landforms. The National Park quality planning and research, and the Service will implement the following poli- implementation of air quality stan- cies and strategies to ensure that the geo- dards. logic features are not substantially degraded and the scenic views remain unimpaired:

25 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

• Inventory, map, and monitor geologic erally listed threatened or endangered features to assess their condition. species and their critical habitats within the monuments’ boundaries. Several spe- • Allow natural geologic processes to cial-status species, including those that are proceed unimpeded. Intervention in listed at the federal or state levels, are natural geologic processes will be known to exist in and around the monu- permitted only when directed by Con- ments and to use habitats in the monu- gress, when necessary in emergencies ments. The following actions will be taken that threaten human life and property, to protect special-status species: or when there is no other way to protect cultural resources or critical mo- • Continue to work with the United nument facilities. States (U.S.) Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Arizona Game and Fish • Develop interpretive and educational to ensure that the National Park Ser- programs to educate visitors and the vice’s actions help special status spe- public about geology. cies to recover. If any state- or federal- • Actively seek to understand and pre- ly listed or proposed threatened or serve soil resources and prevent to the endangered species are found in areas extent possible its removal or conta- that would be affected by construc- mination. tion, visitor use, or restoration activities proposed under any of the alter- • Monitor high-impact visitor use areas natives in this plan, the National Park and take actions to reduce impacts on Service will consult with the above geologic resources. agencies and will then try to avoid or mitigate any potential adverse impacts. Paleontological Resources. Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments • Cooperate with the above agencies to contain paleontological resources. The inventory, monitor, protect, and per- following strategies will be implemented petuate the natural distribution and to better understand and protect these abundance of all special-status species resources: and their essential habitats in Monte- zuma Castle and Tuzigoot national • Expand inventorying and monitoring monuments. These species and their to ensure that these nonrenewable re- habitats will be specifically considered sources are not lost. in ongoing planning and management • Manage and study paleontological re- activities. sources in their geologic context, which provides information about the Vegetation. Whenever possible, natural ancient environment. processes will be relied on to maintain native plants and plant communities. Com- • Partner with federal, state, and local munities will include the diverse species, agencies and with academic institu- genetic variability, plant associations, and tions to conduct paleontological re- successional stages representing an eco- search. logically functioning system. The follow- • Manage fossils collected in accor- ing actions will be taken to manage the dance with the monuments’ collection monuments’ vegetation: management plan. • Inventory plant communities to de- Threatened or Endangered Species. The termine the species present and moni- Endangered Species Act mandates that tor communities to identify changes in agencies, including the National Park Ser- their condition. Continue to inventory vice, promote the conservation of all fed- rare plants.

26 Guidance for the Planning Effort

• Continue efforts to control invasive Ecosystem Management. To achieve de- plants in the monuments. Continue to sired future conditions for monument re- work with other federal, state, and lo- sources, a regional perspective must be cal agencies and with private lan- considered, and it must be recognized that downers to prevent the spread of inva- actions taken on lands outside the monu- sive plant species across monument ments directly and indirectly affect the boundaries. monuments. Many of the threats to monument resources, such as invasive species • Restore extirpated native species and water pollution, come from outside where suitable habitat exists and res- the boundaries. Therefore, an ecosystem toration is compatible with social, po- approach is required to understand and litical, and ecological conditions. manage the monuments’ natural resources, and must be based on an under- Wildlife and Fish. The following policies standing of the health and condition of the and strategies will ensure that native wild- ecosystem. life and fishes are protected: Cooperation, coordination, and partner- • Determine the condition of native ships with agencies and neighbors are cru- wildlife and fish through baseline in- cial to meet or maintain the desired future ventories and use long-term monitor- conditions for the monuments. This ap- ing to identify and evaluate changes. proach to ecosystem management may • Perpetuate the native animal life as involve many parties and could include part of the natural ecosystem. Em- cooperative arrangements with federal phasize minimizing human impacts on and state agencies, tribes, or private lan- native animals and minimizing human downers to address trans-boundary is- influence on naturally occurring fluc- sues. tuations of animal populations. Rely The following strategies will allow the Na- on ecological processes to control tional Park Service to lead in resource populations of native species to the stewardship and the conservation of eco- greatest extent practical. system values within and outside the mo- • Ensure the preservation of popula- numents. They also will allow the National tions and habitats of migratory spe- Park Service to maintain good relations cies, such as birds, that use the monu- with owners of adjacent property, sur- ments. Cooperate with others to en- rounding communities, and private and hance the preservation of the popula- public groups that affect and are affected tions and habitats of migratory species by the monuments. The strategies involve outside the monuments. active involvement of monument staff members to resolve external issues and • Develop educational programs to in- ensure that the monuments’ values are not form visitors and the general public compromised: about wildlife issues and concerns. • Continue to seek agreements with the • Manage populations of invasive ani- U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Arizona mal species whenever such species State Parks, Arizona Game and Fish, threaten monument resources or pub- Native American tribes, and other lic health and when control is prudent owners of adjacent property to protect and feasible. and enhance the ecosystem. • Restore extirpated native species • Work cooperatively to manage nonna- where suitable habitat exists and res- tive species in the region. toration is compatible with social, political, and ecological conditions. • Continue to partner with the research community to further the knowledge

27 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

of ecosystem processes that affect the management needs, maintain a close monuments. working relationship with the federally recognized tribes, U.S. Forest Ser- • Continue to work with partners to vice, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, protect species of concern and rein- Arizona State Parks, Arizona Game troduce extirpated native species and Fish, and owners of adjacent pri- when practical. vate land. External Influences - Private and Public Ensure Sustainability by Employing Partners, Owners of Adjacent Land, and User (Carrying) Capacity Government Agencies General management plans must identify The National Park Service recognizes that and implement commitments for user ca- Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national pacities for all areas of the monument. The monuments are part of a greater area and National Park Service defines user capaci- that actions in the monuments affect the ty as the type and level of visitor use that social, political, ecological, and historical can be accommodated while sustaining condition of the surrounding environment the quality of a monument’s resources and and society. The management of the mo- visitor opportunities consistent with the numents influences local economies purposes of the monument. It is not nec- through tourism expenditures and the essarily a set of numbers or limits, but ra- goods and services the National Park Ser- ther a process involving monitoring, eval- vice purchases to support operations. To uation, actions (managing visitor use), and ensure that the National Park Service con- adjustments to ensure monument values tinues to have good relations with area are protected. landowners and communities, and to ensure that the monuments are managed ac- The premise behind this process is that tively to resolve external issues and con- with any use of public lands comes some cerns, the following strategies will be im- level of impact that must be accepted. plemented: Therefore, the National Park Service has the responsibility to decide what level of • Continue to establish partnerships impact is acceptable and what actions are with public and private organizations needed to keep impacts within acceptable to achieve the purposes and missions limits. Instead of solely tracking and con- of the monuments. Seek partnerships trolling user numbers, the monument staff for resource protection, research, manages the levels, types, behaviors, and education, visitor enjoyment, visitor patterns of visitor use and other public access, and management. uses as needed to manage the condition of • Foster a spirit of cooperation with the resources and quality of the visitor ex- neighbors and encourage compatible perience. Monitoring user capacity helps uses of adjacent lands by keeping lan- test the effectiveness of management ac- downers, land managers, tribes, local tions and provides a basis for informed governments, and the public informed adaptive management of public use. about monument management activi- The described desired conditions related ties. Consult periodically with lan- to resource protection, visitor expe- downers and communities that affect riences, and general levels of development or potentially are affected by the mo- form the foundation for user capacity de- numents’ visitors and management ac- cisions. Specific indicators and standards tions. will be monitored to confirm that the de- • Work closely with local, state, and sired conditions are achieved or main- federal agencies and tribal govern- tained. Actions that could be implemented ments. In particular, to meet mutual if the standards are exceeded are included

28 Guidance for the Planning Effort in either the general management plan or • Continue to emphasize providing ef- subsequent action plans. An indicator is fective information, orientation, and used to track desired conditions to deter- interpretive services. Use appropriate mine whether they are being met. A stan- techniques and technologies to in- dard is basically the minimum acceptable crease the visibility of the National desired condition. Park Service and its programs and to make people aware of issues facing User capacity decision-making, which Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- continues indefinitely, involves monitor- tional monuments. ing the indicators, determining whether standards are met, and taking manage- • Ensure that interpretive and education ment actions to minimize impacts when programs include key resource issues, needed. At Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- management priorities, public safety, goot national monuments, managers in- and demonstrate standards for inter- itially will monitor facility-wide use levels pretive competencies identified and and patterns. At the Castle, where outlined by the NPS Interpretive De- crowded conditions that could affect sus- velopment Program. tainability occasionally occur, managers • Enhance cooperative efforts and part- will apply more specific monitoring and nerships with local communities, pub- focused management to achieve desired lic and private agencies, organizations, conditions. Adjustments in the type of stakeholders, and land managers in monitoring at specific sites and through- the region so that visitors can better out the monuments will be made as learn about the abundance, variety, needed. Additional information on ensur- and availability of the region’s cultural, ing sustainability is provided in the “User recreational, and interpretive oppor- Capacity” section in chapter 2. tunities. This will orient visitors about what to do and which attractions to Provide Orientation, see. Interpretation, and Education • Provide visitors with the tools and in- A variety of methods are used to orient formation they need for self- visitors at Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- management and how to enjoy the goot national monuments, provide infor- monuments in a safe, low-impact mation about the monuments, and interp- manner. ret the monuments’ resources. The Na- tional Park Service will continue to pursue • Strengthen partnerships with state strategies to ensure that information is parks, national parks, educational in- available so that visitors can plan a re- stitutions, and other organizations to warding visit to the monuments. Increas- enrich interpretive and educational ing outreach and educational programs opportunities regionally and national- will help connect diverse audiences to the ly. monuments’ resources, build a local and • Ensure accessibility of opportunities national constituency, and gain public for visitors to form their own intellec- support for protecting the monuments’ tual and emotional connections to re- resources. Continuing to provide interpre- source meaning for as many audiences tation opportunities will build emotional, as practical and possible by providing intellectual, and recreational ties with the a variety of both personal and non- monuments and their cultural and natural personal interpretive services. heritage. The strategies for managing orientation, interpretation, and education will be as follows:

29 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

IMPLEMENTING general management plan has been ap- THE APPROVED PLAN proved, feasibility studies and more detailed planning and appropriate environ- Implementation of the approved plan will mental documentation may be required depend on future funding. The approval before proposed actions can be carried of this general management plan does not out. These more detailed plans would tier indicate that the funding needed to im- off this plan; describing specific actions plement all of its provisions will be imme- that managers intend to take to achieve diately available. Full implementation of desired conditions and long-term goals. the approved plan could be many years in Some of these implementation plans are the future. prepared for the monuments in response Other factors will also affect the imple- to NPS policies. mentation of the approved plan. Once the

RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING EFFORTS

Possible interactions between the alterna- lections with minimal cost, and recogniz- tives and county, state, tribal, or federal ing and responding to park access issues. land use plans and policies must be consi- The first goal of the plan is to achieve sus- dered. tainable and maintainable preservation of the collections (NPS 2007). Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments are in Yavapai County, Arizo- STATE OF ARIZONA PLANS na. Properties surrounding the monuments include federal lands managed by The expansion of recreational facilities the U.S. Forest Service, lands adminis- and visitor opportunities at Dead Horse tered by Arizona State Parks, and private Ranch State Park may affect Tuzigoot Na- lands. tional Monument because of its nearby location and the potential to draw more PLANS OF FEDERAL AGENCIES visitors to the monument.

U.S. Forest Service Plans PLANS BY OTHERS Near the monuments are the Coconino Verde River Greenway and Prescott National Forests, both of Management Plan which have forest plans. The Prescott Na- tional Forest Plan was released in Novem- The Verde River Greenway, along a seg- ber 1986 and the Coconino National For- ment of the nearly 180-mile-long Verde est Plan is currently being updated, and River, crosses into Tuzigoot’s legislated the National Park Service is a partner in boundary. The Greenway encompasses the process. These plans provide long- nearly 480 acres and is 6 miles long (Ari- term management direction for the fo- zona State Parks, 2004). The Verde River rests’ resource conditions, recreation op- Greenway Management Plan (Arizona portunities, and levels of development and State Parks, 1992) calls for Tuzigoot Na- services. tional Monument to be integrated into the Verde River Greenway through use of Both forest plans include opportunities specialized signs and the expansion of infor hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, terpretation via an interpretive corridor bicycling, camping, picnicking, boating, that would link sites, such as Tavasci and fishing that may be appreciated by all Marsh and Tuzigoot National Monument. visitors to the region. In addition, the Co- conino National Forest has trail oppor- Discussions between the National Park tunities that connect with the boundary of Service and the Verde River Greenway Tuzigoot National Monument; this gener- coordinator have been initiated and for- al management plan explores trail linkag- mal integration into the Greenway is ex- es. The conservation of these forest lands pected in 2008. The Verde River Greenway protects the scenic viewsheds around the Management Plan also suggests new trail monuments. opportunities that would connect the sites. In chapter 3 of this general manage- Park Museum Collection Storage Plan ment plan, the “Visitor Use and Expe- rience” section provides more informa- This collection storage plan presents a tion on the Verde River Greenway Man- comprehensive, cost-effective, and long- agement Plan. term solution to the current and future challenges that the National Park Service faces with regard to museum management, maximizing protection of the col-

31 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

Sinaguan Circle Tour between the U.S. Forest Service and the Yavapai-Apache along Interstate 17. The Sinaguan Circle Tour was conceived by a Coconino National Forest archeolo- Montezuma Castle Highway gist, and is supported by the Sedona Verde Regional Multi-Use Trail Valley Tourism Council. The tour would involve a partnership among the National This project has potential to increase the Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Arizona number of visitors to the area. Increased State Parks, Arizona Conservancy, and tourism could affect resources such as local organizations. The potential tour wildlife or threatened and endangered route would enhance opportunities for species that cross management bounda- visitors to understand the regional cultural ries. context of Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- goot national monuments. The route Soda Springs Ranch Development would include the monuments, and would Owners of this nearby historic ranch have provide opportunities for visitors to expe- repaired ranch structures for private use rience and learn more about the area’s and are attempting to trade acreage to the pre-historic and historic cultures. The cir- U.S. Forest Service or Arizona Game and cle tour has the potential to increase visi- Fish Department. tation to the monuments. Expansion of the Yavapai- Freeport McMoRan Copper Apache Casino Resort and Gold, Inc. Mine Tailings Project This proposal, near the intersection of In- This project provided restoration and re- terstate Highway 17 and the Montezuma vegetation for the mine tailings owned by Castle National Monument entrance road, Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold, could increase visitation to the region. Inc. (formerly Phelps Dodge Corporation) that are within the legislated boundary of Verde Valley Regional Land Use Plan Tuzigoot National Monument. The restoration and revegetation plan resulted in a The plan covers 714 square miles and fo- more natural view and vegetation com- cuses on transportation, land use, open munity adjacent to the monument. space, housing, and land management. It also identifies water issues and economics Yavapai-Apache Nation Native as key long-term solutions. The plan in- American Visitor Center volves collaboration among the cities and towns, Yavapai Apache Nation, federal, This proposed center would enhance state, county, and local governments, and education in the region and perhaps add individuals. to the potential list of cultural sites that would draw visitors to the region. The project could involve an exchange of lands

PLANNING ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES

The general public, NPS staff, and other and natural resources while encouraging agencies and organizations identified is- visitors and employees to understand and sues and concerns during scoping (early appreciate their value. The following is- information gathering) for this general sues and opportunities were identified for management plan. Consultation and cor- Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national respondence relating to scoping and other monuments: elements of environmental assessment • The plan needs to evaluate whether preparation are provided in appendix B. additional opportunities exist to ex- An issue is an opportunity, conflict, or pand the stories being told at the mo- problem regarding the use or management numents to link the prehistoric cul- of public lands. Comments were solicited tures with contemporary people and at public workshops, in meetings with whether to expand the areas available agencies and tribes, through planning within the monuments for visitors to newsletters, and on the monuments’ In- explore. ternet sites. • The plan needs to evaluate how the The National Park Service contracted visitors should interact with the re- with Arizona State University to conduct a sources of the monuments, including social science research project to gather the variety and locations of monument information about visitors to the monu- resources that are accessible to visitors ments. The project involved surveying and the means of accessing resources. adult visitors to gather data on visitation • The plan needs to evaluate the charac- patterns, length of stay, activity participa- ter and level of development within tion, demographics, and perceptions of the monuments and whether to ex- visitor experiences. The information from pand existing facilities or construct the study was used in the development of additional facilities at the monuments the plan alternatives. to accommodate visitors and monu- Comments received during scoping dem- ment operations. onstrated that there is much that the pub- • The monuments’ existing headquar- lic likes about the national monuments ters and maintenance facilities are out- with regard to their management, use, and side the monument boundaries. There facilities. The issues and concerns general- are two distinct General Services Ad- ly involve determining appropriate visitor ministration leases on the headquar- uses and identifying the types and levels of ters and maintenance facilities. The facilities, services, and activities while re- plan should examine how best to ac- maining compatible with desired resource commodate these monument man- conditions. The general management plan agement functions. alternatives provide strategies for address- ing the issues within the context of the • The monuments are a small portion of monuments’ purpose and significance. the Verde Valley. The National Park Service needs to work in partnerships ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES with the other land management entities, local communities, tribes, and or- This general management plan will help ganizations within the Verde Valley on the monuments determine the best mix of resource management and visitor use resource protection and visitor use issues and opportunities. beyond what is prescribed by law and policy to preserve the monuments’ cultural

33 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

• There are lands within the existing rankings have remained relatively sta- legislated boundaries that have not ble in recent years. Annual visits to been acquired. Some of these contain Montezuma Well have averaged ap- significant resources that, if acquired, proximately 190,000 over the past would protect additional resources as- decade. The present visitor contact sociated with the monuments’ pur- station is small, outdated, and limited pose. This plan will provide guidance in its ability to serve visitors. Ex- for managing these lands if they are panded visitor contact could improve acquired. A boundary adjustment Montezuma Well’s ability to interpret study is under consideration but is early regional land use. Each unit is beyond the scope of this general man- readily accessible from Camp Verde, agement plan. and travel time is approximately 10 minutes to Montezuma Castle (5 • The boundary of Tuzigoot National miles), 20 minutes to Montezuma Well Monument contains approximately (13.1 miles), and 40 minutes to Tuzi- 300 acres of mine tailings and other goot (19.6 miles). Montezuma Castle land disturbed by mining activities. in less than five minutes or approx- The mine tailings do not contain re- imately one mile from Exit 289 on In- sources related to the purpose and terstate Highway 17. significance of the monument, are re- contoured and revegetated but highly • Currently, there is limited general disturbed by mining activity, and are orientation to all three sites, resulting contaminated by hazardous sub- in a lack of connectedness of the sites stances. The plan will evaluate wheth- and their stories. If visitor interaction er the monument boundary should be with monument resources increases, adjusted to eliminate these tailings cultural and natural resources could areas, while retaining remaining suita- experience additional effects. ble lands. • This plan analyzes developing new • Tavasci Marsh, acquired in 2006, is in onsite administrative and storage a degraded condition and actions to space because the current General restore the marsh are underway. The Services Administration lease with the long-term objectives for restoration Yavapai Apache reservation for main- need to be supported within the man- tenance space is expiring. Construc- agement framework of the plan. tion of workspace and storage at the three sites would improve monument • Visitation at the monuments has gen- operations because it is more efficient erally increased since the 1940s, peak- to provide workspace and store ing at 1.2 million visitors in the mid equipment within the units that use 1990s. Although visitation has de- them most frequently rather than in clined since the early 1990s, leveling one central area. off at about 605,000 visitors annually during the past three years, the popu- • The National Park Service is consider- lation of the surrounding region is ing whether to acquire private land growing rapidly, and development of holdings within the monument boun- tourism in the area is expected to con- daries, including land owned by Free- tinue. Already, for its size, Montezuma port McMoRan Copper and Gold, Castle is among the most heavily vi- Inc. (except for the mine tailings at sited areas in the southwest. Of the Tuzigoot, which the monument does 360 visited NPS units, Montezuma not wish to acquire), or working with Castle ranked 100th for visitation in Freeport McMoRan and other entities 2007 and Tuzigoot ranked 218; these

34 Planning Issues and Opportunities

to protect the land for public use ra- • Administration of the monuments by ther than development. entities other than the National Park Service. • The population of and land uses within the Verde Valley are changing. Dur- Following are two additional issues and ing the life of the general management the reasons for excluding them from this plan, these changes could have an ef- general management plan. fect on visitation and resource conditions of the monuments. Vanishing Treasures Under the guidance of Sec. 106 and 110 of ISSUES NOT ADDRESSED IN THE the National historic Preservation Act of GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 1966, the Vanishing Treasures Initiative Not all of the issues raised by the public will continue under any of the alternatives are included in this general management being considered. The initiative seeks to plan. Some of the issues raised by the pub- eliminate cultural resource loss by ad- lic were not considered because they: dressing emergency project needs. It focuses on replacement of an aging work- • Were not feasible; force that often has unique craft skills, and • Are already prescribed by law, regula- seeks to move, over the long-term, from a tion, or policy (see the “Servicewide posture of dealing with emergency Mandates and Policies” section); projects and urgent personnel loss to become a proactive program. NPS staff • Would be in violation of laws, regula- members will continue to stabilize struc- tions, or policies; or tures in the monuments in accordance • Were at a level that was too detailed with established priorities. Additional for a general management plan and are guidance from the general management more appropriately addressed in sub- plan is not needed to implement this pro- sequent planning documents. gram. General comments that were received Fire Management from the public that fell under one or more of the categories included: The management of fire within the monuments will continue to follow the exist- • Managing use of lands or resources ing fire management plan. The National outside of the monument boundaries; Park Service will continue to work with • Managing the restoration of the Free- other federal and state agencies to manage port McMoRan Copper and Gold, fire. Inc. mine tailings; and

IMPACT TOPICS: RESOURCES AND VALUES AT STAKE IN THE PLANNING PROCESS

Impact topics allow comparison of the Ethnographic Resources and Tradi- environmental consequences of imple- tional Cultural Properties. Although menting each alternative. Impact topics there are no identified ethnographic re- were identified based on federal laws and sources or traditional cultural properties other legal requirements, NPS subject- in the monuments, the alternatives would matter expertise and knowledge of limited be expected to have beneficial impacts on or easily impacted resources, NPS poli- resources if any were identified and do- cies, and issues or concerns expressed by cumented pursuant to ongoing consulta- other agencies or members of the public tion and research. during scoping. A brief rationale for the selection of each impact topic is given be- Natural Resources low, and justifications are provided for dismissing other impact topics from further Floodplains. The proposed actions have consideration. the potential to affect floodplains along Wet Beaver Creek, Beaver Creek, and the IMPACT TOPICS Verde River. TO BE CONSIDERED Soils. The action alternatives would in- Cultural Resources clude both short- and long-term distur- Cultural resource subtopics include arc- bance of soil in the monuments. The dis- heological resources, prehistoric and his- turbance would be associated with trail toric structures and buildings, cultural construction and improvements or pro- landscapes, and ethnographic resources, posed development. sacred sites, and traditional cultural properties. Each of these topics has the poten- Vegetation. As described for soils, the tial to be affected by components of the development of trails and other actions no-action and action alternatives. associated with the alternatives have the potential to affect vegetation at the mo- Archeological Resources. Potential new numents. facilities and current and increased visitor use have the possibility to affect archeo- Wetlands. Tavasci Marsh contains impor- logical resources. tant wetland habitats and contributes to water quality, flood control, and wildlife Prehistoric and Historic Structures and support functions. Elements of the alter- Building. Public accessibility provided for natives have the potential to affect the and managed by the alternatives could marsh. affect prehistoric and historic structures and buildings. Wildlife. The potential increase in visitation and the interactive nature of some Cultural Landscapes. Although no for- elements of the alternatives has the poten- mal cultural landscape inventory work has tial to affect wildlife and their habitat at been conducted at the monuments, some the monuments. known and potential cultural landscape resources have been identified and the Threatened or Endangered Species. alternatives could affect these resources. There are listed species that rely on the habitats at the monuments that could be affected by proposed management ac-

36 Impact Topics: Resources and Values at Stake in the Planning Process tions. Additionally, the proposed actions materials recovered from excavating the have the potential to affect designated monument’s ruins. The collections also critical habitat. contain thousands of documents of archival materials. In addition, there are a Visitor Use and Experience small number of other types of objects, including ethnographic, historic, biologic, A major component of each of the action paleontologic, and geologic specimens. alternatives is an increase in the interaction between visitors and the resources at The collections are either retained on site the monuments. These actions have the (an estimated 60% of the cataloged collec- potential to increase the number and the tions, primarily archives but also archeol- activities of monument visitors and to ogy and ethnology) or stored and curated change their effects on resources at the at the Museum Collections Repository, sites. Western Archeological and Conservation Center in Tucson, as designated by the Socioeconomics Park Museum Collection Storage Plan pre- The alternatives have the potential to pared by the NPS Museum Management change the number of and activities of Program. monument visitors, which could affect Montezuma Castle has not conducted an socioeconomics at the monuments and in archival survey to determine the extent of the surrounding area. the museum archives (NPS 2008a). Items from the monument’s natural history col- Monument Operations lection may be transferred from the West- Monument operations would be affected ern Archeological and Conservation Cen- by the actions proposed under the action ter to the Northern Arizona Facility fol- alternatives. lowing its construction (NPS 2007). Dedicated curatorial work and research IMPACT TOPICS DISMISSED FROM spaces for the acquisition, accession, FURTHER CONSIDERATION preparation, and study of museum collec- The following impact topics that com- tions are needed (NPS 2008a). An ethno- monly are considered during the planning graphic report (as discussed in the ethno- process were not relevant to the develop- graphic resources section of chapter 3) ment of this general management plan for prepared in 1994 focused on the national Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monument’s cultural affiliations and the monuments. They were dismissed either items and collections that are related to because implementing the alternatives the Native American Graves Protection would have negligible effects on the im- and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). pact topic or resource, or because the re- The Tuzigoot National Monument mu- source does not occur in the monuments. seum collections include archeological materials that were recovered from the Cultural Resources excavation of the Tuzigoot Pueblo ruins. The Tuzigoot collections constitute the Museum Collections. Museum collec- largest artifact assemblage for the Tuzi- tions were dismissed because none of the goot Phase. Most items were excavated alternatives considered in this plan affect during the 1930s as part of a variety of the monuments’ collections. federally funded projects. About 7% of the The Montezuma Castle National Monu- collection, including pottery, basketry, ment museum collections primarily in- and jewelry, are on exhibit in the monu- clude archeological artifacts, objects, and ment museum. The remaining 93% are

37 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN stored and curated at the Museum Collec- Prime and/or Unique Farmland. The tions Repository, Western Archeological Farmland Protection Policy Act (PL 97- and Conservation Center, as designated 98) (1981) was passed to minimize the ex- by the Park Museum Collection Storage tent to which federal programs contribute Plan. In addition to archeological objects, to the unnecessary and irreversible con- the collections include a small number of version of farmland to nonagricultural other types of objects, including ethno- uses, and to ensure that federal programs graphic, historic, geologic, and biological are administered in a manner that, to the specimens, plus thousands of documents extent practicable, is compatible with of archival materials. state, unit of local government, and private programs and policies to protect Tuzigoot has not conducted an archival farmland. Farmland includes prime or survey to determine the extent of the mu- unique land, or land of statewide or local seum archives (NPS 2008b). Items from importance for the production of food, the monument’s natural history collection feed, fiber, forage, or oilseed crops, as de- may be transferred from the Western Arc- termined by the state or local government. heological and Conservation Center to the Northern Arizona Facility following its The National Park Service consulted with construction (NPS 2007). the Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Dedicated curatorial work and research agency responsible for implementation of spaces for the acquisition, accession, the policy. The Natural Resource Conser- preparation, and study of museum collec- vation Service advised that there are no tions are needed (NPS 2008b). An ethno- prime farmlands within the monuments. graphic report (as discussed in the ethnographic resources section of chapter 3) Water Resources. Water resources at was prepared in 1994 that focused on the Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national national monument’s cultural affiliations monuments include Wet Beaver Creek, and the items and collections that are re- Beaver Creek, the Verde River, Montezu- lated to the Native American Graves Pro- ma Well, the outflow ditch from Monte- tection and Repatriation Act. zuma Well, and Shea Spring (flows into Tavasci Marsh). Groundwater is vital to Natural Resources the wetland systems, springs, surface Air Quality. Air quality in the monuments fluvial systems, and monument operation- meets national ambient air quality stan- al needs (potable water supply). The re- dards for specified pollutants. Although gional aquifer that support these cultural actions proposed in this plan could result features and natural systems includes the in short-term, negligible effects related to alluvium of the Verde River, Verde For- dust and emissions associated with con- mation, Coconino Sandstone, Supai For- struction and road improvements, no mation, Naco Formation, Redwall Limes- long-term change in air quality associated tone, Martin Formation, and Tapeats with these actions would be expected. Sandstone. These geologic units are hy- drologically connected, so regional exter- Geologic Hazards. There are no specific nal influences could impact monument geologic hazards, such as earthquakes, groundwater resources and systems de- volcanoes, or landslides, at the monu- pendent on those groundwater resources. ments. Although there is a potential for Although actions associated with the al- cliffs and other areas to collapse as part of ternatives and other plans and projects the natural erosion process, none of the (for example, trail and boardwalk con- actions analyzed in this plan would affect struction, invasive vegetation control, ha- these natural processes. bitat restoration) have some potential to

38 Impact Topics: Resources and Values at Stake in the Planning Process affect water resources, the adverse im- tives are considered under visitor use and pacts would be short-term and negligible experience. Changes in Verde Valley pop- at most. Sedimentation and increased tur- ulation and land use are considered in the bidity would be the primary concerns and Verde Valley Regional Land Use Plan. The these potential effects would be offset alternatives do not conflict with this plan, with implementation of best management and the effects of socioeconomic changes practices and mitigation measures to pro- in the valley are considered in the Socioe- tect water quality. As a result, water re- conomics section. sources were not retained for full evaluation in the environmental assessment. Energy Requirements and The effects of regional external influences Conservation Potential on groundwater resources are evaluated in The alternative presented in this plan the cumulative impacts analysis. would result in negligible changes in energy consumption compared to current Paleontological Resources. Although conditions. The National Park Service there are paleontological resources at the would continue to pursue sustainable monuments, none of the alternatives practices whenever possible in all deci- would have any adverse effects on these sions regarding national monument oper- resources. Public access to paleontological ations, facilities management, and devel- resources, currently restricted, would not opment. Whenever possible, the National change. As a result, paleontological re- Park Service would use energy conserva- sources were not retained for full evaluation technologies and renewable energy tion in the environmental assessment. sources.

Transportation Indian Trust Resources The transportation infrastructure would Secretarial Order 3175 requires that any not change appreciably within the monu- anticipated impacts to Indian trust re- ments with implementation of any of the sources from a proposed project or action alternatives in this document. There are by the Department of Interior agencies be no proposals for primary or secondary explicitly addressed in environmental road construction in this plan that would documents. The federal Indian trust re- increase the extent of the transportation sponsibility is a legally enforceable fidu- system in the vicinity of the national mo- ciary obligation on the part of the United numents. States to protect tribal lands, assets, resources, and treaty rights, and it Conflicts with Land Use represents a duty to carry out the man- Plans, Policies, or Concerns dates of federal law with respect to Ameri- can Indian and Alaska Native tribes. Plans and policies associated with lands There are no Indian trust resources at adjacent to the monuments were re- Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national viewed. It was determined that alterna- monuments. The lands within the monu- tives for management of the monuments ments are not held in trust by the Secre- would not affect these lands, or the poli- tary of the Interior for the benefit of In- cies and plans of other jurisdictions. Im- dians based on their status as Indians. provement of connections to Verde River Therefore, the project would have negligi- Greenway, Dead Horse Ranch State Park, ble effects on Indian trust resources. Fur- and Coconino National Forest are consis- ther, such negligible impacts would not tent with current plans and management result in any unacceptable impacts; the directions, and the effects of the alterna- proposed actions are consistent with sec-

39 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN tion 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies 2006. where the natural ambient soundscape is Because these effects are minor or less in affected by other noise and where oppor- degree and would not result in any unac- tunities for visitors to experience natural ceptable impacts, this topic has been dis- sound environments already are limited. missed from further analysis in this docu- Sounds associated with construction ment. would be temporary, occurring only during the construction activity, and would Natural Sounds negligibly impact visitor enjoyment of the monuments. In accordance with Management Policies 2006 (NPS 2006), an important part of the Although new facilities and increased NPS mission is the preservation of natural access would occur in already developed soundscapes associated within national zones, they would potentially alter the park system units. Natural soundscapes sound footprint and have the potential to exist in the absence of human-caused create longer lasting effects. For example, sound. a new visitor center would result in increased vehicle noise, visitor noise, and No monument-specific sound measure- buildings operations noise. While these ments were made to determine natural noise sources may occur in more devel- ambient sound levels in the monuments oped areas, they would also have the po- for this plan. The natural soundscape in- tential to impact nearby “Interaction and cludes sounds produced by such sources Discovery” and “Resources and Research” as wind, thunder, insects, bird and animal zones as a result of increased visitation in calls, falling rocks, and creeks. Noise le- these areas. vels vary between day and night in the monuments. Because human activity Within the alternatives considered in this mostly occurs during the day, noise levels document, proposed new facilities would in the monuments are higher than at night. be in areas where roads, highways, or oth- Night provides greater opportunity to ex- er monument infrastructure currently experience the natural sounds with less hu- ists. Changes in visitor numbers would be man influence. associated largely with trends in regional population and tourism. Adverse impacts The primary human-made sounds present on natural sounds resulting from pro- in the monuments are noises associated posed new infrastructure would be ex- with vehicles and monument operations. pected to be audible only up to short dis- Engines are a major source of human- tances from the noise source, at low levels, caused sound in the monuments. These and therefore no more than negligible to include automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, minor. New trails outside of the existing aircraft, and generators. Other common developed areas would be upgraded sur- sources of human-caused sound include faces on existing road traces and addition- electronic devices such as radios, human al human-caused noise associated with vocalizations, and vehicle tires on roads. foot-travel would be audible only in local Human-caused sound is typically highest areas, at low levels, and therefore not rein the spring and fall, corresponding with sult in greater than negligible adverse im- highest monument visitation during these pacts to natural sounds. periods. Hauling material, operating equipment, Lightscape Management and conducting other construction activi- In accordance with Management Policies ties associated with the alternatives would 2006 (NPS 2006), the National Park Ser- result in human-caused sounds. However, vice strives to preserve natural ambient all construction activity would occur in lightscapes, which are natural resources the developed area of the monuments, and values that exist in the absence of hu-

40 Impact Topics: Resources and Values at Stake in the Planning Process man-caused light. The monuments strive portionately high and adverse human to limit the use of artificial outdoor light- health or environmental effects of federal ing to that which is necessary for basic programs and policies on minority and safety requirements, ensure that all out- low-income populations and ensure that door lighting is shielded to the maximum these programs and policies do not dis- extent possible, and keep light on the in- criminate against people (including popu- tended subject and out of the night sky. lations) because of race, color, or national The proposed actions would not affect the origin. None of the actions proposed in existing exterior lighting at the monu- this general management plan would have ments. disproportionate or adverse impacts on minorities or economically disadvantaged Environmental Justice populations. Executive Order 12898 requires federal agencies to identify and address dispro-

CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

INTRODUCTION

Many aspects of the desired condition of scope of the unit’s purpose, significance, Montezuma Castle National Monument mandates, and legislation. (the Castle Site and Well site) and Tuzi- Management zones are descriptions of goot National Monument are defined in desired conditions for monument re- the establishing legislation, the national sources and visitor experiences in differ- monuments’ purpose and significance ent areas of the monuments. The man- statements, and the servicewide mandates agement zones identify the widest range of and policies described earlier. Within potential appropriate resource conditions, these parameters, the National Park Ser- visitor experiences, and facilities for the vice solicited input from the public, NPS monuments that fall within the scope of staff, other government agencies, tribal the monuments’ purpose, significance, officials, and other organizations regard- and special mandates. Four management ing issues and desired conditions for the zones, described in table 1, have been national monuments. Planning team identified for Montezuma Castle and Tu- members gathered information about ex- zigoot national monuments. isting visitor use and the condition of the national monuments’ facilities and re- Each of the alternatives has a management sources. They considered which areas of concept and a description of how differ- the national monuments attract visitors, ent areas of the national monuments and which areas have sensitive resources. would be managed (management zones Using this information, the planning team and related actions). The concept for each developed four management zones and alternative is then presented by the place- alternatives to reflect the range of ideas ment of each management zone type on proposed by NPS staff and the public. the map of the monument. For example, management zones for Montezuma Castle This chapter describes the management and Tuzigoot national monuments include zones and the alternatives for managing “interpretive historic” and “resources and the national monuments for the next 15 to research.” An alternative that stressed 20 years. It includes tables at the end of maintaining an undeveloped and natural the chapter that summarize the key differ- condition would have comparatively more ences between the alternatives and the of the land presented as resources and re- impacts that are expected from imple- search zone than an alternative that em- menting each alternative. The summary of phasized education and interpretation and impacts table is based on the analysis in that had a large area within the interpre- Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences. tive historic zone. This chapter also describes mitigation measures that would be used to lessen or This general management plan and envi- avoid impacts, the future studies that ronmental assessment presents three al- would be needed, and the environmental- ternatives, including the NPS’ preferred ly preferred alternative. alternative, for future management of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national MANAGEMENT ZONES monuments. Alternative A, the “no- AND ALTERNATIVES action” alternative that presents a continuation of existing management direction, Management zones and alternatives are is included as a baseline for comparing the the building blocks for developing an ap- consequences of implementing each “ac- proved plan for managing a national park tion” alternative. These action alternatives system unit. All management zones and are alternative B (preferred) and alterna- alternatives are developed within the tive C. These action alternatives present

45 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE different ways to manage resources and tional monuments, but full implementa- visitor use and to improve facilities and tion could take many years. infrastructure at the national monuments. IDENTIFICATION OF THE The two action alternatives embody the PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE range of what the public and the National Park Service want to see accomplished The development of the preferred alterna- with natural resource conditions, cultural tive involved evaluating the alternatives resource conditions, and visitor use and with the use of an objective analysis experience at Montezuma Castle and Tu- process called “choosing by advantages.” zigoot national monuments. The configu- Through this process, the planning team rations for each alternative were devel- identified and compared the relative ad- oped by overlaying the management zones vantages of each alternative according to on a map of the monuments. the following factors: The National Park Service would continue • Provide opportunities for quality visi- to follow existing agreements and ser- tor experiences; vicewide mandates, laws, and policies re- • Protect cultural resources; gardless of the alternatives considered in this plan. These mandates and policies • Preserve natural resources; and were described in chapter 1. • Improve NPS operational efficiency. FORMULATION OF This comparison helped the planning THE ALTERNATIVES team determine the elements of the alternatives that would be most advantageous The alternatives focus on what resource to monument resources and the public. conditions, visitor uses, and experiences or opportunities should be at the national The costs of implementing the alternatives monuments rather than on details of how were also considered. For cost estimating, these conditions, uses, and experiences general assumptions were made regarding should be achieved. Thus, the alternatives the amounts and sizes of development or do not include many details on resource restoration. These assumptions were then or visitor use management. carried across all alternatives so that comparable costs were considered. More detailed plans or studies will be required before most conditions proposed The relationships between the advantages in the selected alternative are achieved. and costs of each alternative were estab- The implementation of the selected alter- lished in the choosing by advantages anal- native also will depend on future funding ysis. This information was used to evaluate and environmental compliance. This plan the attributes of the initial alternatives and does not guarantee that that money will be identify the preferred alternative. This al- forthcoming. The plan establishes a vision ternative gives the National Park Service of the future that will guide day-to-day the greatest benefits for each factor listed and year-to-year management of the na- above for the most reasonable cost.

MANAGEMENT ZONES

Management zones define specific re- locations or configurations on a map of source conditions and visitor experiences the monuments according to the intent to be achieved and maintained in specified (concept) of each alternative. That is, the areas of the national monuments under alternatives represent different ways to each action alternative. Each zone in- apply the management zones to the na- cludes the types of activities and facilities tional monuments. that are appropriate in that management Table 1 presents the management zones zone. The management zones were devel- for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- oped as part of this planning effort and, tional monuments. Resource conditions, therefore, are not applied or mapped for visitor experiences, and appropriate ac- the no-action alternative. tivities and facilities are described in the In formulating the alternatives, the man- table for each management zone. agement zones were placed in different

47 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 1: MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS MANAGEMENT ZONES

Park Interpretive Interaction Resources Feature Operations Historic and Discovery and Research Zone Operations are Formal, structured Self exploration and Resource protection concept emphasized with education and visitor interactive education and research are em- substantial levels services are empha- are emphasized with phasized with limited of resource mod- sized with high use moderate use and use and resources in ification and little and resources in good resources in good improving or pristine or no visitor use. condition. condition. condition. Natural Natural resources Natural resources may Natural resources may Management is limited resource may be modified be manipulated in be manipulated to to moving toward self- condition for NPS opera- small areas to minim- include features to tell sustaining communi- tional needs. ize impacts relating to the history of the area. ties and ecological visitor use. systems of native plants and animals. Cultural Properties eligible Stabilization and in- Stabilization and in- Archeological sites and resource for or listed in the tensive preservation tensive preservation other cultural re- condition National Register maintenance of all maintenance of all sources that are eligi- of Historic Places resource fabric asso- resource fabric asso- ble for or listed in the or that fit the ciated with the Na- ciated with National National Register or Archeological tional Register-eligible Register-eligible or - that fit the Archeolog- Resources Preser- or -listed properties or listed properties or ical Resources Preser- vation Act defini- that fit the Archeolog- that fit the Archeolog- vation Act definition tion of archeological Resources Preser- ical Resources Preser- of archeological re- ical resources are vation Act definition vation Act definition sources are managed preserved. Addi- of archeological re- of archeological re- for their protection tions or modifica- sources is a high man- sources is a high man- and research. tions are allowed agement priority. agement priority. only if they do Some modifications to not adversely cultural resources to affect resource support visitor activi- integrity. ties may be appropriate. Hydrologic Natural hydrolog- Natural hydrologic Natural hydrologic Natural hydrologic processes ic processes are processes and water processes and water processes are primarily likely to be dis- features may be stabi- features are an impor- undisturbed except for turbed to protect lized to control erosion tant component of the management needed infrastructure, but and deposition to pro- historic scene and, to to repair past damage mitigation is used tect cultural sites and the extent practical, or protect cultural to minimize off- landscapes. are managed to reflect resources. site impacts. period conditions. Natural sights Natural sights and A moderate noise level Natural sounds and Natural sounds and and sounds sounds may be often occurs, including scenic quality are im- scenic quality are im- compromised by noise from vehicles portant to the visitor portant. Natural the presence of and voices. Human- experience and or sounds and sights vehicles and high related sights predo- protection of wildlife. predominate. Intru- levels of human minate. Natural condi- Periodic, low-intensity sions are rare, of low activity. tions are less impor- noise comes from intensity, and mainly tant to the visitor ex- vehicles and human from outside the zone perience than in other voices. Natural sights (such as vehicle noise). zones. predominate.

48 Table 1: Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments Management Zones

TABLE 1: MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS MANAGEMENT ZONES (CONTINUED) Park Interpretive Interaction Resources Feature Operations Historic and Discovery and Research Tolerance Area has a high Area has a moderate to- Area has a low toler- Area has a very low for impacts tolerance for re- lerance relating to devel- ance relating to devel- tolerance to develop- from human source impacts. opment and visitor use. opment and visitor ment and visitor use. use use. Resource protection takes precedence. Visitor Visitor access is Amenities and services are Visitors experience Access by visitors is experience restricted. available to welcome and resources and educa- highly regulated be- orient visitors to the mo- tion opportunities that cause of the sensitivity numents and to support represent time periods of resources. Guided day-use activities. Visitors from the Sinaguan walks may provide have a formal, structured, culture to the 1860s. limited access and an educational experience. Contact with cultural in-depth learning op- Most time spent in this and natural resources portunity. zone is on a hardened, provides opportunities designated route with for visitor learning, numerous interpretive mostly through self- messages highlighting discovery and explora- monument themes. tion. Some structured learning aids may be provided, such as trails, signs, and programs. Interpreta- These activities do Formal, structured oppor- Opportunities primarily Primarily, these areas tion, not occur in this tunities are greatest in this are self-directed with would be interpreted education, zone. area and could include signs and brochures. indirectly in other and guided programs and Cultural demonstra- areas of the monu- orientation contact with roving inter- tions linking prehistor- ments. preters. Opportunities for ic to contemporary all ages and abilities to cultures could occur. learn about monument To the extent permiss- resources are a high prior- ible under section ity. All monument themes 5.3.5.2.4 of Manage- are introduced. ment Policies 2006, re- created land use scenes, such as prehistoric or historic farming, could be provided to illustrate the historic landscape. Use levels, Visitor use does High levels of activity pre- Moderate levels of Except for a limited density, and not occur in this dominate with a very high activity occur in this number of guided encounters zone. probability of encounters zone with a moderate walks, this zone has with other visitors and probability of encoun- very low levels of visi- NPS staff. Group activities tering other visitors tor use, low visitor are handled effectively. and NPS staff. density, and few encounters with others. Appropriate Visitor activities do Activities include walking, Activities include re- Activities include activities not occur in this natural and cultural resource education, guided, interpretive zone. source observation, interpretive walks, hikes; photography; guided walks, picnicking, natural and cultural resource observation, and photography. Special resource observation, and research. events could be allowed and sightseeing. with a permit. Level of Visitor activities do This zone provides a low This zone provides a A moderate to high challenge, not occur in this level of challenge and moderate level of chal- time commitment is

49 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 1: MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS MANAGEMENT ZONES (CONTINUED) Park Interpretive Interaction Resources Feature Operations Historic and Discovery and Research adventure, zone. adventure. A short time lenge and adventure, needed to access and and time commitment is needed to and requires a mod- experience this zone. commit- experience this zone. erate time commit- Challenge and adven- ment ment. ture are not appropriate uses. Degree and This zone has con- This zone has concen- This zone has mod- No development for character of centrated areas of trated areas of intensive erate levels of devel- visitor use occurs in develop- intensive develop- development. Noncontri- opment. The character this zone. ment ment to support buting elements are ap- is less formal than the monument opera- parent, but are carefully Interpretive Historic tions. designed and placed to zone. complement the character of adjacent zones. Types of Monument admin- This zone includes visitor Facilities in this zone This zone does not facilities istration facilities in centers, fee stations, com- include interpretive have any development this zone include fort stations, picnic areas, signs and natural- for visitor use. headquarters, roads, parking lots, paved surface trails that re- maintenance areas, or hardened trails, flect historic condi- housing, and other benches, wayside exhibits, tions as much as poss- facilities necessary kiosks, and education ible. Other facilities, for the manage- facilities. Commercial such as farm plots, ment of the mo- visitor service and facilities represent periods of numents. could be based in this significance. area. Regulatory and in- Improvements that terpretive signs are com- facilitate interpretation mon. and safety are small and blend with the environment. Visitor Visitor activities do Physical controls, such as Providing tools for Regulatory controls on manage- not occur in this fencing and barriers, and visitor self- visitor access, such as ment zone. providing tools for visitor management, such as allowing only guided self-management, such as prohibiting climbing, trips or access for ap- prohibiting climbing, re- ensure resource pro- proved research, restrict visitor access and tection while accom- sults in low use and accommodate high use modating moderate ensures resource pro- while protect resources. use. tection. Thresholds Visitor activities do Thresholds are low for Thresholds are mod- Thresholds are mod- for trigger- not occur in this safety issues, moderate erate for safety issues, erate for safety issues, ing visitor zone. for resource protection, low for resource pro- low for resource pro- manage- and moderate for visitor tection, and low for tection, and high for ment experience. visitor experience. visitor experience. actions

ALTERNATIVE A: NO-ACTION ALTERNATIVE

CONCEPT AND GENERAL cilities with physical and regulatory MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES barriers to manage visitor use. This alternative continues current man- • There would continue to be limited agement direction and trends at Monte- opportunities for close contact be- zuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- tween visitors and the natural and cul- numents. It provides a baseline for com- tural resources at the sites. parison in evaluating the changes and im- • Water quantity monitoring at Monte- pacts of the action alternatives. The Na- zuma Well and in Wet Beaver Creek tional Park Service would continue to and the Verde River would continue. manage the monuments as it has in the past. The last comprehensive planning • Much of the monuments’ lands would effort for the national monuments was be off-limits to visitors to protect their completed in 1975. At that time, manage- sensitive cultural resources. ment zones such as those developed and The interpretive emphasis would continue applied to alternatives B and C in this to focus on the three primary sites (Mon- document were not used. Management tezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, and Tu- direction for resource protection and visi- zigoot Pueblo) within the monuments. tor use would continue to be provided, as The current low level of connection be- appropriate, by the specific direction pro- tween the sites in terms of interpretation vided in the 1975 plan, and managers and activities would continue. would continue to follow the special mandates and administrative commitments Interpretation would continue to occur at and the servicewide mandates and policies the monuments’ visitor centers, through that were described in “Guidance for the roving interpreters, and with some offsite Planning Effort” in chapter 1, as staffing programs. There would continue to be and budget allow. limited opportunities for group programs and/or cultural demonstrations. The locations of facilities are shown on three maps, titled: Resource activities would continue to focus on stabilizing the primary sites. The • Alternative A – No Action, Montezu- principal archeological resources, such as ma Castle National Monument, Castle the Tuzigoot Pueblo and Montezuma Cas- Site; tle, would receive intensive preservation • Alternative A – No Action, Montezu- treatment and regular cyclic maintenance. ma Castle National Monument, Well Other archeological resources would be Site; and stabilized pursuant to consultation under section 106 of the National Historic Pre- • Alternative A – No Action, Tuzigoot servation Act. However, despite improved National Monument. techniques, more highly skilled labor, and The emphasis under this alternative would specialized training, the lack of adequate be to continue the current management of funding and personnel has barely enabled the monuments. Specifically: staff to keep up with necessary routine stabilization work, much less long-term, • For the most part, existing operations cyclic work that should be performed in a and visitor facilities would remain as timely manner to prevent further deteri- they are today. oration. • Most of the areas accessible to visitors Natural resources would be protected by would continue to have hardened fa- virtue of being in the monuments. How-

51 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE ever, management of these resources BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS, LAND would be constrained by the lack of staff PURCHASES, AND EASEMENTS and funding. Hydrologic resources, such The no-action alternative would not in- as Beaver Creek, would continue to be clude any boundary adjustments, land managed in some areas to control erosion purchases or easements. and deposition and to protect cultural sites and landscapes.

ALTERNATIVE B (PREFERRED)

CONCEPT AND GENERAL CONDITIONS AND ACTIONS MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES COMMON TO ALL THREE SITES The main emphasis of this alternative is to Features of alternative B that would apply connect the three sites with improved re- at Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, gional orientation to the Verde Valley. and Tuzigoot include the following. Visitors would be introduced to all three sites and their related interpretive themes • Resource management activities through coordinated messaging among would be increased through expan- the three sites. Visitors would travel to the sion of the monuments’ resource sta- sites to learn about the prehistoric and bilization program and active partici- historic stories associated with human set- pation in the NPS inventory and tlement of the Verde Valley. monitoring program. • The Castle would highlight the archi- • Formal interpretive and education tecture of the structure and offer the opportunities would be expanded. perspective of life in a cliff dwelling. • Orientation to the sites and other op- This alternative would provide specta- portunities in the Verde Valley would cular views from below the Castle be improved through partnerships along Beaver Creek. that focus on coordinated wayfinding, • Montezuma Well would highlight the marketing, increased information dis- prehistoric and historic farming activi- semination, and pre-trip planning ser- ties that were possible in the area be- vices. Visitors would learn about pre- cause of the presence of water. historic and historic human settlements in the Verde Valley and how • Tuzigoot Pueblo would highlight the each of the monument sites and other perspective of daily life in a hilltop sites in the region provides opportuni- pueblo, providing demonstrations and ties to experience these stories first programs associated with the socioe- hand. conomic activities of the area. • At each site, interpretation through • Partnerships would be developed and signs, programs, and cultural demon- enhanced with Verde Valley organiza- strations would highlight the major tions, land owners, and government themes. agencies to ensure awareness of the significance of the monuments and the • The National Park Service would ac- important role that regional activities quire most of the privately owned and land uses can play in the protec- lands within the legislated boundaries tion of monument resources. through trade or purchase from will- ing sellers, except for the mine tailings Managers would continue to follow the at Tuzigoot, which would be removed special mandates and administrative from the legislated boundary. The commitments and the servicewide man- mine tailings do not contain resources dates and policies that were described in related to the purpose and significance "Guidance for the Planning Effort" in of the monument, are highly disturbed chapter 1. by mining activity, and are contaminated by hazardous substances. The monument is particularly interested in acquiring the relatively intact acreage

56 Alternative B: (Preferred)

on the bench northwest of the ruins, would not be permitted in areas within which has archeological sites. this zone unless they were participating in an NPS-led activity. • Operational efficiency would be improved through the development of The existing facilities for visitor services, workspace and storage among the such as the entrance road, parking lot, three sites to replace offsite workspace visitor center, and loop walk near the Cas- and storage lost with the expiration of tle, would be zoned interpretive historic the General Services Administration and remain much as today. A small area at lease with the Yavapai Apache tribe the junction of the monument entrance for the current maintenance facility. road and service road to the sewage la- (The administrative headquarters un- goons would be zoned interpretive histor- der a different General Services Ad- ic to support the potential addition of ministration lease from that of the parking and/or a bus drop-off area. maintenance facility would remain in Through guided walks at Montezuma Camp Verde. Castle, visitors would have opportunities • Where possible, new facilities, such as to view the cliff dwelling from new van- trails, would be constructed in already tage points and to interact with (but not disturbed areas or on existing path- cross) the river. These opportunities may ways, social trails, or management use provide visitors with a better perspective trails. Trails would be clearly marked of the architecture of the dwelling and and would avoid archeological sites. what it may have been like to live in a cliff Disturbance to sensitive areas, such as dwelling during prehistoric times. This archeological sites or habitat for alternative also would increase the diversi- threatened or endangered species, ty of activities and settings that visitors would also be avoided whenever poss- may explore. ible or mitigated. (See the section “Mi- A portion of the river corridor just south tigation Measures Common to All Ac- of the Castle would be zoned as interaction Alternatives.”) tion and discovery. This would allow some natural-surface trails with interpre- MANAGEMENT ZONES AND tive signs and spectacular views from the RELATED ACTIONS AT EACH SITE river valley to the Castle. The increased Management at each site and within each opportunities for self-discovery of the riv- zone is described below. The application er would provide a better understanding of management zones is presented on of the importance of riparian and water three maps: resources to the history of the Sinagua. It may also foster an improved visitor under- • Alternative B – Castle Site, Montezu- standing of the continued need to protect ma Castle National Monument; riparian resources in the Southwest and • Alternative B – Well Site, Montezuma throughout the nation. Castle National Monument; and A corridor along Montezuma Castle Road • Alternative B, Tuzigoot National Mo- and Beaver Creek Estates Road would be nument. zoned interaction and discovery. This area would accommodate regional trail activi- Montezuma Castle ties for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. Most of the Castle site would be in the resources and research zone. This zone Staff housing, the road to the sewage la- would emphasize resource protection and goons, the sewage lagoons, and the road to research, and the predominance of natural the water tanks would be in the park oper- sounds, with limited visitor use. Visitors ations zone. This zone would allow man-

57 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE agement activities to support the monu- farming activities. Visitors would be able ment’s continued operations, and visitor to view the interaction of human history use would not be permitted in these areas. on the natural systems. They also would be able to find quiet places to enjoy the A new operations facility would be built in sights and sounds of the riparian system of the administration, housing, and ware- Wet Beaver Creek, including excellent house area. The historic maintenance opportunities for bird watching. building (determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places on Visitors would be able to drive to the July 13, 1994) would be rehabilitated and parking lot at Montezuma Well and visit adaptively reused. The new facility would the well as they do today. A shade ramada replace work space and storage space lost would be constructed on the visitor con- with the expiration of the GSA lease with tact station in the existing footprint of the the Yavapai Apache reservation n Camp parking lot near Montezuma Well. The Verde, supporting the functions of all facility would contain interpretive panels three sites, particularly the Castle. and shaded space for interaction with NPS staff and volunteers. Montezuma Well The current housing and maintenance Most of the Montezuma Well site would area east of the Back cabin would be be zoned resources and research. This zoned park operations. Management ac- zone would emphasize resource protec- tivities in this zone would support the tion and research, and the predominance monument’s continued operations, and of natural sounds, with limited visitor use. visitor use would not be permitted. Visitors would not be permitted in areas A modest workspace and storage building within this zone unless they were partici- would be constructed near the residential pating in an NPS-led activity. area to replace leased space in Camp The existing roads, two parking lots at Verde. Because of Montezuma Well’s re- Montezuma Well and picnic area, and mote location, this building would include trails leading to and around Montezuma basic emergency services for visitors. Well would be zoned interpretive historic. All would remain much as today. Tuzigoot This alternative would increase the inter- Most of the monument would be zoned pretation and interaction regarding the for interaction and discovery. This would unique resource of Montezuma Well and include the areas east, north, and south of its long history of affecting Native Ameri- the pueblo, which would provide visitors can and Euro-American farming in the with opportunities to travel along the ripa- area. Similar to changes at the Castle, this rian area on natural-surface trails. alternative also would provide more di- Through collaboration with partners, verse activities and settings for visitors to these trails may link with trails in Dead explore. Horse Ranch State Park and the Coconino National Forest. Visitors would be encouraged to visit the resources associated with historic farming The area north of the tailings and south of that are adjacent to the picnic area. Peck’s Lake would be zoned resources and research. This zone would emphasize The area just south and west of the picnic resource protection and research, and the area would be zoned interaction and dis- predominance of natural sounds, with li- covery. It would provide natural-surface mited visitor use. Visitors would not be trails improved on existing formal and in- permitted in areas within this zone unless formal trail routes for visitors to hike and they were participating in an NPS-led ac- explore the land that was used for historic tivity.

58 Alternative B: (Preferred)

The existing entrance road, parking lot, The current housing and maintenance visitor center, trails leading to and through area north of the pueblo would be zoned the pueblo, and trail to the overlook at park operations. Management activities in Tavasci Marsh would be zoned interpre- this zone would support the monument’s tive historic. All would remain much as continued operations, and visitor use today. would not be permitted in these areas. A modest workspace and storage building This alternative would provide increased would be constructed near the residential opportunities for visitors to learn about area to replace space lost with the expira- the activities associated with daily life in a tion of the leased work space in Camp hilltop pueblo and its association with Verde, tailored specifically for the func- nearby communities, including river tions and operations of Tuzigoot National communities and other hilltop pueblos. Monument. Because of the monument’s To support this objective, increased op- remote location, this building would in- portunities for cultural demonstrations, clude basic emergency services for visi- including craftsmanship and social activi- tors. ties, would be provided in and around the pueblo. BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS, LAND The area south of the pueblo that was PURCHASES, AND EASEMENTS zoned interpretive historic would provide The boundary of Tuzigoot National Mo- access via trails to the river. Interpretive nument was expanded by Congress in signs and programs in this area would fo- 1978. However, until 2005, when it re- cus on prehistoric trade activities and ceived 324 acres in a land exchange, the farming that would have been associated National Park Service did not own any of with life in the pueblo. the land in the boundary expansion. Active wetland restoration and manage- Approximately 467 additional acres are ment activities would begin at the newly currently owned by Freeport McMoRan acquired Tavasci Marsh on the northeast Copper and Gold, Inc. mining corpora- side of the pueblo. Restoration activities tion. These lands are part of the viewshed would focus on maintaining existing hy- from primary monument resources. About drologic functions by reducing the influ- 300 acres are highly disturbed from min- ence of Peck’s Lake and restoring native ing, reclamation, and development activi- vegetation. A boardwalk would be con- ties by Freeport McMoRan. structed across the marsh, providing access to the marsh and the trail systems The Freeport McMoRan land on the of adjacent public lands. If assessment de- bench to the northwest of the ruins is rela- termines that there would be no conflict tively undisturbed and contains archeo- with preservation of significant cultural logical sites. resources, the boardwalk would be con- Because the mine tailings area does not structed along an existing old road align- contain resources related to the purpose ment to avoid new resource disturbance. and significance of the monument, is high- The National Park Service would allow ly disturbed by mining activity, and is con- access from the main entrance road so taminated by hazardous substances, it that Arizona State Parks can implement would be removed from Tuzigoot Nation- the Verde River Greenway Management al Monument’s legislated boundary. Plan proposal to build a small parking area The National Park Service would look to and a launch facility for small boats. These acquiring the other land suitable within features would be on state-owned land on the monument boundary, including that the east side of the monument entrance owned by Freeport McMoRan Copper road.

59 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE and Gold, Inc. (minus the tailings), or general management plan zoning intent work cooperatively with Freeport until such time as the lands are acquired McMoRan and other entities to protect by the National Park Service. the land for public use consistent with the

60 Beaver Creek Estates

Coconino National ate 17 Forest rst

Inte

Overflow Parking

Watertank Forest National Coconino

Visitor Center Main Castle Castle Trail Overflow Parking Admin. Designated Trails Sewage Coconino National Forest Lagoons

LEGEND 1000 0 1000 2000 Feet Management Zones NORTH Interpretive Historic Interaction and Discovery Alternative B - Castle Site Park Operations Montezuma Castle National Monument Resources and Research United States Department of the Interior / National Park Service DSC 309 20017 August 2008 Montezuma Castle

ALTERNATIVE C

CONCEPT AND GENERAL tors to view the cliff dwellings at the MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES Castle. Trails would be on disturbed lands or on existing pathways, social The main emphasis of this alternative is to trails, or management use trails; would provide increased opportunities for visi- be clearly marked; and would avoid tors to self-discover the beauty and won- archeological sites. der of the natural and cultural resources of the monuments. In this alternative, re- • Trail connection opportunities with sources would still receive the highest lev- surrounding public lands would be el of protection, but visitors could interact explored with partners to increase with and explore a wider range of the re- recreation and education activities. sources found in the monuments. Visitor • Visitors could learn about the cultural contact facilities would be located at each resources of the monuments and of the three sites. could participate in other recreational In this alternative the monuments would and educational opportunities such as be considered as part of the region’s pub- nature hikes along the water, photo- lic land resources. The National Park Ser- graphy, bird watching, picnicking, and vice would emphasize partnerships with group educational programs. surrounding public lands agencies to pro- • The National Park Service would ac- vide connections to recreational and edu- quire most of the privately owned cational opportunities off site. lands within the legislated boundaries through trade or purchase from will- CONDITIONS AND ACTIONS ing sellers, except for the mine tailings COMMON TO ALL THREE SITES at Tuzigoot, which would be removed Features of alternative C that would apply from the legislated boundary. The at Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, mine tailings do not contain resources and Tuzigoot include the following. related to the purpose and significance of the monument, are highly disturbed • Protection of cultural resources would by mining activity, and are contami- not change from the no-action alter- nated by hazardous substances. The native. monument is particularly interested in • Greater emphasis would be placed on acquiring the relatively intact acreage visitor services and administrative fa- on the bench northwest of the ruins, cilities than in alternative B. These which has archeological sites. may be expanded in select areas such • Where possible, new facilities such as as a new headquarters at the Castle to trails would be constructed in already replace administrative space in Camp disturbed areas. Disturbance to sensi- Verde a new visitor center at Monte- tive areas such as archeological sites zuma Well and new trails at all three and habitats for threatened or endan- sites. This would result in a slightly gered species would also be avoided larger development footprint. or mitigated whenever possible. (See • More of the monuments’ cultural and the section “Mitigation Measures natural resources would be available Common to All Action Alternatives.”) for visitors to explore via trails. This • Partnerships would be developed and would allow more personal contact enhanced with Verde Valley organiza- with resources, such as guided walks tions, land owners, and government along the river that would allow visi- agencies to ensure awareness of the

64 Alternative C

significance of the monuments and the connection between humans and the wa- important role that regional activities ter. To meet this objective, the area south and land uses can play in the protec- of the Castle loop trail would be zoned tion of monument resources. interpretive historic, providing access to the creek and to new picnic facilities on its MANAGEMENT ZONES AND south bank. From this picnic location, visi- RELATED ACTIONS AT EACH SITE tors would be close to the water and have views across the river to the Castle. A new Management at each site and within each bridge crossing the creek would be con- zone is described below. The application structed to be resistant to flood waters. of management zones is presented on The river corridor would be zoned inte- three maps: raction and discovery, providing self- • Alternative C – Castle Site, Montezu- guided, designated trails along the river ma Castle National Monument; with some interpretation. • Alternative C – Well Site, Montezuma To provide better views of the river valley Castle National Monument; and and its proximity to the cliff dwelling, access to the plateau above the cliff dwel- • Alternative C, Tuzigoot National Mo- ling would be provided for a small number nument. of private vehicles at one time. The road to the water tanks and a small area near the Montezuma Castle water tanks would be zoned interpretive Most of the Castle site would be in the re- historic to provide vehicle access and sources and research zone. This zone parking. The area around the road and would emphasize resource protection and parking would be zoned interaction and research, and the predominance of natural discovery, and natural-surface trails and sounds, with limited visitor use. Visitors interpretive signs would be provided. would not be permitted in areas within The pit house along the entrance road this zone unless they were participating in would be zoned resources and research, an NPS-led activity. with a small adjacent visitor access trail The existing facilities for visitor services, and interpretive signs. such as the entrance road, parking lot, and A corridor along Montezuma Castle Road loop walk near the Castle, would be zoned and Beaver Creek Estates Road would be interpretive historic and remain much as zoned interaction and discovery. This area today. A small area at the junction of the would accommodate regional trail activi- monument entrance road and service road ties for horseback riding, hiking, and to the sewage lagoons would be zoned in- mountain biking. terpretive historic to support the potential addition of parking and/or a bus drop-off Staff housing, the road to the sewage la- area. goons, and the sewage lagoons would be zoned park operations. If the increased A new headquarters building would be diversity and amount of activities pro- constructed at the beginning of the en- posed in this alternative increases visita- trance road to the monument. This facility tion levels and lengths of stay, the amount would allow administrative activities to of area zoned park operations may in- move on site, closer to visitor service ac- crease to meet visitor management needs. tivities. This zone would allow management activ- This alternative would provide expanded ities to support the monument’s contin- opportunities to explore the riparian areas ued operations, and visitor use would not along Beaver Creek, allowing visitors to be permitted in these areas. see and better understand the important

65 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

A new operations facility would be built in This alternative would expand opportuni- the administration, housing, and ware- ties for visitors to connect with the natural house area (determined eligible for listing environment by providing additional in the National Register of Historic Places trails. Some would be located to emphas- on July 13, 1994) would be rehabilitated ize the long history of humans’ connection and adaptively reused. The new facility to water in the area. Visitors could explore would replace work space and storage these trails for recreation, nature observa- space lost with the expiration of the Gen- tion, and interpretation. eral Services Administration lease with the • The area in the southwest corner of Yavapai Apache reservation supporting the Montezuma Well site would be the functions of all three sites, particularly zoned interaction and discovery to al- the Castle. low designated natural-surface trails to and along the riparian area of Wet Montezuma Well Beaver Creek. Most of the Montezuma Well site would • A natural-surface, designated trail be zoned resources and research. This would be located near the prehistoric zone would emphasize resource protec- ditch that extends from Montezuma tion and research, and the predominance Well and along Wet Beaver Creek. of natural sounds, with limited visitor use. This trail would also follow the rim Visitors would not be permitted in areas along the north side of Montezuma within this zone unless they were partici- Well. pating in an NPS-led activity. • A trail would extend from the visitor The existing roads, two parking lots at center to Montezuma Well, following Montezuma Well and picnic area, and the road. trails leading to and around Montezuma Well would be zoned interpretive historic. The areas around facilities that would be All would remain much as today. zoned as Resources and Research would be protected from visitor impacts through To increase visitor opportunities, a new signing, interpretive and educational in- visitor center would be constructed at the formation, and through appropriate facili- entrance of the road to Montezuma Well. ty designs that would discourage visitor The purpose of the visitor center would be access to areas of sensitive resources. to serve as a focal point for visitor contact, to better distribute visitation within the The current housing and maintenance monument, and to provide broader visitor area east of the Back cabin would be orientation within the Verde Valley. In- zoned park operations. Management ac- terpretation would focus on early regional tivities in this zone would support the land use patterns and migratory routes. It monument’s continued operations, and would include exhibit space, restrooms, visitor use would not be permitted. and staff office space. This would increase visitor orientation and interpretation ser- Tuzigoot vices on site and would provide a better Most of the monument would be zoned introduction and understanding of the interaction and discovery. Visitors would resources and regional context of the find expanded opportunities to explore Montezuma Well site. The visitor center additional areas of the monument. In would be no more than 4,000 square feet. these areas, natural-surface trails may be It would include parking, an upgraded designated. If assessment determines that access road, and development of a new there would be no conflict with preserva- water supply. tion of significant cultural resources, mountain bicycling opportunities may al-

66 Alternative C so be provided on old roadbeds in the menting the Verde River Greenway Man- area. Trail connections with neighboring agement Plan proposal to build a small federal and state lands would be explored. parking area and a launch facility for small To accomplish this objective, partnerships boats. These features would be on state- with Dead Horse Ranch State Park, the owned land on the east side of the monu- Verde River Greenway, and Coconino ment entrance road. National Forest would be expanded. The current housing and maintenance The existing entrance road, parking lot, area north of the pueblo would be zoned visitor center, trails leading to and through park operations. Management activities in the pueblo, and trail to the overlook at this zone would support the monument’s Tavasci Marsh would be zoned interpre- continued operations, and visitor use tive historic. All would remain much as would not be permitted in these areas. today. A boardwalk would be constructed across the marsh, providing access to the BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS, LAND marsh and the trail systems of adjacent PURCHASES, AND EASEMENTS public lands. If assessment determines that As described in alternative B, the mine there would be no conflict with preserva- tailings area would be removed from Tu- tion of significant cultural resources, the zigoot National Monument’s legislated boardwalk would be constructed along an boundary. existing old road alignment to avoid new resource disturbance. The National Park Service would look to acquiring the land within the monument Most of the area directly around the road, boundary, including that owned by the parking lot, pueblo, and administrative Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold, facilities would be zoned resources and Inc. (minus the tailings), or work coopera- research. This would emphasize resource tively with Freeport McMoRan and other protection and research, with limited visi- entities to protect the land for public use tor use. Visitors would not be permitted in consistent with the general management these areas unless participating in an NPS- plan zoning intent until such time as the led activity. lands are acquired by the National Park The National Park Service would coope- Service. rate with Arizona State Parks on imple-

COST ESTIMATES

DEVELOPMENT SUMMARY OF OF COST ESTIMATES COMPARATIVE COSTS Class C cost estimates were developed to The National Park Service recognizes that help determine which alternative gives the this is a long-term plan, and in the frame- National Park Service the greatest benefits work of the plan, monument managers for the most reasonable cost. These are would take incremental steps to reach not to be used for budgetary purposes or monument management goals and objec- implementation funding requests. tives. Although some of the actions can be accomplished with little or no funding, The cost estimates for all of the alterna- some actions would require more detailed tives contain the same elements and were implementation plans, site-specific com- developed with the same general assump- pliance, and additional funds. tions to allow consistency and compara- bility among alternatives. The cost figures shown here and throughout the plan are intended only to provide Initial One-Time Costs an estimate of the relative costs of alternatives. NPS and industry cost estimating One-time costs included the following: guidelines were used to develop the costs • New development (including NPS in- (in 2008 dollars) to the extent possible, but frastructure costs); the estimates should not be used for bud- geting purposes. Specific costs will be de- • Major rehabilitation or restoration of existing facilities; termined in subsequent, more detailed planning and design exercises, and consi- • Interpretive media, such as audiovi- dering the design of facilities, identifica- sual materials, exhibits, waysides, and tion of detailed resource protection needs, publication; and and changing visitor expectations. Actual • Resource management and visitor ser- costs to the National Park Service will vary vice costs, such as resource and visitor depending on if and when the actions are inventories, implementation planning, implemented, and on contributions by and compliance. partners and volunteers. The implementation of the approved plan, NPS Facilities Model no matter which alternative is selected, The National Park Service has developed will depend on future NPS funding levels a model for estimating the costs of several and servicewide priorities, and on part- types of facilities, such as visitor centers nership funds, time, and effort. The ap- and maintenance facilities, based on fac- proval of a general management plan does tors unique to each national park system not guarantee that funding and staffing unit. This model was used in estimating needed to implement the plan will be the square footage of facilities to be con- forthcoming. Full implementation of the structed. plan could be many years in the future. Table 2 presents the cost summaries for the alternatives. A detailed list of cost elements for each alternative is presented in appendix C.

71 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 2: COST SUMMARY FOR EACH ALTERNATIVE

Alternative A: Alternative B Alternative C No-Action Annual operating costs (ONPS) a/ $1,454,000 $1,802,000 $1,802,000 No additional staff. Additional staff. b Additional staff. b 1 GS9 ranger - community outreach 1 GS9 ranger - community 1 GS9 ranger - interpretation outreach 2 WG7 maintenance mechanics 1 GS9 ranger - interpretation 1 GS11 biologist 2 WG7 maintenance mechanics 1 GS11 biologist

Currently planned costs (one-time costs) c $1,034,000 $1,034,000 $1,034,000 Montezuma Castle - Castle Unit

Expand parking lot (25 cars) $0 $65,000 $0 Expand parking lot ( 35 cars) $0 $0 $90,000 Construct park headquarters $0 $0 $1,500,000 Rehabilitate historic maintenance building $0 $200,000 $200,000 Designated trails $0 $50,000 $150,000 Relocate picnic area $0 $0 $200,000 Construct vehicle access/parking on plateau $0 $0 $323,000 Operations Facility $0 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 Montezuma Castle - Well Unit Construct visitor ramada $0 $250,000 $0

c Construct visitor center $0 0 $6,500,000 Designated trails $0 $50,000 $150,000 Construct modest work space and storage building $0 $490,000 $0 Tuzigoot Designated trails $0 $150,000 $200,000 Construct marsh boardwalk (1000') $0 $270,000 $270,000 Construct modest work space and storage building $0 $490,000 $0 Restore and rehabilitate Tavasci Marsh $0 $953,000 $0

d Total Costs $2,488,000 $6,804,000 $13,419,000 e Total one-time costs $1,034,000 $5,002,000 $11,617,000 Facility costs $0 $3,015,000 $10,583,000

Non-facility costs $0 $953,000 $0 a/ The base year for all estimates is 2007. Annual operating costs are the total costs per year for maintenance and operations associated with each alternative, including utilities, supplies, staff salaries and benefits, leasing, and other materials. Cost and staffing estimates assume that the alternative is fully implemented as described in the narrative. b/ The total number of full-time equivalents (FTE) is the number of person-years of staff required to maintain the assets of the monuments in good level, provide acceptable visitor services, protect resources, and generally support the monuments’ operations. The FTE number indicated ONPS-funded NPS staff only, not volunteer positions or positions funded by partners. FTE salaries and benefits are included in the annual operating costs. c/ The visitor center would be no more than 4,000 square feet. It would include parking, an upgraded access road, and development of a new water supply. d/ Total costs are the sum of facility costs, non-facility costs and annual operating cost. e/ Total one-time cost are sum of facility costs and non-facility costs.

USER CAPACITY

This section includes potential indicators, The monument staff will continue moni- standards, and potential management ac- toring use levels and patterns. If these tions for each management zone that change significantly in any of the zones, would be implemented as needed during the staff will initiate more systematic mon- the life of this plan. The recommended itoring of user capacity indicators to en- indicators and standards help translate the sure protection of desired conditions. broader descriptions of desired condi- The potential indicators include, but are tions, which are qualitative in nature, into not limited to the topics of vandalism, something measurable. The potential indi- looting, or theft of resources; crowding at cators have been suggested for monitoring attraction points; litter; user-created trails; key aspects of visitor experiences and re- human-caused noise; and introduction of sources at the monuments. As indicators invasive plants. Before new areas of the are identified in the future, standards that monuments in the interaction and discov- represent the points where visitor expe- ery zone are opened to visitors, the staff rience and resource conditions become will select key indicators to monitor like unacceptable in each zone would be de- those proposed in the zone description. fined based on management goals. Since use patterns have not been estab- Existing facilities generally provide good lished in these areas, it is important for the visitor opportunities, protect monument monument staff to monitor conditions to resources, and, based on projected trends, ensure that new use in these areas does will continue to function well. However, not have unexpected or unintended con- high volumes of use in the peak season can sequences. cause crowding in the visitor center at The selection of any indicators and stan- Montezuma Castle and along the main dards for monitoring or for implementa- trail to the Castle viewing area. If use in- tion of any management actions that affect creases, or the patterns or timing of use use would comply with the National Envi- changes, crowding may get worse. ronmental Policy Act, the National His- Because of the occasional problems of toric Preservation Act, and other laws, crowded conditions at the Castle, the in- regulations, and policies as needed. The dicator for “number of people per hour” is National Park Service would also inform being developed for this general manage- the public of progress and proposed revi- ment plan. This indicator and standard sions to indicators and standards through will ensure that staff take appropriate ac- regular reporting on the user capacity tion to disperse use throughout the mo- program. nument or during the day or season to mitigate crowded conditions, as needed. PARK OPERATIONS ZONE The monument staff is already monitoring No indicators are identified for user ca- bus arrivals. In the future it may be appro- pacity because public use is not generally priate to actively disperse bus use permitted in this zone. throughout the day by requiring buses to arrive and depart at defined times and re- INTERPRETIVE HISTORIC ZONE duce use during the mid-day, peak hours. This zone includes high levels of devel- The increases in trail opportunities and opment and physical controls on visitor educational programming in the action movement, which should substantially alternatives should improve visitor oppor- control visitor use impacts. Use levels and tunities and may disperse use away from patterns would be continually monitored current high-use areas.

73 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE in this zone to identify trends based on season to plan their trips; and the use data collected at the entrance gate, on traf- of intelligent transportation system fic counters, and through regular observa- (ITS) signs in town that indicate that tions by monument staff. the Castle is full to encourage visitors to delay their arrival. The indicator and standard for the number of people per hour for entry to Mon- • Require mandatory redistribution of tezuma Castle would be implemented. visitor use during peak times. Under The indicator, related monitoring, and this approach, visitor reservations may management actions are below. Monu- be required to visit the Castle during ment staff are developing the standard for peak hours of peak days, or tour bus this indicator. operators may be required to manage the arrival of their vehicles to off-peak The indicator will be the number of times, days, or months. people per hour entering the monument. Other indicators that may be considered • Restrict visitor use. This could include in this zone for future monitoring at any of actions such as the closure of the park- the popular sites in the monuments might ing lot and/or loop trail during peak include: hours of peak-season days. • The number of people at a given time Other potential management actions to at other major points of attraction, address changes in conditions could in- such as the Castle’s visitor center, the clude expanding education and orienta- rim overlooks at Montezuma Well, or tion messages, restoring disturbed sites, inside or on top of the Tuzigoot Pueb- redirecting use to less busy areas, regulat- lo; ing visitor use (for example, reducing parking capacity), and increasing physical • Litter along main pathways; controls on use, such as installing fencing • Vegetation trampling in high use areas, or other barriers. such as the Montezuma Well picnic area; and INTERACTION AND DISCOVERY ZONE • The condition of archeological resources close to public use, such as the This zone includes low levels of develop- walls of the Tuzigoot Pueblo or the ment and physical controls on visitor walls of the dwelling structures at movement. Use levels and patterns will be Montezuma Well. monitored to identify trends in use Monument staff will periodically monitor through data collected as part of regular the indicator using methods that may in- monument staff patrols. Other indicators clude traffic counters, cash-register re- that may be considered in this zone for ceipts, and observations at select times future monitoring might include user- throughout the day during both peak and created trails, litter, human-caused noise, off-peak season. looting and vandalism of archeological sites near designated trails, and invasive If monitoring indicates that the indicator plants. The range of potential manage- is approaching the standard, future man- ment actions to address changes in condi- agement actions could include any or all tions could include expanding education of the following: (particularly “leave no trace” messages); • Implement voluntary redistribution of restoring disturbed sites; restricting use visitor use throughout the day, week, through actions such as a permit system, or season. For example, this could in- closure of areas, or guided only trips; and clude visitor education to alert visitors increasing enforcement patrols. to less busy times of the day, week, or

74 User Capacity

RESOURCES AND proposed. However, monument staff RESEARCH ZONE would monitor for vandalism, looting, or theft of archeological resources. This zone would have low levels of use, all of which would be managed on guided tours, so no indicators of user capacity are

MITIGATION MEASURES COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES

Congress charged the National Park Ser- scapes. Conduct archeological surveys vice with managing the lands under its in unsurveyed areas where develop- stewardship “in such manner and by such ment would occur to determine the means as will leave them unimpaired for extent and significance of archeologi- the enjoyment of future generations” cal resources in the areas. (NPS Organic Act, 16 United States Code, • Document cultural and ethnographic section 1). As a result, the National Park landscapes in the monuments and Service routinely evaluates and imple- identify treatments to ensure their ments mitigation whenever conditions preservation. occur that could adversely affect the sustainability of national park system re- • Conduct additional background resources. search, resource inventory, and Na- tional Register of Historic Places eval- To ensure that implementation of the ac- uation where information about the tion alternatives protects unimpaired the location and significance of cultural natural and cultural resources and the resources is lacking, including devel- quality of the visitor experience, a consis- opment of a multiple property historic tent set of mitigation measures would be context for national register eligibility applied to actions proposed in this plan. for archeology in the Verde Valley. In- The following mitigation measures and corporate results of these efforts into best management practices would avoid, site-specific planning and compliance minimize, or offset potential impacts from documents. implementation of the alternatives. These • Should archeological resources be dis- measures would apply to all alternatives. covered during any construction, stop work in that location until the re- CULTURAL RESOURCES sources are properly recorded by the The National Park Service would preserve National Park Service and evaluated and protect, to the greatest extent possi- under the Archeological Resources ble, resources that reflect human occupa- Protection Act and the eligibility crite- tion of the monuments. Specific mitigation ria of the National Register of Historic measures include the following: Places. Because stopping construction can be expensive, preconstruction re- • Subject projects to site-specific plan- source inventories and assessments ning and compliance. Make efforts to will be conducted to minimize the avoid adverse impacts through use of probability of work stoppage. If, in the Secretary of the Interior’s Stan- consultation with the Arizona state dards for Archeology and Historic Pre- historic preservation officer, the reservation and by using screening sources are determined eligible for and/or sensitive design that would be listing, implement appropriate meas- compatible with historic resources. If ures either to avoid further resource adverse impacts could not be avoided, impacts or to mitigate the loss or dis- mitigate those impacts through a con- turbance of the resources. sultation process with all interested parties. • Avoid or mitigate impacts on ethnographic resources. Mitigation could • Inventory all unsurveyed areas in the include identification of and assis- monuments for archeological, histori- tance in accessing alternative resource cal, and ethnographic resources and gathering areas, continuing to provide for cultural and ethnographic land-

76 Mitigation Measures Common to All Alternatives

access to traditional use and spiritual to ethnographic resources. If neces- areas, and screening new development sary, use vegetative screening to mi- from traditional use areas. nimize impacts on cultural landscapes and ethnographic resources. • Conduct additional background research, resource inventory, and Na- • Encourage visitors through interpre- tional Register of Historic Places eval- tive programs to respect, and leave uation where information about the undisturbed, tribal offerings and arc- location and significance of cultural heological resources. resources is lacking. Incorporate the • Strictly adhere to NPS standards and results of these efforts into site- guidelines on the display and care of specific planning and compliance artifacts. This would include artifacts documents. used in exhibits in the visitor center. • Mitigation measures include docu- Irreplaceable items would be kept mentation according to standards of above the 500-year floodplain. the Historic American Buildings Sur- vey / Historic American Engineering NATURAL RESOURCES Record (HABS/HAER) as defined in the Re-engineering Proposal (October Air Quality 1, 1997). The level of this documenta- Mitigation measures to minimize, avoid, tion, which includes photography, and offset adverse effects to air quality archeological data recovery, and/or a could include implementation of a dust narrative history, would depend on abatement program for any construction. significance (national, state, or local) Standard dust abatement measures could and individual attributes (such as an include the following elements: individually significant structure or individual elements of a cultural land- • Water or otherwise stabilize soils. scape) and be determined in consulta- • Cover haul trucks. tion with the state historic preservation officer. When demolition of a his- • Employ speed limits on unpaved toric structure is proposed, architec- roads. tural elements and objects may be sal- • Minimize vegetation clearing. vaged for reuse in rehabilitating similar structures, or they may be added to • Revegetate after construction. the monuments’ museum collections. In addition, the historical alteration of Nonnative and Exotic Species the human environment and reasons Implement a noxious weed abatement for that alteration would be inter- program. Standard measures could in- preted to monument visitors. clude the following elements: • Wherever possible, locate projects and • Ensure that construction-related facilities in previously disturbed or ex- equipment arrives on site free of mud isting developed areas. Design facili- or seed-bearing material. ties to avoid known or suspected archeological resources. • Certify all seed and straw material as weed-free. • Whenever possible, modify project design features to avoid effects on cul- • Identify areas of noxious weeds prior tural resources. New developments to construction. would be relatively limited and would • Treat noxious weeds or noxious weed be located on sites that blend with cul- topsoil before construction by me- tural landscapes and are not adjacent

77 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

thods such as topsoil segregation, sto- minimize immediate and long-term im- rage, or herbicide treatment. pacts to rare, threatened, and endangered species. These actions would vary by spe- • Revegetate with appropriate native cific project and area. Many of the meas- species. ures listed below for vegetation and wildlife also would benefit rare, threatened, Natural Sounds and endangered species by helping to pre- Standard noise abatement measures that serve habitat. Mitigation actions specific would be implemented during construc- to rare, threatened, and endangered spe- tion to mitigate impacts to natural cies would include the following: soundscapes could include the following • Conduct surveys for rare, threatened, elements: and endangered species as warranted. • Schedule work to minimize impacts • Design and site facilities and actions to on nearby noise-sensitive uses. avoid adverse effects on rare, threat- • Use the best available noise control ened, and endangered species. If techniques wherever feasible. avoidance is infeasible, minimize and compensate adverse effects on rare, • Use hydraulically or electrically po- wered impact tools when feasible. threatened, and endangered species as appropriate and in consultation with • Locate stationary noise sources as far the appropriate resource agencies. from sensitive uses as possible. • Develop and implement restoration • Site and design facilities to minimize and/or monitoring plans as warranted. objectionable noise. Plans should include methods for implementation, performance standards, Soils monitoring criteria, and adaptive Mitigation measures to minimize, avoid, management techniques. and offset adverse effects to soils could • Implement measures to reduce ad- include the following elements: verse effects of nonnative plants and • Build new facilities on soils suitable wildlife on rare, threatened, and en- for development. dangered species. • • Minimize soil erosion by limiting the Manage visitor use and access in rare, time that soil is left exposed and by threatened, or endangered species’ applying other erosion control meas- habitats to avoid, offset, and minimize ures, such as erosion matting, silt fenc- potential adverse effects to the habi- ing, and sedimentation basins in con- tats or species. This could include trail struction areas to reduce erosion, sur- or area closures, temporary or season- face scouring, and discharge to water al restrictions, or rerouting of visitor bodies. access. • Once work is completed, revegetate Vegetation construction areas with native plants in a timely manner. Mitigation measures to minimize, avoid, and offset adverse effects to vegetation Threatened and Endangered could include the following: Species and Species of Concern • Monitor areas used by visitors, such as Mitigation actions would occur during trails, for signs of native vegetation normal monument operations as well as disturbance. Use public education, re- before, during, and after construction to vegetation of disturbed areas with native plants, erosion control measures,

78 Mitigation Measures Common to All Alternatives

and barriers to control potential im- moval of all food-related items or rub- pacts on plants from trail erosion or bish, topsoil salvage, and revegetation. the creation of social trails. This could include specific construction monitoring by resource specialists • Designate river access and crossing as well as treatment and reporting points, and use barriers and closures procedures. to prevent trampling and loss of vegetation in other riparian areas. • Manage visitor use and access to avoid particularly sensitive wildlife habitats, • Develop revegetation plans for dis- such as nesting or foraging areas, or turbed areas, including construction times when wildlife may be more sus- sites, and require the use of native spe- ceptible to disturbance, such as breed- cies. Revegetation plans should specify ing or nesting seasons. such features as seed and plant sources, seed and plant mixes, and soil Wetlands preparation. Use salvaged vegetation to the extent possible. To avoid adverse effects on wetlands, the National Park Service would do the fol- Water Resources lowing: To prevent water pollution during con- • Delineate wetlands and apply protec- struction, mitigation would include the tion measures during construction. following: Wetlands would be delineated by qualified NPS staff or certified wet- • Use erosion control measures. land specialists and clearly marked be- • Minimize discharge to water bodies. fore construction work. • Regularly inspect construction • Design and install boardwalks for in- equipment for leaks of petroleum and terpretive purposes and to minimize other chemicals. impacts to vegetation and wildlife. During ongoing operation of the monu- • Perform construction activities cau- ments, it may be appropriate to build ru- tiously to prevent damage caused by noff filtration or sedimentation systems to equipment, erosion, and siltation. minimize water pollution from larger • Actively work to remove nonnative parking areas. plants/animals and restore natural water flows. Wildlife Mitigation measures to minimize, offset, VISITOR SAFETY or avoid adverse effects on wildlife could AND EXPERIENCES include the following: Visitor safety, use, and experience would • Employ techniques to reduce impacts be protected and enhanced with the fol- on wildlife, including visitor education lowing: programs, restrictions on visitor ac- • tivities, and monument ranger patrols. Implement measures to reduce adverse effects of construction on visitor • Implement a natural resource protec- safety and experience. tion program. Standard measures • would include construction schedul- Continue directional signs and educa- ing, biological monitoring, erosion tion programs to promote under- and sediment control, use of fencing standing among visitors. or other means to protect sensitive re- • Implement adaptive visitor use man- sources adjacent to construction, re- agement, as outlined in the user capac-

79 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

ity section of this plan, when resource natural and cultural resources and vis- and visitor experience conditions ual intrusion into the natural viewshed trend toward or violate a user capacity and/or landscape. standard. • Provide vegetative screening where • Employ management strategies such appropriate. as visitor education, site management, visitor use regulations, rationing or SOCIOECONOMICS reallocation of visitor use, and en- During the future planning and imple- forcement. mentation of the approved management plan for the monuments, the National HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Park Service would work with local com- Mitigation measures to minimize, offset, munities and county governments to fur- or avoid potential exposure to or adverse ther identify potential impacts and mitiga- effects from hazardous materials would tion measures that would best serve the include the following: interests and concerns of both the Na- tional Park Service and the local commun- • Implement a spill prevention and pol- ities. Partnerships would be pursued to lution control program for hazardous improve the quality and diversity of com- materials. munity amenities and services. • Employ best management practices for hazardous materials storage and SUSTAINABLE DESIGN handling, and for spill containment, AND AESTHETICS cleanup, and reporting. Projects would avoid or minimize adverse • Limit refueling and other activities impacts on natural and cultural resources. involving hazardous materials to upl- Development projects, such as buildings, and or non-sensitive sites. utilities, roads, bridges, and trails, or reconstruction projects, such as road im- SCENIC RESOURCES provements, building rehabilitation, and Mitigation measures are designed to mi- utility upgrades, would be designed to nimize visual intrusions. These include the work in harmony with the surroundings, following: particularly in historic districts. Projects would reduce, minimize, or eliminate air • Where appropriate, use facilities such and water non-point-source pollution. as boardwalks and fences to route Projects would be sustainable whenever people away from sensitive natural practicable, by recycling and reusing ma- and cultural resources while still per- terials, minimizing materials, minimizing mitting access to important view- energy consumption during the construc- points. tion, and minimizing energy consumption • Design, site, and construct facilities to throughout the lifespan of the project. avoid or minimize adverse effects on

FUTURE STUDIES AND IMPLEMENTATION PLANS NEEDED

After this general management plan for • Restoration plan for Tavasci Marsh to the monuments is completed and ap- outline strategies for returning it to a proved, other more detailed studies and more naturally functioning and stable plans would be needed to implement spe- condition. cific actions. As required, additional envi- • Implementation plans, and site- ronmental compliance (National Envi- specific compliance, if necessary, for ronmental Policy Act, National Historic specific actions within this general Preservation Act, and other relevant laws management plan, such as increased and policies), and public involvement parking at Montezuma Castle and a would be conducted, as articulated in Di- visitor contact station at Montezuma rector’s Order 75A: Civic Engagement and Well. Public Involvement. Additional studies would include, but would not be limited • Site-specific compliance for proposed to, the following: actions that could impact floodplains or wetlands or their associated values • Boundary adjustments at Tuzigoot in all three sites of the monument. National Monument to remove the Compliance could include statements mine tailings. of findings for actions not exempt un- • Comprehensive ethnographic over- der Director’s Order 77-1: Wetlands views and assessments (including eth- Management or Director’s Order 77-2: nobotanical studies) at both national Floodplain Management. monuments. • Tuzigoot administrative history. • Historic resource studies at both na- • Boundary surveys after land acquisi- tional monuments. tions then upgrade and post boundary • Cultural landscape inventories at both fence. monuments to identify specific strate- • Native plants restoration and inter- gies and determine priorities for the pretative trails development at Mon- management and protection of these tezuma Well National Monument. resources. • Comprehensive interpretive plan that outlines specific interpretive programming and services at both monuments (currently underway).

ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

The environmentally preferred alternative with surrounding public lands, making a is the alternative that will best promote the more seamless connection between the national environmental policy as ex- monuments’ resources and regional re- pressed in section 101(b) of the National sources. Environmental Policy Act of 1969. It is The no-action alternative provides fewer determined by applying the criteria in the opportunities to experience the monu- National Environmental Policy Act, ments’ resources than does the preferred guided by the Council on Environmental alternative. The preferred alternative Quality (1978) implementing regulations. would increase appropriate opportunities In the National Park Service, this accom- to explore and learn about the monu- plished by (1) disclosing how each alterna- ments’ unique resources, increasing the tive meets the criteria set forth in section knowledge and benefit to the public. 101(b), as listed in table 3, and (2) present- Thus, the no-action alternative does not ing any inconsistencies between the alter- meet as well the following national envi- natives analyzed and other environmental ronmental policy goals: laws and policies, as described in section 2.7.E of Director’s Order 12 (NPS 2001). • Attain the widest range of beneficial uses of the environment without de- When evaluated using the section 101 cri- gradation. teria (see table 3), the preferred alternative would cause the least damage to the bio- • Preserve important natural aspects logical and physical environment and and maintain an environment that would best protect, preserve, and enhance supports diversity and variety of indi- historic, cultural, and natural resources. vidual choice. All three alternatives would protect re- • Achieve a balance between population sources for future generations by preserv- and resource use. ing and interpreting the fundamental re- Alternative C provides additional visitor sources of the monuments. Furthermore, use opportunities and access to Monte- the alternatives would provide opportuni- zuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- ties to view and appreciate the monu- numents as well as increased levels of ments’ unique resources in culturally connections and partnerships with sur- pleasing surroundings. All three also rounding public lands, making a more would strive to mitigate resource impacts seamless connection between the monu- from visitor use and surrounding land uses ments’ resources and regional resources. to the greatest extent possible. All alterna- However, there would be a higher poten- tives meet these criteria to some degree, tial for impacts on archeological resources although the success in meeting these cri- because this alternative would provide teria would vary among the alternatives. more opportunities for unsupervised The preferred alternative surpasses the access to currently closed areas of the other alternatives in realizing the full monuments. It also presents greater range of the section 101 environmental threats to public health and safety than the policy goals. Alternative B would provide preferred alternative. Access to the area the highest levels of resource protection above Montezuma Castle could expose while increasing the diversity of visitor visitors to dangers from falling. In addi- opportunities, including the opportunity tion, access to a large area of Beaver Creek for self-exploration of the site’s resources. in Montezuma Castle could lead to visi- Alternative B would provide increased tors unfamiliar with desert environments levels of connections and partnerships to get lost and/or experience heat exhaus-

82 Environmentally Preferred Alternative tion. Thus, alternative C does not meet the • Attain the widest range of beneficial following policy goals as well as the pre- uses without resource degradation ferred alternative: and risk to health or safety. • Preserve important cultural aspects.

TABLE 3: ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS

Alternatives Criterion A B C Fulfill the responsibilities of each generation as trustee of the environment for 2 a/ 2 2 succeeding generations. Assure for all Americans safe, healthful, productive, and aesthetically and culturally 2 2 2 pleasing surroundings. Attain the widest range of beneficial uses of the environment without degrada- 1 2 1 tion, risk to health or safety, or other undesirable and unintended consequences. Preserve important historic, cultural, and natural aspects of our national heritage 1 2 1 and maintain, wherever possible, an environment that supports diversity and variety of individual choices. Achieve a balance between population and resource use that will permit high 1 2 2 standards of living and a wide sharing of life’s amenities. Enhance the quality of renewable resources and approach the maximum attaina- 2 2 2 ble recycling of depletable resources. Total points 9 12 10 a/ A rating of 1 indicates that the alternative somewhat meets the criteria. A rating of 2 indicates that the alternative fully meets the intent of the criteria. There were no “low” ratings because elements that were not environmentally sound were eliminated from consideration.

ALTERNATIVES AND ACTIONS CONSIDERED BUT DISMISSED FROM DETAILED EVALUATION

Also considered was construction of a MONTEZUMA CASTLE paved trail that would comply with Amer- icans with Disabilities Act requirements Castle Site and would provide access for people with Additional hiking trails were considered in impaired mobility to the area along the the Castle site in areas that ultimately were ditch that flows from Montezuma Well to zoned in resource and research. These the west. This was dismissed because of hiking trails were dismissed from further the impacts on the cultural and natural consideration because these areas are un- resources that would be required to con- desirable for hiking (hot and dry) and be- struct this type of trail. cause of concerns regarding protection of resources, particularly archeological sites. TUZIGOOT Construction of an amphitheater was con- Well Site sidered in the creosote flat west of the Constructing a full visitor center at or near administrative area. This was dismissed the current contact station at the existing because the locations that would be suita- parking lot was considered. This was dis- ble for this type of facility were far re- missed because of the presence of sensi- moved from the main visitor attractions tive resources (grave sites) in this area. Al- (the pueblo and the visitor center). Also, ternative C considers constructing the vis- through partnering with Arizona State itor center at a different location. Parks, this type of facility already is available at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

84 Summaries

SUMMARIES NPS guidance in Director’s Order #12 and Another summary should present “the Handbook: Conservation Planning, Envi- impacts of each alternative, including a ronmental Impact Analysis, and Decision determination of potential improvement Making (NPS 2001) requires that envi- to park resources.” Table 6 provides a ronmental assessments include several brief summary of the effects of each of the summaries that will facilitate reader un- alternatives on the impact topics retained derstanding. The important features of for analysis. More detailed information each alternative are summarized in table 4. supporting table 6 on the effects of the Detailed descriptions of the features of alternatives is provided in Chapter 4: En- each alternative were provided earlier in vironmental Consequences. this section. A summary of how each alternative would The guidance in Director’s Order #12 and achieve the requirements of section 101(b) Handbook also requires a summary pre- of the National Environmental Policy Act senting the degree to which each alterna- was included in the text and table 3 under tive meets the stated purpose, need, and the heading “Environmentally Preferred objectives. This information is provided in Alternative.” table 5.

85 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 4: SUMMARY OF THE ALTERNATIVES

Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Concept This alternative would continue current The main emphasis of this alternative is to The main emphasis of this alternative is management direction and trends at Mon- connect the three sites with improved regional to provide increased opportunities for tezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- orientation to the Verde Valley area. Visitors visitors to self-discover the beauty and numents. It provides a baseline for compari- would be introduced to all three sites and their wonder of the natural and cultural re- son in evaluating the changes and impacts related interpretive themes through coordi- sources of the monuments. Resources of the action alternatives. nated messaging among the three sites. Visi- would still receive the highest level of tors would travel to the sites to learn firsthand protection, and visitors could interact about elements of the prehistoric and historic with and explore a wider range of the stories associated with human settlement of resources found in the monuments. the Verde Valley. Conditions common Natural resources would be protected by The National Park Service would increase re- Greater emphasis would be placed on to all three sites being in the monuments. However, man- source stabilization and monitoring efforts. visitor and administrative services and agement of these resources would be li- Partnerships would improve orientation at the facilities compared to alternative B be- mited by the lack of staff and funding. sites and other opportunities in the Verde Val- cause of a larger development footprint Existing operations and visitor facilities ley. in this alternative. would remain in place. More of the monuments’ cultural and natural More of the monuments’ cultural and Most of the areas accessible to visitors resources would be available for visitors to natural resources would be available for would continue to have hardened facilities explore via trails. visitors to explore via trails. with physical and regulatory barriers to Visitor stays would increase slightly at each Visitor stays would increase at each of manage visitor use. site. the three sites. Opportunities for close contact between The National Park Service would acquire most The National Park Service would acquire visitors and the natural and cultural re- of the lands within the legislated boundaries most of the lands within the legislated sources at the sites would continue to be except for the mine tailings at Tuzigoot, which boundaries except for the mine tailings limited. would be removed from the legislated boun- at Tuzigoot, which would be removed The interpretive emphasis would continue to dary. from the legislated boundary. focus on the three primary sites within the monuments, with little connection among the sites in terms of interpretation. Visitor stays at each site would remain short, and visitors would probably not visit more than one site.

86 Table 4: Summary of the Alternatives

TABLE 4: SUMMARY OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Montezuma Castle Resource activities would continue to focus Most of the monument would be zoned Re- Most of the monument would be zoned on stabilizing the primary site, with intensive sources and Research. The existing facilities for Resources and Research. The existing preservation treatment and regular cyclic visitor services would be zoned Interpretive visitor facilities would be zoned Interpre- maintenance. Other archeological resources Historic and would remain much as today. tive Historic and would remain much as would be stabilized or allowed to molder Additional parking may be added at the junc- today. pursuant to section 106 consultation. tion of the monument entrance road and the Additional parking may be added at the To protect cultural sites and landscapes, service road to the sewage lagoons. junction of the monument entrance road Beaver Creek would continue to be ma- Some natural-surface trails with interpretive and the service road to the sewage la- naged in some areas to control erosion and signs may be sited across the river to provide goons. deposition. Visitor access to the creek would views to the Castle. A new headquarters would be located at remain limited. A corridor along Montezuma Castle Road and the beginning of the entrance road to Visitor opportunities would continue to fo- Beaver Creek Estates Road would accommo- the monument, replacing the current cus on viewing the Castle and visiting the date regional trail activities for horseback rid- headquarters after its lease expires. visitor center. A picnic area would continue ing, hiking, and mountain biking. Access over the creek and some picnic to be available next to the visitor center. The equipment shed (determined eligible for facilities on the south bank of the creek Visitor stays would continue to be short (30 listing in the National Register of Historic Plac- would be provided. A new bridge would minutes to one hour). es on July 13, 1994) would be rehabilitated be resistant to flood waters. In addition, Existing administration facilities would re- and adaptively reused. self-guided, designated trails would be main the same. A new workspace and storage building would provided along the river corridor. be built near the equipment shed to support To provide better views of the river val- the maintenance functions of all three sites. ley, a small number of private vehicles The equipment shed would also be rehabili- would be allowed access to the plateau tated and adaptively reused. above the cliff dwelling. A corridor along Montezuma Castle Road and Beaver Creek Estates Road would accommodate regional trail activities for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. If the increased diversity and amount of activities proposed in this alternative increases the visitation levels and lengths of stay, the amount of area zoned Park Operations may be increased to meet visitor management needs. A modest workspace and storage building would be built near the equipment

87 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 4: SUMMARY OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C shed to support the maintenance functions of all three sites. The equipment shed would also be rehabilitated and adaptively reused. Montezuma Well Resource activities would continue to focus Most of the monument would be zoned re- Most of the monument would be zoned on monitoring water quality and providing sources and research. The existing facilities Resources and Research. The existing short-term visitor experiences at Montezu- leading to and around Montezuma Well visitor facilities would be zoned Interpre- ma Well, with emphasis on the picnic area. would be zoned interpretive historic and re- tive Historic and remain much as today. Other archeological resources would be main much as today. A new visitor center is proposed at the stabilized or allowed to molder pursuant to The amount of interpretation and interaction entrance of the road to Montezuma Well section 106 consultation. with resources associated with the long history to increase visitor orientation and inter- Visitor opportunities would continue to fo- of prehistoric and historic farming in the area pretation services on site. cus on viewing Montezuma Well and visit- would increase. Designated natural-surface trails would ing the well outlet. The picnic area would The area just south and west of the picnic area be developed to and along the riparian continue to be a major draw for local visita- would include natural-surface trails improved area of Wet Beaver Creek. In addition, a tion. Visitor stays would be relatively short along existing formal and informal routes. natural-surface, designated trail would unless visitors use the picnic area. An addition to the visitor contact station be located near the prehistoric ditch that Existing administration facilities would re- (shade ramada) is proposed in the existing extends from Montezuma Well and main the same. footprint of the parking lot near Montezuma along Beaver Creek. This trail would also Well. follow the rim along the north side of Montezuma Well. A trail would also extend from the visitor center to the well, following the road. Tuzigoot Resource activities would continue to focus Most of the monument would be zoned Inte- Most of the monument would be zoned on stabilizing the primary site, with intensive raction and Discovery. The areas east, north, Interaction and Discovery. In these areas, preservation treatment and regular cyclic and south of the pueblo would be zoned Inte- natural-surface trails may be designated. maintenance. Other archeological resources raction and Discovery, providing natural- If assessment determines that there would be stabilized or allowed to molder surface trails along the riparian area. Through would be no conflict with preservation pursuant to section 106 consultation. collaboration with partners, these trails may of significant cultural resources, moun- Visitor opportunities would continue to fo- link with trails in Dead Horse Ranch State Park tain bicycling opportunities may also be cus on exploring the pueblo and visiting the and Coconino National Forest. provided on old road beds in the area. visitor center/museum. Visitor stays would The area between the tailings and Peck’s Lake Trail connections via partnerships with continue to be short (less than an hour). would be zoned Resources and Research. neighboring federal and state lands Existing administration facilities would re- The existing visitor facilities would be zoned would be explored. main the same. Interpretive Historic and would remain much The existing visitor facilities would be as today. zoned Interpretive Historic and would There would be increased cultural demonstra- remain much as today. The pit house tions in and around the pueblo. In addition, along the entrance road would be zoned

88 Table 4: Summary of the Alternatives

TABLE 4: SUMMARY OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C access would be provided via trails to the river. Resources and Research with a small Active marsh restoration and management visitor access trail and interpretive signs activities would begin at the newly acquired adjacent. If assessment determines that Tavasci Marsh. If assessment determines that there would be no conflict with preser- there would be no conflict with preservation vation of significant cultural resources, a of significant cultural resources, a boardwalk boardwalk would be constructed across would be constructed across the marsh along the Tavasci Marsh along an existing old an existing old road alignment. road alignment. The monuments will cooperate with the Ari- Most of the area directly around the zona State Parks on the Verde River Greenway road, parking lot, pueblo, and adminis- Management Plan proposal for a small parking trative facilities would be zoned Re- area and launch for small boats on state- sources and Research. owned land on the east side of the monument The monuments will cooperate with the entrance road. Arizona State Parks on the Verde River An additional workspace and storage facility Greenway Management Plan proposal would be constructed near the existing main- for a small parking area and launch for tenance area to provide onsite administrative small boats on state-owned land on the space for the functions and operations of Tu- east side of the monument entrance zigoot, replacing the offsite workspace and road. storage lost with the expiration of the General Services Administration lease with the Yavapai Apache reservation.

89 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 5: HOW THE ALTERNATIVES MEET THE OBJECTIVES

Objective Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Cultural and natural resources Implement resource The objective would be met to a large de- The objective would be fully met. The objective would be met to a large degree. management activities gree. Resource management activities would be in- Resource management activities would be to improve resource Natural resources would be protected by creased through expansion of the monuments’ increased, and the National Park Service would conditions and protect being in the monuments. However, man- resource stabilization program and active par- acquire most of the lands within the legislated the fundamental re- agement of these resources would be li- ticipation in the NPS inventory and monitoring boundaries except for the mine tailings at Tu- sources and values of mited by the lack of staff and funding. program. zigoot, which would be removed from the the monuments. Resource activities would continue to focus The National Park Service would acquire most legislated boundary. on stabilizing the primary sites, with inten- of the lands within the legislated boundaries sive preservation treatment and regular except for the mine tailings at Tuzigoot, which cyclic maintenance. Other archeological would be removed from the legislated boun- resources would be stabilized or allowed to dary. molder pursuant to section 106 consulta- Active marsh restoration and management tion. activities would begin at the newly acquired Tavasci Marsh. Effective partnerships and collaborative planning efforts would be established and maintained that would facilitate the realization of the monuments’ goals. Provide monument The objective would be fully met. The objective would be fully met. The objective would be met to a large degree. facilities and use them There would be no change in the monu- Where possible, new facilities such as trails Alternative C would result in a larger devel- in a manner that mini- ments’ facilities. would be constructed in already disturbed opment footprint. Where possible, new facili- mizes adverse impacts areas. Disturbance to sensitive areas such as ties such as trails would be constructed in al- on cultural and natural archeological sites and habitats for threatened ready disturbed areas. Disturbance to sensitive resources. or endangered species would also be avoided areas such as archeological sites and habitats or mitigated. Trails and the marsh boardwalk for threatened or endangered species would would be constructed along existing old road also be avoided or mitigated. Trails and the alignments. marsh boardwalk would be constructed along existing old road alignments.

90 Table 5: How the Alternatives Meet the Objectives

TABLE 5: HOW THE ALTERNATIVES MEET THE OBJECTIVES (CONTINUED)

Objective Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Visitor use and experience Provide improved con- The objective would not be met. The objective would be fully met. The objective would be fully met. nections between the The interpretive emphasis would continue Orientation to the sites and other opportunities The monuments would be considered as part three sites including to focus on the three primary sites within in the Verde Valley would be improved through of the region’s public land resources. The Na- information, orienta- the monuments, with little connection partnerships that focus on coordinated way tional Park Service would emphasize partner- tion, and way finding. among the sites in terms of interpretation. finding, marketing, increased information dis- ships with surrounding public lands agencies semination, and pre-trip planning services. to provide connections to recreational and educational opportunities off site. A new visitor center would be constructed at the entrance of the road to Montezuma Well. Trail connections via partnerships with neighboring federal and state lands would be explored. Provide interpretive and The objective would not be met. The objective would be fully met. The objective would be fully met. education opportunities Opportunities for close contact between More of the monuments’ cultural and natural The greatest amount of the monuments’ cul- that improve visitor visitors and the natural and cultural re- resources would be available for visitors to ex- tural and natural resources would be available understanding and ap- sources at the sites would continue to be plore via trails. for visitors to explore via trails, new view preciation of the pur- limited. Some additional natural-surface trails with in- points, creek access and crossing. pose, significance, and Visitor opportunities would continue to terpretive signs would be developed. A new headquarters would be located at the fundamental resources focus on viewing the Castle and visiting the The amount of interpretation and interaction beginning of the entrance road to the Castle and values of the mo- visitor center. site. numents. with resources associated with the long history Visitor opportunities would continue to of prehistoric and historic farming in the area A new visitor center would be constructed at focus on viewing Montezuma Well and would be increased. the entrance of the road to Montezuma Well. visiting the well outlet. Cultural demonstrations in and around the Visitor opportunities would continue to pueblo would be increased. In addition, access focus on exploring the pueblo and visiting would be provided via trails to the river. the visitor center/museum.

Monument operations Improve efficiency and The objective would not be met. The objective would be met. The objective would be met. effectiveness in all divi- Existing operations and visitor facilities Improvements to monument operations would Improvements to monument operations would

91 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 5: HOW THE ALTERNATIVES MEET THE OBJECTIVES (CONTINUED)

Objective Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C sions and functions of would remain in place result from increased and improved space for result from increased and improved space for monument operations. Existing administration facilities would re- monument operations, and improved capability monument operations, and improved capabili- main the same. to manage visitors and resources. ty to manage visitors and resources. A modest workspace and storage building, new headquarters, and new visitor center would be built. Partnerships Establish and maintain The objective would not be met. The objective would be met. The objective would be met. partnerships to improve Partnerships opportunities would continue Partnerships would be developed and en- Partnerships would be developed and en- visitor orientation to the to be limited and form on an ad hoc basis. hanced with Verde Valley organizations, land hanced with Verde Valley organizations, land sites and other oppor- owners, and government agencies. owners, and government agencies. tunities adjacent to the Partnerships would improve orientation at the A corridor along Montezuma Castle Road and monuments and else- sites and other opportunities in the Verde Val- Beaver Creek Estates Road would accommo- where in the Verde ley. date regional trail activities for horseback rid- Valley. The corridor along Montezuma Castle Road ing, hiking, and mountain biking. and Beaver Creek Estates Road would accommodate regional trail activities. Through collaboration with partners, trails would link with trails in Dead Horse Ranch State Park and Coconino National Forest. Establish and maintain The objective would not be met. The objective would be met. The objective would be met. effective partnerships Partnerships opportunities would continue The monuments would cooperate with the The monuments would be considered as part and collaborative plan- to be limited and form on an ad hoc basis. Arizona State Parks on the Verde River Green- of the region’s public land resources. The Na- ning efforts that facili- way Management Plan proposal for a small tional Park Service would emphasize partner- tate the realization of parking area and launch for small boats. ships with surrounding public lands agencies the monuments’ goals. to provide connections to recreational and educational opportunities off site. The monuments would cooperate with the Arizona State Parks on the Verde River Greenway Manage- ment Plan proposal for a small parking area and small boat launch.

92 Table 6: Summary of Impacts of the Alternatives

TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES

Impact Topic Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Archeological Actions would have no adverse effect on arc- Actions would have no adverse effect on arc- Actions would have no adverse effect on resources heological resources. The cumulative effects heological resources, and expanded interpreta- archeological resources, and expanded would be beneficial; this alternative’s contribution and education could improve visitor ste- interpretation and education could improve tion to these effects would be small. The bene- wardship. The cumulative effects would be visitor stewardship. Implementation of al- ficial impacts would constitute a small compo- beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to ternative C would generally have the same nent of cumulative impacts. There would be no these effects would be small. There would be cumulative effects on archeological re- impairment of archeological resources. no impairment of archeological resources. sources as those described for alternative B. There would be no impairment of archeological resources. Prehistoric and his- Actions would have no adverse effect on pre- Actions would have no adverse effect on pre- Actions would have no adverse effect on toric structures and historic and historic structures and buildings. historic and historic structures and buildings. prehistoric and historic structures and buildings The cumulative effects would be beneficial; this The cumulative effects would be beneficial; this buildings. Implementation of alternative C alternative’s contribution to these effects would alternative’s contribution to these effects would would generally have the same cumulative be small. There would be no impairment of be small. There would be no impairment of effects on prehistoric and historic structures prehistoric and historic structures and buildings. prehistoric and historic structures and buildings. and buildings as those described for alternative B. There would be no impairment of prehistoric and historic structures and buildings. Cultural landscapes Actions would have no adverse effect on cul- Actions would have no adverse effect on cul- Actions would have no adverse effect on tural landscape resources. The cumulative ef- tural landscape resources. The cumulative ef- cultural landscape resources. The cumula- fects would be beneficial; this alternative’s con- fects would be beneficial; this alternative’s con- tive effects would be beneficial and the tribution to these effects would be small. There tribution to these effects would be small. There contribution would be small. There would would be no impairment of cultural landscapes. would be no impairment of cultural landscapes. be no impairment of cultural landscapes. There would be no impairment of cultural landscapes.

93 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Impact Topic Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Ethnographic re- Actions would have no adverse effect on tradi- Actions would have no adverse effect on tradi- Actions would have no adverse effect on sources and traditional cultural properties or on ethnographic tional cultural properties or on ethnographic traditional cultural properties or on ethno- tional cultural prop- resources. The cumulative effects would be resources. The cumulative effects would be graphic resources. Cumulative effects erties beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to would be beneficial; this alternative’s con- these effects would be small. There would be these effects would be small. There would be tribution would be small. There would be no impairment of ethnographic resources and no impairment of ethnographic resources and no impairment of ethnographic resources traditional cultural properties. traditional cultural properties. and traditional cultural properties. Floodplains Alternative A would result in negligible, long- At both monuments, the short- and long-term Short- and long-term, negligible to minor, term, adverse impacts on floodplains. There impacts of trails on erosion and water flow adverse impacts from trails on floodplains would be no cumulative impacts at Montezuma patterns in the floodplain would be negligible. would occur at Montezuma Castle. Short- Castle National Monument and negligible, ad- At Tuzigoot, there would be beneficial cumula- and long-term, negligible, adverse impacts verse, cumulative impacts to floodplains at Tu- tive impacts as a result of reduced social trail- would occur at Tuzigoot National Monu- zigoot National Monument. There would be no ing. Construction and use of a boardwalk at ment. Construction and use of a boardwalk impairment of monument resources or values Tavasci Marsh would have long-term, adverse at Tavasci Marsh would have long-term, associated with floodplains. negligible impacts on water flow and erosion in adverse, negligible impacts on and erosion. the marsh. Alternative B would have no cumu- There would be no cumulative impacts lative impacts on floodplains at Montezuma under alternative C at Montezuma Castle Castle National Monument and negligible to National Monument, and negligible, ad- minor, adverse, cumulative effect on flood- verse, cumulative impacts at Tuzigoot Na- plains at Tuzigoot National Monument. There tional Monument. There would be no im- would be no impairment of monument re- pairment of monument resources or values sources or values associated with floodplains. associated with floodplains. Soils Alternative A would not involve actions that Short- and long-term, adverse impacts on soils The riparian area trail at Montezuma Castle disturb soils, increase erosion potential, or de- from trails would be negligible at both monu- would have long-term, adverse, negligible crease soil productivity in either national mo- ments. The long-term adverse impacts on soil to minor effects. The new visitor center nument; impacts would be negligible, adverse, erosion from the expansion of the visitor con- near the Back cabin would have localized, and long-term. Negligible, long-term, adverse tact station at the Castle would be negligible. long-term, adverse, minor impacts. There cumulative impacts on the soils would occur at Soil disturbance from boardwalk construction would be no cumulative impacts on soils at Tuzigoot National Monument by increasing the at Tavasci Marsh would be negligible, short- Montezuma Castle. Construction of the potential for soil erosion resulting from the and long-term, and adverse. Cumulative im- Tavasci Marsh boardwalk would result in proposed greenway trail. There would be no pacts from alternative B and the proposed short-and long-term, negligible, adverse impairment of monument resources or values greenway trail and other plans would result in impacts on soils. The cumulative impacts associated with soil. negligible, long-term, adverse cumulative im- on soils at Tuzigoot would be negligible, pacts in both monuments. There would be no long-term, and adverse. There would be no impairment of monument resources or values impairment of monument resources or associated with soil. values associated with soil.

94 Table 6: Summary of Impacts of the Alternatives

TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Impact Topic Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Vegetation Efforts to manage and control nonnative and Trail construction and use would have negligi- The short-and long-term adverse impacts exotic plant species continue to have long- ble, short- and long-term, adverse impact on from trail development on native vegeta- term, minor, beneficial impacts on the native vegetation, including abundance and distribution, including abundance and distribution, vegetation in both monuments. This alternative tion, in both monuments. During facility con- at Montezuma Castle would be negligible. would result in no cumulative effects on vege- struction Montezuma Castle National Monu- The long-term adverse impacts of trail de- tation at Montezuma Castle National Monu- ment, short- and long-term negligible impacts signation on abundance and distribution of ment and negligible, long-term, adverse, cumu- could occur on the periphery of the expansion native vegetation would be negligible. The lative impacts on vegetation at Tuzigoot Na- area. The short- and long-term adverse impacts long-term adverse impact to the vegetation tional Monument by increasing the potential on vegetation as a result of constructing the would be minor to moderate following for trampling resulting from the proposed boardwalk at Tuzigoot National Monument development of new trails at Montezuma greenway trail. There would be no impairment would be negligible. The long-term, adverse Well. of monument resources or values associated impacts of an increase in nonnative and exotic Construction of the new visitor center near with vegetation. vegetation would be negligible to minor. The the Back cabin at Montezuma Well would impacts of alternative B on vegetation in com- have a short-term, negligible, adverse, im- bination with the impacts of the proposed pact and long-term negligible beneficial greenway trail, increased visitation to the mo- impact on the surrounding vegetation be- numents, and other plans would result in neg- cause the landscape has already been dis- ligible, long-term, adverse cumulative impacts turbed and the dominant plant species are in both monuments. There would be no im- nonnative and exotic grasses. Construction pairment of monument resources or values of a new headquarters and access and associated with vegetation. parking on the plateau at Montezuma Cas- tle National Monument would have long- term, negligible to minor, adverse impacts. There would be no contribution to cumulative impacts under alternative C on vegetation at Montezuma Castle National Monu- ment. At Tuzigoot, the short-term adverse impacts of trail development on vegetation at Tuzigoot would be negligible. The long- term adverse impacts of the trail on the understory vegetation would be negligible to minor. The long-term adverse impacts of an increase in nonnative and exotic vegetation along the trails would be negligible to minor. The short-and long-term adverse impacts on vegetation during Tavasci Marsh boardwalk construction would be negligible. The impacts of alternative C

95 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Impact Topic Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C on soils in combination with the impacts of the proposed greenway trail at Tuzigoot National Monument would result in negligible, long-term, adverse cumulative impacts to vegetation. There would be no impairment of monument resources or values associated with vegetation. Wetlands Alternative A would have no new actions con- There would be no actions at Montezuma Cas- There would be no actions at Montezuma tributing to adverse impacts on wetland func- tle National Monument that would affect wet- Castle National Monument that would tions or wetland habitat values, resulting in lands under alternative B. Active marsh restora- affect wetlands under alternative C. At long-term negligible to minor impacts. Ongoing tion activities at Tuzigoot National Monument Tavasci Marsh construction of new trails management actions would continue to allow would have a negligible to minor, long-term, and a boardwalk would have negligible to silt to accumulate in Tavasci Marsh in Tuzigoot beneficial effect on wetland habitat functions minor short- and long-term adverse im- National Monument, which would have a long- at Tavasci Marsh, although construction of new pacts on the marsh wetlands. The cumula- term, minor to moderate, adverse impact on trails and a boardwalk would have negligible to tive impacts of alternative C are the same wetland functions and habitat. Increased visita- minor, short- and long-term adverse impacts on as those described for alternative B. There tion or development associated with the Verde the marsh wetlands. The contribution of alter- would be no impairment of monument River Greenway Management Plan would have native B toward adverse cumulative impacts on resources or values associated with wet- local, negligible, adverse, cumulative impacts wetlands would be negligible. There would be lands. on wetlands. There would be no impairment of no impairment of monument resources or val- monument resources or values associated with ues associated with wetlands. wetlands. Wildlife There are no new actions proposed under al- Trail development would have negligible to The long-term adverse impacts to sensitive ternative A that would have an adverse impact minor, short-term, adverse impacts on wildlife wildlife from the longer riparian trail at on wildlife or wildlife habitat in the monu- and wildlife habitat at Montezuma Castle Na- Montezuma Castle would be minor. The ments, resulting in negligible short- and long- tional Monument and negligible, short-term, new trail at Montezuma Well would have term adverse impacts. Informal access to the adverse impacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat short-term, negligible to minor adverse Verde River at Tuzigoot National Monument at Tuzigoot National Monument. Use of the impacts on wildlife, primarily as a result of would continue, representing a long-term, mi- trails would result in negligible, short-term, construction effects; the long-term adverse nor, adverse effect on wildlife. The adverse adverse impacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat impacts of the trail would be negligible. impacts on wildlife of erosion caused by social at both monuments. The short-term adverse Cumulative impacts on wildlife at Monte- trailing would be local and negligible in the impacts on wildlife from construction of the zuma Castle would be negligible. long term. boardwalk at Tavasci Marsh in Tuzigoot Na- The long-term adverse impacts of an ex- There would be no cumulative impacts at Mon- tional Monument would be negligible to minor. tended trail and boardwalk at Tuzigoot on tezuma Castle National Monument. Alternative The long-term adverse impacts would be neg- wildlife and their habitat would be short- A would result in short-term, negligible to mi- ligible to minor for wildlife species that are and long-term, local, and negligible to mi- nor, adverse, cumulative impacts on wildlife especially sensitive to disturbance and negligi- nor. The impacts of alternative C in combi- and wildlife habitat at Tuzigoot National Mo- ble for adaptable species. The long-term ad- nation with the impacts of the proposed nument as a result of trail development along verse impacts resulting from disturbance of greenway trail would result in negligible to

96 Table 6: Summary of Impacts of the Alternatives

TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Impact Topic Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C the Verde River. The long-term, adverse, cumu- contaminated sediment in the marsh would be minor, long-term adverse cumulative im- lative impacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat negligible to minor depending on the level of pacts to wildlife and wildlife habitat. There would be negligible to minor and result from exposure to the contaminated sediment. would be no impairment of wildlife or wild- the potential for ongoing disturbance of wild- Cumulative long-term, adverse impacts under life habitat in the monuments. life throughout the year by visitors. There alternative B on wildlife or wildlife habitat would be no impairment of wildlife or wildlife would be negligible at Montezuma Castle Na- habitat in the monuments. tional Monument and negligible to minor at Tuzigoot National Monument. There would be no impairment of wildlife or wildlife habitat in the monuments. Threatened and There would be no effects on southwestern Actions taken under alternative B at Montezu- Effects on the southwestern willow fly- endangered willow flycatcher habitat or individual flycatch- ma Castle would affect southwestern flycatcher catcher would be similar to those described species ers foraging at Montezuma Castle National habitat, but the effects would not likely be for alternative B. The potential for effects is Monument. Long-term, ongoing management adverse. Marsh restoration and ongoing ditch slightly greater than alternative B, but im- actions at Montezuma Castle could benefit maintenance activities at Tuzigoot National pacts would not be adverse. flycatcher habitat, so adverse effects would be Monument would have long-term, negligible to Yuma clapper rail - alternative C would unlikely. Change in the Tavasci Marsh habitat minor benefits on flycatcher foraging habitat. have effects similar to those described for at Tuzigoot National Monument could have a Visitors could potentially affect flycatcher habi- alternative B. The potential for effects is long-term effect on flycatcher habitat, but the tat, but the effects would not likely be adverse. slightly greater than alternative B, but im- presence of substantial suitable habitat in the Cumulative effects at both monuments would pacts would not be adverse. area would result in a “not likely to adversely not likely be adverse because of mitigation Yellow-billed cuckoo - alternative C would affect” determination. Potential cumulative measures and adaptive management strategies. have effects similar to those described for effects would not be substantial or widespread Development of the boardwalk at Tavasci alternative B. enough to be considered adverse. Marsh would have a negligible effect on habi- There would be no impairment of these Changes in Tavasci Marsh during migration tat in the marsh, with potential to affect the threatened and endangered species in the could affect, but would not likely adversely Yuma clapper rail. However, mitigation meas- monuments. affect, the Yuma clapper rail. There would be ures would offset the effects, so they would no cumulative effects on the Yuma clapper rail. not be adverse. In the long term, marsh resto- There would be no effects on the habitat or ration would provide a negligible to minor ben- population of the yellow-billed cuckoo in either efit on rail habitat. There would be no cumula- national monument. There would be no cumu- tive effects on clapper rails or their habitat un- lative effects on the yellow-billed cuckoo. der this alternative at Montezuma Castle, and There would be no impairment of these threat- potential cumulative effects at Tuzigoot would ened and endangered species in the monu- not be adverse. ments. There are no proposed actions under this alternative that would affect the yellow-billed cuckoo habitat at Montezuma Castle National Mo- nument. Trail development and use at Tuzigoot National Monument could have a negligible

97 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Impact Topic Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C effect on the yellow-billed cuckoo, but the effects are is unlikely to be adverse. Cumulative effects associated with increased visitation and interaction with the habitats used by the yellow-billed cuckoo would be negligible at either of the monuments. There would be no impairment of these threatened and endangered species in the monuments. Visitor use and Alternative A would result in continuing minor Moderate to major, beneficial effects would Increased beneficial impacts would result experience beneficial impacts resulting from the continued result from the increased diversity in opportuni- from the increased diversity in opportuni- opportunities to view the monuments’ prime ties to view and learn about the monuments’ ties to view and learn about the monu- cultural resources. However, minor adverse prime cultural resources. Connecting the three ments’ prime cultural resources. Connect- impacts from crowding and congestion at peak sites in the monuments via a central orientation ing the three sites in the monuments via a times in the parking lot, main loop trail and facility in the Verde Valley would increase expo- central visitor center and orientation facility visitor center at Montezuma Castle would con- sure of visitors to all three sites and provide a in the Verde Valley would increase expo- tinue during peak times and may get worse better understanding of each site’s unique role sure of visitors to all three sites and provide with increasing visitation. In addition, the lack in settlement of the Verde Valley. Providing a better understanding of each site’s of adequate interpretive and education facilities more trail opportunities and cultural programs unique role in settlement of the Verde Val- for regular and diverse programming will con- would make visits to each site more exciting, ley. Scenic quality at the Well would be tinue to be a minor adverse impact to visitors. interesting, and inviting for repeat visitation. improved by removing the visitor contact Cumulative effects for aspects of visitor expe- Cumulative effects on visitor use and expe- station. Further, providing more trail oppor- rience could be either beneficial or adverse and rience would be beneficial and moderate to tunities and cultural programs would make range from negligible to major. major. Alternative B would contribute to mod- visits to each site more exciting, interesting erate to major cumulative benefits. and inviting for repeat visitation. Alterna- tive C would contribute substantially to moderate to major cumulative benefits at the monuments. Socioeconomics The effects of the no-action alternative on so- The effects of alternative B on socioeconomic Socioeconomics effects in the region would cioeconomic conditions in the Verde Valley conditions in the Verde Valley would be short- be negligible to minor, short- and long- would be long-term, beneficial, and negligible. term, beneficial, and minor. Cumulative effects term, and beneficial. Most cumulative im- Cumulative effects would be long-term, minor, would be short and long-term, minor, and pacts would be short- and long-term, mi- and beneficial, except that land use changes beneficial, except that land use changes could nor, and beneficial. Cumulative land use could result in long-term, minor to moderate, result in long-term, minor to moderate, adverse changes could result in long-term, minor to adverse impacts to groundwater resources impacts to groundwater resources connected moderate, adverse impacts to groundwater connected to Montezuma Well. to Montezuma Well. connected to Montezuma Well.

98 Table 6: Summary of Impacts of the Alternatives

TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES (CONTINUED) Impact Topic Alternative A – No-Action Alternative B – Preferred Alternative C Monument Alternative A would result in long-term, minor, Implementation of alternative B would result in Alternative C would result in long-term, operations adverse effects on monument operations. The long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial ef- moderate to major, beneficial effects on congestion and crowding in the Montezuma fects on monument operations because of in- Montezuma Castle National Monument Castle National Monument; very limited oppor- creased and improved space for monument operations because of increased and im- tunities at Montezuma Well for site orientation operations, and improved capability to manage proved space for monument operations, and interpretation; facilities which limit the visitors and resources. There would be long- and improved capability to manage visitors monument’s ability to provide consistent and term, minor, adverse impacts due the addition and resources. There would be negligible diverse interpretive programming; and the dis- of facilities that would require increased opera- beneficial impacts to Tuzigoot National tribution of staff between three sites, including tions and maintenance. Alternative B would Monument operations. There would be headquarters and maintenance, which are out- contribute long-term, minor beneficial effects long-term, minor, adverse impacts because side of the monuments. Cumulative effects on monument operations, resulting in cumula- of the addition of facilities that would re- would be long-term, minor, and adverse. tive negligible to minor benefits for monument quire increased operations and mainten- operations. ance. Alternative C would contribute long- term, minor beneficial effects on monument operations, resulting in cumulative negligible to minor benefits for monument operations.

CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

INTRODUCTION

This chapter describes the existing envi- There are many sources of information on ronment of Montezuma Castle National the natural, cultural, and human environ- Monument and Tuzigoot National Mo- ment of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot nument and the surrounding region. It national monuments. These include the focuses on the monument resources, uses, Montezuma Castle National Monument facilities, and socioeconomic characteris- and Tuzigoot National Monument home tics that may be affected if any of the al- page at http://www.nps.gov/TUZI and ternatives are implemented. Some fea- bibliography located on the Internet at tures, such as floodplains and endangered http://www1.nature.nps.gov/nrbib/index. species, are discussed because they pro- htm. vide context or must be considered in an environmental assessment.

103

CULTURAL RESOURCES

The National Historic Preservation Act of ty – resources that postdate Euro- 1966, as amended, requires that federal Americans. agencies consider the effects to cultural Cultural landscapes are settings people resources when proceeding with any un- have created in the natural world and re- dertaking. The agency must demonstrate veal fundamental ties between people and an effort to eliminate, minimize, and/or the land. Landscapes – geographic areas mitigate any adverse effects to historic or that exhibit evidence of human habitation prehistoric properties. The National His- and intertwined patterns of things both toric Preservation Act recognizes five natural and constructed – constitute spe- property types: districts, sites, buildings, cial places that are expressions of human structures, and objects. As called for in the manipulation and adaptation of the land. act, these categories are used in the Na- There are four general types of cultural tional Register of Historic Places, the landscapes (not mutually exclusive): his- preeminent reference for properties wor- toric site, historic designed landscape, his- thy of preservation in the United States. toric vernacular, and ethnographic. To focus attention on management requirements within these property types, Structures are constructed works, usually Management Policies 2006 categorizes cul- immovable by nature or design, con- tural resources as archeological resources, sciously created to serve some human ac- cultural landscapes, structures, museum tivity. They are material assemblies that objects, and ethnographic resources (tra- extend the limits of human capability and ditional cultural properties). (As discussed constitute elaborations of human produc- in chapter 1, museum objects have been tive ability and artistic sensitivity. Struc- dismissed as an impact topic for this gen- tures – prehistoric and historic – include eral management plan). buildings, roads, vessels, fences, and other assemblies of historical, aesthetic, or Director’s Order 28: Cultural Resource scientific importance. Management Guideline (NPS 1998) provides definitions for archeological re- Ethnographic resources are expressions of sources, cultural landscapes, structures, human culture and the basis of continuity and ethnographic resources (traditional of cultural systems. A cultural system en- cultural properties): compasses both the tangible and intangi- ble and includes traditional arts and native Archeological resources are the material languages, religious beliefs, and subsis- remains or physical evidence of past hu- tence activities. Ethnographic resources man life or activities that are of archeolog- can include sites, structures, objects, land- ical interest, including the record of the scapes, or natural features that are as- effects of human activities on the envi- signed traditional legendary, religious, ronment. They are capable of revealing subsistence, or other significance in the scientific or humanistic information cultural system of a traditionally asso- through archeological research and have ciated group. Traditional cultural proper- the potential to describe and explain hu- ties are ethnographic resources eligible for man behavior. Archeological features are listing in the National Register of Historic typically buried but may extend above Places. ground or lie submerged under water; they are commonly associated with prehistoric peoples – resources that predate the beginning of written records – but may be products of more contemporary socie-

104 Cultural Resources

OVERVIEW OF VERDE VALLEY groups by their use of ground stone tools CULTURAL HISTORY and different styles of projectile points. While hunting and gathering continued as Introduction a way of life for some time into the Ceram- ic Period’s Squaw Peak Phase, a shift to This overview provides a brief history of agriculture and settled village life was un- the Verde Valley and its inhabitants. An derway. Late in this period, intrusive ce- understanding of this history serves to set ramics appear, indicating contact with the the framework for a more in-depth under- Kayenta Anasazi to the north and the Ho- standing of the National Park Service’s hokam (Pima for “those who have gone”) mission to preserve, protect, and interpret to the south. At the time of this contact, or the structures, objects, and other rem- soon thereafter, the first definite signs of nants of prehistoric cultures at Montezu- agriculture appeared. ma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments. Ceramic Period: Squaw Peak Phase (ca. AD 200 to 700). The Verde Valley is part Prehistoric Period of what has been defined as the northern Hohokam periphery, which portrays the The Verde Valley is one of the most fertile Hohokam regional system as consisting of river valleys in Arizona. Located between a core area centered on the Salt River – two of the major prehistoric population Gila Basin along with a series of peripheral centers, the area was a natural contact areas in the mountainous uplands and zone between various prehistoric peoples secondary river valleys that surround the and is rich with evidence of the prehistory basin. The core area is the origin of the of Arizona. The cultural resources of the Hohokam tradition and the center of its Verde Valley are reflected in the adaptive development, while the peripheries strategies used by a variety of cultural represent either territorial expansion or groups that have successfully inhabited the effect of contact with the Hohokam on this lush environment for more than indigenous populations (Breternitz 1960, 12,000 years. Fish and Fish 1977). Paleoindian Period (ca. 9000 to 5500 Ceramic Period: Hackberry Phase (ca. BC). The Paleoindian Period, although AD 700 to 800) and Cloverleaf Phase poorly documented throughout the Verde (ca. AD 800 to 900). By AD 700 to 900, River Valley and adjacent areas, generally including the Hackberry and represents the first documented evidence Cloverleaf phases, a Hohokam influence of early man in the Verde Valley. Popula- expanding out of the Phoenix Basin into tions during this period often used big- the Verde Valley and adjacent areas be- game-hunting to exploit now-extinct fau- came obvious. Both small and large arc- na in a grasslands environment over a heological sites dating to this period have wide area of present-day North and South been identified in the Middle Verde Val- America during the late Pleistocene Era. ley, with upland villages tending to be These people were nomadic, traveling in small and compact, while villages along seasonal rounds, hunting large game such the river were larger and more open. as mammoth, horse, bison, and camel, and gathering wild foods such as grasses and Ceramic Period: Camp Verde Phase (ca. seeds. AD 900 to 1125). The Camp Verde Phase represents the last and best known of the Archaic Period (ca. 5500 BC to AD 200). Hohokam phases in the Verde Valley. Set- Scattered evidence indicates that by ap- tlement patterns and site layout corres- proximately 5500 BC, the Verde Valley ponded to the previous phase in the Mid- was inhabited by hunter-gatherers who dle Verde with the addition of public ar- differed from the preceding Paleoindian

105 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT chitecture consisting of adobe-capped riod, although some of these sites may mounds, ball courts, and possibly com- date from as early as ca. AD 1200. munal structures. Mounds and ball courts Some time around AD 1425, the Verde appear to both be associated with larger Valley appears to have been abandoned by sites, and communal structures, defined the Sinagua – a trend seen in many other on the basis of their large size, appear at cultural centers in the Southwest. Causes sites of any size. that have been suggested for this aban- Ceramic Period: Honanki Phase (ca. AD donment include drought, water-logging 1125 to 1300) – Tuzigoot Phase (ca. AD of the soil, disease, warfare, invasion, and 1300 to 1400/1450). Because the traits dissolution of trade networks. that characterize the Honanki and Tuzi- goot phases are closely related, with the Historic Period Tuzigoot Phase representing the culmina- (about AD 1500 to Present) tion of the Honanki, the two phases are Yavapai and Apache. Shortly after aban- often considered together as the Honanki- donment of the Verde Valley by the Sina- Tuzigoot Phase. These phases span the gua, groups of foragers and hunters reap- transition from floodplain pit house vil- peared. By AD 1250, the Yavapai occupied lages to pueblos and cliff dwellings in the the valley, and the Tonto Apache inha- Verde Valley (Wells and Anderson 1988). bited the mountains to the east. Thus, the Honanki Phase (ca. AD 1125 to 1300). Verde Valley lies within the known terri- Some time around AD 1100 to 1125, tory of the Tonto Apache and Northeas- changes occurred in the Verde Valley that tern Yavapai Indians. Although the Yava- resulted in archeological sites and assem- pai are an upland Yuman group and the blages that varied from earlier times. It has Apache are a southern Athabascan- been postulated that the changes resulted speaking group, both trace their origins to from a migration of Sinagua (Spanish for the Montezuma Well area in present-day “without water”) groups. The Honanki Montezuma Castle National Monument. Phase witnessed population increases and The Yavapai are considered the principal consolidation with sites clustering to form group inhabiting the region, with second- communities in the Verde Valley, particu- ary occupation by displaced Apache prior larly around good farmlands and water to the 1860s (Basso 1996; Gifford 1936; sources. Goodwin 1942; Schroeder 1960). Tuzigoot Phase (ca. AD 1300 to Euroamericans. The Spanish began ex- 1400/1450). The consolidation of popula- ploring the present-day southwestern tion into fewer but larger sites culminated United States during the 1530s and en- in the Tuzigoot Phase, the last currently tered Arizona during the 1540s. In 1583, a recognized expression of the Southern Spanish expedition led by Antonio de Es- Sinagua. The dispersed population of the pejo traversed the Middle Verde Valley Verde Valley that occupied smaller pueb- with Hopi guides en route to the copper los during the Honanki Phase consolidat- mines near present-day Jerome. While in ed into about 50 major pueblos – some that vicinity, the Spanish explorers found surrounded by smaller satellite pueblos of a group of Yavapai mining and trading up to six rooms, extensive farming areas, green and blue pigments. In 1598, another and field houses – to define substantial Spanish mining expedition, led by Marcos communities. Well-known sites such as Farfan de los Godos, visited the mines Tuzigoot, Montezuma Castle, Montezuma near Jerome with Hopi guides, and in 1604 Well, Sacred Mountain, and the Clear Don Juan de Onate crossed the Verde Creek Ruin are characteristic of this pe- River en route to the Colorado River. Al- though these Euroamerican parties spent little time in the valley, expedition mem-

106 Cultural Resources bers wrote descriptions of the area’s inha- Apache longed for their homelands, and bitants as well as their cultural and eco- after petitioning government officials for nomic systems. permission to leave San Carlos, numerous families returned to the Verde Valley dur- The first significant Euroamerican intru- ing the late 1890s and early 1900s. Those sion into central Arizona occurred in who returned to the valley found that the 1826, when Ewing Young (of the James region had been greatly altered during Ohio Pattie party) traveled up the Verde their absence as Euroamerican homes- River. Three years later, Young returned teaders had claimed some of the best lands with 40 men to trap furs along the Salt and in the valley. Thus, the returning Yavapai Verde rivers. The Verde Valley was visited and Apache were forced to make their by a succession of Euroamerican explor- new homes in desolate camps. During the ers, trappers, mountain men, government- early 20th century, the Bureau of Indian sponsored railroad surveyors, and pros- Affairs (BIA) became concerned about the pectors until the 1860s. Although local condition of the Yavapai and Apache liv- Native American tribes were encountered ing in the Verde Valley and attempted to by the early Euroamericans, they were left improve their situation. relatively undisturbed. However, this occasional contact marked the beginning of Middle Verde Valley – Late 19th Cen- the decline of the traditional way of life of tury to the Present. With the cessation of the Yavapai and Apache. hostilities, Euroamerican mining and farming operations prospered in the Euroamerican pioneers did not begin to Verde Valley. By 1890, the civilian popula- settle in the Verde Valley until the early tion of the Verde Valley exceeded 700, 1860s. Passage of the Homestead Act in and by the turn of the 20th century, min- 1862, discovery of gold, silver, and copper ing activity and cattle raising in the valley along Big Bug Creek and near Prescott in had expanded rapidly. The Verde Valley 1863, and subsequent establishment of the towns that best survived the economic new Arizona territorial capital at Prescott changes of the post-World War II years led to Euroamerican settlement in the fer- were those that became prime ranching tile Verde Valley to provide foodstuffs and and farming centers, and by 1960 some supplies for the mines as well as Prescott 10,000 acres of valley lands were irrigated. and Fort Whipple, an army post near the Although ranching and farming opera- territorial capital. tions and some small-scale mining activi- Yavapai-Apache/Euroamerican Con- ties made up the principal economic activ- flict. The influx of Euroamerican settlers ities in the valley through the 1960s, the led to increasing conflicts with the Yava- recreation and tourism industries would pai and Apache. These conflicts culmi- soon become the region’s dominant eco- nated in the forced march of nearly 180 nomic base. miles to the San Carlos Reservation (east of present-day Globe, Arizona) over CULTURAL RESOURCES IN THE rough terrain and through difficult winter NATIONAL MONUMENTS conditions – a bitter trek that resulted in the death of nearly 100 Native Americans. Archeological Resources By 1878, more than 5,000 Native Ameri- The National Park Service’s Western Arc- cans, including Western Apache, and Ya- heological and Conservation Center vapai, had been relocated to the San Car- (WACC) in Tucson, Arizona, has prepared los Reservation. an updated comprehensive archeological Although they took up farming and ranch- overview and assessment for Montezuma ing to support themselves at the San Car- Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments los Reservation, many Yavapai and (Powers et al. 2008).

107 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Montezuma Castle National Monument This explanation does not seem to apply to shelter sites along the irrigation canal National Park Service archeologists asso- and along the creek at the Montezuma ciated with the Western Archeological and Well site. The rockshelter sites with ma- Conservation Center conducted an arc- sonry walls, which constitute a cross be- heological inventory survey of Montezu- tween cliff dwellings and pueblos, are built ma Castle National Monument during along cliff faces that do not afford much of April and May 1988. The survey, which a view because of dense riparian vegeta- covered 100% of the land within the nation. Even if the brush was cleared, such tional monument’s boundaries, provided sites would be more of a trap than a de- the opportunity to systematically record fensible stronghold. the monument’s archeological sites in detailed fashion, determine site boundaries, Site Descriptions. The aforementioned record new sites, and resolve problems archeological study identified 14 site with old site records. Of the 70 sites rec- types, 12 of which are considered to con- orded in 1988, 30 were new site inventory tribute to the archeological district’s signi- additions. Only three sites and two sec- ficance for listing in the National Register ondary site loci previously recorded were of Historic Places. The 12 contributing site not relocated, and three of the 70 sites types at the national monument include recorded were outside the Castle site but cliff dwellings, rockshelters with or with- within sight of the NPS boundary fence. In out masonry rooms, pueblos, sites with addition, the survey recorded 30 isolated one masonry structure, sites with two ma- finds (Wells and Anderson 1988). sonry structures, artifact scatters, agricul- The archeological sites within the monu- tural features, a burial ground, prehistoric ment are considered to be the best- cobble concentrations, bedrock mortars, documented cluster in the Middle Verde and lithic scatters. Valley and are thus significant to an understanding of the valley’s prehistoric de- Site Conditions. The condition of the velopment. Monument resources are archeological sites at Montezuma Castle available to interpret the growth of pit National Monument is generally good. Of house villages, the transformation to ma- the 63 prehistoric sites, seven have been sonry pueblos, development and expan- disturbed by looting or vandalism, two sion of pueblo community and irrigation possibly vandalized, four disturbed by systems, broad interregional trading net- NPS construction, and five have been works, and abandonment of the valley by tested or excavated. Except for the exca- prehistoric peoples. Montezuma Castle vated/interpreted pit house, which rece- was part of an estimated 100-room com- ives minor to moderate impacts as a result munity that constituted an important of unintentional vandalism, the prehistor- component of the system of villages and ic sites in the monument experience rela- population centers in the Verde Valley tively few adverse impacts. during the Honanki and Tuzigoot phases. Land-disturbing activities undertaken be- The cliff faces with caves and overhangs in fore establishment of the national monu- the soft limestone constituted another at- ment are not well documented. Archeo- traction to early inhabitants of the lands in logical sites were, however, impacted by a both sites of the national monument. variety of human activities and natural Rockshelters provided efficient sites for causes prior to establishment of the na- occupation. It has been asserted that de- tional monument, and some of these im- fense was one of the reasons cliff dwel- pacts have continued to the present. These lings and pueblos were constructed on include borrowing building stone from high ridges during the Tuzigoot Phase. rockshelters, using caves as ranch and settlement-related structures, looting and

108 Cultural Resources vandalism, road and utility line construc- er, likely provided arable farmland for the tion, erosion caused by natural forces and pueblo’s prehistoric inhabitants. The hill, human exploration, excavations and re- sparsely vegetated by plains and desert moval of deposits by pioneers, explorers, grassland plants, overlooks the river ap- and investigators, surface collection by proximately 110 yards to the south and is investigators and looters, historic and surrounded by flat, lower terraces adja- continuing use of prehistoric irrigation cent to the river. Prior to excavation of the canals, and graffiti. Sewage lagoon con- site by Caywood and Spicer in 1933 and struction by the National Park Service also 1934, the pueblo site had been actively likely impacted some archeological sites. looted. Since the excavation, most of the pueblo has been rebuilt and stabilized. A Tuzigoot National Monument paved trail encircles the main roomblock, and an old road cut runs below the eas- National Park Service archeologists asso- ternmost roomblock. ciated with the Western Archeological and Conservation Center conducted an arc- The Tuzigoot Pueblo is a medium-sized heological inventory survey of Tuzigoot pueblo with 77 ground-floor rooms and National Monument in March 1986. The 15 possible second-story rooms in one survey’s project area covered some 512 main roomblock and four smaller conti- acres, including 100% of the federally guous roomblocks. The second-story owned land within the boundaries of the rooms are in the central portion of the national monument as well as most of pri- main, and largest, roomblock. The pueblo vately owned lands within its authorized was constructed of native river boulders boundaries. The survey provided the op- (basalt, sandstone, and limestone, as well portunity to systematically locate, record, as irregular blocks of limestone from out- and evaluate all archeologically significant crops on Tuzigoot Hill) and adobe mortar. cultural resources within the boundary of The main pueblo area, built in terrace-like the project area (Tagg 1986). fashion to conform to the contours of the hill, is approximately 165 yards long and The archeological survey of the monu- 33 yards wide on a north/south axis. A ment and adjacent lands recorded eight plaza area lies between the main room- archeological sites and 21 isolated finds, block and northern block of rooms. including two sites and two isolated finds within the federally owned lands of Tuzi- Caywood and Spicer also excavated 411 goot National Monument. burials holding the remains of 429 individuals during 1933 and 1934. Nearly all of Site Descriptions. The two archeological the excavated burials were reburied in the sites within the federally owned lands at slope below the prehistoric pueblo close Tuzigoot National Monument include to the original cemetery in 1934. A vast Tuzigoot Pueblo and a two- to five-room amount of artifacts was recovered during masonry room structure: the excavation of the site, including flaked TUZI 86A-1. Tuzigoot Pueblo (estimated and ground stone, ceramics, bone, shell, dates of occupation are ca. AD 1140 to and some perishable items such as baske- 1400) is the principal prehistoric structure try, textiles, and wood. in the national monument and the type TUZI 86A-2. The site is in a flattened area site for the Tuzigoot Phase of the South- on the east slope of Tuzigoot Hill, about ern Sinagua tradition. Tuzigoot is situated 22 yards below the crest. The site over- on a crest (known as Tuzigoot Hill) at the looks Tavasci Marsh some 330 yards east end of a Holocene terrace along the northeast of the Tuzigoot Pueblo and the north bank of the Verde River about 120 flat terrace and floodplain of the Verde feet above the floodplain. This terrace, River to the east. This site is a 9.9-yard by formed by an oxbow diversion of the riv-

109 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

3.3-yard concentration of basalt and li- Other Sites. The other six archeological mestone boulders that represents from sites recorded during the survey, as well as two to five masonry rooms. the nearby sites at Hatalacva and the Tuzi- goot Extension Ruin, were cobble maso- TUZI 86A-3. This is a moderate scatter of nry surface structures, including one- artifacts in a 38.3-yard by 36.1-yard area. room field houses, two-to-five-room The artifacts consist mainly of stone de- structures, small pueblos with from 10 to bris and ceramics. 30 rooms, and large pueblos of approx- TUZI 86A-4. The site lies on the southern imately 100 rooms. Associated artifact tip of a ridge finger extending off the high scatters are moderate to heavy. mesa bordering the Tavasci Marsh and Isolated Finds. Twenty-one isolated finds consists of a structure with two (possibly were recorded in the archeological survey, three) contiguous masonry rooms. The two of which were in the federally owned main structure is rectangular with a re- lands of the national monument. All of maining wall extending from the southeast these sites date to the Tuzigoot Phase or corner of the structure that may be anoth- later. er room or a ramada. The walls are dry- laid basalt and limestone boulders and Site Dates, Camp Verde Phase. Artifacts blocks that stand three courses high in plus the lack of aboveground masonry ar- places. Large boulders and limestone out- chitecture at one archeological site outside crops have been incorporated into the the federally owned lands of the national structure. Relatively dense wall fall sur- monument suggest a Camp Verde Phase, rounds the roomblock. The second pile of or perhaps earlier, occupation. Because of rock rubble is in a clear area between rock its location high on a mesa away from the outcrops, and may e another room. A very bottomlands, the site may be a specialized- light scatter of artifacts is in and around use site for hunting and gathering rather the rooms, but trash lies downslope to the than a farmstead site. south and west. Artifacts include flaked stone debris, ceramics, and four pieces of Site Dates, Honanki and Tuzigoot Phas- shell. es. The remainder of the sites recorded TUZI 86A-5. The site lies on the western during the archeological survey can be tip of a ridge finger extending off the high placed in the Honanki and Tuzigoot phas- mesa which borders the Tavasci Marsh. es. Excavation results from the three pu- The roomblock has several rooms on the eblos – Tuzigoot, Hatalacva, and Tuzigoot flat tip of the ridge, but most of the rooms Extension Ruin – indicate early as well as are off the northwestern slope. later occupation periods. The early occupation began in the Honanki Phase, with The site is constructed of local limestone the later, and major, occupation occurring and basalt boulders and blocks, and some in the Tuzigoot Phase; at Tuzigoot, ap- portions of walls are still three courses proximately eight rooms were occupied in high. Substantial wall fall indicates that the the Honanki Phase and approximately 92 wall were higher. Many room corners are in the Tuzigoot Phase. Based on survey visible, and several upright slabs distin- results alone, the remaining small sites guish one room, but individual room size could not be dated with more certainty is difficult to determine in the rubble. The other than to place them generally within roomblock has been built on a slope and the two phases, since many of the ceramic appears terraced to conform to the con- types and architectural styles were com- tours. A moderate scatter of flaked stone, mon to both phases. ceramics, and one metate fragment were seen among the rooms. The results of the Tuzigoot archeological survey indicate a series of small sites sur-

110 Cultural Resources rounding the Tuzigoot Pueblo that appear in increased visitation to the national mo- to be contemporaneous. Although it is un- nument and a corresponding decrease in clear whether these sites were abandoned the capacity of the limited staff to protect upon completion of the large pueblo at the archeological resources. Thus, human Tuzigoot or if occupation at these sites impacts include littering, trespassing (after continued, excavation at Tuzigoot and the hours entry and entry into closed areas), Tuzigoot Extension Ruin both show early looting and vandalism, illegal hunting, and and later occupations, thus making it ap- other unauthorized consumptive uses. pear likely that many of the smaller sites Social trails and related erosion, caused by were occupied simultaneously and were visitors leaving established trails, have im- related to the larger pueblos as compo- pacted archeological resources. Stream nents of internally diversified communi- channel alteration – down cutting or de- ties. position of the channel, flooding, or change of flow regime – resulting from Site Conditions. The condition of the gravel mining, diversion, vegetation archeological sites at Tuzigoot National changes, or other human manipulation Monument, like those at Montezuma Cas- could result in adverse impacts on archeo- tle, is generally good. However, archeological sites in the Tuzigoot vicinity in fu- logical sites within the current boundaries ture years. of the national monument and its adjacent lands, like those at Montezuma Castle, ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES were impacted by a variety of human ac- Comprehensive ethnographic overviews tivities and natural causes prior to estab- and assessments (including ethnobotani- lishment of the monument, and some of cal studies) for Montezuma Castle and these impacts have continued to the Tuzigoot national monuments have not present. These activities include farming, been prepared to date. Thus, no ethno- grazing, mining, camping, hiking, hunting, graphic resources, sacred sites, or tradi- looting and vandalism, poaching, and off- tional cultural properties (ethnographic road driving. Archeological sites have also resources eligible for listing in the Nation- been impacted by erosion resulting from al Register of Historic Places) have been natural forces and human exploration; identified in the national monuments. excavations and removal of deposits by However currently, for compliance pur- pioneers, explorers, and investigators; and poses, Montezuma Well itself is treated as surface collection by investigators and a traditional cultural property. These stu- looters. dies are necessary to identify traditional Increasing development on lands sur- uses of national monument lands by affi- rounding the monument continues to re- liated Native American groups and to sult in direct and indirect impacts to arc- identify and define cultural and natural heological sites, and development in the features that are significant to the ethnic valley has resulted in visual intrusions to heritage and cultural affiliation of such the monument’s cultural and natural set- groups. ting. Adverse impacts to these resources are caused by farming, feral animals, Cultural Affiliation Study woodcutting, highway and road construc- Under the provisions of the Native Ameri- tion, residential development and asso- can Graves and Repatriation Act of 1990 ciated infrastructure, water demands, and (Public Law 101-601), all federal govern- pesticide and fertilizer use draining into ment agencies and federally funded mu- water resources. seums and institutions whose archeologi- Arizona’s growing popularity for perma- cal collections include human remains and nent and seasonal residence has resulted associated funerary objects are required to

111 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT engage in consultation with lineal descen- Montezuma Castle National Monu- dants and culturally affiliated Native ment. The “Preliminary Native American American tribes and organizations. In Graves Protection and Repatriation Act 1994, the National Park Service’s Western Inventory Information” regarding the mu- Archeological and Conservation Center seum collections at Montezuma Castle contracted with the Bureau of Applied attributes the human remains and asso- Research in Anthropology at the Universi- ciated funerary objects in the collections ty of Arizona to identify cultural affiliation primarily to the Southern Sinagua Honan- at National Park Service units in Arizona, ki-Tuzigoot Phase, although some items including Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- could not be dated. According to the affil- goot national monuments. Based on arc- iation study, the monument inventory in- heological, ethnographic, and ethnohis- cludes: toric research and oral history, the report • A minimum of 121 individuals (112 identified three groups as being potential- inhumations and nine fragmentary ly affiliated with the two national monu- remains) primarily from Montezuma ments’ inventory of human remains and Castle, Castle A, Swallet Cave, Monte- associated funerary objects: Yavapai, Ho- zuma Well, and other sites in the vicin- pi, and Northern Piman. The report also ity of Montezuma Castle. A few re- identified the following Native American mains are from unknown locations. tribes as having cultural affiliation with the two national monuments: • Associated funerary objects include shell and stone beads, pendants, and • Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe, Camp bracelets; ceramic bowls, a miniature Verde Yavapai-Apache Tribe, and jar, and sherds; fiber padding, matting, Fort McDowell Mohave-Apache In- and textiles; a cradleboard; an atlatl dian Community, all of which have dart and a flake; a bow and arrows; had a long relational history with the and soil samples. Verde Valley. • Ethnic Hopi, who currently visit Mon- Tuzigoot National Monument. The pre- tezuma Castle and Montezuma Well liminary Native American Graves Protec- to conduct rituals; the Castle structure tion and Repatriation Act inventory in- holds supernatural significance for formation regarding the museum collec- ethnic Hopis. tions at Tuzigoot National Monument attributes the human remains and asso- • Gila River and the Salt River Pima- ciated funerary objects in the collections Maricopa Indian Community, whose from the Tuzigoot, Tuzigoot Extension community speakers inhabited the Ruin, and Hatalacva pueblos primarily to Middle Verde River Valley in 1583 the Southern Sinagua Honanki-Tuzigoot and typically view the valley as a Phase. An individual recovered from the commodity exchange route. Clarkdale Smelter site was attributed to the Southern Sinagua Camp Verde Phase, Native American Graves Protection and and an individual from Sedona could be Repatriation Act Inventory Information Yavapai or Apache. Most of the other hu- Pursuant to the cultural affiliation study, man remains are Native American, but the Western Archeological and Conserva- their cultural context is not known. Ac- tion Center prepared preliminary Native cording to the affiliation study, the Tuzi- American Graves Protection and Repatr- goot inventory includes the following: iation Act inventory information regard- • Fourteen individuals and seven frag- ing the Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot mentary remains from Tuzigoot; one national monuments’ museum collections. fragmentary remain from the Tuzigoot Extension Ruin; at least two individu-

112 Cultural Resources

als from Hatalacva; five individuals having historical, architectural, or engi- from four burials from the area along neering significance in which the National Sycamore Creek, about six miles Park Service has or plans to acquire any north-northwest of Clarkdale; one in- legal interest. Included are structures that dividual from the area north of Clark- individually meet the criteria of the Na- dale; one individual from the Clark- tional Register of Historic Places or are dale Smelter site; four fragmentary contributing resources of sites and dis- remains from several locations along tricts that meet national register evalua- the Verde River; one individual from tion criteria. Also included are other struc- the Will Steel property near Sedona; tures – moved, reconstructed, and com- one fragmentary remain from Clear memorative structures as well as struc- Creek; one burial and fragmentary tures achieving significance within the last remains from at least 34 individuals 50 years – that are managed as cultural re- recovered from unknown locations. sources because of management decisions that have been made pursuant to the plan- • Twenty-one associated funerary ob- ning process. jects, including bowls, jars, a sherd, arrows, a quid, a sandal, a corncob, a Montezuma Castle National Monu- bracelet, a bead, awls, and soil sam- ment. Although the list of classified struc- ples. tures for Montezuma Castle National Monument requires updating, 16 struc- PREHISTORIC AND HISTORIC tures are currently listed. These include STRUCTURES AND BUILDINGS the following: Historic resource studies have not been • Castle A – AZ 0:5:95 (NA 6373) (Listed prepared for Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- in the National Register of Historic goot national monuments. Such studies Places on October 15, 1966). are needed to provide a historic overview of both NPS units that would identify and • Residence – MH5 (determined eligible evaluate their cultural resources within for listing in the National Register of historic contexts and include com- Historic Places on July 13, 1994). pleted/updated requisite National Regis- • Residence – MH4 (determined eligible ter of Historic Places nomination forms for listing in the National Register of and historic base maps. However, Josh Historic Places on July 13, 1994). Protas’ A Past Preserved in Stone: A History of Montezuma Castle National Monument, • Site NA 1271 (listed in the National an administrative history published by the Register of Historic Places on October Western National Parks Association in 15, 1966; rockshelter with one maso- 2002, provides historic background ma- nry room inside Montezuma Well). terial relating to the development and ad- • Site NA 1272 A and B (listed in the Na- ministration of Montezuma Castle. His- tional Register of Historic Places on toric structure preservation guides are also October 15, 1966; rockshelter with needed to guide long-term and cyclic two groupings of masonry rooms in- maintenance efforts designed to preserve side Montezuma Well). the prehistoric and historic structures in the monuments. • Site NA 1273 (listed in the National Register of Historic Places on October List of Classified Structures 15, 1966). The list of classified structures is a compu- • Montezuma Castle – Site NA 1278 terized, evaluated inventory of all prehis- (listed in the National Register of His- toric and historic structures and buildings toric Places on October 15, 1966; includes nearby sites and features

113 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

MOCA 88A-65/NA 6384 and NA Tuzigoot National Monument. Five 2223-24). structures are currently listed in the List of Classified Structures for Tuzigoot Nation- • Swallet Cave – Site NA 4630 (listed in al Monument, a list that should also be the National Register of Historic Plac- updated. These include the following: es on October 15, 1966). • Tuzigoot Pueblo (listed in the Nation- • Site NA 5553 A and B (MOCA 88A-30) al Register of Historic Places on Octo- (listed in the National Register of His- ber 15, 1966). toric Places on October 15, 1966; rockshelter consisting of two to three • Museum and Headquarters Building rooms on two levels]. (determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places • Equipment Shed (determined eligible on July 13, 1994). for listing in the National Register of Historic Places on July 13, 1994). • Storage Tool House (determined eligible for listing in the National Regis- • Prehistoric Irrigation Canals (listed in ter of Historic Places on July 13, 1994). the National Register of Historic Plac- es on October 15, 1966). • Pump House (determined eligible for listing in the National Register of His- • Historic Irrigation Ditch (listed in the toric Places on July 13, 1994). National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966). • Retaining Wall (determined eligible for listing in the National Register of • Civilian Conservation Corps Revet- Historic Places on July 13, 1994). ment Wall (determined eligible for listing in the National Register of His- Stabilization, repair, and preservation toric Places on July 13, 1994). projects have been carried out on the national monument’s prehistoric structures • Site AZ 0:5:69 (NA 7280), a single ma- since the 1930s, but preservation activities, sonry room. like those at Montezuma Castle, have im- • Site AZ 0:5:75 (NA 4619), a series of 19 proved with better techniques, more high- cavates southwest of Castle A. ly skilled labor, and specialized training. Although current staff members have • Site AZ 0:5:91 (NA 1274), an 11 room ruins stabilization skills and continue to pueblo on the rim of the well. conduct routine maintenance of these Stabilization, repair, and preservation structures, the lack of adequate funding projects have been carried out on the na- and personnel has barely enabled them to tional monument’s prehistoric structures keep up with necessary routine stabiliza- since the late 19th century, but preservation work, much less long-term, cyclic tion activities have improved with better work that should be performed in a timely techniques as a result of specialized train- manner to prevent further deterioration. ing. Although current staff members have ruins stabilization skills and continue to CULTURAL LANDSCAPES conduct routine maintenance of these According to Director’s Order 28: Cultural structures, the lack of adequate funding Resource Management Guideline, the Na- and personnel has barely enabled them to tional Park Service defines a cultural land- keep up with necessary routine stabiliza- scape as a geographic area, including both tion work, much less long-term, cyclic natural and cultural resources that are as- work that should be performed in a timely sociated with a historic event, activity, or manner to prevent further deterioration. person. The National Park Service recognizes four cultural landscape categories: historic designed landscapes, historic ver-

114 Cultural Resources nacular landscapes, historic sites, and eth- resources, including rock walls, drai- nographic landscapes. In the broadest nage ditches, and other structural sense, a cultural landscape is a reflection elements, and historic vegetation in of human adaptation and use of natural the Castle site (NPS development at resources and is often expressed in the Montezuma Castle). way land is organized and divided, pat- • Homesteading/ranching cultural land- terns of settlement, land use, systems of scape resources, including historic ir- circulation, and the types of structures rigation canals, agricultural fields, his- that are built. The character of a cultural toric trees or other vegetation, and po- landscape is defined both by physical ma- tentially the late 19th century smoke- terials, such as roads, buildings, walls, and house structure in the Montezuma vegetation, and by use reflecting cultural Well site. values and traditions. The current cultural landscape inventory No formal cultural landscape inventory database for the monument lists two iden- work has been conducted at Montezuma tified areas (“component landscapes”) in Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments. need of cultural landscape inventory: Although current archeological and his- Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well. toric structure inventories and studies include most of the national monuments’ Tuzigoot National Monument identified landscape features, other elements of landscape patterns and systems Some known and potential cultural land- should be included as cultural landscape scape resources have been identified at resources. Examples include circulation Level 0 of the cultural landscape inventory patterns, vegetation patterns (both native process at Tuzigoot National Monument. and designed), historic vegetation asso- These include the following: ciated with homesteading and the Civilian • New Deal / Works Progress Adminis- Conservation Corps era, relationships be- tration historic designed landscape re- tween development and natural systems, sources, including the Visitor Center / and spatial organization. It is standard Administrative complex area and his- NPS practice to treat landscapes that are toric vegetation. considered potentially eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places • Sinaguan/Hohokam occupation re- as eligible. mains cultural landscape resources. The current cultural landscape inventory Montezuma Castle National Monument database for the monument lists one iden- Some known and potential cultural land- tified area (“component landscape”) in scape resources have been identified at need of cultural landscape inventory: Tu- Montezuma Castle National Monument at zigoot National Monument landscape. Level 0 (Park Reconnaissance Survey) of the cultural landscape inventory process. PROPERTIES LISTED IN THE These include the following: NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES • Sinaguan occupation remains / Mon- tezuma Castle site cultural landscape Montezuma Castle National Monument resources, including agricultural fields. Montezuma Castle National Monument • Hohokam occupation remains / Mon- was listed in the National Register of His- tezuma Well site cultural landscape re- toric Places as a district (District also sources, including irrigation canals. known as Montezuma Castle and Monte- • New Deal / Civilian Conservation zuma Well) on October 15, 1966, pursuant Corps-era historic designed landscape to passage of the National Historic Pre-

115 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT servation Act of 1966. An updated Nation- the protohistoric Apache occupation. The al Register of Historic Places Inventory – earliest structure known is a Squaw Peak Nomination Form (prepared by personnel Phase pit house, dating ca. AD 600. Fol- of the National Park Service’s Western lowing this in time is a Camp Verde pit Archeological Center) was approved by house, which represents the first appear- the Keeper of the National Register on ance of the Southern Sinagua culture, ma- November 20, 1978. On May 2, 1990, nifest in small hamlets of Hohokam-like Western Archeological and Conservation pit houses along the Verde River. The Center personnel prepared an updated primary archeological resources within comprehensive draft National Register of the national monument are prehistoric Historic Places registration form for the Sinagua sites and features representing the Montezuma Castle National Monument broad pattern of community aggregation Archeological District that incorporated and interactive networks occurring the findings of the latest archeological re- throughout the Southwest from ca. AD search by the Western Archeological and 900 to 1400. Conservation Center at the national mo- Preserved within the monument bounda- nument (NPS 1990). ries are 63 sites that include a significant According to the 1978 national register sample of the Honanki-Tuzigoot Phase nomination form and the updated 1990 settlement system of the Middle Verde draft national register registration form, River. Montezuma Castle is important his- the district and its 63 contributing archeo- torically as a visitor attraction, having been logical sites have, as a group, national sig- first reported by Euroamericans in 1875, nificance. (An additional five sites were although undoubtedly first visited at a reviewed and determined not to contri- much earlier date. It is now one of the bute to the archeological significance of most heavily visited prehistoric sites in the the district.) The district and its contribut- United States and ranks with Mesa Verde ing sites are nationally significant under National Park’s ruins as a symbol of pre- the following national register criteria: historic cultures in North America. • A – property that is associated with Montezuma Castle is also significant for events that have made a significant its association with the historic preserva- contribution to the broad patterns of tion movement of the United States. Be- American history. cause it was an early visitor attraction, its preservation became a matter of concern • C – property embodies the distinctive by the late 19th century. First stabilized in characteristics of a type, period, or 1897 by the Arizona Antiquarian Associa- method of construction or represents tion, it was established as one of the coun- the work of a master, or possesses high try’s first national monuments in 1906. artistic values, or represents a signifi- Along with Casa Grande, Mesa Verde, and cant and distinguishable entity whose similar nationally known prehistoric ruins, components lack individual distinc- its presence in the American conscious- tion. ness undoubtedly led to passage of the • D – property that has yielded, or is Antiquities Act of 1906 and the early 20th likely to yield, information important century movement to preserve the rein prehistory or history. mains of native cultures.

Criterion A. The district, along with its Criterion C. The archeological district associated sites, is nationally significant and its associated sites are nationally sig- because it contains archeological remains nificant in the area of prehistoric architec- dating from the appearance of pre- ture, representing a rare survival of Hoho- ceramic settlements in the Southwest until kam buildings embodying distinctive cha-

116 Cultural Resources racteristics of a type, period, and method nument, specifically Montezuma Castle of construction. The district contains sev- and Castle A, as a source of study. Monte- eral sites representing distinctive charac- zuma Well is a unique geographic feature teristics of prehistoric Southwestern cul- that may have ethnic significance to the tures. general Native American public as an interpretive exhibit. The value of these non- Although it has been the object of stabili- renewable resources will undoubtedly be zation efforts, the Castle is in an excellent enhanced in the future as development on state of preservation. Almost all walls and private land in the Verde Valley results in roofs are original, thus preserving the destruction of prehistoric sites. original boulder/cobble-and-adobe masonry and viga-and-latilla roof construction Tuzigoot National Monument found in the Verde Valley and elsewhere in the Southwest. Only floor features are Tuzigoot National Monument Archeolog- missing, obscured by historic asphalt cov- ical District was listed in the National Reg- ering. Its excellent condition has permit- ister of Historic Places on October 15, ted detailed architectural analysis, ad- 1966. An updated National Register of dressing building techniques, construction Historic Places Inventory – Nomination sequence, and room function. Form (NPS 1987; prepared by Western Archeological and Conservation Center Criterion D. Excavation and survey at personnel) was approved by the Keeper of Montezuma Castle National Monument the National Register on October 23, 1987. has yielded significant information contri- According to the 1987 national register buting to knowledge of the late Archaic nomination form, the archeological dis- and Sinagua inhabitants of the Verde Val- trict includes two sites associated with ley. This information, integrated with the Southern Sinagua occupation – Tuzigoot survey data from adjacent private lands Ruin/Pueblo (AZ N:4:1) and a site consist- and Coconino National Forest, constitute ing of the remnants of a contemporaneous a database for research on prehistoric two-to-five-room masonry structure (AZ community organization, population N:4:19) approximately 330 yards north- change, diet, land use, and interaction east of the Tuzigoot Ruin. with other areas. The Verde River has had very little controlled archeological excava- Criterion C. The 1987 national register tion. All cultural deposits were removed nomination form states that the archeo- from Montezuma Castle by the turn of the logical district and its associated sites are 20th century, and the cliff dwelling has nationally significant under national regis- little potential for further study, other ter criterion C in the area of prehistoric than re-examination of its architecture, architecture. The sites associated with the historic graffiti, and perhaps C14 dates district represent a rare survival of South- (there are no direct dates of the cliff dwel- ern Sinagua structures embodying distinc- ling). tive characteristics of a type, period, and Past archeological studies of the monu- method of construction. ment have been important for the development of cultural frameworks for under- Criterion D. The archeological district is standing Southwestern prehistory. In ad- also significant under criterion D because dition to providing information on a wide it has yielded, and is likely to yield, further range of archeological problems and con- information important in Southwestern cerns, further studies in the monument and Verde Valley prehistory. The district may provide new information about archi- is the type site for the Tuzigoot Phase of tectural styles and techniques using the the Southern Sinagua, and the ceramics, unique architectural remains of the mo- artifacts, and burials excavated in 1933

117 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT and 1934 remain the type assemblage of buildings and structures that reflect local the Tuzigoot Phase. Previous excavation styles, materials, and careful site location and examination, as well as future study of to lessen their impact on the landscape the district, have yielded, and are likely to and ensure that they blend with their nat- yield, further information on prehistoric ural surroundings. architecture, material culture, burials, subsistence and plant use, environment, set- OTHER STRUCTURES OF tlement patterns, trade and external rela- POTENTIAL HISTORIC tionships, and dating. SIGNIFICANCE

PROPERTIES DETERMINED Montezuma Castle Visitor Center ELIGIBLE FOR LISTING IN THE The Montezuma Castle Visitor Center, NATIONAL REGISTER OF constructed in 1960, was identified as a HISTORIC PLACES significant Mission 66 structure in an NPS On July 13, 1994, three structures and study, Mission 66 Visitor Centers: The His- buildings at Montezuma Castle National tory of a Building Type, prepared in 2000. Monument and four structures and build- Though a modest, small structure, the visi- ings at Tuzigoot National Monument tor center building is important because of were determined eligible for listing in the its designer, Cecil Doty, and for its archi- National Register of Historic Places by the tectural design. The structure is a compo- National Park Service, with concurrence nent of the combined walkway, comfort by the Arizona state historic preservation station, and stone walls that together form officer. These structures included: a strong linear approach that lead national monument visitors to the Castle ruins. • Montezuma Castle: two residences and the equipment shed. Back Cabin and Smokehouse • Tuzigoot: museum and headquarters In 1888, William B. Back moved with his building, storage tool house, pump family onto what would later become house, and retaining wall. known as the Montezuma Well property These structures and buildings, built in the at Montezuma Castle National Monu- adobe and stone Pueblo-style of rustic ar- ment. Back irrigated crops by using the chitecture, were constructed during the prehistoric ditches built by the Sinagua, 1930s using funds provided by the Works constructed a number of buildings on the Progress Administration and other New property (his homestead entry was pa- Deal public works agencies. The struc- tented on July 18, 1907), and opened tures are locally significant under national Montezuma Well as a tourist attraction in register criterion C in the fields of archi- 1910. Two of the buildings, including the tecture and landscape architecture be- family home (now referred to as the Back cause they constitute quality examples of cabin) and a log smokehouse, remain ex- environmental design and the National tant, although the latter is in deteriorated Park Service’s historically significant rustic condition (Protas 2002). architectural concept of constructing

118

NATURAL RESOURCES

Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, and to 20ºF to 30ºF. Summer daytime temper- Tuzigoot are all in the Verde Valley and atures often reach 100ºF, cooling during the Upper Verde River Watershed. The the evening to 50ºF to 80ºF (Arizona De- Verde Valley is in central Arizona in the partment of Commerce [ADOC] 1989). northeast portion of Yavapai County, about 100 miles north of Phoenix. Eleva- FLOODPLAINS tions in the Verde Valley range from 3,512 Floodplains are the alluvial lands adjacent feet at Clarkdale, to 3,300 feet at Cotton- to a river or drainage that periodically ex- wood, to 3,133 feet at Camp Verde. The perience flooding. Floodplains include the Verde Valley is at the junction of the Col- floodway, floodway fringe, and those orado Plateau and the Basin and Range areas expected to encompass the 100- and physiographic provinces. The surround- 500-year floods. According to the Federal ing mountains, including Mingus Moun- Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) tain, Woodchute Mountain, and the near- definition, the floodway includes the by Mogollon Rim, rise above the valley to channel of the river plus any additional an elevation of 7,500 feet or greater. land areas that must be kept free of en- The climate pattern is a distinct, bimodal croachment to convey the 100-year climatic regime known as the Southwes- floodwaters without substantial increases tern or Arizona climate pattern. This cli- in flood heights. Encroachment such as mate is characterized by summer precipi- artificial fill would reduce the flood- tation from the North America monsoon carrying capacity of the river, increase its and fall drought broken by wintertime Pa- flood heights, and increase the flood ha- cific frontal precipitation. Precipitation zards in areas beyond the encroachment varies from year to year and has ranged itself (Averitt et al. 1990). Floodplains are from less than four to more than 22 inches an important consideration in any river per year. Winter precipitation is related to corridor planning endeavor and are ne- the eastward movement of middle latitude cessary to accommodate overflow during storms that form in the northern Pacific flooding. Portions of all three monument Ocean. These storms can produce major sites are within the 100-year floodplain as floods in the Verde Valley, particularly designated by FEMA (Bond pers. comm. when rains fall on snowpack at higher ele- 2005). However all existing development vations along Mongollon Rim. Summer in the three sites, including the wastewater storms are typically of short duration and lagoon at the Castle, is outside the desig- locally intense. These storms may produce nated 100-year floodplain. flash flooding. Although the three sites – Beaver Creek, a perennial stream and tri- Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, and butary to the Verde River, flows in front of Tuzigoot – are separated by up to 20 miles, the cliff dwelling at Montezuma Castle they share a common watershed. and periodically floods, particularly fol- The surrounding mountains and the lowing winter and monsoon rains. The Verde River itself contribute to the re- creek flow has been modified by upstream gion's moderate temperatures throughout withdrawals, and there are now periods the year. The down-gradient flow of cool when the creek is essentially dry except air off the surrounding highlands causes a for remnant deep pools (Rowlands 1999). 30ºF to 40ºF decrease in nighttime tem- The vegetation in the riparian corridor peratures. Temperatures during the winter along the creek, including cottonwoods, months are typically 50ºF to 60ºF during velvet mesquite, and willows, requires pe- the day, with evening temperatures falling riodic flooding to stay healthy and regene-

119 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT rate. Some species such as the southwest that flows under an old road and into an willow flycatcher prefer to nest in areas outflow channel called the Tavasci Ditch. where periodic flooding occurs. Wet The ditch was originally constructed to Beaver Creek, which flows through Mon- divert the flow around an agricultural field tezuma Well, is also a perennial stream. and the water was occasionally withdrawn The flow regime has also been modified from the ditch to irrigate the field. Over by upstream withdrawals, but Wet Beaver time, in the past 60 years, the ditch has Creek does not have a pronounced dry been breached in several locations and all period. of the diverted water flows into what was once the agricultural field but is now the The Verde River, Arizona’s only wild and Tavasci Marsh. scenic river, flows through Prescott Na- tional Forest, Coconino National Forest, The portion of the Tavasci Marsh area and along the boundary of Tuzigoot Na- that is naturally sustained by spring water tional Monument. The State of Arizona measures approximately 20 acres. The identified a six-mile stretch that includes area that is artificially sustained by di- the flow past the Tuzigoot boundary as a verted river flow is approximately 40 critical natural resource and designated it acres. The entire existing Tavasci Marsh as the Verde River Greenway State Natu- area is approximately 60 acres. ral Area. The cottonwoods and shrubs Typically, sedges and grasses cover the along the banks support coyotes, rac- upper, drier portion of the marsh, and coons, mule deer, beavers, and nearly 20 dense stands of cattails occupy the lower, threatened or endangered species, includ- wetter sections of the marsh. The marsh ing river otter and lowland leopard frogs provides habitat for wildlife species, in- (Sedona Verde Valley Tourism Council cluding rare species. The sediment in the 2007). Additional threatened and endan- Tavasci Marsh contains high concentra- gered species include the spikedace (a na- tions of heavy metals, and is infested with tive minnow), razorback sucker, Colorado nonnative vegetation such as Russian olive pikeminnow, bald eagle, and southwes- and tamarisk. tern willow flycatcher. Resident and migratory birds abound throughout the river SOILS AND VEGETATION (Forest Service 2002). Montezuma Castle National Monument WETLANDS Soils are broadly classified into two types: Tavasci Marsh in Tuzigoot National Mo- the riverine bottomland soils that are nument is the largest wetland within the dominated by stream deposits and the three monument sites. The hydrology of upland rocky calcareous soils (Soil Con- the marsh wetland is sustained by two servation Service [SCS] and USFS 1972). sources, one is natural and the other is ar- The Retriever soil series is dominant and tificial. Several permanent springs along characterized by limestone outcrops and the northeast edge of the marsh, including limestone-derived soils on upland mesas, Shea Spring, are the natural water sources. ridges, and side-slopes. The dominant ve- The marsh also receives water from Peck’s getation community is scrub-shrub, in- Lake which is located up gradient from cluding creosote bush (Larrea divaricata the Tavasci Marsh. Peck’s Lake is filled ssp. tridentate), mariola (Parthenium inca- with natural spring water and water from num), localized stands of perennial Verde River. The river water is funneled grasses, and often scattered one-seed and from the river through Brewers tunnel in- Utah juniper (Juniperus monosperma, J. to Peck’s Lake, which contributes most of osteosperma) and crucifixion thorn (Cano- the lake volume. Peck’s Lake discharges tia holacantha) (Rowlands 1999). water into the marsh through a culvert

120 Natural Resources

The river corridor soils at Montezuma nument, including the old pasture lands Castle National Monument are primarily along the historic ditch and near the pic- alluvial in nature, classed as riverwash and nic grounds. Velvet mesquite is spreading as terrace deposits. The Riverwash soils into the pasture near the picnic area since are primarily stratified sand, silt, and clay, active grazing was ceased in that area of with scattered deposits of gravel, cobbles, the monument. Several soils within the stones, and boulders. The terrace deposits Retriever association underlie the former border the wide channel of the river and pasture lands (Rowlands 1999). may be 5 to 10 feet high. These deposits The soils and vegetation in the bottom consist of a mixture of unconsolidated but land / riparian areas of Montezuma Castle finely stratified clay, silt, sand, and gravel. National Monument and the former pas- Both the riverwash and terrace deposits ture lands at Montezuma Well have been are very permeable and form a good aqui- severely disturbed; the native plant com- fer (Lehner 1958). munities and soils have been removed or The primary vegetation is riparian wood- displaced from their natural states. The land / gallery forest, with by riparian trees disturbance has occurred primarily as a such as the Arizona sycamore (Platanus result of agricultural activities. This is re- wrightii) and Arizona ash (Fraxinus penn- flected in the high number of nonnative sylvanica ssp. velutina) and understory introduced and exotic species present at species such as the Gooding willow (Salix Montezuma Castle National Monument, gooddingii) as well as grasses and flower- especially the Mediterranean annual ing plants (Rowlands 1999). The vegeta- grasses. Although Beaver Creek still main- tion is dominated by the velvet mesquite tains a natural flow regime, the amount of (Prosopis velutina). water flowing through the creek has changed as a result of upstream water Historically, the riparian areas were im- withdrawals. portant for agricultural purposes, including grazing. The agricultural practices Tuzigoot National Monument have caused soil compaction and altered the vegetation. The high number of non- At Tuzigoot National Monument the native and exotic species in the riparian floodplain is quite broad, the Verde River area is related to these historic activities. is wider and more meandering, and the stream bottom composition contains At Montezuma Well, the dominant soil more gravel and cobble that form large type is the Guest soil series, characterized bars at low flows (NPS 1992). Retriever by bottomland, clayey soil derived from soils are present in all areas of the monu- flood-borne, fine sediment deposits (SCS ment except Tavasci Marsh. The upland and USFS 1972). These soils support vel- vegetation is dominated by velvet mes- vet mesquite and cat claw acacia (Acacia quite, creosote bush, crucifixion thorn, greggii) and tobosa (Hilaria mutica). The tamarisk (Tamarix chinensis), and yucca second most common soil type is the Ri- (Yucca spp.). Vegetation in the riparian verwash soil. area is dominated by tree species, primari- The gallery riparian forest alongside Wet ly cottonwood, willows (Salix spp.), desert Beaver Creek at Montezuma Well sup- willow (Chilopsis linearis), and Arizona ports Arizona sycamore and Arizona ash sycamore. Peck's Lake and Tavasci Marsh vegetation and the Fremont cottonwood possess emergent vegetation such as cat- (Populus fremontii), a species not found at tails and bulrush (Scirpus spp.), which the Castle, and a dense carpet of smooth grow along the edges of the water bodies brome (Bromus inermis), an exotic peren- and may extend several yards from the nial grass. Exotic grasses are also found in edge of the shore into the water. Numer- great numbers in other areas of the mo- ous small, semi-aquatic plants typically

121 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT form understories within the marsh com- manes bewickii), and brown-headed cow- munities along the banks of the Verde bird (Molothrus ater) are very common. River (Minckley and Brown 1982). Because a variety of habitat types are present in the monuments, even the most WILDLIFE predominant species in a given year account for no more than 12% of the species This section addresses species found at observed. There are 49 avian breeding both Montezuma Castle National Monu- species in the monuments; this high num- ment and Tuzigoot National Monument. ber reflects the topographic and habitat The riparian and upland environments in variability in the monuments as well as the the monuments support a wide variety of presence of the riparian area. Approx- wildlife. Terrestrial species include birds, imately 75% of the avian breeding species large and small mammals, reptiles, ro- are migrants and leave the monuments dents, and insects. Aquatic species include during the fall and winter. fish, amphibians, and insects. The proposed alternatives include actions Approximately 50 species of mammals are that could impact wildlife habitat in the known to live in the monuments. These monument. These actions include the des- include the desert cottontail (Sylvilagus ignated trails in all three sites, the board- audubonii), ground squirrels (Sciuridae walk at Tuzigoot National Monument, family), elk (Cervus canadensis), mule deer and the overlook at Montezuma Castle (Odocoileus hemionus), grey fox (Urocyon National Monument. Except for the over- cinereoargenteus), bobcat (Felis rufus), look, birds are most likely to be affected coyote (Canis latrans), and rarely a moun- by the proposed actions. Development of tain lion (Felis concolor). In the uplands, the overlook could affect small mammals. the hot climate and lack of water favors smaller mammals that have an easier time THREATENED AND finding shelter and require less food and ENDANGERED SPECIES water. Reptiles found at the monuments include anurans, turtles, spiny lizards, col- This section addresses species that are lared lizards, and diamondback rattles- listed on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife En- nakes. Because of the high carbon dioxide dangered Species List or are afforded pro- levels in the water, no fish live in Monte- tection by the Arizona Game and Fish De- zuma Well. At least five endemic species partment. Although special-status species live only in Montezuma Well: a diatom, a could potentially occur in Yavapai Coun- springtail, a water scorpion, an amphipod, ty, Arizona, informal consultation with the and a leech -- the most endemic species in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicated any spring in the Southwestern United that only three listed species would be po- States. tentially affected by actions at Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot national monuments. Other water sources in the monuments The species not fully evaluated in the envi- support a variety of native species of trout ronmental assessment are not expected to and sucker and nonnative fish species, in- occur at the monuments or if they could cluding carp, bass, and catfish. be transitory (for example, the bald eagle), The most conspicuous wildlife species in there would be no effect on the species. the monument are the birds. Many breed- Table 7 lists the three species that were ing species are found in the riparian areas. fully evaluated; appendix D presents all The uplands also provide breeding, post the listed species with potential to occur in breeding, migrating, and wintering habitat Yavapai County, Arizona. for avian species. During the breeding season, the black-throated sparrow (Amphis- piza bilineata), Bewick’s wren (Thryo-

122 Natural Resources

Southwestern Willow Flycatcher or modified such that it no longer provides suitable habitat. The southwestern willow flycatcher (Em- pidonax traillii extimus) is one of five The southwestern willow flycatcher subspecies of the willow flycatcher. A neo- breeds early in the season. The flycatcher tropical migrant, the flycatcher breeds in does not breed in any of the monument the southwestern United States and win- sites but forages at both Montezuma Cas- ters in Mexico, Central America, and ex- tle and Tuzigoot national monuments. treme northern South America. The fly- The flycatcher typically arrives in the re- catchers are found in riparian ecosystems gion in late May to early June and stay within the 100-year floodplain or in a through August. Flycatchers are not flood-prone area. This species uses ripa- known to use the habitats at Montezuma rian habitat for feeding, sheltering, and Well. This species prefers relatively dense cover while breeding and migrating. Fly- vegetation to reduce predation both from catchers prefer to nest in dense patches of mammals such as coyotes, foxes, and willow (Salix spp.), buttonbush (Cephalan- cowbirds. The flycatcher is shy and easily thus occidentalis), box elder (Acer negun- disturbed. Management considerations do), and Baccharis spp. Flycatchers are for the flycatcher include how to reduce also known to nest in nonnative vegeta- potential disturbance from visitors that tion such as tamarisk. In almost all cases, approach suitable habitats. water that is still or slowly moving or satu- rated soils are present at or near the Montezuma Castle National Monu- breeding site (USFWS 2002). Nests are ment. Critical habitat for the southwes- open cup structures typically placed in the tern willow flycatcher has been designated fork of a branch from 6.5 to 23 feet above along the Verde River. The flycatcher ground (USFWS 2002). does not currently nest in the riparian area at Montezuma Castle National Monu- Riparian areas are dynamic, and the size ment, but it does forage in the monument. and location of flycatcher habitat changes The riparian vegetation at Montezuma over time in response to natural distur- Castle National Monument is not ideal for bances and regeneration events such as nesting because it is primarily gallery for- flood, fire, and drought (USFWS 2004). As est, although there are some patches of a result, habitat may become unsuitable preferred vegetation along Beaver Creek. for breeding through maturation or dis- Although the riparian habitat is dynamic, turbance but could remain suitable for it is unlikely that the habitat will improve migration or foraging. It is not uncommon because typically the alluvial deposits for patches that have been disturbed to along Beaver Creek have a heavy bed load cycle back into suitability for breeding. as opposed to the fine sediments preferred (USFWS 2004). About 90% of the fly- by willows and other plant species that the catcher’s traditional habitat has been lost flycatcher prefers for nesting.

123 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 7: ENDANGERED, CANDIDATE, AND SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES WITH THE POTENTIAL TO OCCUR AT MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS

Critical Habitat Common Name Scientific Name Status a/ Present? Southwestern willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii extimus FE, AWSC Yes Yuma clapper rail Rallus longirostris yumanensis FE, AWSC No Yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus FC, AWSC No a/ Status: FE = federal endangered; FC = federal candidate; AWSC = Arizona wildlife of special concern. the marsh. The preferred habitat for the Tuzigoot National Monument. Critical rail is in the wetter sections of the marsh. habitat for the flycatcher has been designated on the Verde River just outside the Yellow-billed Cuckoo monument boundary south of the access road. A breeding pair of the flycatchers The western distinct population segment has been documented in this area. The of the yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus river channel south of the access road is americanus) is a candidate for federal list- frequently disturbed during ditch maining, but listing actions are precluded by tenance activities. As a result, there are higher-priority listings (Federal Register 71 finer sediments in the channel that sup- FR 53755). This species is considered ports patches of vegetation that the fly- Wildlife of Special Concern by the state of catcher prefers for nesting. The flycatcher Arizona (Arizona Game and Fish Depart- uses the nearby Tavasci Marsh for forag- ment 2007). The yellow-billed cuckoo is a ing. riparian obligate species. Suitable habitat for this species in the western United Yuma Clapper Rail States is limited to narrow, and often widely separated, riparian cottonwood- Habitat for the Yuma clapper rail (Rallus willow galleries. Because it nests relatively longirostris yumanensis) in Arizona includes late in the season when water levels are a variety of marsh types dominated by lower, the cuckoo prefers the relatively emergent plants, including cattail (Typha humid environment of the gallery forest. domingensis), bullwhip bulrush (Juncus The population in Arizona is probably the californicus), and sedges (Cyperaceae largest remaining cuckoo population in family). Rail habitat requires a wet sub- states west of the Rocky Mountains, but strate, such as a mudflat, sandbar, or cuckoo numbers in 1999 were substantial- slough bottom with moderate- to highly less than some previous estimates for density vegetation adjacent to shorelines. Arizona as a result of habitat loss and de- The only suitable habitat for the Yuma gradation. One hundred sixty-eight yel- clapper rail at the monuments is in Tavasci low-billed cuckoo pairs and 80 single Marsh near Tuzigoot National Monu- birds were identified in Arizona in 1999, ment. The Yuma clapper rail is known to based on preliminary results from a state- forage in the monument but has not been wide survey which covered 265 miles of documented nesting in the marsh. It is river and creek bottoms. Losses of ripa- likely that the Yuma clapper rail uses the rian habitats from historic levels have been marsh during migration. Sedges and substantial in Arizona. Despite this, the grasses in Tavasci Marsh typically cover cuckoo is still found in all counties in Ari- the higher-elevation, drier portion of the zona. Unlike the southwestern willow fly- marsh while dense stands of cattails occu- catcher, these birds are relatively secretive, py the lower-elevation, wetter sections of

124 Natural Resources nest high in the canopy, and are more dif- States. There is potentially suitable nesting ficult to disturb. and foraging habitat in Montezuma Castle National Monument and near Tuzigoot The loss, degradation, and fragmentation National Monument along Beaver Creek of riparian habitat have been identified as and the Verde River. the primary factors causing yellow-billed cuckoo declines in the western United

125

VISITOR USE AND EXPERIENCE

The planning team identified visitor expe- VISITOR USE CHARACTERISTICS rience as an important issue that could be FOR ALL THREE SITES appreciably affected under the alterna- Visitation at Montezuma Castle is shown tives. The Organic Act and Management in figure 1. Visitation was quite low during Policies 2006 direct the National Park Ser- World War II, but then climbed steadily, vice to provide visitor enjoyment oppor- peaking at about a million visitors in 1996. tunities that are uniquely suited and ap- A decline then occurred, but for the past propriate to the resources found in the six years, visitation has been relatively sta- monuments. Several aspects of visitation ble at more than 600,000 visitors annually. and enjoyment were evaluated, including visitor use characteristics, visitor expe- Despite its small size, Montezuma Castle is rience and recreational opportunities, among the most heavily visited national orientation information and interpreta- park units in the southwest, is one of the tion, and access for disabled visitors. most visited prehistoric southwestern ruins, and is the best-known Sinaguan site. To provide the sociological data necessary Visitation is facilitated by the monument’s to support management planning, Dave location along the primary Grand Canyon White and Randy Virden from Arizona tour route, its convenient access from In- State University conducted a visitor study terstate 17, its proximity to the Phoenix (White and Virden 2004). The study, re- metropolitan area, and the widely known, ferred to as the 2003-2004 visitor study, well-preserved condition of the Castle. was conducted in two phases, October to November 2003 and March to May 2004, Montezuma Well visitation is shown in to capture information from different visi- figure 2. This site typically records about tor use seasons. The study collected in- 25% to 30% of the Castle visitation. The formation about visitor use levels, demo- visit to Montezuma Well can be a side trip graphic characteristics, management pre- for visitors to the Castle and other public ferences, and perceptions of natural, so- lands in the region. However, the shaded, cial, and managerial conditions. A goal scenic picnic area at Montezuma Well at- was to support the identification of addi- tracts a relatively high amount of return, tional opportunities to enhance visitors’ local visitation. As a result, the 2003-2004 understandings, education, and apprecia- visitor study indicated that about only tion of the monuments, and to improve about 40% of Phoenix-area residents visit- interpretive programs and services. Data ing Montezuma Well also had visited was collected from current adult visitors Montezuma Castle. at Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, Tuzigoot visitation is shown in figure 3. and Tuzigoot through onsite and mail sur- Visitation peaks occurred around 1970 vey questionnaires. Three versions of each and again in the early 1990s, when almost instrument (onsite and mail) were pro- 140,000 people visited the site each year. duced, with identical questions on each Since then, numbers have stabilized at version, but customized so that the in- about 115, 000 visitors annually. The dis- strument cover and questions specified tance of this national monument from ma- the site where the visitor was contacted. jor, regional travel routes results in visitation numbers that are lower than those of Montezuma Castle National Monument.

126 Visitor Use and Experience

FIGURE 1: MONTEZUMA CASTLE NATIONAL MONUMENT ANNUAL VISITATION, 1940-2007

Source: National Park Service, 2004

FIGURE 2: MONTEZUMA WELL ANNUAL VISITATION, 1992-2007

Source: National Park Service, 2004

127 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

FIGURE 3: TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENT ANNUAL VISITATION, 1940-2007

Source: National Park Service, 2004

While annual visitation numbers at all Montezuma Castle National Monument. three monument units are relatively stable, Similar data are provided for Montezuma all have lower visitor numbers than oc- Well in figure 5 and for Tuzigoot National curred in the early 1990s. While the so- Monument in figure 6. The figures show cioeconomics section in chapter 3 dis- that peak visitation for all three monu- cusses possible contributing factors, there ment units occurs in March, with a is no clear consensus as to the cause of this second, smaller peak in October. During decline. A similar decline is occurring in the hottest summer months, visitation de- many national parks around the country. clines to levels similar to those occurring in February and November. December Based on the surrounding region’s popu- and January are the months with the low- lation growth, it is likely that visitation will est visitation. increase over the next 15 to 20 years. The towns and cities in the Verde Valley are Regional use is more evident on weekends expected to grow substantially in the next and holidays. Heaviest use occurs during two decades. Visitation is expected to in- mid-morning to early afternoon, coincid- crease because of the continuing popula- ing with tour bus schedules and the travel tion growth and the development of tour- time from the major destination or depar- ism services in this area (Verde River Cor- ture points of Phoenix and the Grand ridor Project Steering Committee 1991). Canyon. Visitation by month for the six years from 2002 through 2007 is shown in figure 4 for

128 Visitor Use and Experience

FIGURE 4: VISITATION BY MONTH AT MONTEZUMA CASTLE NATIONAL MONUMENT, 2002-2007

FIGURE 5: VISITATION BY MONTH AT MONTEZUMA WELL, 2002-2007

129 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

FIGURE 6: VISITATION BY MONTH AT TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENT, 2002-2007

The 2003-2004 visitor study identified • About 11% had an individual with a other visitor characteristics that are im- disability, with the most common type portant to understanding and planning for noted as “mobility.” visitor use for all three areas. Highlights of • Most visitors also visit other commun- relevant data on general visitor characte- ities in the region, including Sedona, ristics and use at all three sites follow. Phoenix, Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, • Respondents included slightly more and Jerome. women than men. • The most frequently visited areas for • Average age of respondents ranged overnight visits included Sedona, from 48 to 51 years at the monuments. Phoenix, Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, Cottonwood, and Camp Verde. • For more than nine of ten visitors, the NPS site where the visitor was con- Figure 7 shown the percentages of visitors tacted was one of multiple destina- who went to one site, two sites, or all three tions away from home. sites. As shown in the figure, visits to Montezuma Castle only, and visits to all • About two thirds were traveling in three sites, each accounted for about 25 groups of two to three people; groups percent of visitors. Visitors were least like- of more than five were uncommon. ly to visit Montezuma well only (about 4 • A fifth of visitors were traveling with percent) or a combination of Tuzigoot children under 16 years. National Monument and Montezuma Well (about 1 percent. Tuzigoot National • Nearly all visitors (99.2%) stayed less Monument only, the combination of than three hours at the monuments. Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well, • About 40% of visitors were making and the combination of Montezuma Cas- their first trip to the monuments. tle and Tuzigoot National Monuments each was represented by 12% to 15% of visitors.

130 Visitor Use and Experience

Weekday versus weekend visits also are enter through the visitor center, wander shown in figure 7. Weekend visitors were through the exhibits briefly, and exit on to slightly more likely than weekday visitors the Castle trail. During peak hours, the to visit Montezuma Castle only, expe- Castle visitor center can be very busy, with rience Montezuma Castle and Montezu- much movement and noise. ma Well on the same visit, or visit all three The walk to the Castle is short but stun- sites. In contrast, weekday visitors were ning. As the visitor proceeds along the more likely to visit Tuzigoot National paved walk, the Castle slowly comes into Monument only, or to experience Monte- view. A wide viewing area with seating is zuma Castle and Tuzigoot on the same available at the base of the Castle. This visit. However, differences between area allows visitors time for reflection and weekday and weekend visits varied by just contemplation. The visitors tend to be a few percentage points. quiet and reverential when viewing the Figure 8 shows the top five states of resi- dwelling. The entire loop trail tends to be dence for visitors who responded to the a contemplative and relaxed environment. visitor study. For all three monument However, during peak use times or during units, more than 20% of visitors were Ari- interpretive programs along the loop trail, zona residents, and for Montezuma Well, the solitude and peacefulness associated a third of all visitors were from Arizona. with viewing the Castle may be inter- Californians made up more than 10% of rupted for short periods of time. visitors at all three sites. Residents from Continuing on the Castle loop trail leads Washington, New York, and Illinois each visitors to another Sinaguan dwelling, Cas- represented from 3% to 5% of visitors. tle A. A viewing platform and small amount of seating is available at the base VISITOR SAFETY AT of this structure. The backside of the loop ALL THREE SITES trail includes a spur trail to Beaver Creek. The primary risks to visitor safety are par- Visitors can view the creek from behind a ticipating in outdoor visitor activities in a rock wall. The creek allows quiet reflec- desert environment. Visitors may also tion, wildlife viewing, photography, and perceive risk to personal safety through catching a cool breeze. Currently, there contact with other visitors in a public set- are no facilities to encourage visitors to ting. stop and spend time in this area or bring them close to the water. Many people The safety risk associated with visiting the noted during public scoping that they par- monuments is low. ticularly enjoy the serenity of the creek at the Castle as part of their visit to the mo- MONTEZUMA CASTLE nument. NATIONAL MONUMENT Visitor Experience and Recreational Opportunities Most visitors to the Castle spend a short time in the monument. Visitors tend to

131 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

FIGURE 7: PERCENTAGES OF VISITORS SEEING ONE OR MORE SITES

30.00%

25.00%

20.00%

Weekday 15.00% Weekend

Percent Total

10.00%

5.00%

0.00% MOCA only MOWE only TUZI only MOCA & MOCA & TUZI & MOCA & MOWE TUZI MOWE MOWE & TUZI

FIGURE 8: TOP FIVE STATES OF RESIDENCE FOR VISITORS

35.00

30.00

25.00

MOCA 20.00 MOWE TUZI Percent 15.00 TOTAL

10.00

5.00

0.00 AZ CA WA NY IL

132 Visitor Use and Experience

During public scoping, several people rience and developing a connection with noted concern over the level of develop- Native American cultures were also highly ment on trails and walkways at the mo- rated motives. When reflecting on the nument. These individuals suggested that emotional aspects of their experiences, the trails should be kept as primitive as respondents felt impressed by the engi- possible to reflect the rawness of the pe- neering achievements of the Sinaguan riod of history, while meeting the needs of people and by the success of prehistoric disabled visitors to the greatest degree cultures living in the desert. Respondents possible. Further, several people com- also felt pride at the preservation of the mented on the lack of intimacy with the cultural resources and felt they had resources at the Castle because of physical learned about human history in the Verde barriers (for example, fencing) and restric- Valley. Most survey respondents were ex- tions (for example, signs to stay on trails). tremely satisfied (22%) or very satisfied (57%) with their visit (White and Virden At the end of the loop trail, near the park- 2004). ing lot, is a shaded picnic area. Visitors can use this area before or after the visit to During the period of heavy use in the early view the Castle. to mid 1990s (up to 1 million visitors per year), the existing vehicle parking was of- Access to the lands within the monument ten inadequate for the level of visitation, that surround the developed area is li- and some potential visitors were unable to mited. Because of the sensitivity of arc- park. Further, this level of visitation heological resources throughout the mo- caused crowding of pedestrian traffic flow nument, visitor access to these areas has around the visitor center and along the been highly restricted. There is currently loop trail at the Castle. Several public no visitor access to the unusual fossil area comments were also received during pub- consisting of mammal footprints dating to lic scoping for the general management the Pliocene Epoch. A parking area was plan about the interference of the visitor constructed at one point, but no trail or experience from heavy tour bus visitation interpretive exhibit was developed to pro- as a result of associated noise and smells. vide access. The area is currently closed to visitors. Visitors were asked to rank other topics of concern during the 2003-2004 visitor Recreation activities available to visitors study. The study found that visitors were include sightseeing, wildlife watching, most concerned with the following social walking, and picnicking. Guided ranger and environmental conditions at the Cas- programs are available in addition to con- tle: theft of cultural artifacts, visual impact tact with roving interpreters. The most of the mine tailings at Tuzigoot, and poor common activities for visitors to Monte- water quality. Other social and environ- zuma Castle are walking along paved mental conditions of concern included trails, taking photographs, visiting archeo- collecting wood and rocks, defacing or logical sites, going to the visitor center, destroying natural resources and loss of and shopping at the gift shop (White and open space. Further, visitors were asked to Virden 2004). When asked to choose their evaluate the importance of and their satis- primary activity, the most common res- faction with certain programs and services ponses were visiting archeological sites, at the Castle. Visitors ranked monument walking along paved trails, and taking maintenance and friendliness of staff as photographs. two of the most important conditions. Learning about history, prehistoric cul- They did not identify any major deficien- tures, and Native American traditions cies in any of the monument’s programs were important motivations for visiting and services. Finally, visitors were asked the monument. Having an authentic expe- to evaluate the importance of and their

133 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT satisfaction with certain facilities at the Access for Disabled Visitors Castle. The topics that visitor ranked as The monument has been improving acces- relatively important but with relatively low sibility for six years. About 10% of visitor satisfaction might need some improve- groups contacted at the Castle during the ment, including cleanliness of restrooms, 2003-2004 visitor study included one or availability of drinking water, availability more individuals with a disability, with of parking, and educational exhibits at the mobility being the most frequently men- visitor center (White and Virden 2004). tioned. The monument is therefore con- centrating on improving mobility accessi- Orientation, Information, bility first. The visitor center and the and Interpretation paved trail are accessible to wheelchairs. A Visitors receive most interpretative infor- portion of the Castle trail is too steep for mation in the visitor center and along the wheelchairs and is marked with a sign. loop trail at the base of the Castle. Way- The picnic area is not accessible to wheel- side exhibits interpret the cultural and chairs. Funding in fiscal year 2009 will al- natural resources found in the area. A dio- low replacement of some sidewalk sec- rama and audio program depicts the inte- tions to meet accessibility standards. rior view of the cliff dwellings. Recently While many interpretative programs in- improved visitor center museum exhibits volve visual elements such as traditional are informative and attractive, detailing craft demonstrations and Native Ameri- the major interpretive themes of the mo- can traditional dances, others include nument. Currently, there are no facilities non-visual activities such as flute playing, for group interpretation opportunities, touch tables, participation in traditional and several public comments were re- crafts, corn grinding, and agave fiber ceived during the scoping phase suggest- weaving. Renovations to the museum in ing that an amphitheater was needed at 2002 removed physical and height bar- the Castle. Further, many public com- riers. The museum has no audio program, ments, especially in response to the open- so no devices are needed for the hearing- ended questions on the 2003-2004 visitor impaired visitors, who can see the displays study, requested more “hands-on” activi- and read the text. Large fonts with arti- ties for interpretive demonstrations and fact- and graphics-exhibits assist the vi- programs. sually impaired, and rangers can read or describe exhibits to blind visitors. For Visitors are most interested in the follow- those with mental disabilities, a hierarchy ing new programs and services: scheduled of exhibits from simple text and illustra- ranger-led tours of archeological sites, na- tions to complex drawings provides a ture trails, Native American cultural dem- wide array of information. onstrations, and living history presentations. The most highly rated topics for in- MONTEZUMA WELL terpretive and educational programs were reasons for the successes and failures of Visitor Experience and human settlements in the desert, ties be- Recreational Opportunities tween past and present Native American cultures, Native American travel and trade The Well is reached via a paved trail fea- routes in the area, link between prehistor- turing a series of modern wayside exhibits ic and modern human cultures, number that offer cultural and natural resource and variety of cultural sites in the Verde information. Visiting Montezuma Well Valley, and how water is the source of life tends to be a quieter and slower-paced in the desert (White and Virden 2004). experience than visiting Montezuma Cas- tle. Visitors tend to wander along the rim of Montezuma Well via the paved trail,

134 Visitor Use and Experience taking time to watch for wildlife and view past cultures and learning about prehistor- the ruins along the well’s interior walls. ic cultures were important motivations for The Well outlet is also accessible via a visiting the site. Learning about Native paved trail. A walk down to Montezuma American traditions and developing Well rewards visitors with a quiet, shady knowledge of history were also important spot for rest and contemplation. Beaver motivations. When reflecting on the emo- Creek is directly below the sitting area tional aspects of their experiences, res- near the outlet, surrounding visitors with pondents felt impressed with how prehis- the sounds of slow running water. toric cultures thrived in the Verde Valley and they felt proud to see the preservation In addition to Montezuma Well and adja- of archeological resources. Most survey cent ruins, visitors to the site can still see respondents were extremely satisfied traces of ancient, lime-encrusted irrigation (25%) or very satisfied (56%) with their ditches that extend from the well’s outlet, visit. a remnant of past farming activity. Visitors were also asked to rank topics of The picnic area at Montezuma Well is concern. Visitors were most concerned shady and lush, with several picnic tables with the following social and environmen- and a large green space area. It is one of tal conditions at Montezuma Well: theft of the most pleasant picnic areas in the valley cultural artifacts and poor water quality. and receives relatively high levels of use. When asked to evaluate the importance of Beaver Creek is near the picnic area, but and their satisfaction with certain pro- currently no designated trail provides grams and services at Montezuma Well, access to the water. During the public visitors ranked monument maintenance scoping period for the general manage- and friendliness of staff as two of the most ment plan, the public expressed a desire important conditions. They identified for trail opportunities to the creek from availability of information about monu- the picnic area. ment activities as one service that might Some informal trails are used by local res- need some minor improvements. Finally, idents to access the land around the de- visitors were asked to evaluate the impor- veloped area in Montezuma Well. These tance of and their satisfaction with certain trails are not documented or designated. facilities at Montezuma Well. The topics As the area around Montezuma Well con- that visitor ranked as relatively important tinues to grow with residential develop- but with relatively low satisfaction might ment, demand for trail-based recreation need some improvement, including avail- opportunities may increase. ability of drinking water and archeological displays (White and Virden 2004). Recreation activities available to visitors include sightseeing, wildlife watching, Orientation, Information, walking, and picnicking. Contact with rov- and Interpretation ing interpreters is also possible during a visit. According to the 2003-2004 visitor Interpretive and regulatory information is study, the most common activities for visi- provided at the contact station at Monte- tors to Montezuma Well are walking along zuma Well. Currently, the contact station paved trails, taking photographs, and visit- is a prefabricated concrete building placed ing archeological sites. When asked to in the late 1990s that has space for two or choose their primary activity, the most three staff. Visitors get information from common responses were walking along the staff through a sliding window in the paved trails and visiting archeological trailer. sites. Personal services interpretation is handled For respondents to the 2003-2004 visitor by a roving interpreter who makes infor- study, having an authentic experience of mal contacts with visitors. A series of way-

135 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT side exhibits provide cultural and natural TUZIGOOT resource information on the way to Mon- NATIONAL MONUMENT tezuma Well. Currently, there are no facilities for group interpretation oppor- Visitor Experience and tunities, and several public comments re- Recreational Opportunities ceived during the scoping phase of the The approach road to Tuzigoot passes an general management plan suggested that extensive area of copper mine tailings. The an amphitheater was needed at Montezu- tailings were covered and the area res- ma Well. Further, many public comments, tored in 2007. Once visitors arrive at the especially in response to the open-ended monument, they enter the visitor center questions on the 2003-2004 visitor study, that displays an extensive collection of requested more “hands on” activities for Sinaguan artifacts. Visitors leave the visi- interpretive demonstrations and pro- tor center along a paved trail that ascends grams. to the top of the pueblo at the top of the Visitors to Montezuma Well are most in- hill. terested in the following new programs The trip through the pueblo at Tuzigoot and services: nature trails, trail access to allows visitors to come into close contact streams, Native American cultural demon- with a major surface ruin. Continuing sta- strations, scheduled ranger-led tours of bilization of the Tuzigoot ruins helps visi- archeological sites, and living history tors understand the architectural style and presentations. The most highly rated top- the size of the rooms. During public scop- ics for interpretive and educational pro- ing, several comments were received from grams were reasons for the successes and visitors who felt Tuzigoot was particularly failures of human settlements in the special due the intimacy of contact be- desert, Native American travel and trade tween visitors and the resources. routes in the area, number and variety of cultural sites in the Verde Valley, ties be- Visitors can visit the top of the pueblo and tween past and present Native American have a 360 degree view of the surrounding cultures, and rare species of plants and region. animals in the Verde Valley (White and The natural setting around the north and Virden 2004). east sides of the pueblo highlights the integral part that the area’s natural re- Access for Disabled Visitors sources played in the life of prehistoric Although the monument has been improv- and historic peoples. The early residents ing accessibility for six years, providing were attracted to the natural resource accessibility is challenging because of li- communities in the riparian and marsh mited space for visitor orientation. The areas and adjacent uplands. Experiencing Well relies primarily on posters for inter- the natural environment is crucial to expe- pretation; plans call for an expanded con- riencing the cultural setting of the hilltop tact station to meet visitor needs, includ- pueblo. ing accessibility. About 9% of visitor Currently, visitors can take the Tavasci groups contacted at Montezuma Well Marsh Overlook trail to view Tavasci during the 2003-2004 visitor study in- Marsh, one of the few freshwater marshes cluded one or more individuals with a dis- in Arizona. The marsh provides opportun- ability, with mobility being the most fre- ities for wildlife viewing, recreation op- quently mentioned disability. Most of the portunities, and exploration of the Sina- paved trails are not accessible via wheel- guan culture. chair. Potential new routes, which would require archeological clearance and new No designated trails link to the surround- construction, have been identified. ing public lands such as Dead Horse

136 Visitor Use and Experience

Ranch State Park, the Verde River Green- artifacts, poor water quality, visual impact way, and Coconino National Forest. Dur- of the mine tailings at Tuzigoot, and loss ing the public scoping period, the public of open space. Further, visitors were asked expressed a desire for additional trail con- to evaluate the importance of and their nections to the monument from sur- satisfaction with certain programs and rounding public lands. There is also li- services at Tuzigoot. Visitors ranked mo- mited visitor access to other areas within nument maintenance and friendliness of the monument’s legislated boundary, but staff as two of the most important condi- most of this area is not owned by the Na- tions. Overall, visitors seem highly satis- tional Park Service. Current access to fied with programs and services at Tuzi- these sites is determined by the existing goot. Finally, visitors were asked to eva- property owners. luate the importance of and their satisfaction with certain facilities at Tuzigoot. The Recreation activities available to visitors only topic that visitor ranked as relatively include exploring a major surface ruin, important but with relatively low satisfac- sightseeing, wildlife watching, and walk- tion, which therefore might need some ing. Guided ranger programs are available improvement, was the availability of in addition to contact with roving inter- drinking water. preters. The most common activities for visitors to Tuzigoot are walking along Orientation, Information, paved trails, taking photographs, visiting and Interpretation archeological sites, and going to the visitor center. When asked to choose their pri- The visitor center is a small museum with mary activity, the most common responses many artifacts from the Sinaguan people were visiting archeological sites and walk- on display. It is one of the few museums ing along paved trails (White and Virden interpreting ancient Sinaguan culture in 2004). Arizona. During the public scoping period, several people noted that the mu- For respondents to the 2003-2004 visitor seum at Tuzigoot should grow in size. Re- study, learning about Native American novation of the museum’s exhibits will be traditions, prehistoric cultures and history completed in 2008. In addition to the mu- were important motivations for visiting seum, the trail loop through the pueblo the monument. Having an authentic expe- includes wayside exhibits. rience of past cultures and experiencing a connection with Native American cultures The 2003-2004 visitor study indicated that were also important motivations. When visitors to Tuzigoot are most interested in reflecting on the emotional aspects of the following new programs and services: their experiences, respondents felt im- Native American cultural demonstrations, pressed with how prehistoric cultures nature trails, scheduled ranger-led tours thrived in the Verde Valley and the engi- of archeological sites, and living history neering achievements they made in those presentations. The most highly rated top- days. Respondents also felt pride to see ics for interpretive and educational pro- the preservation of archeological re- grams were reasons for the successes and sources. Most respondents were extreme- failures of human settlements in the ly satisfied (18%) or very satisfied (54%) desert, ties between past and present Na- with their visit. tive American cultures, Native American travel and trade routes in the area, number Visitors were also asked to rank topics of and variety of cultural sites in the Verde concern during the 2003-2004 visitor Valley, link between prehistoric and mod- study. Visitors were most concerned with ern human cultures, and how water is the the following social and environmental source of life in the desert. conditions at Tuzigoot: theft of cultural

137 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Access for Disabled Visitors valley, hiking trails, and picnic facilities. Visitation to the Red Rock was 66,442 in The monument has been improving acces- 1995-1996 and 76,393 in 2000-2001, a 15% sibility for six years. About 13% of visitor increase (Northern Arizona University groups contacted at Tuzigoot during the 2002). 2003-2004 visitor study included one or more individuals with a disability, with Fort Verde State Historical Park has the mobility being the most frequently men- best preserved example of an Indian Wars tioned. The visitor center and the Tavasci period fort in Arizona. Three historic Marsh Overlook trail are wheelchair ac- house museums are available to visitors, cessible. Most trails are not accessible via including the Commanding Officer’s wheelchair. Wheeled vehicles, such as Quarters, Bachelors' Quarters, and Doc- wheelchairs and baby strollers, are not tor’s Quarters on Officer's row, all fur- recommended on the trail through the nished in the 1880s period. The park has pueblo. Potential new routes, which living history programs and picnic facili- would require archeological clearance and ties. Visitation in 1995-96 was 31,181 and new construction, have been identified. 21,450 in 2000-2001, a 31.2% decrease in visitation (Northern Arizona University Planned renovations to the museum (now 2002). in the architectural and engineering design phase) will address existing accessibility Directly adjacent to Tuzigoot is Peck’s issues. The museum has no audio pro- Lake, an old oxbow lake of the Verde Riv- gram, so no devices are needed for hear- er just north of Tavasci Marsh. It is closed ing-impaired visitors, who can see the dis- to public use but provides a scenic back- plays and read the text. Large fonts with drop for the monument. artifact- and graphics-exhibits assist the Also directly adjacent to Tuzigoot are visually impaired, and rangers can read or Dead Horse Ranch State Park and the describe exhibits to blind visitors. For Verde River Greenway, managed as a spe- those with mental disabilities, a hierarchy cial unit of Dead Horse Ranch State Park. of exhibits from simple text and illustra- Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers tions to complex drawings provides a campgrounds, restrooms, showers, picnic wide array of information. sites, group use areas, fishing lagoons, river access, riverfront trails, and interpretive Regional Recreational Opportunities and environmental education programs. The Verde Valley, lying under the specta- Visitation to the state park was 74, 503 in cular cliffs of the Mogollon Rim of Central 1995-1996 and 103,089 in 2000-2001, a Arizona, provides a wealth of opportunity 38.4% increase in visitors (Northern Ari- to enjoy numerous cultural and natural zona University 2002). resources from past to present. The Verde River Greenway, along a seg- Near all of the monuments are Coconino, ment of the nearly 180-mile long Verde Prescott, and Kaibab National Forests, River, crosses into Tuzigoot’s legislated which offer extensive opportunities for boundary. The Greenway encompasses hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, nearly 480 acres and is six miles long (Ari- bicycling, camping, picnicking, boating, zona State Parks 2004). The Verde River and fishing. Greenway Management Plan calls for Tu- zigoot to be integrated in to the Verde Near Montezuma Castle and Montezuma River Greenway through use of specia- Well are Red Rock State Park and Fort lized Verde River Greenway family of Verde State Historical Park. Red Rock signs (Arizona State Parks 1992). The State Park provides self-guided and ran- Verde River Greenway Management Plan ger-led interpretive walks, video and slide also suggests that interpretation at the programs on the natural resources in the

138 Visitor Use and Experience monument should be expanded to explain erals in addition to a video presentation how the Verde River riparian corridor and a three-dimensional model of the supported the development of the settle- town with its underground mines. There ment at Tuzigoot. The plan also calls for are more displays outside along with a an interpretive corridor that would link picnic area offering a beautiful panoramic sites such as Tavasci Marsh and Tuzigoot view of the Verde Valley. Visitation in National Monument. It also proposes an 1995-1996 was 87,749 and 53,128 in 2000- agricultural exhibit that would provide an 2001, a 39.5% decrease in visitation area for accurately representing the types (Northern Arizona University 2002). and quantities of Native American crops, A future opportunity for visitors to the tools, irrigation, and agricultural practices. Verde Valley area will be the Sinaguan The view of the site from Tuzigoot would Circle tour. As envisioned, the Sinaguan provide an opportunity to explain the sig- Circle effort would consist of a partner- nificance of the river ecosystem and the ship, including the National Park Service, relationship to the lands surrounding Tu- United States Forest Service, Arizona State zigoot. Parks, Arizona Conservancy, and local The plan suggests a 2-mile trail system that organizations, to promote and encourage would include natural and cultural system protection, preservation, interpretation, interpretive viewpoints and signage to link and linkage of significant Sinaguan sites in the resources. A 10-foot-wide, granular the Verde Valley via a coordinated auto- stone surfaced trail for non-motorized use mobile driving tour. Interpretive media traversing the length of the greenway is and trails would be developed at signifi- recommended. Loop trails off the core cant sites along the tour route. trail would provide access to the river, Currently, several events draw people to picnic areas, or interpretive sites. the Verde Valley area. One of the most Also close to Tuzigoot is Jerome State His- popular is the Verde River Days, an annual toric Park, which showcases the Douglas event sponsored by the local communities Mansion, a landmark in Jerome since and businesses that features river-related 1916, when James S. Douglas built it on activities, demonstrations, and exhibits for the hill just above his Little Daisy Mine. children and adults. NPS staff participates This former home is now a museum de- in the event, highlighting the resources of voted to history of the Jerome area and the the monuments. Douglas family. The museum features ex- Other parks, monuments, and recreation hibits of photographs, artifacts, and min- areas in the region are identified in table 8.

139 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 8: REGIONAL PARKS, MONUMENTS, AND RECREATIONAL AREAS

Park or Recreation Area Mileage to Montezuma Castle Wupatki National Monument 89 miles north Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument 74 miles north Walnut Canyon National Monument: 55 miles north Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) 135 miles northwest Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim) 181 miles northwest Petrified Forest National Park 123 miles east Beaver Creek Recreation Area 15 miles north Mingus Mountain Recreation Area 41 miles west Oak Creek Canyon Natural Area 39 miles north

140

MONUMENT OPERATIONS

Montezuma Castle National Monument prefabricated concrete building where (including Montezuma Well) and Tuzi- information is provided through a sliding goot National Monument are NPS units in window. Bulletin boards at Montezuma central Arizona. The monuments are with- Well inform and orient visitors. A parking in a 30-minute drive of each other. facility near the visitor contact station ac- commodates approximately 10 cars. Sev- Montezuma Castle National Monument is eral administrative buildings are east of approximately 3 miles east of I-17 exit 289. the Back Ranch area. These serve ranger The Castle is not open to the public, but operations, maintenance, and monument the trail runs below the Castle and offers housing. Rangers provide interpretive many panoramic viewpoints. The Castle programs at Montezuma Well once each has a visitor center and a museum that in- day. There is no fee to enter Montezuma clude exhibits and artifacts depicting the Well. The trail to the well is not accessible lifestyle, history, and culture of the Sina- for wheelchairs. guan Indians who built Montezuma Cas- tle. The visitor center also contains a Tuzigoot National Monument is approx- bookstore operated by Western National imately 20 miles northwest of I-17 exit Parks Association, a non-profit organiza- 287. Tuzigoot contains a visitor center and tion that partners with the National Park museum with one of the finest collections Service. of Sinaguan artifacts. This site also contains a nature trail and restrooms but no This site also contains restrooms and a picnic facilities. An administrative building picnic area. A parking facility for approx- is on the site. A parking facility accommo- imately 65 cars and three oversized ve- dates approximately 40 cars and approx- hicles and recreational vehicles is near the imately six buses or recreational vehicles. visitor center. Additional infrastructure A $5.00 entrance fee is charged for adults includes a water tank in the central por- 16 years of age and older. Children under tion of the monument and a sewage treat- 16 years of age are free. The entrance fee is ment facility on the south side of the mo- good for seven days. A combination Mon- nument. Several administrative buildings tezuma Castle / Tuzigoot pass is available housing ranger operations are south of the for $8.00. The visitor center and museum parking facility. are wheelchair accessible, but the trail to Rangers provide interpretive programs at the 110-room pueblo is too steep for the Castle twice each day, in late morning wheelchairs. The nature trail is also and early afternoon. The programs cover wheelchair accessible, but has some eleva- topics ranging from the history and cul- tion gain. ture of the Sinagua people to the geology The monument occasionally hosts special and wildlife of the Verde Valley. A $5.00 programs or events. During 2007, the mo- entrance fee is charged for adults 16 years nument hosted two special events during of age and older. Children under 16 years the last week of April (National Park of age are free. The entrance fee is good Week). One event was a presentation on for seven days. The visitor center and stargazing in our national parks and the parts of the trail are wheelchair accessible. other event was a craft fair in association Montezuma Well is approximately 4 miles with Junior Ranger Day. Activities asso- east of I-17 exit 293. The Well contains a ciated with these special events occurred picnic area, restrooms, and hiking trails. A at each of the monument sites. visitor contact station is also provided at The NPS units are managed collectively Montezuma Well, consisting of a small under a single administrative organization.

141 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Currently, the monument employs 24 full Division is based inside the monument at time equivalent employees. Fifteen are Tuzigoot. permanent, full-time employees and nine The Visitor and Resource Protection Divi- are temporary employees. Two perma- sion includes the chief ranger, a supervi- nent, full-time employees have been re- sory ranger, and rangers assigned to either quested in the proposed budget but not law enforcement / resource protection or yet approved or hired. Table 9 describes to interpretation. The supervisory ranger the current organization of the monu- is responsible for interpretation, and the ments’ staff. chief ranger is responsible for law en- TABLE 9: FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT EMPLOYEES forcement and resource protection. Cur- FOR MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT rently, about half of the rangers are as- NATIONAL MONUMENTS signed to interpretation and half are assigned to law enforcement / resource pro- Division Permanent Temporary tection. The rangers are distributed be- Administration 2 2 tween the monument sites, but the higher Facilities 4 2 visitation at Montezuma Castle dictates an management increased ranger presence there. Resource man- 3 a/ 3 The monuments also use volunteers, pri- agement marily for assistance with interpretation. Visitor and 7 a/ 2 Currently, the monuments have approx- resource imately 12 to 18 volunteers on duty at any protection one time. During 2007, the volunteers Total 15 9 logged approximately 3,300 hours at the monuments. a/ A permanent employee has been requested, but not hired. All sites of the monuments are open all The Administration Division includes the days during the year except Christmas. superintendent and support personnel, The operating hours are from 8:00 AM to who are responsible for the operation of 5:00 PM, with summer hours extended to the monuments. The Administration Divi- 6:00 PM between June and August. sion is at monument headquarters in Other federal agencies and state universi- downtown Camp Verde, in a leased office ties regularly conduct research at the mo- building outside the monument bounda- numents. There are currently 18 research ries. sites and 26 archeological sites at the mo- The Facilities Management Division in- numents under study. Research includes cludes the facility manager and mainten- such diverse topics as water resources, ance workers, who are responsible for all rattlesnakes, birds, turtles, and mountain maintenance activities at all monument lions. sites. The Facilities Management Division The base operating budget at Montezuma is based on tribal-owned property approx- Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments imately 2 miles from Montezuma Castle. has been between $1.0 million to $1.2 mil- The Resources Management Division in- lion from fiscal years 2001 through 2007. cludes a historical architect, who acts as An increase to $1.4 million was requested division manager, and support personnel for the next fiscal year. This budget pri- consisting of scientists and laborers. This marily funds employee salaries at the mo- division is responsible for protecting the numents. In addition, 80% of the fees col- historic and natural resources of the mo- lected at the monuments are returned to numents. The Resources Management the monuments. In 2007, the approximately $986,000 returned to the monuments funded the fee collection program

142 Monument Operations as well as interpretive, maintenance, resto- lease payments for the vehicle fleet, sup- ration, and preservation projects. While plies, and small equipment items. In addi- most of the base operating budget is used tion, the General Services Administration for salaries, the National Park Service pays approximately $90,000 annually for spends approximately $206,000 annually offsite leases on headquarters offices and for utilities, services and travel, rental and monument maintenance facilities.

143

SOCIOECONOMICS

Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national to the south, and improved highway monuments are in the northeastern corner access, the area and these two NPS units of Yavapai County in central Arizona, in were primarily regional attractions. An- an area commonly known as the Verde nual visitation at Tuzigoot National Mo- Valley. nument did not exceed 25,000 until 1952. That same year, annual visitation first Private lands in the valley are bordered to topped 50,000 at Montezuma Castle Na- the north and east by the 1.8 million acre tional Monument. Coconino National Forest and to the south and west by the Verde Ranger Dis- Visitation continued to increase into the trict of the 1.2 million acre Prescott Na- 1990s, in part because of the improved tional Forest. The region hosts six desig- highway accessibility afforded by the nated wilderness areas. Together, the completion of I-17 through the region. many aquatic and terrestrial habitats in the Segments of that highway incorporated region support an abundant and rich portions of previously existing U.S. high- range of avian, fish, vegetative, and terre- ways and thus were carrying traffic in the strial species. late 1950s and through the 1960s. Con- struction of new segments of I-17 through The Verde Valley offers outstanding scen- the Verde Valley was completed in 1976, ic, historical, and cultural resources. and the completed I-17 was opened to Among these are red rock canyons and travel from end to end in November 1987. monolithic rock formations, the vestiges The construction and completion of I-17 of the region’s mining history, and the provided an important north-south link area’s treasured Native American heritage for commercial travel, enhanced access to and culture, extending from ancient times Grand Canyon National Park, and fac- to the present. The Yavapai-Apache Res- tored into the growth and development of ervation is in the Verde Valley, a portion both the Prescott metropolitan area and of which is west of Montezuma Castle Na- the Verde Valley. Yavapai County’s popu- tional Monument. For many years, the lation increased from 37,005 in 1970 to region’s resources were exported, either 107,717 in 1990, a strong 5.5% com- as commodities like the copper and gold pounded annual growth rate. produced in local mines or through pic- tures and the film-making industry. Build- Set against this dynamic backdrop, visita- ing on the world-renowned reputation of tion at the monuments continued to Sedona, those and other resources are climb, albeit at a modest pace, until the now important amenities attracting new mid-1990s. Specific causes for the declines residents and tourists. The Verde Valley is thereafter are not known, but likely con- experiencing an extended period of new tributing factors include the following: development and of population and eco- • Institution of entrance fees at the main nomic growth. site of the Montezuma Castle and Tu- Montezuma Castle National Monument zigoot national monuments in 1996 was established in 1906, predating the es- under the recreational fee demonstra- tablishment of the National Park Service. tion program; Tuzigoot National Monument was estab- • Opening and subsequent expansion of lished in 1939, and Montezuma Well was the Cliff Castle Casino at the primary added as a detached site of Montezuma interstate interchange (Middle Verde) Castle National Monument in 1943. Prior accessing Montezuma Castle National to the advent of commercial air travel, the Monument; seasonal winter-migration of “snowbirds”

144 Socioeconomics

• Development of an expanded range of gional economy. In addition to the two convenience food and automotive ser- national monuments, other regional vices at both the Middle Verde and recreation and tourism attractions include Camp Verde interchanges; the following: • Expansion of the array of private • Five state parks hosting 476,000 total recreation and other opportunities visitors in 2003; within the valley, which compete with • Coconino and Prescott National Fo- the national monuments for visitor’s rests offering numerous hiking and time and attention within a time- biking trails, off-highway vehicle use constrained environment; areas, campgrounds, and other • Indirect impacts linked to declining recreation opportunities; visitation at Grand Canyon National • Cliff Castle Casino/Lodge, consistent- Park, for which I-17 serves as a major ly rated as among the best casinos in access route; and Arizona, along with other traveler- • Changing household demographics oriented development on the Yavapai- and other factors affecting people’s Apache reservation; recreation and travel patterns. • Verde Canyon Railroad/Excursion The convergence of these factors is affect- Train carrying 80,000 passengers an- ing the established economic and social nually; and linkages between the three sites, the local • Page Springs State Fish Hatchery and economy and the gateway communities. numerous other public and private cultural and heritage sites. REGIONAL ECONOMY These opportunities combine to offer visi- Beginning with the settlement by the Ho- tors the option to spend just a few hours hokam, agriculture has been a part of the or several weeks in the area. About 60% of region’s economic history. Early agricul- visitors to Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot tural production of crops was for subsis- national monuments during 2003-2004 tence, whereas livestock ranching became reported spending at least one night in the more predominant in contemporary area, with most reporting spending mul- times. Around the turn of the 20th cen- tiple nights (White and Virden 2004). tury, copper and gold mining became a driving economic force in the region, A business profile of the Verde Valley re- spawning development of several com- veals the strong dominance of trade and munities in the region and the Verde Can- the services in the local economy as almost yon Railroad. Active mining has largely three of four establishments are in those disappeared from the valley, which is now broadly defined sectors. Moreover, there well into the transition from a commodi- are more firms in trade and the combined ty-based economy to one based heavily on total of industrial firms engaged in mining, trade, consumer and professional services, construction, manufacturing, transporta- and construction. tion, and utilities (table 10). Recreation and tourism provide a major source of economic stimulus to the re-

145 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 10: NUMBER OF ESTABLISHMENTS, BY INDUSTRIAL SECTOR AND COMMUNITY, 2003 a/

Camp Clark- Corn- Cotton- Else- Industrial Sector Verde dale ville wood Sedona where b/ Total Agriculture, forestry, 21 5 7 24 26 5 88 and mining Construction 74 15 31 123 183 24 450 Manufacturing, 47 24 11 99 171 18 370 transportation, and utilities Wholesale and retail trade 107 24 26 257 498 60 972 Financial, real estate, 199 55 47 579 1,079 68 2,027 and other services Public administration 19 4 0 19 15 4 61 Nonclassified 6 6 7 21 48 4 92 Totals 473 133 129 1,122 2,020 183 4,060 a/ Source: Dun & Bradstreet, 2003. b/ Includes Jerome, Lake Montezuma, and Rimrock.

Sedona, Cottonwood, and Camp Verde employment increased from 25,295 in are the primary trade and service centers 1982 to 74,441 in 2002, a net change of in the Verde Valley. Sedona has the 49,146 jobs and a 5.5% compounded an- strongest concentration of lodging, res- nual growth rate. Moreover, the county taurants, art galleries, and other shops ca- recorded year-over-year increases in all tering to tourists and seasonal residents, as but one year. well as banks and other financial and pro- Government was the single largest em- fessional services. Cottonwood is home to ployment sector in 2002 with 10,744 em- the Verde Valley Medical Center, the ployees (14.4% of the total), although that area’s primary acute care facility, local of- total was surpassed by the combined fices of many state agencies, and numer- wholesale and retail sectors (11,629 em- ous retail stores, service establishments, ployees; see figure 9). Health care, social and construction trade/industrial supply services, and education play an important firms catering largely to resident demands, role in the local economy, with more than although tourists are important for many 9,176 jobs in 2002. Accommodations and restaurants, cafes, and other merchants. food services and the arts, entertainment, Camp Verde hosts highway-oriented trade and recreation services sectors, with their and service establishments, many govern- strong links to tourism, supported 6,975 ment offices, and essential retail stores for and 1,477 jobs respectively. Driven by the a growing resident population. Fort Verde strong economic and population expan- State Historical Park is also in Camp sion across the county, the finance, insur- Verde. ance, and real estate and construction sectors also account for large shares of the Employment total employment, 7,127 jobs (9.4%) and Yavapai County has experienced a sus- 7,955 jobs (10.7%) respectively. Manufac- tained economic expansion for more than turers in Yavapai County provided 3,170 two decades. Total full-time and part-time jobs.

146 Socioeconomics

FIGURE 9: FULL-TIME AND PART-TIME EMPLOYMENT, YAVAPAI COUNTY, 2002

TABLE 11: AVERAGE ANNUAL Labor Force Participation UNEMPLOYMENT RATES Labor force participation among valley residents 16 years and older are lower 2004 Area 2000 2001 2002 2003 (Aug.) than the statewide and national norms. Local labor force participation averages Yavapai 2.8% 3.0% 3.7% 3.3% 2.8% County about 54.9% in the Verde Valley, ranging from 52.5% in Camp Verde to 72.2% in Arizona 4.0% 4.7% 6.2% 5.6% 4.9% Source: Arizona Department of Economic Security, Re- Jerome, compared to 61.1% for Arizona search Analysis, 2004. and 60.3% for the nation. The lower local rates reflect the relatively higher number The below-average labor force participa- of retired residents. tion rates and large number of retired residents are two factors that likely contri- Unemployment bute to the favorable unemployment conditions in the local market. Unemployment rates in Yavapai County have historically been below the statewide Personal Income average. That trend was maintained through the recessionary period of 2000 to Total personal income growth in Yavapai 2002, when unemployment rates in- County has averaged 4.3% (compounded creased, and more recently as unemploy- annual growth rate) since 1999, reaching ment has declined (table 11). Unemploy- $3.93 billion in 2002. Data from the 2000 ment rates within the Verde Valley at the census indicate that one-third of the total time of the 2000 census were comparable accrues to Verde Valley residents. Just to the countywide average. Unemploy- over half of the 2002 total income was de- ment rates within the valley tended to be rived from labor earnings, including a net slightly higher in Cottonwood and Camp inflow of more than $224 million earned Verde than in other parts of the valley. by residents working outside the county, primarily individuals from the Prescott area commuting to work in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Dividends, interest, and rent added another $1.17 billion and

147 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

$857 million in social security, private re- both considerably higher than the state- tirement, and other current transfer re- wide average. Median household incomes ceipts. across the valley reflected similar patterns (table 12). The single largest amount and share of earnings was paid by governments at all Income sources among residents indicate levels: $414.3 million or 21.6%. The con- the influx of retired and semi-retired struction, retail trade, and health care and households into the valley in recent years. social assistance industries each recorded Except for households living in Jerome, earnings in excess of $200 million. Profes- relatively fewer households reported in- sional services, accommodation and food come from current employment than services, and manufacturing all had ap- across the state or nation, with the corol- proximately $100 million in labor earn- lary that relatively more households re- ings. ceive social security and retirement income. For instance, fewer than 60% of Per capita personal incomes among valley households in the Big Park census desig- residents, shown in table 12, reflect the nated place had earnings from work com- diverse range of economic, demographic, pared to 78.7% of all households in Arizo- and life-stage characteristics, as well as na and 80.5% of American households. differing community characteristics. Again, except for Jerome, more than 40% Across the valley, per capita personal in- of local households received social securi- comes are generally below the countywide ty income, compared to 25.7% across the and statewide norms. At $15,072, per capi- nation, and 22% to 30% of households ta income in Camp Verde was the lowest received retirement income, compared to in the valley, and nearly 26% below the 8.5% across the state. statewide average of $20,275. The highest per capita incomes were in Sedona ($31,350) and nearby Big Park ($30,026),

TABLE 12: PERSONAL INCOME AMONG VERDE VALLEY HOUSEHOLDS, 1999

a/ Per Median Share of Households with Income from: Capita Household Work Social Retirement Community Income Income Earnings Security Income Big Park CDP b/ $ 30,026 $ 38,477 59.5% 44.4% 30.4% Camp Verde $ 15,072 $ 31,868 71.4% 42.1% 29.0% Clarkdale $ 18,441 $ 34,911 66.2% 42.1% 28.7% Cottonwood $ 17,518 $ 35,075 64.9% 45.2% 22.8% Jerome $ 19,967 $ 27,857 83.8% 18.1% 8.1% Lake Montezuma CDP $ 17,043 $ 33,750 74.1% 37.2% 25.9% Sedona $ 31,350 $ 44,042 69.5% 42.9% 22.6% Yavapai County $ 19,727 $ 34,901 67.8% 40.1% 27.3% Arizona $ 20,275 $ 40,558 78.7% 27.1% 18.5% United States $ 17,518 $ 27,444 80.5% 25.7% 16.7% a/ Shares do not add to 100% because households can have multiple sources of income. b/ CDP is the abbreviation for census designated place, an unincorporated community that has many of the retail and service functions of a town. Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Census 2000, 2002.

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Commuting communities of Cottonwood/Verde Vil- lage (10,610), Big Park (5,245) and Lake Most of the valley’s residents who work Montezuma (3,344). The historic town of do so within the valley. More than 1,700 Jerome, once boasting a population of individuals, 7% of workers 16 years and 15,000, registered a population of 329. older, worked at home. Another 42% of Another 16,600 residents lived in unin- workers reported one-way commuting of corporated areas of the valley, though less than 15 minutes, and 37% of workers some of those areas have since been an- had commuting times of between 15 and nexed to a municipality. 29 minutes. Nearly 4,100 resident workers reported doing so in another county. For Age and Average Household Size some, this simply involved commuting from the western part of the Sedona to the Residents of the Verde Valley are general- eastern part or vice versa. In other cases, it ly older, with many households having no involved commuting to the Phoenix or children. Across the Verde Valley, 17% of Flagstaff metropolitan areas, facilitated by residents were under 15 years of age in I-17. 1990, and nearly 23% were 65 and over. The comparable shares for Arizona were Poverty 22.5% and 13%, respectively. The median ages of residents in the valley range from Relatively fewer individuals are economi- 41.0 years in Cottonwood to 55.5 in the cally impoverished in the Verde Valley Big Park census designated place, with a than elsewhere in Yavapai County, Arizo- median of about 45 years across the entire na or the nation. In 1999, approximately valley. By comparison, the median age of 6,650 individuals (11.2%) lived in poverty all Arizonans was 34.2 years in 1990. in the area. That compares to 13.9% of all Arizonans. However, poverty rates in With relatively fewer children, the average Camp Verde and Cottonwood, communi- household size in the valley is smaller than ties that are also home to many Native across the state and nation. The average Americans and other non-whites, record- household sizes range from 1.81 persons ed higher than average rates of poverty. in Jerome to 2.52 persons in Camp Verde, Improving economic and housing condi- with an overall average of about 2.32 per- tions among its members, in part through sons. Statewide, the average household use of the proceeds of the Cliff Casino, is size was 2.64 individuals. one of the major goals for the Yavapai- Apache tribe. Race and Hispanic Origin The racial composition among valley resi- POPULATION AND dents is predominately white (90%), com- DEMOGRAPHICS pared to 77.9% white Arizona. Native Population Americans, mostly from the Yavapai- Apache Nation, whose reservation is near About 59,200 year-round residents lived Camp Verde, account for 2.5% of local in the Verde Valley in 2000. This included residents. Native Americans account for 55,900 inhabitants in Yavapai County and 5.7% of the statewide population. Indi- 3,300 residents in and near Sedona in Co- viduals of other single races or those re- conino County. The total represents an porting two or more races account for the increase of 19,854 residents or 51% over remaining 7.5% of the local population. the 1990 population of 39,307. People of Hispanic or Latino origin Population centers in the valley include represented 11.2% of the population, the communities of Sedona (10,192), Cot- less than half the statewide value of tonwood (9,197), Camp Verde (9,451), 25.3%. Clarkdale (3,422), and the unincorporated

149 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Migration As shown in figure 10, the Arizona De- partment of Economic Security projects Another indication of the dynamic demo- long-term growth of about 1.7% com- graphic and social changes in the Verde pounded annually in the region through Valley is that in 2000, about a third of resi- 2030, with Coconino County’s population dents age 5 or older had moved there in or approaching 190,000 by 2030, and Yavapai since 1995. Of those, about 40% had relo- County’s population reaching 278,400 ( cated from elsewhere in Arizona, 57% Arizona Department of Economic Securi- from other (mostly western) states, and ty 1990). 3% had previously lived in a foreign country or one of the U.S. island territories. Strong growth is also expected in the Verde Valley, with a projected population Projected Long-term of about 95,000 year-round residents in Population Growth 2030. Most growth will occur in the Yava- pai County area because of limited land The Yavapai County General Plan (Yava- availability and development constraints pai County 2003) identifies two major around Sedona in Coconino County. growth areas, including the “Verde Valley Camp Verde and Sedona both have pro- Area,” which includes both monuments. jected 2030 populations of about 16,500, Tourism is a major factor in the Verde with more than 35,000 residents around Valley’s economy. Cottonwood / Clarkdale / Verde Village. The area’s recent, strong population growth is expected to continue. Popula- Housing tion projections for Yavapai County in- There were 28,683 dwelling units in the clude a 59% population increase between Verde Valley at the time of 2000 census. 2000 and 2020, with a population of Of those, 88% were occupied, and 3,360 240,849 projected for 2020 (Arizona De- (12%) were vacant. Included in the latter partment of Economic Security 1997). category were nearly 1,500 units including second homes and timeshare units for seasonal, recreational, or occasional use.

FIGURE 10: POPULATION FORECASTS TO 2030, COCONINO AND YAVAPAI COUNTIES

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Utilization characteristics of housing units of municipalities. Residential develop- are not available, but if as elsewhere in ment has also happened in many unincor- Arizona, they are most frequently used porated portions of the county near estab- during the winter (that is, New Year’s to lished urbanizing areas where major infra- Easter). Their peak use would coincide structure, such as county highways, en- with the peak visitation period for the na- hance development. As population con- tional monuments. tinues to grow throughout the Verde Val- ley, demand for additional housing units The Verde Valley is growing rapidly, and will continue, with population increases of more than 5,500 dwelling units, about one up 60% forecasted. Increasing develop- in five of all homes in the valley, were built ment on lands adjacent to and surround- between 1995 and March 2000. Another ing the monument continues to result in 1,331 homes were completed in the 15 direct and indirect impacts on the monu- months immediately preceding the 2000 ments Adverse impacts to resources result census. Residential construction was par- from farming, feral animals, woodcutting, ticularly strong in Cottonwood, Sedona, freeway construction, residential and sub- and the Big Park area. division construction, water demands, and Except for Sedona and the Big Park area, pesticide and fertilizer drainage into water which respectively had median home val- supplies. Development in the valley has ues of $253,700 and $224,800 in 1999, resulted in visual intrusions on the mo- housing was relatively affordable in the nument’s cultural and natural setting. valley. Median values in Cottonwood ($106,800), Camp Verde ($129,600), and ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF Clarkdale ($132,100) all were within 10% THE NATIONAL MONUMENTS TO of the statewide average of $121,300. THE LOCAL ECONOMY The pace of new construction has contin- Visitors to Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- ued, as the county and local municipalities goot national monuments gain insights have issued building permits for another into the ancient Sinaguan culture that 4,500 units since 2000. The rapid pace of once thrived in the area. During their time residential construction and the accom- in the area, they can also learn about the panying commercial and industrial devel- more recent and contemporary endeavors opment, although generally removed from of the Yavapai-Apache and about the min- the immediate vicinity of the three sites, is ing and agricultural industries. At the same increasingly apparent along the primary time, their spending on consumer goods highway access roads and routes to Mon- and services and local expenditures asso- tezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- ciated with the operations of the national numents. The encroaching development is monuments support employment, spawn forever altering the sense of remoteness personal and business income in the val- that visitors to these sites formerly expe- ley, and generate tax revenues that help rienced, along with the appreciation and support government and public services. understanding of their historical setting. The economic contributions of those linkages are addressed in this section. Adjacent Land Use The Verde Valley is one of the fastest Visitor Spending growing areas in Arizona. Historically, Annual visitation to Montezuma Castle land uses in Yavapai County were largely and Tuzigoot national monuments totaled ranching, agriculture and mining. During 752,240 in 2003. This year is used to pro- the past 30 years of rapid population vide consistency with the available visitor growth, much of the ranching and agricul- spending data. As documented in the visi- tural uses have developed into expansions tor survey, many of the visitors saw two or

151 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT all three of the sites during their stay. The Non-local day users account for the typical visit was relatively short, such that second largest share of the spending, $2.79 many of the multiple visits likely occurred million (19%). during the same day. Adjustments made to Of the total spending, $11.78 million is eliminate double counting when estimat- captured within the region, with $2.72 ing the economic impacts, predicated on a million leaving the region to cover the cost visitor’s typical daily spending, reduced of goods sold. Receipts garnered by local the total number of individual visitors to motels, resorts, RV parks, and other over- 600,000. Accounting for the different user night accommodations account for $4.48 segments, for instance, day visitors versus million (38%). Restaurants, bars, coffee those spending the night locally, results in shops, and other such establishments gain 149,729 visitor party-days. (Party-days are $3.33 million in annual sales attributed to a measure of activity used to account for monument visitors. Retail merchants rea- varying lengths of stays and differences in lized $1.6 million, the Cliff Castle Casino spending patterns among visitors. The $1.0 million, and other attractions and conversion from visits to party-days is amusements $830,000 in annual receipts needed because expenditure data are typi- from visitors to Montezuma Castle and cally collected and reported on “per day” Tuzigoot national monuments. or “per trip” basis, with lodging or other overnight accommodations one of the key Locally captured visitor spending includes spending categories.) purchases of books, maps, CDs, DVDs, tapes, and other items sold by the Western Average spending per party-night is esti- National Parks Association at gift shops in mated at $96.85, yielding total estimated the Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot visi- annual visitor spending associated with tor centers. Annual gross sales are about the Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- $570,000. About $35,000 of that total is tional monuments of $14.50 million (table transferred to the monument as a conces- 13). The bulk of the total, $8.05 million sion/lease fee for the space used by the (55%), is by visitors staying overnight in retail operation (Fistler pers. comm. 2005). area motels, bed and breakfasts, and other lodging accommodations.

TABLE 13: ANNUAL VISITOR SPENDING IN THE VERDE VALLEY BY VISITORS TO MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS

USER SEGMENT Visiting Local Day Non-local Tour Bus Friends or Category User Day User Motels Visitors Camp-Out Relatives Spending per party-night $41.39 $58.11 $179.12 $73.12 $93.87 $61.11 Party nights 14,040 47,960 44,929 15,444 8,673 18,683 Total spending ($000s) $581.1 $2,786.9 $8,047.7 $1,129.3 $814.2 $1,141.7

Total spending – all users ($1,000s) $14,500.9 Segment share of total 4% 19% 55% 8% 6% 8% Source: Stynes et al. 2000 (Money Generation Model Version 2).

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The local visitor spending associated with support additional sales, jobs, and income. the national monuments supports 291 jobs The effects of NPS operations are an addi- across the region, generating $3.97 million tion to the effect of visitor spending asso- in annual personal income and $6.02 mil- ciated with the national monuments. lion in value added within the Verde Val- Fiscal year 2004 is the base year used for ley. Included in the above are eight jobs analyzing the monuments’ economic con- with the Western National Parks Associa- tribution, allowing correlation with the tion (Fistler pers. comm. 2005). The sums 2004 visitor survey. Fiscal year 2007 oper- are in addition to the NPS jobs at the two ating budgets and staffing are presented in units and those jobs supported indirectly the Monument Operations section. by the payroll, operating expenses, and construction contracts issued by the units. In fiscal year 2004, NPS spending, including additional amounts for projects that The recirculation of money within the local economy as employees, merchants, were part of ongoing operations, was a property owners, and public sector em- little more than $1.4 million. ployees purchase goods and service locally NPS spending in fiscal year 2004 are esti- amplifies the magnitude of the direct eco- mated to have supported 38 jobs in the nomic stimulus generated by visitors. This Verde Valley region, including full-time “multiplier” effect results in additional job equivalent jobs at Montezuma Castle and creation and income generation. The sec- Tuzigoot national monuments, and an ad- ondary effects of visitor spending include ditional 14 jobs generated by the spending $3.84 million in direct sales, 51 jobs, $1.29 of NPS employees and NPS direct local million in personal income, and $2.38 mil- spending. NPS operations generated $1.5 lion in value added (table 14). The multip- million of personal income in 2004, in- liers range from 1.17 for jobs to 1.40 for cluding $1.2 million in payroll, $867,000 in direct sales. direct sales, and $1.8 million in value add- Part of the entrance fees collected by the ed, an amount that includes the $1.5 mil- National Park Service from visitors ac- lion in personal income just noted (table crues directly to the Montezuma Castle 15). These amounts are all in addition to and Tuzigoot national monuments. This the effect of local visitor spending asso- amount is discussed below and, to avoid ciated with the national monuments. double counting, is excluded from the The estimates of total economic impact in preceding estimates of the economic im- table 16 rely on assumptions about where pact of visitor spending. NPS payroll is spent and where other NPS purchases are made. The assumptions Monument Operations come from the NPS’ Money Generation The annual budget for NPS operations at Model version two (Stynes et al. 2000). Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national For regions generally comparable to the monuments represents direct income to Verde Valley, the model assumes that the the Verde Valley economy. Spending of disposable share of household income is wage and salary income by NPS em- spent locally and that NPS purchases are ployees stimulates induced effects in the mostly made outside the region with the region, and spending by the National Park exception of water service and some sup- Service on utilities, supplies, and services plies and equipment.

153 CHAPTER 3: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 14: DIRECT ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF VISITOR SPENDING IN THE VERDE VALLEY, 2003

ECONOMIC PARAMETER Direct Sales Local Personal Income Value Added CATEGORY ($1,000s) Jobs ($1,000s) ($1,000s)

Direct effects $11,775 291 $3,971 $6,023 Secondary effects $3,837 51 $1,289 $2,377 Total impacts $15,612 342 $5,260 $8,400 Multipliers (total/direct) 1.33 1.17 1.32 1.40 Source: Stynes et al. 2000 (Money Generation Model Version 2).

TABLE 15: DIRECT ECONOMIC IMPACTS IN THE VERDE VALLEY OF THE MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS OPERATIONS, FISCAL YEAR 2004

ECONOMIC PARAMETER Direct Sales Personal Value CATEGORY ($1,000s) Local Jobs Income ($1,000s) Added ($1,000s)

Direct Effects $26 a/ 24 $1,238 $1,238 Secondary Effects $842 b/ 14 $308 $521 Total Impacts $868 38 $1,546 $1,759 Multipliers (Total/Direct) NA c/ 1.58 1.25 1.41 Notes: a/ Estimated local purchases by the National Park Service for utilities, supplies, and services. b/ Includes the induced and indirect effects of monument purchases and employee spending of income. c/ NA = not applicable. A multiplier for direct sales was not calculated because the amounts in this column are not consistent with those in the other three columns of the table because the direct effect of employee spending has not been estimated explicitly. Source: Stynes et al. 2000 (Money Generation Model Version 2).

TABLE 16: TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACTS IN THE VERDE VALLEY OF THE MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS, 2003

ECONOMIC PARAMETER Direct Sales Personal Income Value Added CATEGORY ($1,000s) Local Jobs ($1,000s) ($1,000s)

Visitor spending $15,612 342 $5,260 $8,400 NPS monument operations $867 38 $1,546 $1,759 Total impacts $16,480 380 $6,806 $10,159

Source: Stynes et al. 2000 (Money Generation Model Version 2).

154 Socioeconomics

Visitor entrance fees were excluded from This is a small but valuable contribution to the analysis of visitor spending impacts. the regional economy. The 380 jobs gen- However, 80% of this type of revenue is erated by the combination of visitors and returned to the local NPS unit under the NPS employment and spending are about National Park Service’s Recreation Fee 0.5% of total employment in Yavapai Demonstration Fund program to fund re- County and a larger percentage of total source protection, enhancement, and cap- employment in the Verde Valley. Similar- ital facility projects. The program has ly, $6.8 million in personal income is about yielded about $720,000 a year (80% of 0.2% of total personal income in Yavapai $900,000) for Montezuma Castle and Tu- County and is a larger share of total per- zigoot. A portion of these funds has been sonal income in the Verde Valley. Note used to offset the cost of collections, with that a percentage share for the Verde Val- the remainder dedicated to financing ley cannot be quantified because employ- completed, ongoing or planned capital ment and personal income data are not improvement and resource restoration available for the local region. projects at the two units. Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments also contribute to total sales Total Economic Contributions and value added in Yavapai County. The The total economic contribution of Mon- shares contributed by the monuments tezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- would be small in comparison to totals for numents is 380 jobs, nearly $16.5 million Yavapai County. Again, the percentage in sales, $6.8 million in personal income, share contributed by the monuments to and almost $10.2 million in value added total sales and value added in the county (table 16). and in the local region cannot be quantified from the available economic information.

155

CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

INTRODUCTION

The National Environmental Policy Act ment and the maintenance and enhance- (NEPA) requires that environmental doc- ment of long-term productivity, and ener- uments discuss the environmental impacts gy requirements and conservation poten- of a proposed federal action, feasible al- tial. The impacts of each alternative are ternatives to that action, and any adverse briefly summarized in table 6, at the end of environmental effects that cannot be Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Pre- avoided if a proposed action is imple- ferred Alternative. mented. In this case, the proposed federal CUMULATIVE IMPACT ANALYSIS action would be the adoption of a general management plan for Montezuma Castle The Council on Environmental Quality’s and Tuzigoot National Monuments. The regulation 1508.7 describes a cumulative following portion of this document ana- impact as follows: lyzes the environmental impacts of im- • Cumulative impacts are incremental plementing the three alternatives on cul- impacts of the action when added to tural resources, natural resources, the visi- other past, present, and reasonably fo- tor experience, monument operations, reseeable future actions, regardless of and socioeconomics. The analysis is the what agency (federal or nonfederal) or basis for comparing the beneficial and ad- person undertakes such other action. verse effects of implementing the alterna- Cumulative impacts can result from tives. individually minor, but collectively Because of the general, conceptual nature significant, actions taking place over a of the actions described in the alternatives, period of time. the impacts of these actions are analyzed Other projects, plans, and actions within in general, qualitative terms. Thus, this Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national environmental assessment should be con- monuments, as well as local and regional sidered a programmatic analysis. If and projects, plans, and actions with potential when site-specific developments or other to combine with the effects of the alterna- actions are proposed for implementation tives were identified to determine poten- subsequent to this general management tial cumulative impacts. Projects were plan, appropriate detailed environmental identified by discussions with the monu- and cultural compliance documentation ments, federal land managers, and repre- will be prepared in accord with the Na- sentatives of county and town govern- tional Environmental Policy Act and Na- ments. Potential projects identified as cu- tional Historic Preservation Act require- mulative actions included any planning or ments. development activity that was currently This chapter begins with a description of being implemented or would be imple- the methods and assumptions used for mented in the reasonably foreseeable fu- each topic. Impact analysis discussions are ture. Impacts of past actions were also organized by alternative and then by im- considered in the analysis. pact topic under each alternative. These actions are evaluated with the im- Each alternative discussion also describes pacts of each alternative to determine cumulative impacts and presents a conclu- whether they have any cumulative effects sion. At the end of each alternative is a on a particular natural, cultural, or socioe- brief discussion of unavoidable adverse conomic resource or visitor use. Because impacts, irreversible and irretrievable most of these cumulative actions are in the commitments of resources, the relation- early planning stages, the qualitative eval- ship of short-term uses of the environ- uation of cumulative impacts was

159 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES based on a general description of the (Management Policies 2006, section 1.4.5). project. See Chapter 1, Relationship to An impact on any monument resource or Other Planning Effort, for a description of value may constitute an impairment. An the plans and actions considered in the impact would be more likely to constitute analysis of the alternatives. an impairment to the extent that it affects a resource or value whose conservation is: IMPAIRMENT OF MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT • Necessary to fulfill specific purposes NATIONAL MONUMENTS identified in the establishing legisla- RESOURCES tion or proclamation of the monument; In addition to determining the environmental consequences of implementing the • Key to the natural or cultural integrity preferred and other alternatives, Man- of the monument or to opportunities agement Policies 2006 requires analysis of for enjoyment of the monument; or potential effects to determine whether or • Identified as a goal in the monument’s not proposed actions would impair mo- general management plan or other re- nument resources and values (sections levant NPS planning documents. 1.4.2, 1.4.4, and 1.4.5). Impairment may result from NPS actions The fundamental purpose of the national in managing the monument, visitor activi- park system, established by the Organic ties, or activities undertaken by conces- Act and reaffirmed by the General Au- sioners, contractors, and others operating thorities Act, as amended, begins with a in the monument. A determination on im- mandate to conserve monument resources pairment is made in the “Environmental and values. NPS managers must always Consequences” chapter in the conclusion seek ways to avoid, or to minimize to the section for each required impact topic re- greatest degree practicable, adverse im- lated to the monument’s resources and pacts on monument resources and values. values. However, the laws do give the National Park Service the management discretion In analyzing impairments in the National to allow impacts on monument resources Environmental Policy Act analysis for this and values when necessary and appropri- project, the National Park Service takes ate to fulfill the purposes of the monu- into account the fact that if impairment ment, as long as the impact does not con- were likely to occur, such impacts would stitute impairment of the affected re- be considered to be major or significant sources and values. Although Congress under the Council on Environmental has given the National Park Service the Quality regulations. This is because the management discretion to allow certain context and intensity of the impact would impacts within a monument, that discre- be sufficient to render what would nor- tion is limited by the statutory require- mally be a minor or moderate impact to be ment that the National Park Service must major or significant. An evaluation of im- leave resources and values unimpaired pairment is not required for some impact unless a particular law directly and specif- topics, including visitor experience (unless ically provides otherwise. the impact is resource based), transportation, NPS operations, or socioeconomics. The prohibited impairment is an impact that, in the professional judgment of the UNACCEPTABLE IMPACTS responsible NPS manager, would harm the integrity of monument resources and The impact threshold at which impair- values, including the opportunities that ment occurs is not always readily appar- otherwise would be present for the en- ent. Therefore, the National Park Service joyment of those resources or values will apply a standard that offers greater

160 Introduction assurance that impairment will not occur • Unreasonably interfere with by avoiding impacts that it determines to - Park programs or activities or be unacceptable. These impacts fall short of impairment but are still not acceptable - An appropriate use or within a particular park’s environment. - The atmosphere of peace and Park managers must evaluate existing or tranquility, or the natural proposed uses and determine whether the soundscape maintained in wilder- associated impacts on monument re- ness and natural, historic, or sources and values are acceptable. commemorative locations within Virtually every form of human activity that the park, or takes place within a park has some degree - NPS concessioner or contractor of effect on park resources or values, but operations or services. that does not mean that the impact is unacceptable or that a particular use must be In accordance with Management Policies disallowed. Therefore, for these policies, 2006, park managers must not allow uses unacceptable impacts are impacts that, that would cause unacceptable impacts to individually or cumulatively, would park resources. To determine if unacceptable impact could occur to the resources • Be inconsistent with a park’s purposes and values of Montezuma Castle National or values or Monument or Tuzigoot National Monu- • Impede the attainment of a park’s de- ment, the impacts of proposed actions in sired future conditions for natural and this general management plan and envi- cultural resources as identified ronmental assessment were evaluated through the park’s planning process or based on the above criteria. A determination on unacceptable impacts is made in • Create an unsafe or unhealthful envi- the Conclusion section for each of the re- ronment for visitors or employees or source topics carried forward in this chap- • Diminish opportunities for current or ter. future generations to enjoy, learn about, or be inspired by park resources or values or

161

METHODS AND ASSUMPTIONS FOR ANALYZING IMPACTS

The planning team based the impact anal- ence between implementing the no-action ysis and the conclusions in this chapter alternative and implementing the action largely on the review of existing literature alternatives. To understand a complete and studies, information provided by ex- “picture” of the impacts of implementing perts in the National Park Service and any of the action alternatives, the reader other agencies, and monument staff in- must also take into consideration the im- sights and professional judgment. The pacts that would occur under the no- team’s method of analyzing impacts is fur- action alternative. ther explained below. It is important to remember that all the impacts have been CULTURAL RESOURCES assessed assuming that mitigating measures have been implemented to minimize Cultural Resources Listed, or or avoid impacts. If the mitigating meas- Eligible to Be Listed, in the ures described in Chapter 2: Alternatives National Register of Historic Places Including the Preferred Alternative are Potential impacts on cultural resources not applied, the potential for resource im- (archeological resources, prehistoric or pacts and the magnitude of those impacts historic structures, cultural landscapes, would increase. and traditional cultural properties) either Director’s Order 12: Conservation Plan- listed in or eligible to be listed in the Na- ning, Environmental Impact Analysis, and tional Register of Historic Places were Decision Making presents an approach for identified and evaluated in accordance identifying the duration (short- or long- with the Advisory Council on Historic term), type (adverse or beneficial), and Preservation’s regulations implementing intensity or magnitude (negligible, minor, section 106 of the National Historic Pre- moderate, or major) of the impact(s), and servation Act (36 CFR 800, Protection of that approach has been used in this docu- Historic Properties) by: ment. Where duration is not noted in the • Determining the area of potential ef- impact analysis, it is considered long-term. fects; Direct and indirect effects caused by an action were considered in the analysis. • Identifying national-register-listed or Direct effects are caused by an action and eligible cultural resources in the area occur at the same time and place as the of potential effects; action. Indirect effects are caused by the • Applying the criteria of adverse effect action and occur later in time or farther to affected resources; and removed from the place, but are still reasonably foreseeable. • Considering ways to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects. The impact analyses for the no-action alternative compare resource conditions in Under the Advisory Council’s regulations, the year 2021 to existing conditions in a determination of no historic properties 2006, assuming continuation of current affected, adverse effect, or no adverse effect management direction. The impact analy- must be made for affected cultural re- sis for the action alternatives (the pre- sources that are listed in, or eligible for ferred alternative and alternative C) com- listing in, the National Register of Historic pares the action alternatives in the year Places. A determination of no historic 2021 to the no-action alternative in the properties affected means that either no year 2021. Said differently, the impacts of historic properties are present or historic the action alternatives describe the differ- properties are present but the undertaking will have no effect on them (36 Code of

162 Methods and Assumptions for Analyzing Impacts

Federal Regulations 800.4 [d][1]). An ad- the degree or severity of effects negligible, verse effect occurs whenever an impact minor, moderate, or major?). The defini- alters, directly or indirectly, any characte- tions of impact intensity for ethnographic ristic of a cultural resource that qualifies it resources follow: for inclusion in the national register (for • Negligible. Impact(s) would be barely example, diminishing the integrity (or the perceptible and would alter neither re- extent to which a resource retains its his- source conditions, such as traditional toric appearance) of its location, design, access or site preservation, nor the re- setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, lationship between the resource and or association). Adverse effects also in- the affiliated group’s body of practices clude reasonably foreseeable effects and beliefs. caused by the alternatives that would occur later in time, be farther removed in • Minor. Adverse impact(s) would be distance, or be cumulative (36 Code of slight but noticeable but would appre- Federal Regulations 800.5 [a] [1]). A de- ciably alter neither resource condi- termination of no adverse effect means tions, such as traditional access or site there is an effect, but it would not meet preservation, nor the relationship be- the criteria of an adverse effect (that is, tween the resource and the affiliated diminish the characteristics of the cultural group’s body of practices and beliefs. resource that qualify it for inclusion in the Beneficial impact(s) would allow access national register [36 Code of Federal Regu- to and/or accommodate a group’s tra- lations 800.5 (b)]). ditional practices or beliefs. The criteria for characterizing the severity • Moderate. Adverse impact(s) would be or intensity of impacts to archeological apparent and would alter resource resources, prehistoric and historic struc- conditions. Something would interfere tures and buildings, cultural landscapes, with traditional access, site preserva- and traditional cultural properties that are tion, or the relationship between the listed in, or eligible for listing in, the Na- resource and the affiliated group’s tional Register of Historic Places are the practices and beliefs, even though the section 106 determinations of effect: no group’s practices and beliefs would historic properties affected, adverse effect, survive. or no adverse effect. A section 106 determination of effect is included in the con- Beneficial impact(s) would facilitate clusion section for each analysis of im- traditional access and/or accommo- pacts to national register-listed or -eligible date a group’s practices or beliefs. cultural resources. • Major. Adverse impact(s) would alter resource conditions. Something would Ethnographic Resources block or greatly affect traditional Ethnographic resources that are not tradi- access, site preservation, or the relational cultural properties are not subject tionship between the resource and the to section 106 of the National Historic affiliated group’s body of practices Preservation Act. Potential impacts to and beliefs, to the extent that the sur- ethnographic resources that are not tradi- vival of a group’s practices and/or be- tional cultural resources are described in liefs would be jeopardized. terms of context (Are the effects site- Beneficial impact(s) would encourage specific, local, or regional?), duration (Are traditional access and/or accommo- the effects short-term [that is, lasting up to date a group’s practices or beliefs. 5 years], long-term [that is, lasting 5 to 20 years], or permanent?) and intensity (Is

163 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

NATURAL RESOURCES tively evaluated the impact intensity for natural resources, as follows: Analysis of natural resources was based on research, knowledge of monument re- • Negligible. Impacts would be at the sources, and the best professional judg- lowest levels of detection and would ment of planners, biologists, hydrologists, have no appreciable effect on re- and botanists who have experience with sources, values, or processes. similar types of projects. Information on • Minor. Impacts would be perceptible the monuments’ natural resources was but slight and localized. If mitigation gathered from several sources, including were needed to offset any adverse ef- the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and spe- fects, it would be relatively simple to cific resource inventories for wetlands, implement and would likely be suc- wildlife, water quality, fisheries, and am- cessful. phibians. As appropriate, additional sources of data are identified under re- • Moderate. Impacts would be readily spective topic headings. apparent and widespread, and would result in a noticeable change to re- Where possible, map locations of sensitive sources, values or processes. Mitigat- resources were compared with the loca- ing measures would probably be ne- tions of proposed developments and mod- cessary to offset adverse effects and ifications. Predictions about short-term would likely be successful. and long-term site impacts were based on previous studies of visitor and facilities • Major. Impacts would be readily ap- development impacts on natural re- parent and widespread, and would resources. The analysis also considered so- sult in a substantial alternative or loss ciological studies comparing the deterrent of resources, values, or processes. Mi- effects of signs versus ranger presence for tigating measures to offset adverse ef- reducing visitor impacts on sites. fects would be necessary and extensive, and their success could not be Generally, for natural resources analysis, guaranteed. duration of impacts are considered short- term if the effects are likely to last one year Specific impact threshold definitions were or less and long-term if the potential im- developed and used to categorize the po- pact would last for greater than one year. tential effects of the natural resource impact topics. The determination of impacts for natural resources also considered whether an ac- Floodplains tion would have a beneficial or an adverse effect. Typically, beneficial effects would The impact assessment for floodplains is include those that improve the condition focused on natural river processes and of a resource or enhance the environment flooding potential and frequency. Direc- around that resource such that its well- tor’s Order 77-2, Floodplain Management being was enhanced. Conversely, adverse (NPS 2003) and the extent of alteration to effects on natural resources would dam- natural river processes were used to define age conditions necessary for the resource the intensity of impacts. to exist or function or would degrade the • Negligible. Impacts would occur out- environment needed to support the re- side the regulatory floodplain as de- source being analyzed. fined by the Floodplain Management The impact definitions assume that mitiga- Guideline (100-year or 500-year flood- tion measures are considered prior to fi- plain, depending on the type of ac- nalizing the analyses. For this document, tion), or no measurable or perceptible the planning team generally and qualita- change in natural river processes or aquatic habitat would occur.

164 Methods and Assumptions for Analyzing Impacts

• Minor. Actions within the regulatory eral documents such as the monuments’ floodplain would potentially change resource management plan and site- river processes or aquatic habitat in a specific surveys. The following impact in- limited way or in a localized area. tensities were used to evaluate the potential impacts on vegetation: • Moderate. Actions within the regulatory floodplain would change river • Negligible. The impact on vegetation processes or aquatic habitat in a sub- (individual plants and/or communi- stantial way or in a large area. ties) would not be measurable. The abundance or distribution of individu- • Major. An action would permanently als would not be affected or would be change a floodplain or significantly af- slightly affected. Ecological processes fect natural river processes or aquatic and biological productivity would not habitat. be affected. Soils • Minor. The action would not neces- sarily decrease or increase the area’s The following impact intensities were biological productivity. An action used to evaluate the potential impacts on would affect the abundance or distri- soils: bution of individual plants in a loca- • Negligible. The impact on soils would lized area but would not affect the via- not be measurable. Any effects on bility of local or regional populations productivity or erosion potential or communities. would be slight or imperceptible. • Moderate. The action would change • Minor. The action would change a biological productivity in a small area. soil’s profile in a relatively small area, An action would affect a local popula- but it would not appreciably increase tion sufficiently to change plant abun- the potential for changes to soils in the dance or distribution, but it would not surrounding area. affect the viability of the regional population or communities. Changes to • Moderate. The action would change quantity or would alter the topsoil, bi- ecological processes would be of li- ological productivity, or the potential mited extent. for erosion to remove small quantities • Major. The action would change bio- of additional soil. Changes to localized logical productivity in a relatively large ecological processes would occur but area. The action would affect a region- be of limited extent. al or local population of a species sufficiently to change abundance or dis- • Major. The action would change the potential for erosion or would alter tribution to the extent that the popula- topsoil and biological productivity in a tion or communities would not be relatively large area. Significant eco- likely to return to its/their former level logical processes would be altered, (adverse), or would return to a sus- and landscape-level changes would be tainable level (beneficial). Important expected. ecological processes would be altered.

Vegetation Wetlands Information on site-specific areas, such as Wetland impacts were qualitatively as- the plateau above the cliff dwelling at sessed by evaluating the potential impacts Montezuma Castle or the riparian areas in on wetland characteristics and functions each monument, were gleaned from gen- including habitat. The impacts can be expressed in terms of the potential for wet-

165 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES land size or integrity, connectivity with not affect the viability of local or re- other water sources and its ability to pro- gional populations. vide habitat. • Moderate. The action would affect a • Negligible. No measurable or per- local population sufficiently to change ceptible changes in wetland integrity, a species’ abundance or distribution connectivity to other water sources, or but would not affect the viability of functions related to habitat would oc- the regional population. cur. • Major. The action would affect a re- • Minor. The impact would be measur- gional or local population of a species able or perceptible but slight. A small sufficiently to change its abundance or change in integrity or continuity could distribution to the extent that the occur. However, the viability of the population would not be likely to re- wetland resource would not be af- turn to its former level. fected. Threatened and Endangered • Moderate. The impact would be suf- Species and Special Status Species ficient to cause a measurable change in the size, integrity, or continuity of the Through coordination with the U.S. Fish wetland or would result in a small but and Wildlife Service and the Arizona permanent change in wetland acreage. Game and Fish Department, federally Moderate impacts would also include listed species and wildlife of special con- measurable changes in habitat integri- cern (state-listed species) were identified ty. that were generally in or near the monument. Monument staff then collected • Major. The action would result in a more specific information, such as the ab- measurable change in all three para- sence or presence of each species within meters (integrity, connectivity, or abil- the monument boundaries. For special ity to provide habitat) and would be status species, including federally listed substantial and highly noticeable. species, the following impact intensities were used. These definitions are consis- Wildlife tent with the language used to determine Impacts on wildlife are directly related to effects on threatened and endangered impacts on habitat. The evaluation consi- species under section 7 of the Endangered dered whether actions would be likely to Species Act. displace or disturb some or all individuals • Negligible (No Effect). No listed spe- of a species in the monuments or would cies of concern or designated critical result in changes to habitat conditions habitats are present; or if present, needed for the viability of local or regional there would not be any measurable or wildlife populations. Impacts associated perceptible consequences to protected with wildlife might include any change in individuals, populations, or critical roosting or foraging areas, food supply, habitat. Effects on special status spe- protective cover, or the distribution or cies would be discountable. Negligible abundance of species. effect equates with a U.S. Fish and • Negligible. The impact would not be Wildlife Service “no effect” determi- measurable on individuals, and the lo- nation. cal populations would not be affected. • Minor (May Affect, Likely / Not • Minor. The action would affect the Likely to Adversely Affect). The al- abundance or distribution of individu- ternative would affect an individual(s) als in a small, localized area but would of a listed species or its designated critical habitat, but the change would

166 Methods and Assumptions for Analyzing Impacts

be small. Minor effect would equate smells, and wildlife); visitor access to the with a "may affect" determination in monument; the freedom to experience the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service terms resources at one’s own pace, opportuni- and would be accompanied by a ties for recreational activities, and oppor- statement of "likely…" or "not likely tunities for people with disabilities. The to adversely affect" the species. analysis is based on how visitor use and experiences would change with the way • Moderate (May Affect, Likely / Not management zones were applied in the Likely to Adversely Affect). An indi- alternatives. The analysis is primarily qua- vidual or population of a listed spe- litative rather than quantitative, based on cies, or its designated critical habitat, the conceptual nature of the alternatives. would be noticeably affected. The effect would have some long-term con- Impacts on visitor use and experience sequence to the individual, popula- were determined considering the best tion, or habitat. Moderate effect available information regarding visitor use would equate with a "may affect" de- and experience. Information on visitor use termination in U.S. Fish and Wildlife and visitor opinions was taken primarily Service terms and would be accompa- from a survey of visitors conducted in two nied by a statement of "likely…" or phases from October to November 2003 "not likely to adversely affect" the and March to May 2004 (White and Vir- species. den, 2004). This information was supple- mented by data gathered during this plan- • Major (May Affect, Likely/or Not ning process, including opinions from Likely/ to Adversely Affect). A popu- monument visitors and neighbors and in- lation of a listed species or its desig- formation provided by monument staff. nated critical habitat would be noticeably affected. The alternative could Primarily, visitors expressed interest in change the vitality of the population learning more about the monuments’ nat- such that it could affect the continued ural and cultural resources, including op- existence of the listed species within portunities for more hands-on activities or outside the monument. Major, ad- and self exploration of the monuments. verse effect equates with a “may af- Interest was also expressed regarding re- fect/likely to adversely affect species / gional recreation linkages to other nearby adversely modify critical habitat” de- public lands. termination in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Impacts were evaluated comparatively Service section 7 terms and in some between alternatives, using the no-action cases could “jeopardize the continued alternative as a baseline for comparison existence of the species or the integrity with each action alternative. of critical habitat.” Major, beneficial effect equates with a “may affect / not For this analysis, a short-term impact likely to adversely affect” determina- would last less than one year and would tion. affect only one season’s use by visitors. A long-term impact would last more than VISITOR USE AND EXPERIENCE one year and would be more permanent in nature. Impact intensities and types for This impact analysis considers aspects of visitor experience impact topics have been visitor use and experience at Montezuma defined as follows: Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments, including the effects on visitors’ ability to • Negligible. Visitors would likely be experience the monuments’ primary re- unaware of any effects associated with sources and their natural and cultural set- implementation of the alternative. Vis- tings (including vistas, natural sounds and itor health and safety would not be af-

167 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

fected, or effects would not be appre- accessibility, and changes to interpretive ciable or measurable. programs and facilities. The analysis is based on the changes in monument opera- • Minor. Changes in visitor use and/or tions that would result from the modifica- experience would be slight but detect- tions in management zones between the able, would affect few visitors, and alternatives. The analysis is primarily qua- would not appreciably limit or en- litative rather than quantitative because of hance experiences identified as fun- the conceptual nature of the alternatives. damental to the monuments’ purpose and significance. Effects on visitor For this analysis, a short-term impact health and safety would be detectable would last less than one year. A long-term but would not produce an appreciable impact would last more than one year. change. Impact intensities and types of impacts for the monument operations impact topic • Moderate. Some characteristics of were defined as follows: visitor use and/or experience would change, and many visitors would likely Impacts were evaluated comparatively be aware of the effects associated with between alternatives, using the no-action implementation of the alternative; alternative as a baseline for comparison some changes to experiences identi- with each action alternative: fied as fundamental to the monu- • Negligible. Monument operations ments’ purpose and significance would not be affected, or the effect would be apparent. The effects would would be at or below the lower levels be readily apparent, and would result of detection and would not have an in noticeable changes in visitor health appreciable effect on monument op- and safety. Changes in rates or severity erations. of injury could be measured. • Minor. The effect on monument op- • Major. Multiple characteristics of visi- erations would be detectable, but tor experience would change, includ- would be of a magnitude that would ing experiences identified as funda- not have an appreciable effect on mo- mental to monument purpose and sig- nument operations. If mitigation were nificance; most visitors would be needed to offset adverse effects, it aware of the effects associated with would be relatively simple and suc- implementation of the alternative. The cessful. effects would be readily apparent, would result in substantial changes in • Moderate. The effect on monument visitor health and safety, and could operations would be readily apparent, lead to visitor mortality. and would result in a substantial change in monument operations in a MONUMENT OPERATIONS manner noticeable to staff and the public. Mitigation measures would This impact analysis considers aspects of probably be necessary to offset ad- monument operations at Montezuma Cas- verse effects and would likely be suc- tle and Tuzigoot national monuments, in- cessful. cluding the effects of each alternative on the number of staff required to conduct • Major. Effects on monument opera- operations under each alternative, modifi- tions would be readily apparent, cations to monument operating proce- would result in a substantial change in dures, additional monument facilities re- monument operations in a manner no- quired to implement an alternative, the ticeable to staff and the public, and relative cost and effort to maintain addi- would be markedly different from ex- tional facilities, modifications to visitor isting operations. Mitigation measures

168 Methods and Assumptions for Analyzing Impacts

to offset adverse effects would be • Negligible. No effects would occur or needed, extensive, and their success the effects to socioeconomic condi- could not be guaranteed. tions would be below the level of detection. SOCIOECONOMICS • Minor. The effects on socioeconomic This impact analysis considers socioeco- conditions would be detectable. Any nomics in the region surrounding Monte- effects would be small, and if mitiga- zuma Castle and Tuzigoot national mo- tion were needed to offset potential numents, including the effects of each al- adverse effects, it would be simple and ternative on the population of the area successful. and the regional economy, including em- • Moderate. The effects on socioeco- ployment in the area. The analysis is based nomic conditions would be readily on the changes in regional socioeconomic apparent. Any effects would result in conditions that would result from the changes to socioeconomic conditions modifications in management zones be- on a local scale. If mitigation is needed tween the alternatives. The analysis is to offset potential adverse effects, it primarily qualitative rather than quantita- could be extensive, but would likely be tive, based on the conceptual nature of the successful. alternatives. • Major. The effects on socioeconomic Impacts were evaluated comparatively conditions would be readily apparent between alternatives, using the no-action and would cause substantial changes alternative as a baseline for comparison to socioeconomic conditions in the with each action alternative. For this anal- region. Mitigation measures to offset ysis, a short-term impact would last less potential adverse effects would be ex- than one year. A long-term impact would tensive, and their success could not be last more than one year. Impact intensities guaranteed. and types for socioeconomic impact topics have been defined as follows:

169

IMPACTS OF IMPLEMENTING ALTERNATIVE A (NO-ACTION)

archeological resources in and near the CULTURAL RESOURCES monument as a result of farming; feral an- Archeological Resources imals; woodcutting; freeway, residential, and subdivision construction; water de- Montezuma Castle National Monu- mands; and pesticide and fertilizer drai- ment. Under alternative A, archeological nage into water supplies. resources would continue to be surveyed, inventoried, and evaluated under National Anticipated increases in monument visita- Register of Historic Places criteria of eval- tion and visitor access could be expected uation to determine their eligibility for to result in increasing amounts of inten- listing in the national register as NPS staff- tional and inadvertent disturbance to arc- ing and funding permit. All ground- heological resources by visitors. However, disturbing activities would be preceded by the National Park Service would continue site-specific archeological surveys and, its efforts to reduce the impacts of human where appropriate, subsurface testing to activities on archeological resources by determine the existence of archeological keeping much of the monument’s lands resources and how best to preserve them. off-limits to visitors, through law en- Known archeological resources would be forcement activities, and by educating the avoided whenever possible. Although on- general public about resource significance going and expanded archeological site and values as funds and personnel permit. monitoring programs would be initiated Thus, implementation of this alternative and efforts would be undertaken to mi- would generally be expected to contribute nimize or mitigate potential impacts from to potential beneficial effects on archeo- human activities and natural causes, an logical resources in the national monu- unknown number of archeological sites in ment. Montezuma Castle National Monument would likely continue to be impacted by Tuzigoot National Monument. Under such activities and processes. alternative A, archeological resources at Tuzigoot National Monument, like those Although the condition of archeological at Montezuma Castle, would continue to resources at the national monument be surveyed, inventoried, and evaluated would continue to be generally good un- under National Register of Historic Places der alternative A, some sites would likely criteria of evaluation to determine their continue to be disturbed by looting and eligibility for listing in the national register vandalism, erosion caused by natural as NPS staffing and funding permit. All processes, continuing use of historic and ground-disturbing activities would be pre- prehistoric canals, and graffiti. With the ceded by site-specific archeological sur- exception of the excavated/interpreted pit veys and, where appropriate, subsurface house in the Montezuma Well site, which testing to determine the existence of arc- continues to be periodically impacted as a heological resources and how best to pre- result of inadvertent visitor use, the preserve them. Known archeological re- historic archeological sites in the monu- sources would be avoided whenever poss- ment would continue to experience rela- ible. Although ongoing and expanded arc- tively few significant adverse impacts. heological site monitoring programs The Verde Valley is one of the fastest would be initiated and efforts would be growing areas in Arizona. Increasing de- undertaken to minimize or mitigate poten- velopment on lands adjacent to and sur- tial impacts from human activities and rounding the monument would continue natural causes, an unknown number of to result in some minor adverse impacts to archeological sites in Tuzigoot National

170 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action)

Monument would likely continue to be resources would continue to depend on impacted by such activities and processes. keeping much of the monument’s lands off-limits to visitors, on law enforcement Although the condition of archeological activities, and on educating the public resources in the national monument about resource significance and values as would continue to be generally good and funds and personnel permit. Thus, imple- prehistoric archeological sites in the mo- mentation of this alternative would gener- nument would continue to experience rel- ally be expected to contribute to potential atively few significant impacts under al- beneficial effects on archeological re- ternative A, a few archeological sites sources in the national monument. would likely continue to be disturbed by looting and vandalism, erosion caused by Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle natural processes, and graffiti. National Monument. Prior to establish- Increasing development on lands in the ment of the national monument, an un- vicinity of the monument would continue known number of archeological resources to result in impacts on archeological re- on lands within and surrounding the sources in and near the monument from present-day monument were adversely farming, feral animals, woodcutting, impacted by human activities and natural highway and road construction, residen- causes, some of which have continued to tial development and associated infra- the present and would likely continue to a structure, water demands, and pesticide minor degree if alternative A were imple- and fertilizer use draining into water re- mented. These include borrowing build- sources. ing stone from rockshelters; using caves for ranch and settlement-related opera- Arizona’s growing popularity for perma- tions; looting and vandalism; road and nent and seasonal residence has resulted utility line construction; erosion caused by in increased visitation to the national mo- natural forces and human exploration; nument and a corresponding decrease in excavations, removal of deposits; surface the capacity of the limited staff to protect collection by explorers, pioneers, investi- the monument’s archeological resources. gators, and looters; historic and continu- Thus, current human impacts, such as lit- ing use of prehistoric irrigation canals; and tering, trespassing (after-hours entry and graffiti. Current and ongoing NPS activi- entry into closed areas), looting and van- ties, such as expanded archeological site dalism, intentional pilfering, illegal hunt- monitoring programs and continuing ef- ing, rising levels of unintentional distur- forts to minimize or mitigate impacts on bance, and other unauthorized consump- archeological resources from human active uses, would be expected to continue tivities and natural causes, would be ex- to a limited degree. Social trails and re- pected to have beneficial effects on the lated erosion caused by visitors leaving national monument’s archeological re- established trails would continue to im- sources. pact archeological resources. Stream channel alteration – down cutting or de- Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- position of the channel, flooding, or able planning endeavors and development change of flow regime – resulting from projects, such as expansion and develop- mining, diversion, vegetation changes, or ment of a regional trails system and Yava- other human manipulation could result in pai-Apache expansion of the casino resort adverse impacts on archeological sites in at the nearby intersection of Interstate 17 and near the monument during future and the monument entrance road, could years. However, continuing NPS efforts to potentially contribute to some negligible reduce the impacts of human activities on effects on archeological resources on the national monument’s archeological lands outside, but near, the Castle site. A

171 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES pending exchange of lands along Inter- ties, such as expanded archeological site state 17 between the Yavapai-Apache and monitoring programs and continuing ef- the U.S. Forest Service could potentially forts to minimize or mitigate impacts on contribute to some negligible effects on archeological resources from human ac- archeological resources near the Castle tivities and natural causes, would be ex- site because tribal authorities are consi- pected to have beneficial effects on the dering construction of a cultural center on national monument’s archeological re- the land that they would obtain in the sources. proposed exchange. Possible development Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- of the historic Soda Springs Ranch for re- able planning endeavors and development creational and/or resort purposes could projects, such as expanded development also have some negligible impacts on arc- in Dead Horse Ranch State Park and de- heological resources on lands bordering velopment associated with the Verde Riv- the Montezuma Well site. However, the er Greenway Management Plan, could effects of these aforementioned activities potentially contribute to some negligible on archeological resources on lands bor- effects on archeological resources on dering the national monument would gen- lands outside, but near, Tuzigoot National erally be at or below the lower levels of Monument. However, the effects of these detection and thus would be almost im- aforementioned activities on archeological possible to measure. resources on lands bordering or near the Actions under this alternative, when com- national monument would be at or below bined with other past, present, and rea- the lower levels of detection and thus sonably foreseeable future undertakings in would be almost impossible to measure. the national monument and surrounding Actions under this alternative, when com- area, would generally be expected to con- bined with other past, present, and rea- tribute to cumulative beneficial effects on sonably foreseeable future undertakings in any cumulative impact on archeological the national monument and surrounding resources. The beneficial impacts on arc- area, would generally be expected to con- heological resources associated with the tribute to cumulative beneficial effects on no-action alternative, however, would any cumulative impact on archeological constitute a relatively small component of resources. The beneficial impacts on arc- any cumulative impact. heological resources associated with the no-action alternative, however, would Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National constitute a relatively small component of Monument. Prior to establishment of the any cumulative impact. national monument, an unknown number of archeological sites on lands within and Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- surrounding the present-day monument al Monument. After applying the Advi- were adversely impacted by human activi- sory Council on Historic Preservation’s ties and natural causes, some of which regulations implementing section 106 of have continued to the present and would the National Historic Preservation Act, likely continue to a minor degree if alter- the National Park Service determined that native A were implemented. These include actions under this alternative would have farming; grazing; mining; camping; hiking no adverse effect on archeological re- and exploration; hunting; looting and sources in the national monument. The vandalism; poaching; off-road driving; ex- cumulative effects would be beneficial; cavations and removal of deposits by pio- this alternative’s contribution to these ef- neers, explorers, and investigators; and fects would be small. surface collection by investigators and looters. Current and ongoing NPS activi- Under this alternative, there would be no adverse impacts on resources or values

172 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- Prehistoric and Historic fill specific purposes identified in the na- Structures and Buildings tional monument’s establishing legislation, (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- Montezuma Castle National Monu- tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- ment. Under alternative A, prehistoric nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this and historic structures and buildings in general management plan or other rele- Montezuma Castle National Monument vant NPS planning documents. Conse- would continue to be surveyed, invento- quently, there would be no impairment of ried, and evaluated under National Regis- resources or values associated with arc- ter of Historic Places criteria of evaluation heological resources. Implementation of to determine their eligibility for listing in this alternative would not result in any the national register as NPS staffing and unacceptable impacts and is consistent funding permit. Prehistoric and historic with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- structures and buildings listed in, or de- cies 2006. termined eligible for listing in, the national register would continue to be managed to Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- preserve their documented values in ac- ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- cordance with the Secretary of the Inte- cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations rior’s Standards for the Treatment of His- implementing section 106 of the National toric Properties (NPS 1992b) and to sup- Historic Preservation Act, the National port NPS activities or visitor use. Park Service determined that actions un- Public inaccessibility to Montezuma Cas- der this alternative would have no adverse tle and some other prehistoric structures, effect on archeological resources in the such as rockshelters inside Montezuma national monument. The cumulative ef- Well, would continue to provide protec- fects would be beneficial; this alternative’s tion for those structures. However, histor- contribution to these effects would be ic fabric in the national monument’s pre- small. historic and historic structures and build- Under this alternative, there would be no ings would continue to be impacted by adverse impacts on resources or values erosion and deterioration as a result of whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- climatic conditions and other natural fill specific purposes identified in the na- processes. The location of some prehistor- tional monument’s establishing legislation, ic structures, such as Castle A and Swallet (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- Cave, in or near high public use areas, tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- along with anticipated increases in visita- nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this tion levels, would potentially continue to general management plan or other rele- result in loss of some historic fabric as a vant NPS planning documents. Conse- result of inadvertent visitor use, graffiti, quently, there would be no impairment of and looting and vandalism. Continuing resources or values associated with arc- use of prehistoric and historic irrigation heological resources. Implementation of canals and ditches for agricultural opera- this alternative would not result in any tions, as well as continuing use of the unacceptable impacts and is consistent 1930s-era residences and equipment shed, with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- the early 20th century Back cabin, and the cies 2006. Mission 66-era visitor center for monument residential, administrative, maintenance, and interpretive operations and programs would also potentially result in the loss of some historic fabric to those structures and buildings. Periodic high water

173 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES and flooding would potentially result in Continuing use of the 1930s-era museum the loss of historic fabric from the Civilian and headquarters building, storage tool Conservation Corps Revetment Wall. house, pump house, and associated retain- However, these impacts would be mini- ing wall for monument administrative, mized to the extent possible by continued maintenance, and museum / visitor center law enforcement activities and public edu- functions would also potentially result in cation efforts as well as intensive preserva- the loss of some historic fabric to those tion treatment, regular cyclic mainten- structures and buildings. However, these ance, and stabilization of the monument’s impacts would be minimized to the extent principal prehistoric and historic struc- possible by continued law enforcement tures and buildings as NPS funding and activities and public education efforts as personnel permit. Thus, implementation well as intensive preservation treatment, of this alternative would potentially con- regular cyclic maintenance, and stabiliza- tribute to beneficial effects on prehistoric tion of the monument’s principal prehis- and historic structures and buildings in toric and historic structures and buildings the national monument. as NPS funding and personnel permit. Thus, implementation of this alternative Tuzigoot National Monument. As de- would potentially contribute to beneficial scribed for Montezuma Castle National effects on prehistoric and historic struc- Monument, under alternative A prehistor- tures and buildings in the national monu- ic and historic structures and buildings in ment. Tuzigoot National Monument would continue to be surveyed, inventoried, and eva- Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle luated under National Register of Historic National Monument. Prior to establish- Places criteria of evaluation to determine ment of the national monument, prehis- their eligibility for listing in the national toric and historic structures and buildings register as NPS staffing and funding per- on lands within and surrounding the mit. Prehistoric and historic structures present-day monument were adversely and buildings listed in, or determined eli- impacted by a variety of human activities gible for listing in, the national register and natural causes, some of which have would continue to be managed to preserve continued to the present and would likely their documented values in accordance continue to a minor degree if alternative A with the Secretary of the Interior’s Stan- were implemented. These include bor- dards for the Treatment of Historic Proper- rowing building stone from rockshelters; ties (NPS 1992b) and to support NPS ac- using caves for ranch and settlement- tivities or visitor use. related operations; looting and vandalism; erosion caused by natural forces and hu- Public accessibility to the Tuzigoot Pueb- man exploration; excavations; removal of lo, along with anticipated visitation in- deposits; surface collection by explorers, creases, would continue to result in poten- pioneers, investigators, and looters; his- tial loss of some of the structure’s historic toric and continuing use of prehistoric fabric as a result of inadvertent and unin- irrigation canals; and graffiti. Stabilization tentional resource disturbance, graffiti, and repair projects have been carried out trespassing (after hours entry and entry on the national monument’s prehistoric into closed areas), social trailing and re- structures since the late 19th century that lated erosion caused by visitors leaving have had negligible to minor, adverse im- established trails, and looting and vandal- pacts on prehistoric fabric, but over the ism. Historic fabric in the pueblo would years, preservation activities have im- also be potentially impacted by erosion proved as specialized training has resulted and deterioration resulting from climatic in the use of better techniques. conditions and other natural processes.

174 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action)

Current and ongoing NPS activities, such within and surrounding the present-day as continued law enforcement activities, monument were adversely impacted by public education efforts, intensive preser- human activities and natural causes, some vation treatment, and regular cyclic main- of which have continued to the present tenance, would be expected to have bene- and would likely continue to a minor de- ficial effects on the national monument’s gree if alternative A were implemented. prehistoric and historic structures and These include farming; grazing; mining; buildings. camping; hiking; hunting; looting and vandalism; poaching; off-road driving; Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- erosion caused by natural forces and hu- able planning endeavors and development man exploration; excavations and removal projects, such as expansion and develop- of deposits by pioneers, explorers, and ment of a regional trails system, Yavapai- investigators; and surface collection by Apache expansion of the casino resort at investigators and looters. Stabilization and the nearby intersection of Interstate 17 repair projects have been carried out on and the monument entrance road, and the national monument’s prehistoric possible development of the historic Soda structures since the late 19th century that Springs Ranch for recreational and/or have had negligible to minor, adverse im- resort purposes, could have negligible impacts on prehistoric fabric, but over the pacts on prehistoric and historic struc- years, preservation activities have im- tures and buildings in the national monu- proved as specialized training has resulted ment because these developments would in the use of better techniques. be expected to increase visitation to the national monument. However, the effects Current and ongoing NPS activities, such on the monument’s prehistoric and histor- as continued law enforcement activities, ic structures and buildings from the public education efforts, intensive preser- aforementioned activities and develop- vation treatment, and regular cyclic main- ments on lands bordering or in the vicinity tenance, would be expected to have bene- of the national monument would be at or ficial effects on the national monument’s below the lower levels of detection and prehistoric and historic structures and thus would be almost impossible to meas- buildings. ure. Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- Actions under this alternative, when com- able planning endeavors and development bined with other past, present, and rea- projects, such as development of Dead sonably foreseeable future undertakings in Horse Ranch State Park development and the national monument and surrounding implementation of development proposals area, would generally be expected to con- in the Verde River Greenway Manage- tribute to cumulative beneficial effects to ment Plan, could have negligible impacts any cumulative impact on prehistoric and on prehistoric and historic structures and historic structures and buildings. The buildings in the national monument be- beneficial impacts to such resources asso- cause they would be expected to increase ciated with the no-action alternative, visitation to the national monument. however, would constitute a relatively However, the effects on the monument’s small component of any cumulative im- prehistoric and historic structures and pact. buildings from the aforementioned planning endeavors and developments would Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National be at or below the lower levels of detec- Monument. Prior to establishment of the tion and thus would be almost impossible national monument, prehistoric and his- to measure. toric structures and buildings on lands

175 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Actions under this alternative, when com- effect on prehistoric and historic struc- bined with other past, present, and rea- tures and buildings in the national monu- sonably foreseeable future undertakings in ment. The cumulative effects would be the national monument and surrounding beneficial; this alternative’s contribution area, would generally be expected to con- to these effects would be small. tribute to cumulative beneficial effects on Under this alternative, there would be no any cumulative impact on prehistoric and adverse impacts on resources or values historic structures and buildings. The whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- beneficial impacts on such resources asso- fill specific purposes identified in the na- ciated with the no-action alternative, tional monument’s establishing legislation, however, would constitute a relatively (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- small component of any cumulative im- tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- pact. nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this general management plan or other rele- Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- vant NPS planning documents. Conse- al Monument. After applying the Advi- quently, there would be no impairment of sory Council on Historic Preservation’s resources or values associated with prehis- regulations implementing section 106 of toric and historic structures and buildings. the National Historic Preservation Act, Implementation of this alternative would the National Park Service determined that not result in any unacceptable impacts and actions under this alternative would have is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- no adverse effect on prehistoric and histor- agement Policies 2006. ic structures and buildings in the national monument. The cumulative effects would Cultural Landscapes be beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to these effects would be small. Montezuma Castle National Monu- Under this alternative, there would be no ment. Under alternative A, cultural land- adverse impacts on resources or values scapes in Montezuma Castle National whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- Monument would continue to be sur- fill specific purposes identified in the na- veyed, inventoried, and evaluated under tional monument’s establishing legislation, National Register of Historic Places crite- (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- ria of evaluation to determine their eligi- tunities for enjoyment of the national mobility for listing in the national register as nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this NPS staffing and funding permit. Al- general management plan or other rele- though no formal cultural landscape in- vant NPS planning documents. Conse- ventory work has been conducted at the quently, there would be no impairment of national monument, the following known resources or values associated with prehis- and potential cultural landscape resources toric and historic structures and buildings. have been identified at the reconnaissance Implementation of this alternative would survey level of the cultural landscape in- not result in any unacceptable impacts and ventory process: is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- • Sinaguan occupation remains / Mon- agement Policies 2006. tezuma Castle site cultural landscape resources, including agricultural fields; Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- • Hohokam occupation remains / Mon- cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations tezuma Well site cultural landscape re- implementing section 106 of the National sources, including irrigation canals; Historic Preservation Act, the National • New Deal / Civilian Conservation Park Service determined that actions un- Corps-era historic designed landscape der this alternative would have no adverse

176 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action)

resources, including rock walls, drai- national monument could be expected to nage ditches, and other structural result in increasing amounts of intentional elements, and historic vegetation in and inadvertent disturbance of cultural the Castle site (NPS development at landscape resources. However, the Na- Montezuma Castle); and tional Park Service would continue efforts to reduce the impacts on cultural land- • Homesteading/ranching cultural landscape resources through law enforcement scape resources, including historic ir- activities, public education about the im- rigation canals, agricultural fields, his- portance and value of such resources, and toric trees or other vegetation, and po- implementation of the Secretary’s Stan- tentially the late 19th century smoke- dards (NPS 1992b). Thus, implementation house structure in the Montezuma of this alternative would potentially con- Well site. tribute to beneficial effects on cultural Pending the results of further survey, in- landscape resources in the national mo- ventory, and evaluation, the National Park nument. Service, within the parameters of budget and personnel constraints, would (1) treat Tuzigoot National Monument. Under cultural landscape resources that are con- alternative A, cultural landscapes in Tuzi- sidered potentially eligible for listing in the goot National Monument would continue national register as eligible and (2) rec- to be surveyed, inventoried, and evaluated ommend listing of the national monu- under National Register of Historic Places ment’s significant cultural landscapes in criteria of evaluation to determine their the national register. The National Park eligibility for listing in the national register Service would implement resource man- as NPS staffing and funding permit. Al- agement policies that preserve the cultu- though no formal cultural landscape in- rally significant character defining pat- ventory work has been conducted at the terns and features and natural resource national monument, the following known values of the listed, or determined eligible, and potential cultural landscape resources landscapes in accordance with the Secre- have been identified at level 0 (park retary of the Interior’s Standards for the connaissance survey) of the cultural land- Treatment of Historic Properties with scape inventory process: Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural • Sinaguan/Hohokam occupation re- Landscapes (NPS 1992b). mains cultural landscape resources; Although the National Park Service would and seek to implement the aforementioned • New Deal / Works Progress Adminis- policies and procedures to protect and tration historic designed landscape re- preserve cultural landscape resources in sources, including the Visitor Center / the national monument, the potential for Administrative complex area and his- some negligible to minor, adverse impacts toric vegetation. on cultural landscape features as a result of human activities and natural processes As described for Montezuma Castle Na- would likely continue to a slight degree. tional Monument, pending the results of These activities and processes could in- further survey, inventory, and evaluation, clude looting and vandalism, graffiti, ero- the National Park Service, within the pa- sion resulting from natural causes and in- rameters of budget and personnel con- advertent visitor use, illegal collection by straints, would (1) treat Tuzigoot National looters, and continuing use of prehistoric Monument cultural landscape resources and historic irrigation canals for agricul- that are considered potentially eligible for tural operations. Anticipated increases in listing in the national register as eligible visitation levels and visitor access to the and (2) recommend listing of the monu-

177 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES ment’s significant cultural landscapes in were adversely impacted by human activi- the national register. The National Park ties and natural causes, some of which Service would implement resource man- have continued to the present and would agement policies that preserve the cultu- likely continue to a minor degree if alter- rally significant character defining pat- native A were implemented. These include terns and features and natural resource borrowing building stone from rockshel- values of the listed, or determined eligible, ters; looting and vandalism; excavations, landscapes in accordance with the Secre- removal of deposits, surface collection by tary of the Interior’s Standards for the explorers, pioneers, investigators, and loo- Treatment of Historic Properties With ters; historic and continuing use of prehis- Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural toric irrigation canals; and graffiti. Landscapes (NPS 1992b). Current and ongoing NPS activities, such Although the National Park Service would as survey, inventory, evaluation, and pre- seek to implement the aforementioned servation of identified culturally signifi- policies and procedures to protect and cant character defining patterns and fea- preserve cultural landscape resources in tures and natural resource values of listed, the national monument, the potential for or determined eligible, landscapes in ac- some negligible to minor, adverse impacts cordance with the Secretary of the Inte- on cultural landscape features as a result rior’s Standards, would be expected to of human activities and natural processes have beneficial effects on the national would likely continue to a slight degree. monument’s cultural landscape resources These activities and processes could in- and result in no adverse effect to the mo- clude looting and vandalism; littering; nument’s cultural landscape resources. graffiti; trespassing (after hours entry and Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- entry into closed areas); erosion resulting able planning endeavors and development from natural causes, inadvertent visitor projects, such as expansion and develop- use, and social trails; and intentional pil- ment of a regional trails system, Yavapai- fering and illegal collection by looters. An- Apache expansion of the casino resort at ticipated increases in numbers of visitors the nearby intersection of Interstate 17 and visitor access to the national monu- and the monument entrance road, and ment could be expected to result in in- possible development of the historic Soda creasing amounts of intentional and inad- Springs Ranch for recreational and/or vertent resource disturbance of cultural resort purposes, could have negligible im- landscape resources. However, the Na- pacts on the monument’s cultural land- tional Park Service would continue efforts scape resources because they would be to reduce the impacts on such resources expected to increase visitation to the na- through law enforcement activities, public tional monument. However, the effects on education about the importance and value the monument’s cultural landscape re- of such resources, and implementation of sources from the aforementioned activi- the Secretary’s Standards (NPS 1992b). ties and developments would be at or be- Thus, implementation of this alternative low the lower levels of detection, and thus would potentially contribute to beneficial would be almost impossible to measure. effects on cultural landscape resources in the national monument. Actions under this alternative, when combined with other past, present, and rea- Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle sonably foreseeable future undertakings in National Monument. Prior to establish- the national monument and surrounding ment of the national monument, cultural area, would generally be expected to con- landscape resources on lands within and tribute to cumulative beneficial effects on surrounding the present-day monument any cumulative impact on cultural land-

178 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) scape resources. The beneficial impacts on efforts associated with the Freeport such resources associated with the no- McMoRan Tailings Project would be ex- action alternative, however, would consti- pected to have minor, beneficial impacts tute a relatively small component of any on the visible cultural landscape on lands cumulative impact. outside the national monument. Actions under this alternative, when com- Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National bined with other past, present, and rea- Monument. Prior to establishment of the sonably foreseeable future undertakings in national monument, cultural landscape the national monument and surrounding resources on lands within and surround- area, would generally be expected to con- ing the present-day monument were ad- tribute to cumulative beneficial effects on versely impacted by human activities and any cumulative impact on cultural land- natural causes, some of which have con- scape resources. The beneficial impacts on tinued to the present and would likely such resources associated with the no- continue to a minor degree if alternative A action alternative, however, would consti- were implemented. These include looting tute a relatively small component of any and vandalism; littering; graffiti; trespass- cumulative impact. ing (after hours entry and entry into closed areas); erosion resulting from natu- Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- ral causes, inadvertent visitor use, and so- al Monument. After applying the Advi- cial trails; and intentional pilfering and sory Council on Historic Preservation’s illegal collection by looters. regulations implementing section 106 of Current and ongoing NPS activities, such the National Historic Preservation Act, as survey, inventory, evaluation, and pre- the National Park Service determined that servation of identified culturally signifi- actions under this alternative would have cant character-defining patterns and fea- no adverse effect on cultural landscape re- tures and natural resource values of listed, sources in the national monument. The or determined eligible, landscapes in ac- cumulative effects would be beneficial; cordance with the Secretary of the Inte- this alternative’s contribution to these ef- rior’s Standards, would be expected to fects would be small. have beneficial effects on the national Under this alternative, there would be no monument’s cultural landscape resources. adverse impacts on resources or values Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- able planning endeavors and development fill specific purposes identified in the na- projects, such as development of Dead tional monument’s establishing legislation, Horse Ranch State Park and implementa- (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- tion of development proposals in the tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- Verde River Greenway Management Plan, nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this could have negligible impacts on the mo- general management plan or other rele- nument’s cultural landscape resources vant NPS planning documents. Conse- because they would be expected to in- quently, there would be no impairment of crease visitation to the national monu- resources or values associated with cultur- ment. However, the effects on the monu- al landscapes. Implementation of this al- ment’s cultural landscape resources from ternative would not result in any unac- the aforementioned planning endeavors ceptable impacts and is consistent with and developments would be at or below section 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies the lower levels of detection and thus 2006. would be almost impossible to measure. Viewshed restoration and revegetation

179 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- tecting and preserving sites or resources ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- that might be identified as well as provid- cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations ing access to areas of traditional cultural implementing section 106 of the National and religious importance. The National Historic Preservation Act, the National Park Service would also continue to con- Park Service determined that actions un- sult with concerned Native American tri- der this alternative would have no adverse bes before taking actions that might affect effect on cultural landscape resources. The Native American Graves Protection and cumulative effects would beneficial; this Repatriation Act issues and traditional alternative’s contribution to these effects cultural properties; encourage archeolo- would be small. gists, anthropologists, and researchers to consult with the Native American tribes Under this alternative, there would be no regarding areas of interest that could be adverse impacts on resources or values included in research efforts; and promote whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- ethnographic involvement in excavations fill specific purposes identified in the na- and anthropological research. tional monument’s establishing legislation, (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- Although there are no identified ethno- tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- graphic resources or traditional cultural nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this properties in the national monument at general management plan or other rele- present, implementation of this alternative vant NPS planning documents. Conse- would be expected to have beneficial im- quently, there would be no impairment of pacts on such resources if any were identi- resources or values associated with cultur- fied and documented pursuant to ongoing al landscapes. Implementation of this al- consultation and research. ternative would not result in any unacceptable impacts and is consistent with Tuzigoot National Monument. As de- section 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies scribed for Montezuma Castle National 2006. Monument, a comprehensive ethnographic overview and assessment (including an Ethnographic Resources and ethnobotanical study) of Tuzigoot Na- Traditional Cultural Properties tional Monument has not been prepared. Thus, no ethnographic resources or tradi- Montezuma Castle National Monu- tional cultural properties have been iden- ment. A comprehensive ethnographic tified and documented at Tuzigoot Na- overview and assessment (including an tional Monument. ethnobotanical study) for Montezuma Under alternative A, the National Park Castle National Monument has not been Service would continue to conduct con- prepared. Thus, no ethnographic re- sultations with concerned Native Ameri- sources or traditional cultural properties can tribes regarding ethnographic sites have been identified and documented at and resources and Native American the national monument. However, Mon- Graves Protection and Repatriation Act tezuma Well is treated as eligible for con- issues as described under Montezuma sideration as a traditional cultural proper- Castle National Monument. ty. Although there are no identified ethno- Under alternative A, the National Park graphic resources or traditional cultural Service would continue to consult with properties in the national monument at concerned Native American tribes to learn present, implementation of this alternative about sites or resources of cultural or reli- would be expected to have beneficial im- gious significance in the national monu- pacts on such resources if any were identi- ment and to develop strategies for pro-

180 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) fied and documented pursuant to ongoing graphic resources. The cumulative effects consultation and research. would be beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to these effects would be small. Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle Under this alternative, there would be no National Monument. Under alternative adverse impacts on resources or values A, there would be no cumulative effects on whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- ethnographic resources or traditional cul- fill specific purposes identified in the natural properties in Montezuma Castle Na- tional monument’s establishing legislation, tional Monument. (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- able planning endeavors and development nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this projects, such as implementation of the general management plan or other rele- Sinaguan Circle Tour, would be expected vant NPS planning documents. Conse- to contribute to cumulative beneficial ef- quently, there would be no impairment of fects on any cumulative impact on ethno- resources or values associated with ethnographic resources and traditional cultural graphic resources or traditional cultural properties that might be identified and properties. Implementation of this alter- documented in the national monument native would not result in any unaccepta- and surrounding area pursuant to ongoing ble impacts and is consistent with section consultation and research. 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies 2006.

Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- Monument. Under alternative A, there ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- would be no cumulative effects on ethno- cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations graphic resources or traditional cultural implementing section 106 of the National properties in Tuzigoot National Monu- Historic Preservation Act, the National ment. Park Service determined that actions under this alternative would affect no historic Current, ongoing, and reasonably foresee- properties in the national monument. able planning endeavors and development There would also be no impacts on ethno- projects, such as implementation of the graphic resources. The cumulative effects Sinaguan Circle Tour, would be expected would be beneficial; this alternative’s con- to contribute to cumulative beneficial ef- tribution to these effects would be small. fects to any cumulative impact on ethnographic resources and traditional cultural Under this alternative, there would be no properties that might be identified and adverse impacts on resources or values documented in the national monument whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- and surrounding area pursuant to ongoing fill specific purposes identified in the na- consultation and research. tional monument’s establishing legislation, (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- al Monument. After applying the Advi- nument, or (3) identified as a goal in this sory Council on Historic Preservation’s general management plan or other rele- regulations implementing section 106 of vant NPS planning documents. Conse- the National Historic Preservation Act, quently, there would be no impairment of the National Park Service determined that ethnographic resources or traditional cul- actions under this alternative would have tural properties landscapes. Implementa- no adverse effect on traditional cultural tion of this alternative would not result in properties in the national monument. any unacceptable impacts and is consis- There would also be no impacts on ethno-

181 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management of the floodplain to convey floodwaters Policies 2006. within the river corridor or contribute to the height of a flood along the Verde River NATURAL RESOURCES or in Tavasci Marsh. The Verde River flows along the boundary of the monu- Floodplains ment. The access road for the monument would remain in its current location Montezuma Castle National Monu- across the Verde River. There would con- ment. None of the alternative A actions at tinue to be no formal access to the Verde Montezuma Castle National Monument River or to Tavasci Marsh from within the would disturb the riparian area, limit the monument. Social trails along the Verde ability of the floodplain to convey flood- River could contribute to erosion during waters within the river corridor, or con- high water. tribute to the height of a flood along Beav- er Creek. The creek would continue to Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, periodically flood. The existing gabion present, or reasonably foreseeable future would continue to be maintained to pro- actions outside Montezuma Castle Na- tect the cliff dwelling site. Maintenance tional Monument that would contribute activities, including erosion control meas- to the height of a flood along the creek or ures, would continue to protect the ga- adversely impact the ability of the flood- bion. These actions would have a negligi- plain to convey floodwaters within the ble, long-term, adverse impact on the river corridor. Similarly, no actions could floodplain. adversely impact aquatic habitat in the creek. Consequently, there would be no None of the actions proposed at Monte- cumulative impacts on floodplains under zuma Well under alternative A would limit alternative A at Montezuma Castle Na- the ability of the floodplain to convey tional Monument. floodwaters within the river corridor or contribute to the height of a flood along At Tuzigoot National Monument, the Wet Beaver Creek. An improved trail Verde River Greenway Master Plan (Ari- would continue to provide visitors an op- zona State Parks 2004) proposed the de- portunity to walk a short distance along velopment of a 10-foot wide, granular the banks of Wet Beaver Creek. The trail is stone surfaced trail for non-motorized an impervious surface, and it would con- used along the length of the greenway, tinue to have a negligible, local, adverse including lands within the legislative impact on water flow during floods. These boundary of the monument. The trail impacts are unlikely to result in measura- would not add any impervious surface to ble changes to the natural river processes the floodplain and thus would not contri- and would be negligible in the long term. bute to the height of a flood along the riv- Management actions to maintain the trail er or adversely impact the ability of the would continue and could include some floodplain to convey floodwaters within erosion control measures as necessary. the river corridor. The presence of a for- Erosion control measures would reduce malized trail could reduce the number of adverse impacts from increased turbidity social trails along the creek. This trail in the water column. The impacts would would reduce the erosion potential along be local and long-term, and would have a the entire corridor, providing a long-term continuing, negligible, adverse effect on benefit for aquatic habitats. Alternative A river processes in the floodplain. would result in negligible, adverse, cumulative impacts to the height of a flood Tuzigoot National Monument. None of along the creek and would not adversely the alternative A actions at Tuzigoot Na- tional Monument would limit the ability

182 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) impact the ability of the floodplain to con- on the native vegetation in the monument. vey floodwaters within the river corridor. Ongoing management actions (for example, maintenance) would have local im- Conclusion. Alternative A would result in pacts on native vegetation at the monu- negligible, long-term, adverse impacts on ment. These actions would include but floodplains in Montezuma Castle and Tu- not be limited to trimming trees and zigoot national monuments. Maintenance shrubs near the existing trail from the visi- activities that reduce erosion would have a tor center to the Castle. The long-term, local, negligible, long-term, adverse im- adverse impacts of these actions on the pact on river processes at Montezuma native vegetation at the monument would Castle National Monument, although re- be negligible. duced erosion would represent a negligible to minor benefit to the floodplain. Tuzigoot National Monument. There There would be no cumulative impacts are no new actions proposed under this under alternative A at Montezuma Castle alternative that would disturb soils, in- National Monument. Alternative A would crease the erosion potential, or decrease result in negligible, adverse, cumulative soil productivity at Tuzigoot National impacts to floodplains at Tuzigoot Na- Monument. Because the existing trails are tional Monument. These effects would hardened, there would be no new impacts not constitute an impairment of resources on soil from use of these trails. Ongoing or values associated with floodplains at management actions to control erosion either monument. Implementation of this along the trail would continue. The long- alternative would not result in any unac- term, adverse impacts of these actions on ceptable impacts and is consistent with soils in the monument would be negligi- section 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies ble. Under this alternative, there are no 2006. new actions proposed that would change the abundance and distribution of indi- Soils and Vegetation vidual plants or communities at Tuzigoot. There would be no change to ecological Montezuma Castle National Monu- processes or biological productivity at the ment. There are no new actions proposed monument. Efforts to manage and control under alternative A that would disturb nonnative and exotic plant species would soils, increase the erosion potential, or continue. These efforts would have long- decrease soil productivity at Montezuma term, minor, beneficial impacts on the na- Castle National Monument. Because the tive vegetation at Tuzigoot. existing trails are hardened, there would be no new impacts on soil from use of Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, these trails. Ongoing management actions present, or reasonably foreseeable actions to control erosion along the trail would outside Montezuma Castle National Mo- continue. The long-term, adverse impacts nument that would affect soils or vegeta- of these actions on soils in the monument tion at the monument. Consequently, would be negligible. Under this alterna- there would be no cumulative impacts un- tive, no new actions are proposed that der alternative A at Montezuma Castle would change the abundance and distri- National Monument on soils or vegeta- bution of individual plants or communi- tion. ties at the monument or change ecological At Tuzigoot National Monument, the processes or biological productivity. Ef- Verde River Greenway Master Plan pro- forts to manage and control nonnative and posed the development of a 10-foot wide, exotic plant species would continue to granular stone surfaced trail for non- have long-term, minor, beneficial impacts motorized used along the length of the

183 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES greenway, including lands within the legis- manage and control nonnative and exotic lative boundary of the monument (Arizo- plant species would continue at both mo- na State Parks 2004). Development of the numents, as would trimming certain native trail would have a local impact on the soils trees and shrubs at Montezuma Castle. and vegetation, including an increase in These efforts would continue to have both erosion potential and the removal of some beneficial and adverse, long-term, negligi- vegetation. The erosion potential could be ble impact on the native vegetation in reduced during trail development by using Montezuma Castle National Monument best management practices that could in- and beneficial, long-term, negligible im- clude the installation of silt fencing. The pact in Tuzigoot National Monument. short-term impacts of the trail develop- This alternative would result in negligible, ment would be adverse but negligible. long-term, adverse, cumulative impacts on Trail maintenance activities, including the soils and vegetation at Tuzigoot Na- best management practices, would help to tional Monument by increasing the poten- minimize the potential for erosion along tial for soil erosion or vegetation tram- the trail. The long-term, adverse impacts pling resulting from the proposed green- of the trail on soil erosion would be neg- way trail. The long-term, adverse, cumula- ligible. tive impacts from nonnative and exotic The impacts of alternative A on soils in species would be negligible. These effects combination with the impacts of the pro- would not be sufficient to constitute an posed greenway trail would result in neg- impairment of soil or vegetation resources ligible, long-term, adverse cumulative im- or values at Montezuma Castle or Tuzi- pacts on soils. Although some vegetation goot national monuments. Implementa- would be removed, the impacts would be tion of this alternative would not result in local and not likely to change the abun- any unacceptable impacts and is consis- dance and distribution of individual plants tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management or communities. If nonnative or exotic Policies 2006. species are present, management actions may be necessary to control the spread of Wetlands these species once the ground has been Under this alternative, current manage- disturbed to minimize any adverse impacts ment actions would continue, and there on native plants from trail development. would be no effects on wetlands at Mon- The long-term, adverse impacts from tezuma Castle National Monument, re- nonnative and exotic species would be sulting in a continuation of the existing, negligible. The impacts of alternative A in long-term, negligible to minor, adverse combination with the impacts of the pro- impacts. Additionally, no new actions posed greenway trail would result in neg- would be taken to restore or maintain the ligible, long-term, adverse, cumulative im- natural hydrologic functions in the Tavas- pacts to vegetation. ci Marsh at Tuzigoot National Monu- ment. This would allow the marsh to silt in Conclusion. There are no new actions over time and result in the loss of wildlife proposed under alternative A that would habitat in Tuzigoot National Monument. disturb soils, increase the erosion poten- The long-term, adverse impact on wet- tial, or decrease soil productivity in either lands and their natural hydrologic func- Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot National tions and wildlife habitat values in Tavasci Monument. Ongoing management actions Marsh would continue to be minor to to control erosion along the existing trails moderate. would continue. The long-term, adverse impacts of these actions on soils in the Cumulative Impacts. The Verde River monument would be negligible. Efforts to Greenway Management Plan could devel-

184 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) op trails and other infrastructure (for ex- Visitors would continue to visit Monte- ample, a boat ramp and parking lot) near zuma Well and Wet Beaver Creek on the Tavasci Marsh at Tuzigoot National Mo- existing hardened trail. The picnic area nument. These actions could create addi- would continue to be accessible, but there tional visitor opportunities that, with in- would be no formal access to the former creased use, could affect wetlands. How- pasture lands. No new actions would be ever, the adverse effects of increased visi- proposed under this alternative that tation or development associated with the would disturb wildlife or adversely impact Verde River Greenway Management Plan wildlife habitat at Montezuma Well. would likely be local and negligible, and the contribution toward adverse, cumula- Tuzigoot National Monument. Visitors tive impacts on wetlands would also be would continue to have formal access to negligible. the dwelling, but there would be no formal access to the marsh, river, or riparian area Conclusion. There are no new actions from within the monument. No new ac- proposed under alternative A that would tions would be proposed under this alter- have adverse impacts on wetland func- native that would disturb wildlife or ad- tions or wetland habitat values at Monte- versely impact wildlife habitat at Tuzigoot. zuma Castle or Tuzigoot national monu- Informal access to the Verde River would ments, resulting in long-term, negligible to continue from the road into the monu- minor impacts. Ongoing management ac- ment. The informal access could disturb tions would continue to allow silt to ac- wildlife, particularly birds nesting or fo- cumulate in Tavasci Marsh, which would raging in the riparian area. This would have a long-term, minor to moderate, ad- represent a long-term, minor, adverse ef- verse impact on wetland functions and fect on wildlife. Social trailing by visitors habitat. Increased visitation or develop- along the Verde River and the potential ment associated with the Verde River for erosion would continue. Erosion- Greenway Management Plan would have borne sediment could have an adverse im- local, negligible, adverse, cumulative impact on aquatic habitat for some aquatic pacts on wetlands. The impacts of alterna- species, but assuming no increased turbid- tive A would not be sufficient to constitute ity over current levels, the adverse impacts an impairment of wetland resources or would be local and negligible in the long values at Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot term. national monuments. Implementation of this alternative would not result in any Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, unacceptable impacts and is consistent present, or reasonably foreseeable actions with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- outside the Montezuma Castle National cies 2006. Monument that would adversely impact wildlife or wildlife habitats. Consequently, Wildlife there would be no cumulative impacts under alternative A on wildlife or wildlife Montezuma Castle National Monu- habitat. At Tuzigoot National Monument, ment. At the Castle, visitors would con- the Verde River Greenway Master Plan tinue to have opportunities to walk near proposed the development of a 10-foot the cliff dwelling and above Beaver Creek wide, granular stone surfaced trail for non on the existing hardened trail. No new motorized used along the length of the actions would be proposed under this al- greenway, including lands within the legis- ternative that would disturb wildlife or lative boundary of the monument (Arizo- adversely impact wildlife habitat at the na State Parks 2004). Development of the Castle. trail would have local effects on wildlife

185 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES habitat within the monument along the would not result in any unacceptable im- Verde River. These impacts would include pacts and is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 disturbance that could limit foraging activ- of Management Policies 2006. ity or adversely impact nesting. Threatened and Endangered Species These impacts could be reduced by timing trail development to minimize the impact Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Man- on breeding activity. The long-term im- agement actions at Montezuma Castle Na- pacts of the trail development would be tional Monument would continue to focus adverse and negligible to minor but would on maintaining habitat in the monument be unlikely to affect the distribution of to support flycatcher breeding activities individuals in a local area and would not along the Verde River. There would be no have an impact on viability of the regional effects on flycatcher habitat or individual population. The impacts of alternative A flycatchers foraging at the monument unin combination with the impacts of the der this alternative. proposed greenway trail would result in negligible to minor, cumulative, long- At Tuzigoot National Monument, man- term, adverse effects on wildlife and wild- agement actions at Tavasci Marsh would life habitat. be minimal, and over time the marsh could silt in. This could change the riparian ha- Conclusion. There are no new actions bitat in the marsh such that it is no longer proposed under alternative A that would suitable for flycatcher foraging; however, have adverse impacts on wildlife or wild- this would only have an effect on a limited life habitat in the monuments. Formal area. Change in the marsh habitat could access within the monuments would con- have a long-term effect on flycatcher habi- tinue to limit impacts on wildlife and wild- tat in the monument, but the presence of life habitat. However, informal access to substantial suitable habitat in the area the Verde River at Tuzigoot National Mo- would result in a “not likely to adversely nument would continue from the road affect” determination. into the monument, representing a long- term, minor, adverse effect on wildlife. Cumulative Impacts. There is a docu- Assuming no increased turbidity over cur- mented nesting site for southwestern wil- rent levels, the adverse impacts on wildlife low flycatcher just outside the monument of erosion caused by social trailing would boundaries in the riparian area of the be local and negligible in the long term. Verde River. Ditch maintenance activities in the area help maintain the conditions There would be no cumulative impacts that the flycatcher favors when nesting. under alternative A at Montezuma Castle The ongoing ditch maintenance activities National Monument. Alternative A would would have a long-term, beneficial effect result in a short-term, negligible to minor, on flycatcher habitat, so alternative A adverse, cumulative impacts on wildlife would not likely adversely affect the and wildlife habitat at Tuzigoot National southwestern willow flycatcher. Monument as a result of trail development along the Verde River. The long-term, ad- Visitors would continue to have informal verse, cumulative impacts on wildlife and access to the Verde River from the bridge wildlife habitat would be negligible to mi- on the access road to the monument, but nor and result from the potential for on- no formal access would be provided. Al- going disturbance of wildlife throughout though the flycatcher is known to be shy, the year by visitors. The effects of alterna- current visitation levels have not discou- tive A would not constitute an impairment raged the flycatcher from nesting near the of wildlife or wildlife habitat resources or bridge. In the long term, the informal values. Implementation of this alternative access to the Verde River could affect, but

186 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) is not likely to adversely affect, flycatcher the monument, but the presence of sub- nesting activity in this location. stantial suitable habitat in the area would result in a “not likely to adversely affect” As described above, the Verde River determination. Greenway Master Plan (Arizona State Parks 2004) would affect lands within Tu- Outside the boundaries at Tuzigoot Na- zigoot National Monument. In addition, a tional Monument, the ongoing ditch small parking lot and boat launch is pro- maintenance activities could have a long- posed on state land on the east side of the term benefit on flycatcher habitat. Infor- monument entrance road. This develop- mal access to the Verde River could affect, ment would be outside the monument but is not likely to adversely affect, fly- boundary but would require modifica- catcher nesting activity in this location. tions to the existing roadway. The pro- The proposed Verde River Greenway trail posed location of the boat launch is within could affect flycatcher nesting habitat the designated critical habitat for the fly- along the Verde River, but these effects catcher, and vegetation in the vicinity has are unlikely to be adverse. The long-term been used for nesting. Increased activity effects of alternative A in combination could disturb the flycatcher and discou- with the effects of the other actions de- rage continued use of the area for nesting. scribed above could affect the flycatcher The National Park Service would work habitat, resulting in potential long-term, with Arizona State Parks to minimize the cumulative effects, although these effects adverse impacts associated with the multi- are not substantial or widespread enough use trail. For example, the effects of the to be considered adverse. boat launch could be reduced by shifting visitor activity on the river away from the Yuma Clapper Rail. No marsh restora- patch of vegetation that serves as nesting tion activities would be undertaken to habitat. In addition, any trail development maintain natural hydrologic functions in should avoid creating new or longer edges Tavasci Marsh at Tuzigoot National Mo- along a nesting patch that could make the nument. As described for the southwes- nests more vulnerable to predation. The tern willow flycatcher, this could change proposed trail could have long-term ef- some marsh habitat, but the changes fects on the nesting habitat for the fly- would be unlikely to affect individuals or catcher along the Verde River, but these the viability of the clapper rail population. effects are unlikely to be adverse. The Under this alternative, the clapper rail long-term effects of alternative A in com- would continue be exposed to low levels bination with the effects of the other ac- of selenium in the water column and po- tions described above could cumulatively tentially higher levels of selenium through affect flycatcher habitat, although the re- its food supply. Long-term exposure to sulting effects would not likely be adverse. selenium could affect reproductive success of the clapper rail in the future; how- Conclusion. There would be no effects on ever, the clapper rail is not a resident of flycatcher habitat or individual flycatchers the Tavasci Marsh, and exposure to sele- foraging at Montezuma Castle National nium while migrating through the marsh Monument under this alternative. Long- could affect but is not likely to adversely term, ongoing management actions could affect reproductive success of the clapper benefit flycatcher habitat; thus, the effects rail. would not likely be adverse. Change in the Tavasci Marsh habitat at Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, Tuzigoot National Monument could have present, or proposed actions that would a long-term effect on flycatcher habitat in

187 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES affect the Yuma clapper rail or its habitat VISITOR USE AND EXPERIENCE at Tavasci Marsh. Visitor Experiences Conclusion. Under the no-action alterna- of Monument Resources tive, Tavasci Marsh could silt in over time. Visitor experiences of the monuments’ Changes in rail habitat in Tavasci Marsh resources would continue to be positive would be unlikely to affect individuals or but relatively short, with little variety. Visi- the viability of the clapper rail population. tors would continue to have access to Clapper rails migrating through the marsh high-quality viewing opportunities of each would be exposed to selenium while at the of the monuments’ primary archeological marsh, which could affect, but is unlikely resources, which is considered the most to adversely affect, reproductive success important element of most visitors’ expe- for these individuals or the population as a riences; therefore, continuing to provide whole. There would be no cumulative ef- these opportunities would result in a con- fects on clapper rails or their habitat under tinued long-term, major, beneficial effect this alternative. for visitors. Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Current man- At Montezuma Castle, the concentration agement actions would not have an effect of visitors on a short, paved trail to view on the gallery forest habitat used by yel- the castle would continue to result in low-billed cuckoo for nesting and forage times of congestion and crowding as use at Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- levels remained stable or increased over tional monuments. the long term, resulting in a long-term, minor, adverse impact. Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, During peak season at Montezuma Castle, present, or proposed actions that would congestion in the parking lot from too contribute to cumulative effects on the many cars and buses and the related im- yellow-billed cuckoo or its habitat at ei- pacts of noise and smell from a large num- ther of the monuments. ber of vehicles would continue to have a Conclusion. There would be no effects on long-term, minor, adverse impact on visi- the habitat or population of yellow-billed tors’ experiences. cuckoo at Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot Visitors would continue to have minimal national monuments. There would be no interaction with the Castle’s natural and cumulative effects on the yellow-billed cultural resources because of physical bar- cuckoo associated with alternative A. riers (for example, fencing) and restric- Alternative A would not constitute an im- tions (for example, signs to stay on paved pairment of resources or values associated trails). Several people commented on the with threatened and endangered species at lack of intimacy with resources at the Cas- Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot National tle because of high levels of development Monument. Implementation of this alter- and lack of access to much of the monu- native would not result in any unaccepta- ment’s land base, particularly Beaver ble impacts and is consistent with section Creek. For these visitors who would be 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies 2006. interested in more self exploration opportunities, especially access to Beaver Creek and the associated riparian area, this will continue to be a long-term, moderate, adverse impact. Montezuma Well would continue to offer opportunities for quiet and solitude in natural and cultural settings, including the

188 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) outlet of the well, the trails around the the sites. The public has expressed interest well, and the monument’s picnic area. in more interpretive programming and These experiences are very important to demonstrations, especially by modern-day many Montezuma Well visitors. Continu- affiliated tribes. For visitors interested in ing to have these opportunities available these types of interpretive opportunities, would result in an ongoing long-term, ma- this will continue to be a long-term, mod- jor benefit for visitors seeking these kinds erate, adverse impact. of experiences. At Montezuma Castle, congestion in the At Tuzigoot, the opportunity to come in visitor center is a problem at times because close contact with a major surface ruin is of the small space and high visitation dur- highly valued by most visitors. Continuing ing peak season. Visitors are unable to eas- to provide this opportunity would result ily view exhibits and visit the bookstore, in a continued long-term, major, benefi- resulting in a long-term, minor, adverse cial effect on visitor experiences. impact on opportunities for orientation and interpretation. In addition, there are The viewshed of Tuzigoot’s surrounding no facilities for group interpretation op- cultural landscape is partially interrupted portunities, which limits the monument’s by the mine tailings. During the 2003-2004 ability to provide consistent and diverse visitor study, one of the most highly interpretive programming. Primarily, in- ranked concerns for visitors to all three terpretation is provided via waysides and a sites was the visual impact of the mine tail- roving interpreter. For visitors seeking ings at Tuzigoot (White and Virden 2004). more consistent and diverse programs, This interruption of the viewshed will this will remain a long-term, moderate, continue to be a long-term, major, adverse adverse impact. impact on the visitor experience. Another concern of current visitors is the lack of At Montezuma Well, there are very li- trail connections to the nearby state park, mited opportunities for site orientation which limits visitors’ opportunities to ex- and interpretation. The visitor contact perience both public lands, contributing station is a small prefabricated concrete to a long-term, minor, adverse impact. building with room for only two or three staff. Visitors access information from Access to Orientation, monument staff through a sliding window Interpretation, and Education in the mobile trailer. In addition, there is no space for personal services and pro- Currently, there is limited general orienta- grams, which limits the monument’s abili- tion to all three sites, resulting in a lack of ty to provide consistent and diverse inter- connectedness of the sites and their sto- pretive programming. Interpretation is ries. This lack of connectedness limits visi- primarily provided via waysides and a rov- tors’ knowledge of Sinaguan history, since ing interpreter. each site plays a unique role in telling the story. In addition, the lack of orientation The limited orientation and education limits the likelihood that visitors will visit available at the site will continue to result more than one or two of the sites. This in a long-term, moderate, adverse impact lack of general orientation will continue to on visitors. be a long-term, moderate, adverse impact There is some confusion over the way vision visitors’ opportunities for orientation tors arrive at the site that results from and interpretation of Sinaguan history. poor signage and facility layout. This con- Because of limited staff and site opportun- fusion leads most visitors to only visit the ities, there are few opportunities for well and not take advantage of the picnic “hands-on” interpretive activities at any of area, which offers quiet and shade. This

189 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES will continue to result in a long-term, mi- The regional, multi-use trail proposed nor, adverse impact on visitors. along Montezuma Castle Highway would have a beneficial impact on recreation op- At Tuzigoot, there are no facilities for portunities. However, the no-action alter- group interpretation opportunities, which native would not provide the connection limits the monument’s ability to provide of the regional trail through the monu- consistent and diverse interpretive pro- ment, which would result in a long-term, gramming. Interpretation is primarily pro- adverse, cumulative impact to this provided via waysides and a roving interpre- posed recreation opportunity. ter. For visitors seeking more consistent and diverse programs, this will remain a At Montezuma Well, surrounding resi- long-term, moderate, adverse impact. dential development projects could lead to increased visitation to Montezuma Well Visitor Safety that may impact the contemplative settings at the outlet, along the trails, and in Safety information will continue to be the picnic area. Also, these developments available, although occasional crowding at may have a negative impact on the scenic Montezuma Castle’s visitor center and the viewsheds around Montezuma Well. The limited orientation facilities at Montezu- no-action alternative has no proposals ma Well would continue to make it diffi- that would mitigate these potential ad- cult to gain a comprehensive understand- verse impacts. ing of safety factors, leading to a long- term, minor, adverse impact. At Tuzigoot, the camping and reservoir improvements at Dead Horse Ranch State Cumulative Effects Park would increase the desirability of the Several projects in the region may contri- state park for day and overnight use, lead- bute to cumulative impacts on the visitor ing to a potential increase in demand for experience. trail connections between Tuzigoot and the state park. This increase in demand At Montezuma Castle, the proposed Ya- would contribute to the existing, long- vapai-Apache Nation Native American term, adverse impacts resulting from the Cultural Center will likely have long-term, lack of trail connections between the mo- moderate, beneficial impacts on interpre- nument and the park. tation and education opportunities related to the cultural history of the region. Cur- The proposed recreation opportunities rently, the Castle visitor center has up- that would be part of the Verde River dated and modern exhibits, but the space Greenway, which runs along the southern and amount of exhibits are limited. The boundary of Tuzigoot, would enhance cultural center would complement and recreation opportunities for Tuzigoot visi- enhance the opportunities provided at the tors. However, the no-action alternative Castle. However, the cultural center will would not contribute to the beneficial im- likely attract visitors to the area and may pacts of the Verde River Greenway. increase visitation to the Castle, which The restoration of the mine tailings by may contribute to the already crowded Freeport McMoRan, particularly the cov- conditions that occur in the parking area, ering of the tailings with topsoil to pro- visitor center, and along the loop trail. Be- mote vegetation growth, would likely have cause the no-action alternative would not a major, beneficial, cumulative impact on alleviate current crowded conditions, visi- visitor experiences at Tuzigoot by improv- tation resulting from the attractions at the ing the scenic viewshed. cultural center could increase this adverse The proposed Sinaguan Circle Tour could impact at the Castle. enhance the interpretive opportunities at all three sites by connecting all of the Si-

190 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) naguan sites in the region via an interpre- There are very limited opportunities at tive, self-guided tour with associated re- Montezuma Well for site orientation and source materials. The no-action alterna- interpretation. The visitor contact station tive would not enhance or substantially is a small prefabricated concrete building contribute to this beneficial cumulative with room for only two to three staff. Visi- impact. tors access information from monument staff through a sliding window in the mo- Conclusion bile trailer. In addition, there is no space for personal services and programs, which Alternative A would result in continuing limits the monument’s ability to provide minor, beneficial impacts resulting from consistent and diverse interpretive pro- the continued opportunities to view the gramming. Interpretation is primarily pro- monuments’ prime cultural resources. vided via wayside exhibits and a roving However, minor, adverse impacts from interpreter. The signage and facility layout crowding and congestion at peak times in is confusing to some visitors, resulting in the parking lot, main loop trail, and visitor visitors only visiting the well and missing center at Montezuma Castle would con- the picnic area, which offers shade and tinue during peak times and may get worse quiet. Alternative A would result in long- with increasing visitation. In addition, the term, minor, adverse effects on monument lack of adequate interpretive and educa- operations at Montezuma Well. tion facilities for regular and diverse programming would continue to have a mi- Tuzigoot National Monument nor, adverse impact on visitors. Although a visitor center is located at Tu- MONUMENT OPERATIONS zigoot, there are no facilities for group interpretation opportunities, which limits Alternative A consists of a continuation of the monument’s ability to provide consis- current management conditions. There tent and diverse interpretive program- would be no new facilities provided at any ming. Interpretation is primarily provided of the sites, nor would existing monument via wayside exhibits and a roving interpre- operations be changed substantially. ter. Alternative A would result in long- term, minor, adverse effects on monument Montezuma Castle National Monument operations at Tuzigoot National Monu- The congestion and crowding in Monte- ment. zuma Castle National Monument would continue because of limited space and All Sites large crowds. Areas currently experienc- The limited staff is spread over three sites ing congestion during the peak tourist sea- and an offsite headquarters. Travel time is son at Montezuma Castle include the visi- approximately 30 minutes between Tuzi- tor center, the trail to the Montezuma goot and Montezuma Castle or Monte- Castle, and the visitor parking lot. This zuma Well. It is difficult to quickly re- results in visitors waiting for information, spond to needs or demands in another site resource impacts adjacent to the trail, and under these conditions. There would con- parking in improper areas. Based on the tinue to be limited opportunities for close assumption that crowded conditions contact between visitors and natural and would increase in the future, alternative A cultural features of the monument. Be- would result in long-term, minor, adverse cause of limited staff and site opportuni- effects on monument operations at Mon- ties, there are few opportunities for tezuma Castle National Monument. “hands-on” interpretive activities at any of the sites. The public has expressed interest

191 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES in more interpretive programming and Montezuma Castle entrance road could demonstrations, especially by modern-day increase visitation at Montezuma Castle, affiliated tribes. The sites would remain and possibly the other sites. This would autonomous with limited connectivity. result in long-term, minor, adverse effects There would be limited interpretation for on monument operations. a particular site beyond the boundaries of The possible development of the Soda that site. There would be limited offsite Springs Ranch, expansion of recreational programs and limited opportunities for opportunities at Dead Horse Ranch State group programs and/or cultural demon- Park, and development associated with strations. the Verde River Greenway Management Resource-related activities would contin- Plan could also attract additional visitors, ue to focus on stabilizing the primary sites. who could also visit the monuments. At Many areas in each of the sites would re- Montezuma Well, surrounding residential main off-limits to visitors to protect sensi- development projects could lead to in- tive cultural resources. The principal arc- creased visitation that may affect monu- heological resources, such as the Tuzigoot ment operations by increasing crowding. Pueblo and Montezuma Castle, would re- The proposed Sinaguan Circle Tour could ceive intensive preservation treatment and enhance the interpretive opportunities at regular cyclic maintenance. Other archeo- all three sites by connecting all of the Si- logical resources would be stabilized or naguan sites in the region via an interpre- allowed to molder pursuant to section 106 tive, self-guided tour with associated re- consultation. Natural resource manage- source materials. This could increase visi- ment activities would continue to be li- tation at all of the sites, which could create mited by a lack of staff and funding. Over- a long-term, adverse effect on monument all, the implementation of alternative A operations because of the increased visita- would result in long-term, minor, adverse tion. Expansion of the parking area at effects on monument operations through- Montezuma Castle would reduce parking out the monuments. problems at that site but would increase maintenance responsibilities of the mo- Cumulative Effects nument. The effects of alternative A in Several projects in the region may contri- combination with the effects of other past, bute to cumulative impacts on monument present, and reasonably foreseeable future operations. The proposed Yavapai- actions would result in long-term, minor, Apache Nation Native American Cultural adverse, cumulative effects on monument Center would complement and enhance operations. the opportunities already provided at Montezuma Castle. Currently, the Monte- Conclusion zuma Castle visitor center has updated Alternative A would result in long-term, and modern exhibits, but the space and minor, adverse effects on monument op- number of exhibits are limited. However, erations. The congestion and crowding in the cultural center would attract visitors to the Montezuma Castle National Monu- the region and may increase visitation to ment, very limited opportunities at Mon- Montezuma Castle, which would result in tezuma Well for site orientation and inter- long-term, minor, adverse conditions on pretation, facilities that limit the monu- monument operations, based on the cur- ment’s ability to provide consistent and rent crowded conditions that occur in the diverse interpretive programming, and parking area, visitor center, and along the distribution of staff between three sites loop trail. and offsite headquarters and maintenance The expansion of the casino-resort oper- facilities would continue. The effects of ated by the Yavapai-Apache tribe near the alternative A in combination with the ef-

192 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) fects of other past, present, and reasona- ter the population growth forecast for the bly foreseeable future actions would result Verde Valley or for surrounding areas in in long-term, minor, adverse, cumulative Yavapai and Coconino counties. effects on monument operations. Changes in annual visitation to the national monuments would be accompanied by SOCIOECONOMICS corresponding effects on visitor spending Alternative A consists of a continuation of in the regional economy, affecting local current management conditions and ac- retail, lodging, eating and drinking, and tions. At all sites, there would not be any other service establishments. Local gov- new facilities or changes to management ernments would also experience impacts strategies that would result in additional on local sales tax receipts. A sustained and visitation to the monuments. No construc- consistent trend of increasing visitation tion activity would occur at the monu- could also result in impacts on local em- ments that would result in additional con- ployment as establishments add staff in struction expenditures in the region. response to the changes in spending. There would be no changes at the monu- Assuming future visitation reflects the lo- ments that would result in additional mo- cal/non-local visitor mix, day- nument employment. use/overnight stays, and typical spending The monuments would continue to rent profiles characterizing current visitors, office space for the headquarters in Camp annual visitor spending would increase by Verde and space for maintenance facilities about $900,000 annually with the increase on tribal lands, which contributes a small to 800,000 annual visitors. The added amount of money to the regional econo- spending would support 18 new jobs and my. The staff live in the region and spend $252,000 in annual personal income in the money in the region, which benefits the Verde Valley. These impacts would be economy. The monuments also spend long-term. Impacts of comparable magni- money in the region for supplies. Alterna- tudes, but in the opposite direction (that tive A would result in a negligible, long- is, a reduction of 18 jobs) would result term, beneficial effect on socioeconomics should a comparable reduction in spend- in the region. ing occur, such as that which might ac- company a short-term decline in visita- Under the no-action alternative, modest tion. Increases of the magnitudes outlined growth in annual recreation visitation is above would not fundamentally alter the foreseeable, based on regional population structure or functioning of the regional growth and the continued popularity of economy. Sedona as a tourism destination. However, the fundamental visitor experience would Implementation of the no-action alterna- remain largely unchanged. Consequently, tive would result in the estimated expendi- long-term annual visitation under the No- ture of $1.03 million in capital improve- Action is assumed to average about ment spending over the life of the general 800,000 visitors. Annual visitation may management plan. Temporary job and in- vary based on influences such as fuel pric- come impacts could be associated with es (high prices lead to decreased visita- some improvement projects at the nation- tion) or a highway detour redirecting al monuments paid for using fee demo more traffic by one or both sites (increas- funding. In many instances, the projects ing visitation). would be completed by the maintenance staff at the national monuments, with fee The area’s recent population growth is demo funding used primarily to purchase expected to continue under the no-action supplies, construction materials, and alternative. This alternative would not al- equipment. Contractors would be hired to

193 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES complete other projects. In either case, rounding the monuments could result in completion of the projects anticipated un- impacts on surface and groundwater re- der the no-action alternative support the sources that could result in long-term, mi- established base of contractors, construc- nor to moderate, adverse, cumulative ef- tion supply firms, and associated firms in fects. The discharge of groundwater from the Verde Valley, but would likely result in Shea Spring and Montezuma Well may be little new hiring or alteration of the struc- affected by groundwater withdrawals in ture or functioning of the economy. specific areas around two water sources. These have not yet been definitively de- No changes in NPS staffing or other oper- termined. NPS has initiated two studies to ations are expected under the no-action determine the vulnerability of the two wa- alternative. Consequently, there would be ter sources to groundwater withdrawals. no long-term economic impacts associated with alternative A. Changing land uses and population growth could affect water use and Verde The no-action alternative would not affect River water-right adjudication. other social and economic conditions in the Verde Valley. There are some water quality issues at Tu- zigoot related to external influences. The Cumulative Effects Tavasci Marsh is supported by two sources of hydrologic input. One source is Several projects in the region may contri- Shea Spring and other small seeps. The bute to cumulative impacts on socioeco- Verde River, via Pecks Lake, provides the nomics. The expansion of the casino- other source of water. Peck’s Lake was resort operated by the Yavapai-Apache placed on the Water Quality Limited List tribe near the Montezuma Castle entrance (303d List) in 1998 for violations in the road and the proposed Yavapai-Apache state’s dissolved oxygen and pH stan- Nation Native American Cultural Center dards. Peck’s Lake water quality condi- would attract tourists and visitors, who tions may have been influenced by a golf would spend money in the region for food course adjacent to the lake and a dairy just and lodging. The possible development below the lake outlet. Phelps Dodge Cor- and expansion of recreational opportuni- poration owns the land around Peck’s ties at Soda Springs Ranch and Dead Lake and has plans to develop approx- Horse Ranch State Park, and development imately 550 acres, including a golf course, associated with the Verde River Greenway residential housing, and commercial infra- Management Plan, could attract addition- structure. al visitors, who would spend additional money on food and lodging. The pro- Conclusion posed Sinaguan Circle Tour could attract additional visitors who would spend mon- The effects of the no-action alternative on ey on food and lodging. The Freeport socioeconomic conditions in the Verde McMoRan Tailing Project could lead to Valley would be long-term and beneficial, additional regional spending, which could but negligible. help boost the regional economy. IMPAIRMENT CONCLUSION The residential development projects and FOR ALTERNATIVE A other land uses surrounding monuments could lead to additional population in the Under this alternative, there would be no area, which could also lead to additional adverse impacts on resources or values jobs and additional spending, which whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- would boost the regional economy. As fill specific purposes identified in the na- population continues to grow, increasing tional monument’s establishing legislation, development on lands adjacent to and sur- (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor-

194 Impacts of Implementing Alternative A (No-Action) tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- resources or values. Implementation of numents, or (3) identified as a goal in this this alternative would not result in any general management plan or other rele- unacceptable impacts and is consistent vant NPS planning documents. Conse- with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- quently, there would be no impairment of cies 2006.

195

IMPACTS OF IMPLEMENTING ALTERNATIVE B (PREFERRED)

ble impacts to archeological resources CULTURAL RESOURCES from inadvertent visitor use or looting and vandalism. Archeological Resources Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle Montezuma Castle National Monu- National Monument. Implementation of ment. Implementation of alternative B alternative B would generally have the would generally have the same impacts on same cumulative effects on archeological archeological resources in Montezuma resources as those listed under alternative Castle National Monument as those de- A, although expanded interpretation and scribed under alternative A. Where possi- education could improve visitor steward- ble, new facilities, such as trails, would be ship. constructed in already disturbed areas, and all ground-disturbing activities would Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National be preceded by site-specific archeological Monument. Implementation of alterna- surveys. However, actions under this al- tive B would generally have the same cu- ternative, such as placing the river corri- mulative effects on archeological re- dor just south of the castle and the corri- sources as those listed under alternative A, dor along Montezuma Castle and Beaver although expanded interpretation and Creek Estates Roads in the Interaction education could improve visitor steward- and Discovery zone to accommodate nat- ship. ural surface trails, interpretive signage, and regional trail activities (for example, Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- horseback riding, hiking, and mountain al Monument. After applying the Advi- biking), could result in some additional sory Council on Historic Preservation’s negligible impacts to archeological re- regulations implementing section 106 of sources from inadvertent visitor use or the National Historic Preservation Act, looting and vandalism. the National Park Service determined that actions under this alternative would have Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- no adverse effect on archeological re- mentation of this alternative would gener- sources in the national monument. The ally have the same impacts on archeologi- cumulative effects would be beneficial; cal resources in Tuzigoot National Mo- this alternative’s contribution to these ef- nument as those described under alterna- fects would be small. tive A. Where possible, new facilities, such as trails, parking facilities, and boat Under this alternative, there would be no launches, would be constructed in already impairment of resources or values asso- disturbed areas, and all ground-disturbing ciated with archeological resources. Im- activities would be preceded by site- plementation of this alternative would not specific archeological surveys. However, result in any unacceptable impacts and is actions under this alternative, such as consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- placing areas to the east, north, and south agement Policies 2006. of the Pueblo in the Interaction and Dis- covery zone to accommodate natural sur- Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- face trails and regional trail connections, ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- and construction of a proposed small cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations parking area and boat launch on the east implementing section 106 of the National side of the entrance road at the Verde Riv- Historic Preservation Act, the National er, could result in some additional negligi- Park Service determined that actions un-

196 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) der this alternative would have no adverse the National Park Service determined that effect on archeological resources in the actions under this alternative would have national monument. The cumulative ef- no adverse effect on prehistoric and his- fects would be beneficial; this alternative’s toric structures and buildings in the na- contribution to these effects would be tional monument. The cumulative effects small. would be beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to these effects would be small. Under this alternative, there would be no impairment of resources or values asso- Under this alternative, there would be no ciated with archeological resources. Im- impairment of resources or values asso- plementation of this alternative would not ciated with prehistoric and historic struc- result in any unacceptable impacts and is tures and buildings. Implementation of consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- this alternative would not result in any agement Policies 2006. unacceptable impacts and is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- Prehistoric and Historic Structures and cies 2006. Buildings Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- Montezuma Castle National Monu- ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- ment. Implementation of this alternative cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations would generally have the same impacts on implementing section 106 of the National prehistoric and historic structures and Historic Preservation Act, the National buildings in the national monument as Park Service determined that actions un- those described under alternative A. der this alternative would have no adverse effect on prehistoric and historic struc- Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- tures and buildings in the national monu- mentation of this alternative would gener- ment. The cumulative effects would be ally have the same impacts on prehistoric beneficial; this alternative’s contribution and historic structures and buildings in to these effects would be small. the national monument as those described Under this alternative, there would be no under alternative A. impairment of resources or values asso- Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle ciated with prehistoric and historic struc- National Monument. Implementation of tures and buildings. Implementation of alternative B would generally have the this alternative would not result in any same cumulative effects on prehistoric unacceptable impacts and is consistent and historic structures and buildings as with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- those listed under alternative A. cies 2006.

Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National Cultural Landscapes Monument. Implementation of alterna- Montezuma Castle National Monu- tive B would generally have the same cu- ment. Implementation of alternative B mulative effects on prehistoric and histor- would generally have the same impacts on ic structures and buildings as those listed cultural landscape resources in the na- under alternative A. tional monument as those described un- Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- der alternative A. al Monument. After applying the Advi- Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- sory Council on Historic Preservation’s mentation of alternative B would generally regulations implementing section 106 of have the same impacts on cultural land- the National Historic Preservation Act,

197 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES scape resources in the national monument ciated with cultural landscapes. Imple- as those described under alternative A. mentation of this alternative would not result in any unacceptable impacts and is Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- National Monument. Implementation of agement Policies 2006. alternative B would generally have the same cumulative effects on cultural land- Ethnographic Resources and scape resources as those listed under al- Traditional Cultural Properties ternative A. Montezuma Castle National Monu- Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National ment. Alternative B would generally have Monument. Implementation of alterna- the same impacts on ethnographic re- tive B would generally have the same cu- sources and traditional cultural properties mulative effects on cultural landscape rein the national monument as those de- sources as those listed under alternative A. scribed under alternative A.

Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- al Monument. After applying the Advi- mentation of alternative B would generally sory Council on Historic Preservation’s have the same impacts on ethnographic regulations implementing section 106 of resources and traditional cultural proper- the National Historic Preservation Act, ties in the national monument as those the National Park Service determined that described under alternative A. actions under this alternative would have no adverse effect on cultural landscape Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle resources in the national monument. The National Monument. Implementation of cumulative effects would be beneficial; alternative B would generally have the this alternative’s contribution to these ef- same cumulative effects on ethnographic fects would be small. resources and traditional cultural properties as those described under alternative A. Under this alternative, there would be no impairment of resources or values asso- Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National ciated with cultural landscapes. Imple- Monument. Implementation of alterna- mentation of this alternative would not tive B would generally have the same cu- result in any unacceptable impacts and is mulative effects on ethnographic re- consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- sources and traditional cultural properties agement Policies 2006. as those described under alternative A. Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- al Monument. After applying the Advi- cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations sory Council on Historic Preservation’s implementing section 106 of the National regulations implementing section 106 of Historic Preservation Act, the National the National Historic Preservation Act, Park Service determined that actions un- the National Park Service determined that der this alternative would have no adverse actions under this alternative would affect effect on cultural landscape resources in no historic properties in the monument. the national monument. The cumulative There would also be no impacts on ethno- effects would be beneficial; this alterna- graphic resources. The cumulative effects tive’s contribution to these effects would would be beneficial; this alternative’s con- be small. tribution to these effects would be small. Under this alternative, there would be no Under this alternative, there would be no impairment of resources or values asso- impairment of resources or values asso-

198 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) ciated with ethnographic resources or tra- tential long-term, adverse impacts on the ditional cultural properties. Implementa- floodplain as a result of the designated tion of this alternative would not result in route across the creek would be negligible. any unacceptable impacts and is consis- Under this alternative, an unimproved tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management trail would be designated south of the cliff Policies 2006. dwelling. Design of the trail would require some selective removal of tree limbs or Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- brushy material to mark the trail. The un- ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- derstory of the riparian area is primarily cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations nonnative grasses. The understory vegeta- implementing section 106 of the National tion would not be removed from the trail, Historic Preservation Act, the National so there would be no increase in the area Park Service determined that actions un- not covered by vegetation. Potential ad- der this alternative would affect no historic verse impacts could be reduced by design- properties in the national monument. ing the trail to avoid areas where the un- There would also be no impacts on ethno- derstory vegetation is sparse or more sus- graphic resources. The cumulative effects ceptible to disturbance and to avoid areas would be beneficial; this alternative’s con- of uneven or unstable terrain. Because no tribution to these effects would be small. understory vegetation would be removed Under this alternative, there would be no for the trail, the potential for short-term, impairment of resources or values asso- adverse impacts on water flow through the ciated with ethnographic resources or tra- riparian area would be negligible. ditional cultural properties. Implementa- There could be some adverse impact to tion of this alternative would not result in understory vegetation from visitor use of any unacceptable impacts and is consis- the trail. Potential impacts include a de- tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management crease in the amount of understory vege- Policies 2006. tation along the trail, which could change water flow through the area, causing local NATURAL RESOURCES scouring along the trail and increased erosion. The understory vegetation is quite Floodplains hardy and adapted to disturbance. Visitor Montezuma Castle National Monu- use would be local and not continuous, ment. Under the preferred alternative, thereby reducing the potential impacts to there would be greater impacts than for the understory. Visitor use levels are an- alternative A on the floodplain. Visitors ticipated to be modest, so some vegetation would have the opportunity to explore the loss could occur here, but only during the riparian area on the side of Beaver Creek dry season. The vegetation would be ex- opposite from Montezuma Castle. Visitors pected to recover in the wet season when would be able to cross Beaver Creek dur- the trail is closed. Consequently, any loss ing dry periods. This crossing would not in vegetation would be local and tempo- be available during periods of normal to rary. The long-term, adverse impacts from high flow in the creek. A route across the a potential increase in erosion associated creek would be marked, but there would with a decrease in vegetative cover would be no modification to the riverbed that be negligible. The long-term impacts of would alter the water flow in the creek or the trail on erosion and water flow pat- increase erosion. There would also be no terns in the floodplain would also be neg- change in the water-carrying capacity of ligible. the floodplain, nor would alternative B The preferred alternative does not include raise the height of flood waters. The po- any additional management actions in the

199 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES floodplains of Wet Beaver Creek at Mon- would be aligned along an old road bed. tezuma Well. There would be no short- or The pilings would be spaced such that long-term impacts on the floodplain at the they would not act as a barrier to water well from actions proposed in this alterna- flow in the marsh nor would they change tive. The impacts of alternative B on the existing flow patterns. The construction floodplain processes at Wet Beaver Creek and use of the boardwalk would not in- would continue to be adverse but negligi- crease erosion in the floodplain or de- ble in the long term (same as alternative crease the capability of the floodplain to A). convey flood waters. The potential for short- and long-term adverse impacts Tuzigoot National Monument. Actions from development of a boardwalk in the proposed under this alternative include of marsh on water flow, erosion, or the ca- improvement of trails along the riparian pacity of the floodplain to convey flood area near the Verde River and Tavasci waters would be negligible. Marsh, providing visitors the opportunity to experience both these resources. Trail Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, improvement would require some selec- present, or reasonably foreseeable future tive removal of tree limbs or brushy ma- actions outside Montezuma Castle Na- terial to mark the trail. The understory tional Monument that would contribute vegetation would not be removed and, as to the height of a flood along the creek or now, ground vegetation would be mowed adversely impact the ability of the flood- along existing alignments, so there would plain to convey floodwaters within the be no increase in erosion potential in the river corridor. Consequently, there would floodplain. Potential adverse impacts be no cumulative impacts on floodplains could be reduced by designing the trail to under alternative B at Montezuma Castle avoid areas where the understory vegeta- National Monument. tion is sparse or more susceptible to dis- At Tuzigoot National Monument, the turbance and to avoid areas of uneven or Verde River Greenway Master Plan, as unstable terrain. Because trail design described under alternative A, would not would not involve clearing vegetation, the add any impervious surface to the flood- short-term, adverse impacts of the trails plain. This action would not contribute to on the erosion potential in the floodplain the height of a flood along the river or ad- or the capability of the floodplain to conversely impact the ability of the floodplain vey flood waters would be negligible. to convey floodwaters within the river The impacts of visitor use of the trail on corridor. The presence of a formalized the Tuzigoot National Monument flood- trail could reduce the number of social plain would be similar to those described trails along the creek. This trail would re- at Montezuma Castle National Monu- duce the erosion potential along the entire ment. The short- and long-term adverse corridor, providing a long-term benefit. impacts on erosion potential in the flood- The trail proposed along the riparian area plain would be negligible. at Tuzigoot National Monument could A boardwalk into the Tavasci Marsh link to the trail proposed in the Verde would provide visitors an opportunity to River Greenway Master Plan. Visitor use experience the marsh as well as to provide could increase along the trail in the mo- education and interpretation of the marsh nument once the trails are connected. In- resource under this alternative. The creased use of the trail in the monument boardwalk would extend into the marsh could result in greater potential for ero- on pilings and, if assessment determines sion along the trail because of vegetation that there would be no conflict with pre- loss. Vegetation loss could be reduced servation of significant cultural resources, through best management practices dur-

200 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) ing trail maintenance, thus decreasing the trees and shrubs with a dense understory erosion potential. The long-term, adverse, of grasses and flowering plants. Trail im- cumulative impact of the linked trails on provement would require some selective erosion resulting from vegetation loss removal of tree limbs or brushy material to would be negligible to minor. There mark the trail. These actions would have a would also be beneficial, cumulative im- negligible, short-term, adverse impact on pacts as a result of reduced social trailing. the distribution or abundance of vegeta- Overall, alternative B would have a neglig- tion in the riparian area. There could be ible to minor, adverse, cumulative effect some adverse impacts to the understory on floodplains at Tuzigoot National Mo- vegetation from visitor use of the trail. nument. However, because the understory vegetation is dense and composed of hardy spe- Conclusion. Alternative B would not con- cies, the long-term, adverse impacts on tribute to the height of a flood along the vegetation from use of the trail would be creek or adversely impact the ability of the negligible. The Riverwash soils that under- floodplain to convey floodwaters within lie the riparian area were compacted as a the river corridor for all three sites of the result of agricultural uses, particularly monument. Visitor use of trails could in- grazing. Use of the trail is unlikely to have crease the potential for erosion because of any additional adverse impacts on soil the associated loss of vegetative cover. productivity because the existing vegeta- The long-term, adverse, cumulative im- tive cover would remain in place. With the pact of a new trail system on erosion revegetation in place, it is unlikely that the sulting from vegetation loss would be neg- Riverwash soil would be further com- ligible to minor. pacted during low-intensity, seasonal use of the trail. The long-term, adverse im- Construction and use of a boardwalk at pacts on soils from the trail would be neg- Tavasci Marsh in Tuzigoot National Mo- ligible. nument would have long-term, adverse, negligible impacts on water flow and ero- While it is unlikely that the trail would sion in the marsh. There would be no cu- substantially alter the abundance and dis- mulative impacts under alternative B at tribution of plant species in the riparian Montezuma Castle National Monument. area, additional long-term measures to At Tuzigoot National Monument, alterna- control the nonnative and exotic species tive B would have a negligible to minor, would be necessary to maintain a diverse adverse, cumulative effect on floodplains. plant community and the desirability of the habitat for wildlife. Disturbances These effects would not constitute an im- caused by visitor use of the trail could en- pairment of floodplain resources or val- courage growth of nonnative and exotic ues. Implementation of this alternative species and over time could reduce the would not result in any unacceptable im- abundance and distribution of native spe- pacts and is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 cies along the trail. In the short term, ad- of Management Policies 2006. verse impacts to native vegetation could Soils and Vegetation be reduced by designing a route that minimizes disturbances that could encourage Montezuma Castle National Monu- the growth of nonnative and exotic spe- ment. Under this alternative, an existing cies to the extent practicable. The short- trail would be improved within the ripa- term, adverse impacts of the trail on the rian area across Beaver Creek from Mon- abundance and distribution of native ve- tezuma Castle. The vegetation in the ripa- getation would be negligible. Ongoing trail rian area is characterized by scattered maintenance and management of the nonnative and exotic species would re-

201 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES duce the long-term, adverse impacts of the be short-term, adverse, and negligible. trail on native plants. The long-term, ad- Any long-term, adverse impacts to vegeta- verse impacts of the trail designation on tion would be negligible. abundance and distribution of native vegetation would be negligible. Tuzigoot National Monument. Under this alternative, there would be designated There would be a designated trail into the trails around Tavasci Marsh and through area that was formerly used as pasture the Verde River riparian area. Trail devel- land southwest of the picnic area at Mon- opment would require some selective re- tezuma Well. The soil type in the former moval of tree limbs or brushy material to pasture is unlikely to limit trail designa- mark the trail, but the understory vegetation. Nonnative and exotic species are tion would not be removed. The short- dominant in the old pasture, and the Na- term, adverse impacts of trail development tional Park Service has not undertaken an on vegetation at Tuzigoot National Mo- effort to return this area to native vegeta- nument would be negligible because any tion. Therefore, trail construction activi- change in the distribution or abundance of ties would have a negligible effect on na- individual plants or communities would tive plants. not be measurable. Similarly, because no The current visitor contact station would clearing would occur, the short-term, ad- be expanded and would include a shaded verse impacts on soil from increased ero- area with interpretive materials about sion would be negligible. Montezuma Well, and new work space The understory vegetation would be sub- and storage would be constructed under ject to disturbance from visitor use; the this alternative. The expansion of facilities disturbance is expected to be year round would occur into areas that have already but modest and local. Visitor use could been disturbed and/or are currently cov- reduce the amount of understory vegeta- ered by asphalt. There would be no addition on the trail, which would increase the tional loss of soil productivity under this potential for soil erosion along the trail. alternative. There could be an increase in The trail design could reduce potential erosion potential if the existing asphalt adverse impacts on vegetation and soil by surface is modified during the expansion avoiding areas where the understory vege- activities. The erosion potential could be tation is sparse or more susceptible to dis- mitigated through best management prac- turbance and by avoiding areas of uneven tices such that the short-term adverse im- or unstable terrain. Best management pact is negligible. Once development ac- practices during trail maintenance could tivities are completed, the long-term ero- reduce losses to the understory vegetation sion potential associated with the ex- and decrease soil erosion. The long-term panded facilities would be comparable to impacts of the trail on the understory ve- existing conditions. The long-term, ad- getation would be negligible, as would the verse impacts on soil erosion from the ex- long-term, adverse impacts of soil erosion. pansion of facilities would be negligible. Trail use by visitors, even with best man- There would be no additional impacts on agement practices, disturbs the vegetation vegetation at the monument from the and encourages the growth of nonnative proposed expansion of the visitor contact and exotic species. Over time, these spe- station. The proposed development activi- cies could change the abundance and dis- ties would occur in an area that is already tribution of native species, resulting in covered by an impervious surface. During changes to biological productivity in the construction, some minimal impacts could monument. There are ongoing manage- occur to vegetation on the periphery of ment actions to control nonnative and ex- the expansion area. These impacts would otic species within the monument. The

202 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) long-term, adverse impacts of an increase in negligible, long-term, adverse, cumula- in nonnative and exotic vegetation would tive impacts on soils. be negligible to minor. Although some vegetation would be re- A boardwalk into the Tavasci Marsh is moved, the impacts would be local and proposed to provide visitors an opportu- not likely to change the abundance and nity to experience the marsh as well as to distribution of individual plants or com- provide education and interpretation of munities. Therefore, the long-term, ad- the marsh resource. Soils would be dis- verse impacts on vegetation from trail de- turbed during boardwalk construction, velopment would be negligible. If nonna- but the erosion potential would not in- tive or exotic species are present, man- crease and soil productivity would not be agement actions may be necessary to con- affected. Soil productivity would be im- trol the spread of these species once the pacted, but the effects would be local. The ground has been disturbed to minimize short- and long-term impact on soils any adverse impacts on native plants from would be adverse but negligible. trail development. The long-term, adverse impacts from nonnative and exotic species Impacts to marsh vegetation could be re- would be negligible. The impacts of alter- duced during boardwalk construction by native B in combination with the impacts avoiding vegetation to the extent practica- of the proposed greenway trail would re- ble. The short- and long-term adverse im- sult in negligible, long-term, adverse, cu- pacts on vegetation as a result of con- mulative impacts on vegetation. structing the boardwalk would be negligible. Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- al Monument. The long-term, adverse Cumulative Impacts. Increasing trends in impacts on soils from the trail would be visitor use and development associated negligible. Trail improvement would have with alternative B and other plans and a negligible, short-term, adverse impact on projects would contribute negligible, long- the distribution or abundance of vegeta- term, adverse, cumulative effects on soils tion in the riparian area. and vegetation. The long-term, adverse impacts on soil At Tuzigoot National Monument, the erosion from the expansion of facilities Verde River Greenway Master Plan, as would be negligible. During construction, described previously, would have local some minimal impacts could occur to ve- impacts on soils and vegetation. These getation on the periphery of the expansion impacts would include an increase in ero- area. These impacts would be short-term, sion potential and the removal of some adverse, and negligible. Any long-term, vegetation. The erosion potential could be adverse impacts on vegetation would be reduced during trail development using negligible. best management practices that could include but not be limited to soil fencing. Increasing trends in visitor use and devel- The short-term impacts of the trail development associated with alternative B and opment would be adverse but negligible. other plans and projects would contribute Trail maintenance activities, including the negligible, long-term, adverse, cumulative use of best management practices, would effects on soils and vegetation. minimize the potential for erosion along Alternative B would not constitute an im- the trail. The long-term, adverse impacts pairment of resources or values associated of the trail on soil erosion would be neg- with soil or vegetation at Montezuma Cas- ligible. The impacts of alternative B on tle National Monument. Implementation soils in combination with the impacts of of this alternative would not result in any the proposed greenway trail would result

203 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES unacceptable impacts and is consistent hydrologic functions in Tavasci Marsh at with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- Tuzigoot National Monument. This cies 2006. would have a negligible to minor, long- term, beneficial effect on wetland habitat Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- functions. Because no vegetation would be ment. The short-term, adverse impacts of removed and there would be no change in trail development on vegetation at Tuzi- volume and density of vegetation, the po- goot National Monument would be neg- tential increase in sedimentation from soil ligible because any change the distribution erosion would be slight, and the short- or abundance of individual plants or term impacts from trail development on communities would not be measurable. the marsh would be negligible. Over time, Similarly, because no clearing would oc- if vegetation is lost, the trails could in- cur, the short-term adverse impacts on crease sedimentation in the marsh. The soil from increased erosion would be neg- impacts from such sedimentation could be ligible. The long-term, adverse impacts of mitigated using best management practic- an increase in nonnative and exotic vege- es during long-term maintenance. The tation would be negligible to minor. long-term impacts of the increased sedimentation on the marsh would be negligi- Soils would be disturbed during board- ble. walk construction, but the erosion potential would not increase, and soil produc- A boardwalk into the Tavasci Marsh is tivity would not be affected. Soil produc- proposed to provide visitors an opportu- tivity would be impacted, but the effects nity to experience the marsh and to pro- would be local. The short- and long-term vide education and interpretation of the impacts on soils would be adverse but marsh resource. The boardwalk could negligible. The short- and long-term ad- have both short- and long-term impacts verse impacts on vegetation as a result of on habitat in the marsh. During construc- constructing the boardwalk would be neg- tion, the potential adverse impacts on the ligible. marsh include wetland habitat disturbance. If assessment determines that there The impacts of alternative B on soils and would be no conflict with preservation of vegetation, in combination with the im- significant cultural resources, the impacts pacts of the proposed greenway trail and from habitat disturbance could be re- increased visitation, would result in neg- duced by siting the boardwalk along an ligible, long-term, adverse, cumulative im- existing road bed and where there is the pacts on soils and vegetation. least impact on areas used by species that Alternative B would not constitute an im- frequent the marsh and to avoid shading pairment of resources or values associated the surrounding vegetation. With mitiga- with soil or vegetation at Tuzigoot Na- tion, the short- and long-term impacts on tional Monument. Implementation of this the marsh wetlands would be minor. alternative would not result in any unacceptable impacts and is consistent with Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, section 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies present, or reasonably foreseeable actions 2006. outside Montezuma Castle National Mo- nument that would adversely impact wet- Wetlands land functions or habitat there. There would be no actions at Montezuma The Verde River Greenway Management Castle National Monument that would Plan could develop trails and other infra- affect wetlands under alternative B. structure (for example, a boat ramp and Alternative B would include active marsh parking lot), near Tavasci Marsh at Tuzi- restoration activities to maintain existing goot National Monument. These actions

204 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) would create additional visitor opportuni- on Beaver Creek; typically between mid- ties that, with increased use, could affect summer and early winter. Wildlife breed- wetlands. However, the adverse effects of ing activities occur during the spring and increased visitation or development asso- summer, and foraging activity occurs year ciated with the Verde River Greenway round. Management Plan would likely be local Development of the trail could disturb and negligible, and the contribution of some wildlife species and increase the po- alternative B toward adverse, cumulative tential for predation on species nesting in impacts on wetlands would also be neglig- the riparian area by increasing predator ible. access. The short-term, adverse impacts of trail development could be minimized by Conclusion. There would be no actions at timing trail work to avoid high concentra- Montezuma Castle National Monument tions of wildlife in the riparian area to the that would affect wetlands under alterna- extent practicable. The trail could also be tive B. designed to take advantage of naturally Active marsh restoration activities would occurring open spaces and to avoid dense have a negligible to minor, long-term, patches in the vegetation, thus minimizing beneficial effect on wetland habitat func- alterations. These actions can minimize tions at Tavasci Marsh. Trail improve- the creation of additional open spaces that ments around the marsh could increase could allow increased predation. Trail de- sedimentation in the marsh. The long- velopment would have a negligible to mi- term impacts of the increased sedimenta- nor impact on wildlife and wildlife habitat. tion on the marsh would be negligible be- Some species would still be disturbed in cause of the abundance of grass coverage. the long term by visitors in the riparian Construction of the boardwalk could im- area. The trail would be confined to a rela- pact wetland habitat quality in the marsh. tively small area, and the number of visi- With mitigation, the short- and long-term tors on the trail is expected to be modest. impacts on the marsh wetlands would be Species would have ample undisturbed negligible to minor. There would be no habitat remaining in the monument. cumulative impacts on wetlands of alter- Therefore, the long-term, adverse impacts native B at Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot of trail use on wildlife and their habitat national monuments under this alterna- would be negligible. tive. At Montezuma Well, a trail is proposed The impacts of alternative B would not into the former pasture. Currently, the constitute an impairment of wetland revegetation in the pasture is nonnative and sources or values at Montezuma Castle or exotic grasses with an increasing number Tuzigoot national monuments. Implemen- of velvet mesquite. The primary residents tation of this alternative would not result of the old pasture are small mammals, in any unacceptable impacts and is consis- some reptiles, and birds that over-winter tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management at the monument. The designated trail Policies 2006. would have the greatest impact on smaller mammals and reptiles. The trail route Wildlife could be chosen to avoid any obvious ground dwellings as well as potential habi- Montezuma Castle National Monu- tat for birds; the short-term impact of trail ment. There would be designated trails development would be negligible. Al- within the riparian area across Beaver though some individuals could be im- Creek from the cliff dwelling. The trail pacted by the trail, the long-term, adverse would only be accessible during low flow impact would be negligible because it

205 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES would not reduce the abundance or dis- designated along the edge of the riparian tribution of any species within the pasture. area, rather than through it; thus, the trail would be unlikely to increase opportuni- Tuzigoot National Monument. A ties for predators. The trail would be con- boardwalk into Tavasci Marsh would be fined to a relatively small area, and the developed under this alternative. The number of visitors on the trail is expected boardwalk has the potential to disturb ha- to be modest. Species that are easily dis- bitat for water birds and other species. turbed would have ample undisturbed ha- The adverse impacts on wildlife could be bitat remaining in the monument. There- minimized by choosing a location, such as fore, the long-term, adverse impacts on along the existing old road bed (if assess- wildlife and their habitat would be neglig- ment determines that there would be no ible. conflict with preservation of significant cultural resources), with the least impact Cumulative Impacts. Past, present, or on habitat and by timing construction to reasonably foreseeable actions at Monte- minimize impacts on breeding and rear- zuma Castle National Monument, including. The short-term, adverse impacts on ing alternative B, would have a negligible wildlife from construction of the board- effect on wildlife or wildlife habitats at the walk would be negligible to minor. Some monument. The effects would be asso- species could be disturbed by the board- ciated with increased visitation and visitor walk and the presence of visitors. The ad- interaction with wildlife habitats. As a re- verse impacts on these species would be sult, cumulative adverse impacts under minimized by assuring that sufficient suit- alternative B on wildlife or wildlife habitat able habitat remains for these species would be negligible. within the marsh away from the board- At Tuzigoot National Monument, the walk. The long-term, adverse impacts on Verde River Greenway Master Plan, as wildlife species that are especially sensitive described previously, would have local to disturbance would be negligible to mi- impacts on wildlife habitat within the mo- nor, while for the more common adapta- nument along the Verde River. Although ble species, the effects would be negligible. these impacts would include disturbance Boardwalk construction activities would that could limit foraging activity or ad- increase the amount of contaminated se- versely impact nesting, they could be re- diment in the water column. The conta- duced by timing trail development to minants can accumulate in the tissues of avoid the breeding season. The long-term the wildlife that live in the marsh. Over impacts of the trail development would be time, wildlife exposed to these contami- adverse and negligible to minor but would nants can have reduced reproductive suc- be unlikely to affect wildlife individuals or cess. To limit the amount of contaminated populations to any substantial degree. The sediment in the water column, the con- impacts of alternative B in combination struction of the boardwalk could be timed with the impacts of the proposed green- such that the water level is relatively low. way trail would result in negligible to mi- Sediment fences could be installed to keep nor, long-term, adverse, cumulative im- the disturbed sediment from spreading pacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat. over a wider area. The long-term, adverse impacts on the habitat characteristics of Conclusion. Trail construction would the marsh would be negligible to minor, have a negligible to minor, short-term im- depending on the level of exposure to the pact on wildlife and wildlife habitat. Spe- contaminated sediment. cies would have ample undisturbed habitat remaining in the monument. There- Although the presence of visitors could fore, the long-term, adverse impacts of disturb some species, the trail would be

206 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) trail use on wildlife and their habitat Threatened and Endangered Species would be negligible. Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. There Although some individuals could be im- could be greater impacts on southwestern pacted by the proposed trail at Montezu- willow flycatcher habitat at Montezuma ma Well, the long-term, adverse impacts Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments on wildlife would be negligible. under alternative B than under alternative The short-term, adverse impacts on wild- A. The increased potential for impacts re- life from construction of the boardwalk at sults in part from designated trails that Tavasci Marsh in Tuzigoot National Mo- would be established at each site. The trail nument would be negligible. The long- routes have not yet been determined. The term, adverse impacts to wildlife species designated trail routes would be designed that are especially sensitive to disturbance to have the least effect on suitable fly- would be negligible to minor, while for catcher habitat. In addition, the National most adaptable species, the effects would Park Service would consider use restric- be negligible. The long-term, adverse im- tions for some trails to minimize habitat pacts on the habitat characteristics of the disturbances. These restrictions could in- marsh resulting from disturbance of con- clude limited access during breeding sea- taminated sediment in the marsh would be son or during periods of key activity such negligible to minor, depending on the lev- as migration. Prior to initiating actions el of exposure to the contaminated sedi- that would affect the southwestern willow ment. flycatcher or its habitat, the National Park Service would complete additional envi- The trail at Tavasci Marsh would be con- ronmental compliance activities and confined to a relatively small area, and the sult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service number of visitors on the trail is expected as appropriate. to be modest. Species that are easily disturbed would have ample undisturbed ha- Montezuma Castle National Monument. bitat remaining in the monument. There- Under alternative B, the management ef- fore, the long-term, adverse impacts on forts to maintain suitable foraging habitat wildlife and their habitat would be neglig- for the flycatcher in the monument would ible. continue. These actions would affect fly- Cumulative adverse impacts under alter- catcher habitat, but the effects are not native B on wildlife or wildlife habitat likely to be adverse. would be negligible at Montezuma Castle Because flycatchers are migratory, devel- National Monument. The impacts of al- opment of the trail in the riparian area ternative B in combination with the im- across Beaver Creek could occur when pacts of the proposed greenway trail flycatchers are not at the monument. Trail would result in negligible to minor, long- development could involve trimming ve- term, adverse, cumulative impacts on getation, but no vegetation would be wildlife and wildlife habitat at Tuzigoot cleared. The trail route would be chosen National Monument. to minimize impacts on preferred fly- The actions proposed under alternative B catcher habitat in the riparian area to the would not constitute an impairment of extent practicable. There would be no wildlife or wildlife habitat resources or short- or long-term effects on flycatcher values. Implementation of this alternative habitat in the riparian area from trail de- would not result in any unacceptable im- velopment. pacts and is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 Because flycatchers are shy, visitor use of of Management Policies 2006. the trail could discourage the flycatchers

207 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES from foraging around the trail while visi- that the flycatcher favors when nesting. tors are present. Because the proposed The ongoing ditch maintenance activities trail would be relatively short, the adverse would continue to benefit flycatcher habi- effects of visitors on the trail would be lo- tat in a negligible to minor way. cal, leaving most of the riparian area in the At Tuzigoot National Monument, the monument undisturbed. Additional man- Verde River Greenway Master Plan, as agement actions could be taken to further described previously, would contribute to reduce the long-term adverse effects of cumulative effects. In addition, a small trail use, including but not limited to use parking lot and boat launch is proposed by restrictions during breeding season. Long- Arizona State Parks on the east side of the term trail use could affect flycatcher forag- monument entrance road. This developing activity at Montezuma Castle National ment would be outside the monument Monument, but the effect is unlikely to be boundary but would require modifica- adverse. tions to the existing roadway. The proposed location of the boat launch is within Tuzigoot National Monument. Active designated critical habitat for the flycatch- marsh restoration activities are proposed er, and vegetation in the vicinity has been to maintain natural hydrologic functions used for nesting. Increased activity could in Tavasci Marsh under alternative B. disturb the flycatcher and discourage con- These actions would support maintenance tinued use of the area for nesting. of existing vegetation in the marsh and the surrounding riparian area. Flycatchers use The National Park Service would work these areas to forage. Marsh restoration with Arizona State Parks to minimize po- activities would have long-term benefits tential adverse impacts associated with the on flycatcher foraging habitat; thus, no Greenway Master Plan trail. The effects of adverse effects would occur. the boat launch could be reduced by shifting visitor activity on the river away from Trails would be developed to and around the patch of vegetation that serves as nest- the riparian areas, and a boardwalk would ing habitat. In addition, any trail develop- be developed into Tavasci Marsh under ment would avoid creating new or longer this alternative. The short-term effects of edges along a nesting patch that could trail development at Tuzigoot National make the nests more vulnerable to preda- Monument would be the same as for the tion. The proposed trail could have long- trail at Montezuma Castle; that is, no ef- term effects on the nesting habitat for the fects on habitat in the riparian area in the flycatcher along the Verde River, but these short or long term. If trail use would have effects are unlikely to be adverse. The ef- an adverse impact on foraging behavior, fects of alternative B in combination with management actions could be imple- the effects of the other actions described mented to reduce these effects, including above could affect flycatcher habitat; limiting access on the trail during certain however, the cumulative effects would not times of year or during periods of key ac- likely be adverse as a result of mitigation tivity. Visitor use of the trails and the measures and adaptive management strat- boardwalk could have long-term effects egies. on flycatcher foraging habitat, but the effects are not likely to be adverse. Conclusion. There could be greater impacts on southwestern willow flycatcher Cumulative Impacts. There is a docu- habitat at Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- mented nesting site for southwestern wil- goot national monuments under alterna- low flycatcher just outside the monument tive B than under alternative A. Manage- boundaries in the riparian area of the ment efforts to maintain suitable foraging Verde River. Ditch maintenance activities habitat for the flycatcher in Montezuma in the area help maintain the conditions

208 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred)

Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments Marsh under alternative B. This would would continue. These actions would af- maintain the current wet conditions in the fect flycatcher habitat, but the effects lower sections of the marsh. Marsh resto- would not likely be adverse. ration activities would have a long-term, negligible to minor benefit on rail habitat. The trail route would be chosen to minimize impacts on preferred flycatcher habitat Development of a boardwalk could affect in the riparian area to the extent practica- clapper rail habitat and increase the short- ble. There would be no short- or long- term potential for exposure to selenium by term effects on flycatcher habitat in the disturbing sediment and thus increasing riparian area from trail development. selenium concentrations. The effects of the boardwalk on rail habitat would be Additional management actions could be reduced by choosing a site that meets the taken to further reduce the long-term, ad- interpretation objectives of the monument verse effects of trail use. These actions in- with the least impact on the lower portion clude but would not be limited to use re- of the marsh. The effects could be further strictions during breeding season. Long- reduced by timing construction so that the term trail use could affect flycatcher forag- clapper rail is absent following migration. ing activity at Montezuma Castle National This timing would reduce the potential for Monument, but the effect would likely not direct exposure to selenium but not indi- be adverse. rect exposure through food. Additional Marsh restoration activities at Tuzigoot mitigation measures could include actions National Monument would have long- to prevent movement of the sediment term, negligible to minor benefits on fly- away from the construction area and to catcher foraging habitat. reduce the quantity of sediment in the water column during construction. These If trail use has an adverse impact on forag- measures would reduce the potential for ing behavior, management actions could exposure to selenium by organisms in the be implemented to reduce these effects, marsh and ultimately the clapper rail. De- including limiting access on the trail dur- velopment of the boardwalk would have a ing certain times of year or during periods short-term effect on water quality and ha- of key activity. Visitor use of the trails and bitat in the marsh, and the effects are un- the boardwalk could have long-term ef- likely to be adverse. Exposure to selenium fects on flycatcher foraging habitat, but in the marsh could affect, but is not likely the effects are not likely to be adverse. to adversely affect, the long-term repro- The ongoing ditch maintenance activities ductive success of the clapper rails that would continue to provide negligible to use the marsh to forage during migration. minor, cumulative benefits on flycatcher habitat. Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, present, or proposed monument actions The effects of alternative B in combination other than alternative B that would affect with the effects of the other actions at Tu- the Yuma clapper rail or its habitat at zigoot National Monument could affect Montezuma Castle National Monument. flycatcher habitat; however, the cumulative effects would not likely be adverse as The Verde River Greenway Management a result of mitigation measures and adap- Plan could develop trails and other infra- tive management strategies. structure (for example, a boat ramp and parking lot), near Tavasci Marsh at Tuzi- Yuma Clapper Rail. Active marsh resto- goot National Monument. These actions ration activities are proposed to maintain would create additional visitor opportuni- natural hydrologic functions in Tavasci ties that with increased use could affect

209 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES the Yuma clapper rail. However, the ad- of the riparian area. Cottonwood trees are verse effects of increased visitation or de- present in the riparian area. Trail devel- velopment associated with the Verde Riv- opment could be managed to avoid the er Greenway Management Plan would cottonwood trees used by yellow-billed likely be local and negligible contributors cuckoo for forage. The presence of visi- to adverse, cumulative impacts on the rail. tors is unlikely to disturb foraging activity because these birds are not easily dis- Conclusion. Marsh restoration activities turbed. Trail development and use at Tu- would affect rail habitat, but the effect zigoot National Monument could affect, would not be adverse because of mitiga- but is unlikely to adversely affect, yellow- tion to minimize the effects. In the long- billed cuckoo foraging behavior. term, marsh restoration would provide a negligible to minor benefit on rail habitat. Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative effects associated with increased visitation and Development of the boardwalk would visitor interaction with the habitats used have negligible effect on habitat in the by the yellow-billed cuckoo would be neg- marsh with potential to affect the clapper ligible at either of the monuments. The rail. However, mitigation measures would yellow-billed cuckoo is relatively tolerant offset the effects so they would not be ad- of disturbance, and management of visi- verse. The long-term effects on the clap- tors and their activities would offset any per rail from exposure to selenium can be potential adverse impacts. reduced by timing construction to avoid times when rails are present. With these Conclusion. Implementation of alternative mitigation measures, the development of B would have no effect on the yellow- the boardwalk would affect the clapper billed cuckoo habitat in the monument. rail, but the effects would not likely be ad- Trail development and use at Montezuma verse. There would be no cumulative ef- Castle and Tuzigoot could affect the fects on clapper rails or their habitat under cuckoo, but is unlikely to adversely affect this alternative at Montezuma Castle, and yellow-billed cuckoo habitat or popula- although there could be cumulative effects tions. Cumulative effects associated with at Tuzigoot, the effects on the Yuma clap- this alternative would be negligible at each per rail would not be adverse. of the monuments. Yellow-billed Cuckoo. There are no The actions associated with alternative B proposed actions under this alternative would not constitute an impairment of that would affect the gallery riparian forest threatened and endangered species re- at Montezuma Castle National Monu- sources or values at Montezuma Castle or ment. Because this species is difficult to Tuzigoot national monuments. Implemen- disturb, the trail development activities tation of this alternative would not result and use could affect, but are unlikely to in any unacceptable impacts and is consis- adversely affect, the cuckoo. tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies 2006. The effects of alternative B on cuckoo habitat at Montezuma Well are the same as VISITOR USE AND EXPERIENCE for alternative A: not likely to be adverse. Current management of the gallery ripa- Visitor Experiences rian forest would continue. These actions of Monument Resources would not have an effect on the habitat used by the yellow-billed cuckoo for nest- In alternative B, the three sites in the mo- ing and forage. numents would be connected with coordinated orientation and marketing via At Tuzigoot National Monument, unim- partnerships in the Verde Valley. This proved trails are proposed along the edge

210 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) coordinated orientation would encourage jor benefit to local and regional residents visitors to visit all three sites in the monu- interested in regional trail opportunities. ments as well as other sites in the region to Visitors at Montezuma Well would be able get better acquainted with the resources to take a trail across historic farming land and how they each tell, first-hand, a to access Beaver Creek. This area is unique element of the prehistoric and his- known for its outstanding birding oppor- toric stories associated with human set- tunities and shaded river banks, providing tlement of the Verde Valley. The in- a cool and quiet escape for visitors. Trail creased exposure of visitors to all three opportunities to Beaver Creek were also sites in the monuments would be a long- highly desired by the public and visitor term, moderate, beneficial effect on the survey respondents, making this a long- visitor experience. term, major, beneficial effect on the visitor This alternative also emphasizes increased experience. access to water and related riparian areas At Tuzigoot, trails would connect the mo- to showcase the connections of human nument to Dead Horse Ranch State Park, settlement of the Verde Valley to the natu- the Verde River Greenway, and Coconino ral environment. At each site, trails would National Forest via a boardwalk and trail make the riparian areas accessible to visi- system in Tavasci Marsh. The marsh is tors. Visitors at Montezuma Castle would known for its outstanding birding oppor- be able to cross Beaver Creek and gain tunities and shaded marshlands, providing views back to the castle with the creek in a cool and quiet escape for visitors. Trail the foreground. Natural surface trails opportunities to Tavasci Marsh and sur- along the south side of the creek would rounding public lands were also desired provide a different hiking experience for by the public and survey respondents, visitors, including opportunities for self- making this a long-term, major, beneficial exploration, providing better understand- impact. ing of the importance of riparian and water resources to the history of the Sinagua. Also, in partnership with Arizona State This opportunity was highly desired by Parks, the National Park Service would the public during the general management provide a Verde River access point in the plan scoping process as well as by visitors Verde River Greenway, increasing that responded to the visitor survey; there- recreation opportunities and access to the fore, trail opportunities to and along highly desirable Verde River. This would Beaver Creek would be considered a long- be a long-term, moderate, beneficial effect term, major, beneficial impact. for visitors to Tuzigoot National Monu- ment and Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Also at the Castle, additional parking is as well as residents of the surrounding proposed to alleviate some of the conges- community. tion from peak use by automobiles and tour buses. During peak season, when im- This alternative would also provide in- pacts from high volumes of vehicles are creased opportunities for cultural demon- greatest, this increased supply of parking strations of craftsmanship and social activ- would be a long-term, moderate, benefi- ities in and around the Tuzigoot Pueblo. cial effect. Paved trails south of the pueblo would provide access to the river. Signage and Finally, a regional multi-use trail is pro- programs in this area would interpret pre- posed along Montezuma Castle Highway historic trade activities and farming that at the north end of the monument. Local would have been associated with life in the trail groups desired this trail to connect a pueblo. The visitor survey identified a regional trail that extends through the strong interest for more “hands-on” activ- Verde Valley, providing a long-term, ma-

211 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES ities, including demonstrations by modern Also at Montezuma Well, a visitor contact affiliated tribes; therefore, this increase in ramada with interpretive panels and staff interpretive programs and services would would be provided. Currently, orientation be considered a long-term, moderate ben- and interpretation at Montezuma Well is efit for visitors interested in these types of minimal because of a lack of facilities and programs. staff resources. The visitor contact ramada would provide more information for self- Finally, this alternative includes a moni- guided opportunities as well as a location toring and management program for user for focused attention by monument staff. capacity. At all three sites, the monument The ramada would also provide a shady staff would focus on specific monitoring spot for rest during the hot months. More and management of areas where action is orientation and interpretive information is most likely needed to achieve desired considered a long-term, major benefit for conditions. This program would help con- all visitors. trol impacts related to crowding, user conflict, human-caused noise, and resource Visitor Safety damage, leading to a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on visitor experiences. Safety information would continue to be available at all three sites. At the Castle, Access to Orientation, additional parking would minimize the Interpretation, and Education crowded conditions that sometimes occur during peak hours, increasing both per- In alternative B, the three sites in the mo- ceived and actual visitor safety during visi- numents would be connected via coordi- tors’ arrival. At Montezuma Well, the ex- nated orientation efforts throughout the panded visitor contact station would im- Verde Valley. Partnerships for improved prove dissemination of orientation infor- wayfinding, information dissemination, mation on safety factors, which may re- and marketing would connect the reduce unsafe incidents. Finally, at Tuzi- sources at all sites in the Verde Valley, re- goot, designating trails in areas that are sulting in a long-term, major, beneficial currently being explored by visitors may effect on interpretation and orientation reduce safety hazards. These improve- opportunities. ments would result in a long-term, minor, This alternative calls for increased cultural beneficial impact on visitor safety. demonstrations and programs at all three sites, which are highly desired by the pub- Cumulative Effects lic, resulting in a long-term, moderate Several projects in the region may contri- benefit for those visitors seeking more bute to cumulative impacts on the visitor education opportunities. experience at all three sites related to al- This alternative also includes new inter- ternative B. First, at Montezuma Castle, pretive opportunities based out of the the proposed Yavapai-Apache Nation Na- Back cabin at Montezuma Well. The in- tive American Cultural Center would like- terpretive programs would emphasize ly have a long-term, moderate, beneficial prehistoric and historic farming activities. effect on interpretation and education More formalized and consistent interpre- opportunities related to the cultural histo- tive opportunities were desired by the ry of the region. In this alternative, the public as well as visitors who responded to coordinated orientation in the Verde Val- the visitor survey; therefore, the new op- ley and the Castle’s existing visitor center portunities at the Back cabin are consi- would complement the new education dered a long-term, moderate benefit for and interpretive opportunities provided at visitors. the cultural center, enhancing the long- term, beneficial impacts. The cultural cen-

212 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) ter would also likely attract visitors to the of the state park for day and overnight use. area and may increase visitation to the As more people visit the state park, there Castle. Alternative B includes an expan- would likely be an increased demand for sion of the parking area at the Castle, trail connections to Tuzigoot. This alter- which would help mitigate crowded con- native proposes trail connections between ditions. Furthermore, this alternative in- the monument and the park, leading to a cludes monitoring visitor use, particularly long-term, moderate, cumulative, benefi- crowded conditions in the parking area, cial impact. Further, the proposed visitor center, and along the loop trail, recreation opportunities of the Verde Riv- which would allow the monument to er Greenway, which runs along the south- work cooperatively with the tribe to man- ern boundary of Tuzigoot, would enhance age the distribution of use between the recreation opportunities for Tuzigoot visi- cultural center and Castle. Finally, the re- tors. Alternative B contributes to the mod- gional multi-use trail proposed along erate cumulative benefits of the Verde Montezuma Castle Highway would River Greenway by providing a Verde represent a moderate, cumulative, benefi- River access point in the Verde River cial effect on recreation opportunities in Greenway, increasing recreation oppor- the region. This alternative would connect tunities and access to the highly desirable the regional trail through the monument, Verde River. Finally, the restoration of the which would result in a long-term, benefi- mine tailings by Freeport McMoRan cial effect on this proposed recreation op- Copper and Gold, Inc., particularly cover- portunity. ing of the tailings with topsoil to promote vegetation growth, would likely have a At Montezuma Well, surrounding devel- major beneficial impact on visitor expe- opment projects could have an adverse riences at Tuzigoot by improving the scen- impact on visitor experiences by increas- ic viewshed. ing visitation to Montezuma Well, with a minor to moderate, adverse effect on the Finally, the proposed Sinaguan Circle contemplative experiences at the outlet, Tour could enhance the interpretive op- along the trails, and in the picnic area. Al- portunities at all three sites by connecting so, these developments may have a minor, all of the Sinaguan sites in the region via an adverse impact on the scenic viewsheds of interpretive, self-guided tour with asso- Montezuma Well. Alternative B includes ciated resource materials. Alternative B more trail opportunities in Montezuma would contribute to this moderate to ma- Well, which may help distribute use and jor, beneficial impact by providing in- improve recreation opportunities. In addi- creased diversity in opportunities to view tion, this alternative includes a monitoring and learn about the monuments’ prime program of use levels and visitor expe- cultural resources, and through enhanced riences, so if increasing use results in ad- interpretation of the Sinaguan story at the verse impacts on the quiet and contempla- central orientation center. tive settings, the monument would take actions to better manage and distribute Conclusion use to mitigate these impacts. There are no Alternative B would result in moderate to proposals in alternative B that would miti- major, beneficial effects resulting from the gate the potential impacts to the view- increased diversity in opportunities to sheds from these surrounding develop- view and learn about the monuments’ ments. prime cultural resources. Particularly, At Tuzigoot, the camping and reservoir connecting the three sites in the monu- improvements at Dead Horse Ranch State ments via a central orientation facility in Park would likely increase the desirability the Verde Valley would increase exposure

213 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES of visitors to all three sites and provide a improved in the area east of the pueblo. better understanding of each site’s unique Tuzigoot would have increased cultural role in settlement of the Verde Valley. demonstrations of craftsmanship and so- Further, providing more trail opportuni- cial activities in and around the pueblo. ties and cultural programs would make The area south of the Tuzigoot Pueblo visits to each site more exciting, interest- would include trails to the river. A new ing, and inviting for repeat visitation. Cu- workspace and storage facility would be mulative effects on visitor use and expe- constructed near the existing maintenance rience would be beneficial and moderate area to provide administrative space for to major. the functions and operations of Tuzigoot, replacing offsite workspace and storage MONUMENT OPERATIONS lost with the expiration of the General Services Administration lease with the Ya- The primary emphasis of alternative B vapai Apache reservation. While interpre- would be to connect the three sites (Mon- tation would be improved at Tuzigoot, tezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, and Tu- there would still be no area designated zigoot) with improved regional orienta- there for group interpretation. The actions tion to the Verde Valley area. associated with alternative B would result in long-term, negligible to minor, benefi- Montezuma Well cial effects on monument operations The area just south and west of the picnic through improved management of visitors area at Montezuma Well would be zoned and improved operations space. Addition- Interaction and Discovery, providing nat- al facilities would result in long-term, mi- ural surface trails for visitors to hike and nor, adverse effects by increasing opera- explore the land that was used for historic tion and maintenance demands. farming activities. A shade ramada by the visitor contact station is proposed in the All Sites existing footprint of the parking lot near The main emphasis of alternative B is to Montezuma Well. The facility would be a connect the three sites with improved recovered porch that contains interpretive gional orientation to the Verde Valley panels and shaded space for interaction area. Visitors would be introduced to all with NPS staff and volunteers. Interpreta- three sites and their related interpretive tion and visitor contact would be im- themes through coordinated messaging proved with alternative B. Alternative B among the three sites. Visitors would tra- would result in a long-term, minor to vel to the sites to learn firsthand about moderate, beneficial effect on monument elements of the prehistoric and historic operations through the provision of addi- stories associated with human settlement tional onsite space for operations. Addi- of the Verde Valley. Each site would main- tional facilities would result in long-term, tain a visitor center that would provide minor, adverse effects by increasing oper- interpretation through signs, programs, ation and maintenance demands. and cultural demonstrations highlighting the major themes associated with the par- Tuzigoot National Monument ticular site. This could result in the need Marsh rehabilitation and management for additional personnel to provide this efforts would be expanded at Tuzigoot. A level of interpretation. Formal interpretive new wayside would be added to the south and education opportunities would be of the tailings, and the tailings area would expanded. Partnerships that focus on be outside the monument’s legislated coordinated wayfinding, marketing, in- boundary. A marsh boardwalk would be creased information dissemination, and added that connects the visitor center pre-trip planning services would increase with the Tavasci Marsh. Trails would be

214 Impacts of Implementing Alternative B (Preferred) to provide orientation to the sites and oth- Conclusion er opportunities in the Verde Valley. Visi- Implementation of alternative B would tation could also increase because of result in long-term, minor to moderate, greater awareness of the monuments. beneficial effects on monument opera- Resource management activities would be tions because it would provide increased, increased through expansion of the mo- improved space for monument opera- numents’ resource stabilization program tions, and improved capability to manage and active participation in the NPS inven- visitors and resources. There would be tory and monitoring program. The Na- long-term, minor, adverse impacts due the tional Park Service would acquire most of addition of facilities that would require the lands within the legislated boundaries increased operations and maintenance. except for the mine tailings in Tuzigoot. Alternative B would contribute long-term, Operational efficiency would be improved minor beneficial effects on monument op- through the development of workspace erations, resulting in cumulative, negligi- and storage among the three sites. Part- ble to minor benefits for monument oper- ners would be sought to support rehabili- ations. tation activities and programming/visitor services. Maintenance would become SOCIOECONOMICS more efficient, although the improvements would require additional mainten- All Sites ance. The monument headquarters would The main emphasis of this alternative is to remain in leased office space in Camp connect the three sites with improved re- Verde. gional orientation to the Verde Valley Assuming that the workforce increases to area. Visitors would be introduced to all accommodate the increased interpretive three sites and their related interpretive and maintenance responsibilities, alterna- themes through coordinated messaging tive B would result in long-term, minor to among the three sites. Each site would moderate, beneficial effects on monument maintain a visitor center that would pro- operations. vide interpretation through signs, programs, and cultural demonstrations hig- Cumulative Effects hlighting the major themes associated with the particular site. The National Park Ser- Several projects in the region may contri- vice would acquire most of the lands with- bute to cumulative impacts on monument in the legislated boundaries except for the operations. The other plans, projects, and mine tailings in Tuzigoot. This would in- actions in the region and nearby would clude approximately 800 acres of land that have effects similar to those described for would be withdrawn from the local tax alternative A: long-term, minor, adverse, rolls, which would reduce the property cumulative effects on monument opera- taxes collected by the local governments, tions, primarily the result of increased visi- resulting in a negligible, adverse impact on tation and demand for associated support local socioeconomics. services. However, alternative B would contribute long-term, minor, beneficial Overall, alternative B would result in effects on monument operations, resulting short-term, negligible to minor, beneficial in cumulative, negligible to minor benefits effects on socioeconomics. for monument operations. Montezuma Castle National Monument New trails would be constructed on the site. A new viewing area that provides visi-

215 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES tors with views of the cliff dwellings B (negligible to minor benefits) in combi- would be constructed along with a park- nation with the effects of other past, ing facility. The remainder of the facilities present, and reasonably foreseeable future at Montezuma Castle would remain the actions would result in short- and long- same as alternative A. This construction term, minor, beneficial, cumulative effects activity associated with alternative B at on socioeconomics. Adjacent and sur- Montezuma Castle would result in short- rounding land use changes could result in term, negligible to minor, beneficial effects long-term, minor to moderate, adverse on socioeconomics. impacts to groundwater resources connected to Montezuma Well. Montezuma Well Conclusion The Back cabin at Montezuma Well would be used for interpretation purposes. Trails When the effects of each of the sites of the would be constructed in the area just monument are added, alternative B would south and west of the picnic area at Mon- result in a minor, short-term, beneficial tezuma Well and a shade ramada that con- effect on socioeconomics in the region. tains interpretive panels and shaded space The effects of alternative B in combination for interaction with NPS staff and volun- with the effects of other past, present, and teers would be constructed in the existing reasonably foreseeable future actions footprint of the parking lot near Monte- would result in short- and long-term, mi- zuma Well. This construction activity as- nor, beneficial cumulative effects on so- sociated with alternative B at Montezuma cioeconomics. Adjacent and surrounding Well would result in short-term, negligi- land use changes could result in long- ble, beneficial effects on socioeconomics. term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts to groundwater resources connected to Tuzigoot National Monument Montezuma Well. A marsh boardwalk would be added that IMPAIRMENT CONCLUSION connects the visitor center with the Tavas- ci Marsh and additional trails would be FOR ALTERNATIVE B constructed in the area east of the pueblo. Under this alternative, there would be no A workspace and storage facility would be adverse impacts on resources or values constructed near the existing maintenance whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- area to provide more administrative space fill specific purposes identified in the na- for the functions and operations of Tuzi- tional monument’s establishing legislation, goot, replacing offsite workspace and sto- (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- rage lost with the expiration of the Gener- tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- al Services Administration lease with the numents, or (3) identified as a goal in this Yavapai Apache reservation. This con- general management plan or other rele- struction activity associated with alterna- vant NPS planning documents. tive B would result in short-term, negligible, beneficial effects on socioeconomics at Tuzigoot National Monument.

Cumulative Effects Consequently, there would be no im- Several projects in the region may contri- pairment of resources or values. Imple- bute to cumulative impacts on socioeco- mentation of this alternative would not nomics in the region. The effects of these result in any unacceptable impacts and is projects would be the same as described consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- for alternative A. The effects of alternative agement Policies 2006.

216

IMPACTS OF IMPLEMENTING ALTERNATIVE C

on the east side of the entrance road at the CULTURAL RESOURCES Verde River. Archeological Resources Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle National Monument. Implementation of Montezuma Castle National Monu- alternative C would generally have the ment. Implementation of alternative C same cumulative effects on archeological would generally have the same impacts on resources as those listed under alternative archeological resources in Montezuma A, although expanded interpretation and Castle National Monument as those de- education could improve visitor steward- scribed under alternative A. Where possi- ship. ble, new facilities, such as trails, a headquarters building, and visitor contact facil- Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National ities, would be constructed in already dis- Monument. Implementation of alterna- turbed areas, and all ground-disturbing tive C would generally have the same cu- activities would be preceded by site- mulative effects on archeological re- specific archeological surveys. However, sources as those listed under alternative A, actions under this alternative would gen- although expanded interpretation and erally expand opportunities for visitors to education could improve visitor steward- connect with the natural and cultural en- ship. vironment of the monument by providing new and enhanced self-guided, designated Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- trails and visitor facilities. Thus, construc- al Monument. After applying the Advi- tion of new parking lots, headquarters and sory Council on Historic Preservation’s visitor contact facilities, and designated regulations implementing section 106 of natural surface trails (for example, to and the National Historic Preservation Act, along the riparian area of Beaver Creek, the National Park Service determined that the prehistoric ditch extending from actions under this alternative would have Montezuma Well and along Beaver Creek, no adverse effect on archeological re- along the north side of Montezuma Well’s sources in the national monument. The rim, and along the road from the visitor cumulative effects would be beneficial; contact facility to Montezuma Well) could this alternative’s contribution to these ef- result in negligible impacts to an unknown fects would be small. number of archeological resources from inadvertent use or looting and vandalism. Under this alternative, there would be no impairment of resources or values asso- Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- ciated with archeological resources. Im- mentation of this alternative would gener- plementation of this alternative would not ally have the same impacts on archeologi- result in any unacceptable impacts and is cal resources at Tuzigoot National Mo- consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- nument as those described under alterna- agement Policies 2006. tive A, although some additional negligible impacts on archeological resources from Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- inadvertent visitor use and from looting ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- and vandalism could be anticipated as a cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations result of developing trail connections with implementing section 106 of the National nearby state and federal lands and con- Historic Preservation Act, the National struction of new facilities such as a pro- Park Service determined that actions un- posed small parking area and boat launch der this alternative would have no adverse

217 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES effect on archeological resources in the actions under this alternative would have national monument. The cumulative ef- no adverse effect on prehistoric and histor- fects would be beneficial; this alternative’s ic structures and buildings in the national contribution to these effects would be monument. The cumulative effects would small. be beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to these effects would be small. Under this alternative, there would be no impairment of resources or values asso- Under this alternative, there would be no ciated with archeological resources. Im- impairment of resources or values asso- plementation of this alternative would not ciated with prehistoric and historic struc- result in any unacceptable impacts and is tures and buildings. Implementation of consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- this alternative would not result in any agement Policies 2006. unacceptable impacts and is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- Prehistoric and Historic cies 2006. Structures and Buildings Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- Montezuma Castle National Monu- ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- ment. Implementation of this alternative cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations would generally have the same impacts on implementing section 106 of the National prehistoric and historic structures and Historic Preservation Act, the National buildings in Montezuma Castle National Park Service determined that actions un- Monument as those described under al- der this alternative would have no adverse ternative A. effect on prehistoric and historic structures and buildings in the national monu- Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- ment. The cumulative effects would be mentation of this alternative would gener- beneficial; this alternative’s contribution ally have the same impacts on prehistoric to these effects would be small. and historic structures and buildings in Under this alternative, there would be no Tuzigoot National Monument as those impairment of resources or values asso- described under alternative A. ciated with prehistoric and historic struc- Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle tures and buildings. Implementation of National Monument. Implementation of this alternative would not result in any this alternative would generally have the unacceptable impacts and is consistent same cumulative effects on prehistoric with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- and historic structures and buildings as cies 2006. those described under alternative A. Cultural Landscapes Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National Montezuma Castle National Monu- Monument. Implementation of this alter- ment. Implementation of this alternative native would generally have the same cu- would generally have the same impacts on mulative effects on prehistoric and histor- cultural landscape resources in Montezu- ic structures and buildings as those de- ma Castle National Monument as those scribed under alternative A. described under alternative A. Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- al Monument. After applying the Advi- mentation of this alternative would gener- sory Council on Historic Preservation’s ally have the same impacts on cultural regulations implementing section 106 of landscape resources in Tuzigoot National the National Historic Preservation Act, the National Park Service determined that

218 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C

Monument as those described under al- Under this alternative, there would be no ternative A. impairment of resources or values associated with cultural landscapes. Imple- Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle mentation of this alternative would not National Monument. Implementation of result in any unacceptable impacts and is this alternative would generally have the consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- same cumulative effects on cultural land- agement Policies 2006. scape resources as those described under alternative A. Ethnographic Resources and Traditional Cultural Properties Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National Monument. Implementation of this alter- Montezuma Castle National Monu- native would generally have the same cu- ment. Implementation of alternative C mulative effects on cultural landscape re- would generally have the same impacts on sources as those described under alterna- ethnographic resources and traditional tive A. cultural properties in Montezuma Castle National Monument as those described Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- under alternative A. al Monument. After applying the Advi- sory Council on Historic Preservation’s Tuzigoot National Monument. Imple- regulations implementing section 106 of mentation of alternative C would general- the National Historic Preservation Act, ly have the same impacts on ethnographic the National Park Service determined that resources and traditional cultural proper- actions under this alternative would have ties in Tuzigoot National Monument as no adverse effect on cultural landscape re- those described for alternative A. sources in the national monument. The cumulative effects would be beneficial; Cumulative Effects: Montezuma Castle this alternative’s contribution to these ef- National Monument. Implementation of fects would be small. alternative C would generally have the same cumulative effects on ethnographic Under this alternative, there would be no resources and traditional cultural proper- impairment of resources or values asso- ties as those described under alternative A. ciated with cultural landscapes. Imple- mentation of this alternative would not Cumulative Effects: Tuzigoot National result in any unacceptable impacts and is Monument. Implementation of alterna- consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Man- tive C would generally have the same cu- agement Policies 2006. mulative effects on ethnographic resources and traditional cultural properties Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- as those described under alternative A. ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Nation- implementing section 106 of the National al Monument. After applying the Advi- Historic Preservation Act, the National sory Council on Historic Preservation’s Park Service determined that actions un- regulations implementing section 106 of der this alternative would have no adverse the National Historic Preservation Act, effect on cultural landscape resources in the National Park Service determined that the national monument. The cumulative actions under this alternative would affect effects would be beneficial; this alterna- no historic properties in the national mo- tive’s contribution to these effects would nument. There would also be no impacts be small. on ethnographic resources. The cumulative effects would be beneficial; this alter-

219 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES native’s contribution to these effects footings would have a local impact on the would be small. contours of the creek bed. The bridge would be designed to minimize changes to Under this alternative, there would be no water flow and erosion to mitigate these impairment of resources or values asso- long-term impacts. Mitigation measures ciated with ethnographic resources or tra- could include development of silt guards ditional cultural properties. Implementa- to encourage the flow of water and sedi- tion of this alternative would not result in ment around the footing of the bridge. any unacceptable impacts and is consis- The long-term adverse impacts of the tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management footbridge on water flow characteristics Policies 2006. and the contours of the creek bed would be minor. Aside from the impacts of the Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monu- footings, the bridge would have minimal ment. After applying the Advisory Coun- impacts on the floodplain. The structure cil on Historic Preservation’s regulations would not impede the flow of water un- implementing section 106 of the National derneath it and so would not limit the abil- Historic Preservation Act, the National ity of the floodplain to convey floodwaters Park Service determined that actions un- nor would it cause an increase in flood der this alternative would affect no historic height. Additional environmental com- properties in the national monument. pliance would be completed as necessary There also would be no impacts on ethno- prior to development of the proposed graphic resources. The cumulative effects bridge. would be beneficial; this alternative’s contribution to these effects would be small. The type of impacts associated with trail development in the riparian area of Beaver Under this alternative, there would be no Creek would be the same as for alternative impairment of resources or values asso- B. The potential adverse impacts to the ciated with ethnographic resources or tra- floodplain from erosion or changes in wa- ditional cultural properties. Implementa- ter flow patterns would be greater under tion of this alternative would not result in this alternative because the proposed trail any unacceptable impacts and is consis- would run the length of Beaver Creek tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management within the monument. The potential ad- Policies 2006. verse impacts associated with the trail NATURAL RESOURCES would no longer be localized and would require greater effort to reduce potential Floodplains impacts, particularly in the long term. In the short term, the erosion potential could Montezuma Castle National Monu- be reduced by designing the trail to avoid ment. The impacts on the floodplain areas where the understory vegetation is would be greater for this alternative than sparse or more susceptible to disturbance under alternative B. The greater impacts and areas with uneven or unstable terrain. are associated with the development of a The potential erosion of the trail could be footbridge to convey visitors across Beav- reduced in the long term by using best er Creek and a designated trail through management practices during trail main- the riparian area along the entire length of tenance. These actions would also reduce Beaver Creek within the monument the potential for changes in water flow boundaries. patterns in the riparian area. The short- term adverse impacts of the trail on ero- The footings of the footbridge could sion and water flow patterns in the flood- change the local water flow characteris- plain would be negligible to minor. The tics, increasing sand deposition in some long-term impacts of the trail on erosion areas and causing erosion in others. The

220 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C and water flow patterns in the floodplain getation. Potential adverse impacts, such would also be negligible to minor. as increased erosion potential, could be reduced by designing the trail to avoid Additional trails are proposed that include areas where the understory vegetation is sections within the floodplain at Monte- sparse or more susceptible to disturbance zuma Well under alternative C. These and by avoiding areas of uneven or unsta- trails would provide visitors with the op- ble terrain. Because trail development portunity to hike to and along the riparian would not involve clearing vegetation, the area and from near the historic ditch to short-term, adverse impacts of the trails Montezuma Well and along Wet Beaver on the erosion potential in the floodplain Creek. The trail segments along the ripa- or the capability of the floodplain to con- rian area and the creek would be in the vey flood waters would be negligible. Un- floodplain, but these trails would not in- der this alternative, the two existing road- troduce an impervious surface. Hence, the beds that originate near the Visitor Center actions would not raise the height of would be converted to trails. Both trails floodwaters in the floodplain, and the would allow the use of mountain bikes. presence of the trail would not impede the The impact of using the existing roadbeds ability of the floodplain to convey flood- for trails would be negligible in the short waters within the river corridor. term because no actions would be re- There could be an increase in the erosion quired to create the trail. In the long term, potential along the trails. In the short implementation of best management prac- term, the erosion potential could be re- tices during maintenance would reduce duced by routing the trail away from the erosion potential associated from trail slopes to the extent practicable and incor- use. The long-term, adverse impacts on porating best management practices for the floodplain from erosion associated trails as appropriate. In the long term, the with these new trails would be negligible. erosion potential could be reduced using There could be some adverse impacts on best management practices during trail understory vegetation from visitor use of maintenance activities. With these meas- the trail. Potential impacts include a de- ures, the short- and long-term adverse im- crease in the amount of understory vege- pacts of erosion on the proposed trails in tation, which could increase the potential the floodplain would be negligible. for erosion along the trail. The understory vegetation is quite hardy and adapted to Tuzigoot National Monument. Actions disturbance. Visitor use would be modest proposed under this alternative are the and localized, reducing the potential im- same as those described for alternative B pacts on the vegetation. Vegetation loss and would also include two additional could be reduced through best manage- trails that would use the existing roadbeds ment practices during trail maintenance, near the marsh if assessment determines thus decreasing the erosion potential that there would be no conflict with pre- along the trail. The short- and long-term servation of significant cultural resources. adverse impacts of the trail on erosion in Under this alternative, trails would be de- the floodplain would be negligible. veloped along the riparian area near the Verde River and Tavasci Marsh. Trail de- A boardwalk into the Tavasci Marsh velopment would require some selective would provide visitors with an opportuni- removal of tree limbs or brushy material to ty to experience the marsh and would mark the trail. The understory vegetation provide education and interpretation of would not be removed from the trail, so the marsh resource. The boardwalk would the only change in vegetative cover would extend into the marsh on pilings spaced be a result of visitor use. Trail use is ex- such that they would neither act as a bar- pected to be low, with minimal loss of ve- rier to water flow in the marsh nor change

221 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES existing flow patterns. The construction ternative C would result in negligible, ad- and use of the boardwalk would not in- verse impacts on the height of a flood crease erosion in the floodplain or de- along the creek, and the long-term erosion crease the capability of the floodplain to potential on the trail could increase to convey flood waters. The potential for negligible to minor. short- and long-term adverse impacts from development of a boardwalk in the Conclusion. The impacts on the flood- marsh on water flow, erosion, or the ca- plain would be greater under alternative pacity of the floodplain to convey flood C, but implementation of the proposed waters would be negligible. actions would not contribute to the height of a flood along the creek or adversely im- Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, pact the ability of the floodplain to convey present, or reasonably foreseeable future floodwaters within the river corridor for actions outside the Montezuma Castle all three sites of the monument. Visitor National Monument that would contri- use of new trails designated at the Castle bute to the height of a flood along the and Tuzigoot could increase the potential creek or adversely impact the ability of the for erosion because of the associated loss floodplain to convey floodwaters within of vegetative cover. With mitigation, the the river corridor. Consequently, there long-term adverse impacts would be neg- would be no cumulative impacts on ligible to minor at Montezuma Castle and floodplains under alternative C at Monte- negligible at Tuzigoot national monu- zuma Castle National Monument. ments. Use of the existing roadbeds as trails in Tuzigoot National Monument At Tuzigoot National Monument, the would have a long-term adverse impact on Verde River Greenway Master Plan (Ari- the floodplain because of the potential for zona State Parks 2004), as previously de- increased erosion of the trails, although scribed, would not add any impervious the impact would be negligible. Construc- surface to the floodplain and so would not tion and use of a boardwalk at Tavasci contribute to the height of a flood along Marsh would have long-term adverse neg- the river or adversely impact the ability of ligible impacts on water flow and erosion the floodplain to convey floodwaters in the marsh. There would be no cumula- within the river corridor. The presence of tive impacts under alternative C at Monte- a formalized trail could reduce the num- zuma Castle National Monument. Alter- ber of social trails along the creek. This native C would result in negligible adverse would reduce the erosion potential along cumulative impacts at Tuzigoot National the entire corridor and provide long-term Monument. The erosion potential on the benefits. The trail proposed along the ri- trail along the riparian area would mini- parian area at Tuzigoot could link to the mally increase and be negligible to minor. trail proposed in the Verde River Green- Alternative C would not constitute an im- way Master Plan. Visitor use could in- pairment of floodplain resources or values crease along the trail in the monument at Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot na- once the trails are connected. Increased tional monuments. Implementation of this use of the trail in the monument could re- alternative would not result in any unac- sult in greater potential for erosion along ceptable impacts and is consistent with the trail because of vegetation loss, which section 1.4.7.1 of Management Policies could be reduced using best management 2006. practices during trail maintenance, decreasing the erosion potential along the Soils and Vegetation trail in the monument. The long-term impact of the linked trails on erosion would Montezuma Castle National Monu- be negligible to minor. Cumulatively, al- ment. There would be greater impacts to

222 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C both soils and vegetation under this alter- turbed. Construction of the new building native than under alternative B. The short- would result in a local loss of soil produc- term impacts of trail development would tivity as well as an increase in soil erosion be the same: adverse but negligible. How- and clearing of vegetation. The loss in soil ever, because the trail in the riparian area productivity cannot be mitigated, but the would be substantially longer than the trail long-term adverse impacts would be mi- proposed under alternative B, the poten- nor because the effects would be limited tial impacts to soils and vegetation could to the developed area. The erosion poten- also be greater. Because visitor use of the tial can be mitigated using best manage- trail is expected to be low and seasonal, ment practices such that the short-term, the long-term, adverse impacts on the soil adverse impacts would be negligible. With and vegetation would be negligible to mi- ongoing maintenance activities and reve- nor. getation, the long-term, adverse impacts from soil erosion around the new building Disturbances caused by visitor use of the would be negligible. trail could encourage growth of nonnative and exotic species and over time could Development of the roadbed would re- reduce the abundance and distribution of quire clearing a substantial area of all ve- native species around the trail. A reduc- getation while creating a long edge of dis- tion in native plant species could locally turbed soil that nonnative or exotic spe- reduce habitat suitability for residents of cies of plants could rapidly colonize. The the riparian area such as birds, insects, and short-term impacts of the road construc- amphibians. Because the trail would be tion include increased erosion and substantially longer under this alternative, changes in the flow of water over the land the impacts would be greater than under surface that would adversely impact soil alternative B. In the short term, adverse productivity over a larger area. impacts on native vegetation could be re- Erosion could be controlled using best duced by designating a route that avoids management practices during construc- native vegetation and minimizes to the tion such that the short-term, adverse im- extent practicable disturbances that could pacts would be negligible. Once the road is encourage the growth of nonnative and completed, changes to the soil productivi- exotic species. The short-term, adverse ty could extend beyond the roadbed be- impacts from trail development on native cause of changes in the flow of water over vegetation would be negligible. Mainten- the landscape. Typically, water flows over ance and management of nonnative and the landscape as sheet flow. Once the road exotic species would reduce the long- is complete, the sheet flow would change term, adverse impacts of trail development to channel flow along the edge of the on native plants. The long-term, adverse roadbed. Without mitigation, the long- impacts of trail designation on abundance term potential for soil erosion would in- and distribution of native vegetation crease. Mitigation measures could de- would be negligible. crease soil erosion but would not reduce This alternative includes two development the adverse impacts of runoff on soil projects: a new headquarters facility with- productivity. Runoff from the roadway in the monument boundary and a paved would spread hydrocarbons across the road across the plateau above the cliff plateau. Over time, the buildup of hydro- dwelling. The new headquarters building carbons in the soil could decrease the di- would be across from the overflow park- versity of plant species on the plateau and ing at the beginning of the entrance road. could possibly favor the more invasive or weedy species. Even with mitigation, the The proposed location for the new head- long-term adverse impacts on soil produc- quarters building has been previously dis-

223 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES tivity and vegetation would be minor and in nonnative and exotic vegetation be- local. cause of the disturbance caused by the construction. This would cause a short- A smaller area of the old pasture at Mon- term, adverse, negligible impact on the tezuma Well would have designated un- surrounding vegetation because the land- improved trails under this alternative than scape has already been disturbed and the under alternative B. In addition, an unim- dominant plant species are nonnative and proved trail would be developed to and exotic grasses. along the riparian area of Wet Beaver Creek and along the prehistoric ditch that Once construction is complete, the poten- extends from Montezuma Well to the tial for soil erosion can be mitigated using creek. As with alternative B, the develop- best management practices and revegeta- ment of the unimproved trails would have tion of the surrounding landscape. The short-term, negligible, adverse impacts on long-term, adverse impacts on soil around soil erosion, assuming mitigation measures the new visitor center from erosion would were used. The greater impacts would be be negligible. Plant species used to revege- to the vegetative communities at Monte- tate around the new visitor center would zuma Well. be native. The long-term impacts of using native plant materials would be beneficial, Because the area around Montezuma Well local, and negligible. has historically been used for grazing, there are many nonnative and exotic spe- Tuzigoot National Monument. A larger cies, particularly grasses. Development of area of the monument would be zoned the new trails would disturb a substantial Interaction and Discovery than under al- amount of soil, which could contribute to ternative B. The expanded area allows for the spread of nonnative grasses. Without a greater number of designated but unim- mitigation, the trails could contribute to a proved trails in the monument. The short- decrease in the native plant species and term, adverse impacts of trail development composition of the plant communities at on vegetation at Tuzigoot would be neg- Montezuma Well. Management of the ligible because any change in the distribu- nonnative species would be required to tion or abundance of individual plants or control the spread of the nonnative spe- communities would not likely be measur- cies across a larger area. With mitigation, able. Similarly, because no clearing would the long-term, adverse impacts on the ve- occur, the short-term, adverse impacts on getation at Montezuma Well could be mi- soil from increased erosion would be neg- nor to moderate. ligible. A visitor center would be constructed near The long-term impacts would be greater the Back cabin under this alternative. The under this alternative because of the proposed location has been heavily dis- greater area that would be impacted by the turbed, and the dominant vegetation is trail use. Visitor use could reduce the nonnative grasses. Construction of the amount of understory vegetation on the new building would result in localized loss trail, which would also increase the poten- of soil productivity as well as increased tial for soil erosion along the trail. Poten- soil erosion. The loss in soil productivity tial adverse impacts on vegetation and soil cannot be mitigated, but the long-term could be reduced by designing the trail to adverse impacts would be minor because avoid areas where the understory vegeta- the effects would be limited to the devel- tion is sparse or more susceptible to dis- oped area. The erosion potential can be turbance and to avoid areas of uneven or mitigated using best management practic- unstable terrain. Best management prac- es to keep the short-term adverse impact tices used during trail maintenance could negligible. There could also be an increase reduce losses to the understory vegetation

224 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C and decrease soil erosion. The long-term, there would be no cumulative impacts un- adverse impacts of the trail on the unders- der alternative C on soils or vegetation. tory vegetation would be negligible to mi- At Tuzigoot National Monument, the nor, as would the long-term, adverse im- Verde River Greenway Master Plan (Ari- pacts from soil erosion. zona State Parks 2004), as previously de- Trail use by visitors, even with best man- scribed, would have local impacts on the agement practices, would disturb vegeta- soils and vegetation. These impacts would tion and encourage the growth of nonna- include an increase in erosion potential tive and exotic species. Over time, these and the removal of some vegetation. The species could change the abundance and erosion potential could be reduced during distribution of native species, resulting in trail development using best management changes to biological productivity in the practices that could include but would not monument. There are ongoing manage- be limited to silt fencing. The short-term, ment actions to control nonnative and ex- cumulative impacts of the trail develop- otic species within the monument. The ment would be adverse but local and neg- long-term, adverse impacts of an increase ligible. Trail maintenance activities, in- in nonnative and exotic vegetation would cluding best management practices, would be negligible to minor. help minimize the potential for erosion along the trail. The long-term, adverse im- The Tavasci Marsh boardwalk would ex- pacts of the trail on soil erosion would be tend into the marsh on pilings. Soils would negligible. The impacts of alternative C on be disturbed during construction, but the soils in combination with the impacts of erosion potential would not increase, and the proposed greenway trail would result soil productivity would not be affected. in negligible, long-term, adverse, cumula- The short-term impact on soils would be tive impacts on soils. adverse but local and negligible. Once completed, the boardwalk would have a Although some vegetation would be re- negligible, long-term, adverse impact on moved, the impacts would be local and soil because the soil would not be dis- not likely to change the abundance and turbed and the erosion potential would distribution of individual plants or com- not increase. Soil productivity would be munities in the monument. Therefore, the adversely impacted, but the effects would long-term, adverse impacts on the vegeta- be local and negligible. tion from trail development would be negligible. If nonnative or exotic species are Impacts on marsh vegetation could be represent, management actions may be ne- duced during boardwalk construction by cessary to control the spread of these spe- avoiding vegetation to the extent practica- cies once the ground has been disturbed ble. The short-term, adverse impacts on to minimize any adverse impacts on native vegetation during boardwalk construction plants from trail development. The long- would be negligible. The long-term, ad- term, adverse impacts from nonnative and verse impacts on vegetation could be re- exotic species would be negligible. The duced by designing the boardwalk to mi- impacts of alternative C in combination nimize shading of the surrounding vegeta- with the impacts of the proposed green- tion. The long-term, adverse impacts on way trail would result in negligible, long- vegetation from the boardwalk would be term, adverse, cumulative impacts on ve- negligible. getation. Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, Conclusion. There would be greater im- present, or reasonably foreseeable actions pacts on both soils and vegetation in the outside Montezuma Castle National Mo- monuments under alternative C than un- nument that would impact soils or vegeta- der alternative B. The designated trail in tion at the monuments. Consequently,

225 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES the riparian area at Montezuma Castle Construction of the new visitor center National Monument would be longer un- near the Back cabin would result in a loca- der this alternative; thus, the long-term, lized loss of soil productivity and an in- adverse impacts on the soil would be neg- crease in soil erosion. The loss in soil ligible to minor. productivity cannot be mitigated, but the long-term, adverse impacts would be mi- The short-term, adverse impacts from trail nor because the effects would be limited development on native vegetation would to the developed area. This would be a be negligible. Maintenance and manage- short-term, adverse, negligible impact on ment of nonnative and exotic species the surrounding vegetation because the would reduce the long-term, adverse im- landscape has already been disturbed and pacts of trail development on native the dominant plant species are nonnative plants. The long-term, adverse impacts of and exotic grasses. The long-term, adverse trail designation on abundance and distri- impacts on soils around the new visitor bution of native vegetation would be neg- center from erosion would be negligible. ligible. Plant species used to revegetate around Construction of the new building would the new visitor center would be native. result in a local loss of soil productivity as The long-term impacts of using native well as an increase in soil erosion and plant materials would be beneficial, local, clearing of vegetation. The loss in soil and negligible. productivity cannot be mitigated, but the The short-term adverse impacts of trail long-term, adverse impacts would be mi- development on vegetation at Tuzigoot nor because the effects would be limited would be negligible because any change in to the developed area. With ongoing the distribution or abundance of individu- maintenance activities and revegetation, al plants or communities would not likely the long-term, adverse impacts from soil be measurable. Similarly, because no erosion around the new building would be clearing would occur, the short-term, ad- negligible. verse impacts on soil from increased ero- The short-term impacts of the road con- sion would be negligible. struction include increased erosion as well The long-term, adverse impacts of the trail as changes in the flow of water over the on the understory vegetation would be land surface that would adversely impact negligible to minor, as would the long- soil productivity over a larger area. With term, adverse impacts from soil erosion. mitigation, the long-term, adverse impacts The long-term, adverse impacts of an in- on soil productivity and vegetation would crease in nonnative and exotic vegetation be minor and local. along the trails would be negligible to mi- As with alternative B, the development of nor. the unimproved trails would have short- Construction of the Tavasci Marsh term, negligible, adverse impacts on soil boardwalk would disturb soils, but the erosion, assuming mitigation measures erosion potential would not increase, and were used. soil productivity would not be affected. Management of nonnative species would The short-term impact on soils would be be required to control the spread of the adverse but local and negligible. Once nonnative species across a larger area at completed, the boardwalk would have a Montezuma Well following development negligible, long-term, adverse impact on of new trails. With mitigation, the long- soil because the soil would not be dis- term, adverse impact on the vegetation at turbed, and the erosion potential would the well could be minor to moderate. not increase. Soil productivity would be adversely impacted, but the effects would

226 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C be local and negligible. The short-term, water column. The contaminants accumu- adverse impacts on vegetation during late in the tissues of the wildlife that live in boardwalk construction would be negligi- the marsh. Over time, wildlife exposed to ble. The long-term, adverse impacts on these contaminants can experience ad- vegetation could be reduced by designing verse impacts on reproductive success. To the boardwalk to minimize shading of the limit the amount of contaminated sedi- surrounding vegetation. The long-term, ment in the water column, the construc- adverse impacts on vegetation from the tion of the boardwalk could be timed such boardwalk would be negligible. that the water level is relatively low. Sedi- ment fences could be installed to keep the There would be no cumulative impacts disturbed sediment from spreading over a under alternative C on soils or vegetation wider area. The long-term, adverse im- at Montezuma Castle National Monu- pacts on the habitat characteristics of the ment. marsh would be negligible to minor, de- The impacts of alternative C on soils in pending on the level of exposure to the combination with the impacts of the pro- contaminated sediment. posed greenway trail at Tuzigoot National Monument would result in negligible, Cumulative Impacts. The cumulative im- long-term, adverse, cumulative impacts on pacts of alternative C are the same as those soils and vegetation. described for alternative B. Alternative C would not constitute an im- Conclusion. There would be no actions at pairment of soil or vegetation resources or Montezuma Castle National Monument values at Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot that would affect wetlands under alterna- national monuments. Implementation of tive C. this alternative would not result in any unacceptable impacts and is consistent Active marsh restoration activities would with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- have a negligible to minor, long-term, cies 2006. beneficial effect on wetland habitat functions at Tavasci Marsh. Trail development Wetlands around the marsh could increase sedimentation in the marsh. The long-term im- A boardwalk into the Tavasci Marsh is pacts of the increased sedimentation on proposed to provide visitors with an op- the marsh would be negligible. Construc- portunity to experience the marsh as well tion of the boardwalk could impact wet- as to provide education and interpretation land habitat quality in the marsh. With of the marsh resource. The boardwalk mitigation, the short- and long-term im- could have both short- and long-term impacts on the marsh wetlands would be pacts on habitat in the marsh. During con- negligible to minor. There would be no struction, the potential adverse impacts on cumulative impacts on wetlands of alter- the marsh include habitat disturbance. native C at Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot The impacts from habitat disturbance national monuments under this alterna- could be reduced by siting the boardwalk tive. where there is the least impact on areas used by species that frequent the marsh The impacts of alternative C would not and by designing to avoid shading the sur- constitute an impairment of wetland re- rounding vegetation. With mitigation, the sources or values at Montezuma Castle or short-term impacts on the habitat charac- Tuzigoot national monuments. Implemen- teristics of the marsh could be negligible tation of this alternative would not result to minor. in any unacceptable impacts and is consistent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Construction activities would increase the Policies 2006. amount of contaminated sediment in the

227 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Wildlife pacts on wildlife species sensitive to disturbance would be negligible to minor, Montezuma Castle National Monu- while for the more common adaptable ment. The impacts on wildlife and wildlife species, the effects would be negligible. habitat from the proposed trail in the ripa- The impacts of trail development under rian area under alternative C would be alternative C would be greater than the greater than the impacts under alternative impacts under alternative B because the B because the trail would run the length of trails in the monument would be longer the riparian area in the monument. The and would impact a broader range of habi- habitat available within the monument for tats. Development of the trail could dis- species sensitive to disturbance would be turb some wildlife species, resulting in less because the trail is longer. Potential temporary displacement. The short-term, adverse impacts from erosion associated adverse impacts of trail development with the trail include negligible, local ef- could be minimized by timing trail work to fects on aquatic species’ habitats if sedi- the extent practicable to avoid seasons ments accumulate in the creek. Manage- when there is an especially high concen- ment actions could include closure of the tration of wildlife in the riparian area or in trail during breeding season to minimize Tavasci Marsh. The short-term, adverse the impacts. The long-term, adverse im- impacts of trail development would be pacts on sensitive wildlife would be minor negligible. Although the trail would be un- to moderate because erosion could impact likely to increase opportunities for preda- the local population enough to change tors, visitors could be present across a abundance or distribution of a species greater area of the monument. Species that within the monument. are easily disturbed would have less suita- At Montezuma Well, in addition to the ble habitat within the monument. This trail in the former pasture, an additional could impact the abundance and distribu- trail would be developed from the pasture tion of some species within the monu- to the riparian area. This would increase ment. Therefore, the long-term, adverse the wildlife species, and types of habitat impacts on wildlife and their habitat that could be disturbed. The adverse im- would be minor. pacts of the trail to the riparian area would be minimized by route design to minimize Cumulative Impacts. Increased devel- the creation of additional edges within the opment (for example, trails) and visitation riparian area that would reduce the size of at Montezuma Castle National Monument suitable habitat and increase opportunities would have minimal impact wildlife or for predators. The short-term, adverse wildlife habitats at the monument. Alter- impacts from the trail on the riparian area native C’s contribution to the negligible, would be negligible to minor. Although cumulative effects on wildlife would be some individuals could be impacted by the small. trail, the long-term, adverse impacts At Tuzigoot, the Verde River Greenway would be negligible because the trail Master Plan (Arizona State Parks 2004), as would not reduce the abundance or dis- previously described, would have local tribution of a species at Montezuma Well. impacts on wildlife habitat within the monument along the Verde River. These im- Tuzigoot National Monument. A pacts would include disturbance that boardwalk into the marsh would be de- could limit foraging activity or adversely veloped as described for alternative B, and impact nesting. These impacts could be the impacts would be the same: the short- reduced by timing trail development to term, adverse impacts on wildlife from minimize the impact on breeding activity. construction of the boardwalk would be The long-term impacts of the trail devel- negligible, and the long-term, adverse im-

228 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C opment would be adverse and negligible tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management to minor but would be unlikely to affect Policies 2006. the distribution of individuals outside the local area and would not have an impact Threatened and Endangered Species on viability of regional wildlife populations. The impacts of alternative C in Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. There combination with the impacts of the pro- could be greater effects on southwestern posed greenway trail would result in neg- willow flycatcher habitat in Montezuma ligible to minor, long-term, adverse, cu- Castle or Tuzigoot national monuments mulative impacts on wildlife and wildlife under alternative C than under alternative habitat. A. These impacts would result in part from trails that would be established at each Conclusion. This alternative includes ac- site. The trail routes have not yet been de- tions that would have the greatest adverse termined but would be designed to have impacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat the least effect on flycatcher habitat. In when compared to the other alternatives. addition, the National Park Service would In particular, proposed trails in each mo- consider use restrictions for some trails to nument are longer and would impact minimize habitat disturbances. These re- more habitat within each site. Those spe- strictions could include limited access cies that are easily disturbed are of par- during breeding season or during periods ticular concern. The long-term, adverse of key activity such as foraging. Prior to impacts on sensitive species from the in- initiating actions that would affect the creased length of the trails would be mi- southwestern willow flycatcher or its ha- nor to moderate at Montezuma Castle Na- bitat, the National Park Service would tional Monument. The long-term, adverse complete additional environmental com- impacts on wildlife and habitat at Monte- pliance activities and consult with the U.S. zuma Well would be local and negligible. Fish and Wildlife Service as appropriate. At Tuzigoot National Monument, the trail Montezuma Castle National Monument. As along the riparian area and the marsh described for alternative B, trail develop- would be unlikely to increase opportuni- ment could be managed such that there ties for predators, but visitors could have a would be no short-term, adverse effects greater presence. Species that are easily on flycatcher habitat in the riparian area disturbed would have a less suitable habi- from trail designation. tat within the monument. This could impact the abundance and distribution of Visitor use of the trail could discourage some species locally within the monu- flycatcher foraging around the trail while ment. Therefore, the long-term, adverse visitors are present because flycatchers are impacts on wildlife and their habitat shy. The proposed trail would run the would be local and negligible to minor. length of the riparian area within the mo- The impacts of alternative C in combina- nument. Additional management actions tion with the impacts of the proposed could be necessary to reduce the long- greenway trail would result in negligible to term effects of trail use on foraging beha- minor, long-term, adverse, cumulative im- vior. These actions include, but would not pacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat. be limited to, use restrictions during breeding season. Long-term trail use Alternative C would not constitute an im- could affect flycatcher foraging activity at pairment of wildlife or wildlife habitat re- Montezuma Castle National Monument, sources or values at Montezuma Castle or but the effect would not likely be adverse. Tuzigoot national monuments. Implemen- tation of this alternative would not result Tuzigoot National Monument. In addition in any unacceptable impacts and is consis- to actions proposed under alternative B,

229 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES there would be additional unimproved work with Arizona State Parks to minim- trails around the marsh and connecting to ize potential adverse impacts associated Peck’s Lake. Trail alignments in the mo- with the Greenway Master Plan trail. The nument and connections to existing trails effects of the boat launch could be re- have not been identified. The short-term duced by shifting visitor activity on the effects of trails at Tuzigoot National Mo- river away from the patch of vegetation nument would be the same as for the trail that serves as nesting habitat. In addition, at Montezuma Castle National Monu- any trail development would avoid creat- ment. The trails and the boardwalk would ing new or longer edges along a nesting bring visitors near more areas where the patch that could make the nests more vul- flycatchers forage. The adverse impacts of nerable to predation. The proposed trail the trails and the boardwalk could be re- could have a long-term effect on the nest- duced by avoiding preferred forage habi- ing habitat for the flycatcher along the tat to the extent practicable. If trail use is Verde River, but these effects are unlikely found to have an adverse impact on forag- to be adverse. The effects of alternative C ing behavior, management actions would in combination with the effects of the oth- be implemented to reduce these effects, er actions described above could affect including limiting access on the trail dur- flycatcher habitat; however, the cumula- ing certain times of year or during periods tive effects would not likely be adverse as of key activity. Visitor use of the trails and a result of mitigation measures and adap- the boardwalk could have a long-term ef- tive management strategies. fect on flycatcher foraging habitat, but the effects would not likely be adverse. Conclusion. Disturbance of flycatcher habitat would be greater than under alterna- Cumulative Impacts. There is a docu- tive C and would require additional miti- mented nesting site for southwestern wil- gation measures to offset the potential ef- low flycatcher just outside the Tuzigoot fects on habitat and foraging behavior and National Monument boundary in the to avoid adverse effects. In the short term, Verde River riparian area. Ditch mainten- trail development would affect, but is not ance activities in the area help maintain likely to adversely affect, flycatcher forag- the conditions that the flycatcher favors ing activity. Visitor use of the proposed when nesting. The ongoing ditch main- trails could have long-term effects on fly- tenance activities would continue to have catcher foraging behavior. These effects a beneficial effect on flycatcher habitat. on flycatcher habitat could be offset using targeted and adapted management strate- At Tuzigoot National Monument, the gies to avoid adverse effects. Because the Verde River Greenway Master Plan, as proposed trails would affect a larger area described previously, would contribute to at both monuments, access to the trails cumulative effects. In addition, Arizona could be more limited than under alterna- State Parks has proposed a small parking tive B to ensure that the effects from trail lot and boat launch on the east side of the use would not be adverse. The marsh res- monument entrance road outside the mo- toration activities would affect flycatcher nument boundary; this would require foraging habitat, but the effects would modifications to the existing roadway. likely be beneficial. The proposed location of the boat launch is within the designated critical habitat for Outside the boundaries at Tuzigoot Na- the flycatcher, and vegetation in the vicini- tional Monument, the ongoing ditch ty has been used for nesting. Increased maintenance activities could have a long- activity could disturb the flycatcher and term, negligible to minor, beneficial effect discourage continued use of the area for on flycatcher habitat. The effects of alter- nesting. The National Park Service would native C in combination with the effects of

230 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C the other actions described above could yellow-billed cuckoo and its habitat in the affect flycatcher habitat; however, the cu- monument are similar to the effects of al- mulative effects would not likely be ad- ternative B. A footbridge across Beaver verse because of mitigation measures and Creek is proposed at Montezuma Castle adaptive management strategies. National Monument to provide visitor access to the trails in the riparian area. Yuma Clapper Rail. The effects of alter- Additionally, the trail in the riparian area native C on habitat of the Yuma clapper runs the entire length of the creek within rail in Tavasci Marsh would be the same as the monument. Potential adverse effects for alternative B. Marsh restoration activi- of the footbridge would be offset by ties would affect rail habitat in the short avoiding impacts on the large trees (for term, but the effect would be offset by example, the Arizona sycamore and the adaptive management strategies and cottonwoods) that are important for both would be beneficial in the long term as the foraging and breeding activities. Devel- rail’s preferred habitat would be im- opment of the footbridge could affect yel- proved. Development of the boardwalk low-billed cuckoo habitat, but the effects would have a short-term effect on water are unlikely to be adverse. quality and habitat in the marsh, although Alternative C includes a proposal to de- the long-term effects are unlikely to be velop an unimproved trail from the picnic adverse. Exposure to selenium in the area to Wet Beaver Creek at Montezuma marsh could affect, but is not likely to ad- Well. Effects on cuckoo habitat at Monte- versely affect, the long-term reproductive zuma Well include potential removal of success of the clapper rails that primarily tree species that play in an important role use the marsh to forage during migration in nesting and foraging activities. Potential stopovers. adverse effects would be offset by siting the trail to minimize tree loss. Because this Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, species is tolerant of disturbance, the present, or proposed actions in addition long-term effects associated with visitor to alternative C that would affect the Yu- use of the trail could affect, but are unlike- ma clapper rail or its habitat at Tavasci ly to adversely affect, the yellow-billed Marsh. cuckoo or its habitat. Conclusion. The effects of alternative C on The extent of the trail network across the the Yuma clapper rail and its habitat at monument and along the edge of the ripa- Tavasci Marsh would be the same as the rian area would increase at Tuzigoot Na- effects described for alternative B. The tional Monument. Cottonwood trees are development of a boardwalk in the marsh present in the riparian area. The trail route would have short-term effects on water would be designed to avoid the cotton- quality and habitat. These effects could be wood trees used by yellow-billed cuckoos mitigated such that the impact is not ad- for forage. Again, the cuckoo is relatively verse. Exposure to selenium in the marsh tolerant of disturbance, thus the presence could affect, but is not likely to adversely of visitors is unlikely to disturb foraging affect, the long-term reproductive success activity. Trail development and use at Tu- of the clapper rails that use the marsh to zigoot could affect, but is unlikely to ad- forage during migration stopovers. There versely affect, yellow-billed cuckoo forag- are no cumulative effects on the rail asso- ing behavior. ciated with this alternative. Cumulative Impacts. There are no past, Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Although there is present, or proposed actions outside the more proposed development under alter- alternative C proposed action that would native C, the effects of alternative C on the

231 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES affect the yellow-billed cuckoo or its habi- settlement of the Verde Valley to the natu- tat at the monuments. ral environment. At each site, trails would make the riparian areas accessible to visi- Conclusion. Development of the foot- tors. Visitors at Montezuma Castle would bridge at Montezuma Castle National be able to cross Beaver Creek and gain Monument, the trail to the creek at Mon- views back to the castle with the creek in tezuma Well, and the trail along the ripa- the foreground. Natural surface trails rian area at Tuzigoot National Monument along the south side of the creek would could affect, but are not likely to adversely provide a different hiking experience for affect, yellow-billed cuckoo habitat. Po- visitors, including opportunities for self- tential adverse effects would be mitigated exploration and a better understanding of by avoiding impacts to the large trees that the importance of riparian and water re- are important to cuckoo habitat. Visitor sources to the history of the Sinagua. This use of the trail could affect, but is unlikely opportunity was highly desired by the to adversely affect, the cuckoo or its habi- public during the general management tat. There are no cumulative effects asso- plan scoping process and by visitors that ciated with this alternative. responded to the visitor survey; therefore, trail opportunities to and along Beaver The actions associated with alternative C Creek would be considered a long-term, would not constitute an impairment of major, beneficial impact. threatened and endangered species resources or values at Montezuma Castle or Also at the Castle, additional parking Tuzigoot national monuments. Implemen- would alleviate some of the congestion tation of this alternative would not result from peak use by automobiles and tour in any unacceptable impacts and is consis- buses. During peak season, when impacts tent with section 1.4.7.1 of Management from high volumes of vehicles are highest, Policies 2006. this increased supply of parking would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial VISITOR USE AND EXPERIENCE effect. Finally, a regional multi-use trail is pro- Visitor Experiences of posed along Montezuma Castle Highway Monument Resources at the north end of the monument. This In alternative C, the three sites in the mo- trail was desired by local trail groups to numents would be connected with coor- connect a regional trail that extends dinated orientation and marketing via through the Verde Valley, providing a partnerships in the Verde Valley. This long-term, major, benefit for local and re- coordinated orientation would encourage gional residents interested in regional trail visitors to visit all three sites in the monu- opportunities. ments as well as other sites in the region to Visitors at Montezuma Well would be able get better acquainted with the resources to take a trail across prehistoric and his- and how they each tell, first hand, a toric farming land to access Beaver Creek. unique element of the prehistoric and his- This area is known for its outstanding toric stories associated with human set- birding opportunities and shaded river tlement of the Verde Valley. The in- banks, providing a cool and quiet escape creased exposure of visitors to all three for visitors. Trail opportunities to Beaver sites in the monuments would have a long- Creek were also highly desired by the pub- term, moderate, beneficial effect on the lic and visitor survey respondents, making visitor experience. this a long-term, major, beneficial effect This alternative also emphasizes increased on the visitor experience. access to water and related riparian areas to showcase the connections of human

232 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C

At Tuzigoot, trails would connect the mo- moderate, beneficial impacts on visitor nument to Dead Horse Ranch State Park, experiences. the Verde River Greenway, and Coconino National Forest via a boardwalk and trail Access to Orientation, system in Tavasci Marsh. The marsh is Interpretation, and Education known for its outstanding birding oppor- Under alternative C, the three sites in the tunities and shaded marshlands, providing monuments would be connected via a cool and quiet escape for visitors. Trail coordinated orientation efforts through- opportunities to Tavasci Marsh and sur- out the Verde Valley. Partnerships for im- rounding public lands were also desired proved wayfinding, information dissemi- by the public and survey respondents, nation, and marketing would connect the making this a long-term, major, beneficial resources at all sites in the Verde Valley, impact. resulting in a long-term, major, beneficial Also, in partnership with Arizona State effect on interpretation and orientation Parks, the National Park Service would opportunities. provide a Verde River access point in the This alternative calls for increased cultural Verde River Greenway, increasing demonstrations and programs at all three recreation opportunities, and access to the sites, which are highly desired by the pub- highly desirable Verde River. This would lic, resulting in a long-term, moderate be a long-term, moderate, benefit for visi- benefit for those visitors seeking more tors to Tuzigoot and Dead Horse Ranch education opportunities. State Park and for residents of the surrounding community. This alternative also includes new interpretive opportunities based out of the This alternative would also increase op- Back cabin at Montezuma Well. The in- portunities for cultural demonstrations of terpretive programs would emphasize craftsmanship and social activities in and prehistoric and historic farming activities. around the Tuzigoot Pueblo. Paved trails More formalized and consistent interpre- south of the pueblo would provide access tive opportunities were desired by the to the river. Signage and programs in this public and by visitors who responded to area would interpret prehistoric trade ac- the visitor survey; therefore, the new op- tivities and farming that would have been portunities at the Back cabin are consi- associated with life in the pueblo. The visi- dered a long-term, moderate, benefit for tor survey identified a strong interest by visitors. visitors for more “hands-on” activities, including demonstrations by modern affi- The new visitor center at Montezuma liated tribes; therefore, this increase in in- Well would serve as a focal point for visi- terpretive programs and services would be tor contact to improve visitor understand- considered a long-term, moderate benefit ing of regional opportunities and to gain a for visitors interested in these types of more comprehensive understanding of programs. settlement, land use, and migration in the Verde Valley. It would also enable im- Finally, this alternative includes a moni- proved distribution of visitors among the toring and management program for user three sites. Improved visitor orientation capacity. At all three sites, monument staff and interpretation services would contri- would monitor and manage areas where bute to better visitor understanding and action is most likely needed to achieve de- appreciation of the resources of the mo- sired conditions. This program would numents and the region, and would result help control impacts related to crowding, in long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts user conflict, human-caused noise, and on visitors. Removal of the existing visitor resource damage, leading to long-term, contact station at the Well would result in

233 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES long-term, minor beneficial impacts by proposed along Montezuma Castle High- improving scenic quality. way would have a beneficial impact on recreation opportunities in the region. Visitor Safety This alternative would connect the regional trail through the monument, which Safety information would continue to be would result in a long-term, beneficial im- available at all three sites. At the Castle, pact on this proposed recreation oppor- additional parking would minimize the tunity. crowded conditions that sometimes occur during peak hours, increasing both per- At Montezuma Well, surrounding devel- ceived and actual visitor safety during visi- opment projects could have adverse im- tors’ arrival. At Montezuma Well, the ex- pacts on visitor experiences by increasing panded visitor contact station would im- visitation to Montezuma Well and thereby prove dissemination of orientation infor- impacting the contemplative experiences mation on safety factors, which may re- at the outlet, along the trails, and in the duce unsafe incidents. Finally, at Tuzi- picnic area. Also, these developments may goot, designating trails in areas that are have negative impacts on the scenic view- currently being explored by visitors may sheds of Montezuma Well. Alternative C reduce safety hazards. These improve- includes more trail opportunities in Mon- ments would result in long-term, minor, tezuma Well, which may help distribute beneficial impacts on visitor safety. use and improve recreation opportunities. In addition, this alternative includes a Cumulative Effects monitoring program of use levels and visi- Several projects in the region may contri- tor experiences, so if increasing use results bute to cumulative impacts on the visitor in negative impacts on the quiet and con- experience at all three sites. First, at Mon- templative settings, the monument would tezuma Castle, the proposed Yavapai- take actions to better manage and distri- Apache Nation Native American Cultural bute use to mitigate these impacts. There Center would likely have long-term, mod- are no proposals in alternative C that erate, beneficial impacts on interpretation would mitigate the potential impacts to and education opportunities related to the the viewsheds from surrounding devel- cultural history of the region. In this alter- opments. native, the coordinated orientation in the At Tuzigoot, the camping and reservoir Verde Valley and the Castle’s existing visi- improvements at Dead Horse Ranch State tor center would complement the new Park would likely increase the desirability education and interpretive opportunities of the state park for day and overnight use. provided at the cultural center, enhancing As more people visit the state park, de- the long-term beneficial impacts. The cul- mand for trail connections to Tuzigoot tural center would also likely attract visi- would likely increase. This alternative tors to the area and may increase visitation proposes trail connections between the to the Castle. Alternative C includes an monument and the park, a long-term, expansion of the parking area at the Cas- moderate, beneficial impact. Further, the tle, which would help mitigate crowded proposed recreation opportunities that conditions. Further, this alternative would would be part of the Verde River Green- monitor visitor use, particularly crowded way, which runs along the southern conditions in the parking area, visitor cen- boundary of Tuzigoot, would enhance ter, and along the loop trail, which would recreation opportunities for Tuzigoot visi- allow the monument to work cooperative- tors. Alternative C contributes to the ly with the tribe to manage the distribution beneficial impacts of the Verde River of use between the cultural center and Greenway by providing a Verde River Castle. Finally, the regional multi-use trail access point in the Verde River Greenway,

234 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C increasing recreation opportunities and Montezuma Castle National Monument access to the highly desirable Verde River. The monument headquarters would be The restoration of the mine tailings by relocated from Camp Verde to Montezu- Freeport McMoRan, particularly covering ma Castle National Monument near the the tailings with topsoil to promote vege- entrance at the intersection of Montezu- tation growth, would likely have a major, ma Castle Road and Montezuma Castle beneficial impact on visitor experiences at Highway. This facility would allow admin- Tuzigoot by improving the scenic istrative activities to be moved on site and viewshed. closer to visitor service activities. This Finally, the proposed Sinaguan Circle would allow monument maintenance op- Tour could enhance the interpretive operations to be conducted more effectively, portunities at all three sites by connecting while replacing offsite workspace and sto- the Sinaguan sites in the region via an in- rage lost with the expiration of the Gener- terpretive, self-guided tour with asso- al Services Administration lease. ciated resource materials. Alternative C The road to the water tanks would be would contribute to this beneficial impact opened to the public, and a parking facility by providing more diverse opportunities would be built near the water tanks to to view and learn about the monuments’ provide better views of the river valley and prime cultural resources and by providing its proximity to the Montezuma Castle. An enhanced interpretation of the Sinaguan overlook would be constructed near the story at the central orientation center. water tank, providing a unique view of Montezuma Castle. A new picnic area Conclusion would be constructed west of the existing Alternative C would result in increased administration buildings to replace the old beneficial impacts resulting from the in- picnic area. A new system of trails would creased diversity in opportunities to view traverse the monument from north to and learn about the monuments’ prime south. Additional parking and/or a bus cultural resources. Particularly, connect- drop-off could be constructed at the junc- ing the three sites in the monuments via a tion of the Montezuma Castle entrance central visitor center and orientation facil- road and the service road to the sewage ity in the Verde Valley would increase ex- lagoons. The area south of the Montezu- posure of visitors to all three sites and ma Castle loop trail would include access provide a better understanding of each over the creek and some picnic facilities site’s unique role in settlement of the on the south bank of the creek. From this Verde Valley. Further, providing more picnic location, visitors would have views trail opportunities and cultural programs across the river to Montezuma Castle. In- would make visits to each site more excit- terpretive signs would be installed along ing, interesting and inviting for repeat visi- the river near Montezuma Castle for self- tation. guided tours. These improvements would reduce congestion in the visitor center, MONUMENT OPERATIONS parking facilities, and on the trail to the Castle. The actions described above asso- The main emphasis of this alternative ciated with alternative C would result in would be to provide increased opportuni- long-term, moderate to major, beneficial ties for visitors to self-discover the beauty effects on monument operations because and wonder of the natural and cultural of increased. improved space for monu- resources of the monuments. ment operations, and improved capability to manage visitors and resources. There would be long-term, minor, adverse impacts due the addition of facilities that

235 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES would require increased operations and dition of facilities that would require in- maintenance. This would include the ad- creased operations and maintenance. verse impacts on operations from potential washouts during floods of a new foot- Tuzigoot National Monument bridge across Beaver Creek. With the road The mine tailings at Tuzigoot would be to the water tanks open to the public, any removed from the legislated boundary. A increased potential for vandalism would new wayside would be added to the south be mitigated through increased staff pres- of the tailings. A paved trail would be add- ence, signage, or other security measures. ed that connects the visitor center with the Tavasci Marsh. Additional trails would be Montezuma Well constructed in the area east of the pueblo. A new visitor center would be constructed A hiking trail to Peck’s Lake would be along Beaver Creek Road near the en- constructed. The hiking trails would con- trance to Montezuma Well to increase vis- nect to the trails in the Coconino National itor orientation and interpretation services Forest north of the monument. Several on site. A trail would be constructed paral- mountain bike trails would be added west lel to the road leading from the new visitor of the visitor center. At Tuzigoot, if as- center to Montezuma Well, and, if assess- sessment determines that there would be ment determines that there would be no no conflict with preservation of significant conflict with preservation of significant cultural resources, mountain bicycling cultural resources, another trail would be opportunities may also be provided on old constructed surrounding the well and roadbeds in the area. Trail connections near the south boundary of the monument with neighboring federal and state lands from Montezuma Well to the existing pic- would be explored. nic area near Beaver Creek Road. The size While interpretation would be improved of the administration area would be re- at Tuzigoot, there would still be no area duced in this alternative. A corridor along designated at Tuzigoot for group interpre- Beaver Creek Road would be designated tation. Maintenance responsibilities to accommodate horseback riding, hiking would increase because of the additional and mountain biking. Additional trails recreational facilities. Alternative C would would be provided at Montezuma Well result in long-term, negligible, beneficial for visitors to connect with the natural effects on monument operations because environment. of the improved capability to manage visi- These improvements would enhance in- tors and resources. terpretive opportunities at Montezuma Well and would also encourage visitors to All Sites walk around and see more of the site. Visitor contact facilities would be located Maintenance operations would also be- at each of the three sites. The monument come more efficient at Montezuma Well would depend on partnerships with sur- because of onsite maintenance facilities. rounding public lands agencies to provide The actions to be implemented at Monte- connections to recreational and educa- zuma Well under alternative C would re- tional opportunities off site. Protection of sult in long-term, moderate to major, cultural resources would not change from beneficial effects on monument opera- the no-action alternative. Protection of tions because of increased and improved natural resources would be reduced from onsite space for monument operations, alternative B. Visitor services and adminis- and improved capability to manage visi- trative facilities may be expanded in select tors and resources. There would be long- areas (for example, new headquarters at term, minor, adverse impacts due the ad- the Castle, new visitor center at Monte- zuma Well, new trails at all three sites),

236 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C leaving a slightly larger development foot- nor to moderate. Adverse impacts on mo- print. Trail connection opportunities with nument operations would be minor. The surrounding public lands would be ex- effects of alternative C in combination plored with partners to increase with the effects of other past, present, and recreation and education activities. The reasonably foreseeable future actions visitor stay would be extended at each of would result in a long-term, minor, bene- the three sites. The monuments could be- ficial effect on monument operations. come the primary destination for a larger number of visitors, especially for local and SOCIOECONOMICS regional residents. The main emphasis of this alternative The National Park Service would acquire would be to provide increased opportuni- most of the lands within the legislated ties for visitors to self-discover the beauty boundaries, except for the mine tailings at and wonder of the natural and cultural Tuzigoot, which would be removed from resources of the monuments. the legislated boundary. Maintenance responsibilities would increase with alterna- Montezuma Castle National Monument tive C because of the additional onsite fa- The monument headquarters would be cilities, but would be more efficient be- relocated from Camp Verde to Montezu- cause of increased maintenance facilities ma Castle National Monument near the in each of the sites. Interpretation would entrance at the intersection of Montezu- be improved. Visitation could increase, ma Castle Road and Montezuma Castle based on a larger number of visitors and a Highway. This facility would allow admin- longer average stay. Assuming that the istrative activities to be moved on site, workforce increases to accommodate the closer to visitor service activities. increased interpretive and maintenance responsibilities, alternative C would result New trails would be constructed on the in long-term, minor to moderate, benefi- site. The road to the water tanks would be cial effects on monument operations. opened to the public, and a parking facility would be built near the water tanks to Cumulative Effects provide better views of the river valley and its proximity to Montezuma Castle. An Several projects in the region may contri- overlook would be constructed near the bute to cumulative impacts on monument water tank providing a unique view of the operations. The other plans, projects, and Castle. A new picnic area would be con- actions in the region and nearby would structed west of the existing administra- have effects similar to those described for tion buildings that would replace the old alternative A; namely long-term, minor, picnic area. A new system of trails would adverse, cumulative effects on monument traverse the monument from north to operations, primarily the result of in- south. Additional parking and/or a bus creased visitation and demand for asso- drop-off could be constructed at the junc- ciated support services. However, alterna- ture of the Castle entrance road and the tive C would have long-term, moderate, service road to the sewage lagoons. The beneficial effects on monument opera- area south of the Castle loop trail would tions, resulting in a cumulative, minor include access over the creek and some benefit for monument operations. picnic facilities on the south bank of the creek. Although this alternative would Conclusion eliminate NPS spending on the rental of The beneficial effects of the alternative C an offsite monument headquarters in actions on monument operations would Camp Verde, the construction activity as- span a range from negligible to major, al- sociated with alternative C would result in though most of the benefits would be mi-

237 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES short-term, minor, beneficial effects on nerships with surrounding public lands local socioeconomics. agencies to provide connections to recreational and educational opportunities off Montezuma Well site. Visitor services and administrative facilities may be expanded in select areas A new visitor center would be constructed (for example, new headquarters at Mon- along Beaver Creek Road near the en- tezuma Castle, new visitor center at Mon- trance to Montezuma Well to increase vis- tezuma Well, new trails at all three sites), itor orientation and interpretation services leaving a slightly larger development foot- on site. A trail would be constructed paral- print and more attractions for visitors. lel to the road leading from the new visitor Trail connection opportunities with sur- center to Montezuma Well, and another rounding public lands would be explored trail would be constructed surrounding with partners to increase recreation and Montezuma Well. This trail would con- education activities. nect with another trail near the south boundary of the monument to the existing The monuments could become the prima- picnic area near Beaver Creek Road. A ry destination for a larger number of visi- corridor along Beaver Creek Road would tors, especially for local and regional resi- be designated to accommodate horseback dents. Visitation could increase, based on riding, hiking, and mountain biking. Addi- a larger number of visitors and a longer tional trails would be provided at Monte- average stay. Additional staffing could be zuma Well for visitors to connect with the required to accommodate this visitation. natural environment. This construction The National Park Service would acquire activity associated with alternative C most of the lands within the legislated would result in short-term, minor, benefi- boundaries except for the mine tailings at cial effects on local socioeconomics. Tuzigoot, which would be removed from the legislated boundary. This would re- Tuzigoot National Monument move approximately 600 acres from the A marsh boardwalk would connect the property tax rolls of the local government, visitor center with the Tavasci Marsh. Ad- resulting in a local, negligible, adverse so- ditional trails would be constructed in the cioeconomic effect. Maintenance respon- area to the east of the pueblo. An addi- sibilities would increase with alternative C tional workspace and storage facility near because of the additional onsite facilities. the existing maintenance area would pro- Considering the construction activity and vide onsite space for the functions and assuming that the workforce is increased operations of Tuzigoot, replacing offsite to accommodate the increased interpre- workspace and storage lost with the expi- tive and maintenance responsibilities, al- ration of the General Services Administra- ternative C would result in long-term, tion lease with the Yavapai Apache reser- negligible, beneficial effects on socioeco- vation. This construction activity asso- nomics. ciated with alternative C would result in Cumulative Effects short-term, negligible, beneficial effects on local socioeconomics. Several projects in the region may contribute to cumulative impacts on socioeco- All Sites nomics in the region. The effects of these Visitor contact facilities would be located projects on socioeconomics would be as at each of the three sites, encouraging visi- described for alternative A. The effects of tors to spend more time at the current site alternative C (minor benefits) in combina- and also visit the other sites. Interpretive tion with the effects of other past, present, opportunities would increase at each site. and reasonably foreseeable future actions The monument would depend on part- would result in short- and long-term, mi-

238 Impacts of Implementing Alternative C nor, beneficial, cumulative effects on so- water resources connected to Montezuma cioeconomics. Adjacent and surrounding Well. land use changes could result in long- term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts IMPAIRMENT CONCLUSION to groundwater resources connected to FOR ALTERNATIVE C Montezuma Well. Under this alternative, there would be no adverse impacts on resources or values Conclusion whose conservation is (1) necessary to ful- When the effects of each of the sites of the fill specific purposes identified in the na- monuments are added, alternative C tional monuments’ establishing legislation, would result in negligible to minor, short- (2) key to the cultural integrity or oppor- and long-term, beneficial effects on so- tunities for enjoyment of the national mo- cioeconomics in the region. The effects of numents, or (3) identified as a goal in this alternative C in combination with the ef- general management plan or other rele- fects of other past, present, and reasona- vant NPS planning documents. Conse- bly foreseeable future actions would result quently, there would be no impairment of in short- and long-term, minor, beneficial, resources or values. Implementation of cumulative effects on socioeconomics. this alternative would not result in any Adjacent and surrounding land use unacceptable impacts and is consistent changes could result in long-term, minor with section 1.4.7.1 of Management Poli- to moderate, adverse impacts to ground- cies 2006.

239

CHAPTER 5: CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

HISTORY OF PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

tended by fewer than 20 people. People PUBLIC AND AGENCY attending these meetings informed the DEVELOPMENT National Park Service concerning the is- The general management plan and envi- sues (opportunities, problems, or con- ronmental assessment for Montezuma cerns) that it should address in the general Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments management plan. represents thoughts of the National Park The National Park Service also met with Service / national monuments’ staff, Na- representatives of local, state, and other tive American groups, and the public. federal agencies to obtain input regarding Consultation and coordination among the the future of the national monuments. agencies and the public were vitally im- These meetings were held at key points portant throughout the planning process. throughout the planning process. The Na- The public had three primary avenues by tional Park Service contacted eight Native which it participated during the develop- American tribes to discuss the future of ment of the plan: participation in public the national monuments and has met with meetings, responses to newsletters, and six at their request. In addition, the Na- comments on the national monuments’ tional Park Service partnered with Arizona websites. State University to conduct a visitor use survey and gather data on visitor characte- PUBLIC MEETINGS ristics and preferences. AND NEWSLETTERS The following issues and concerns were Public meetings and newsletters were used raised in response to the first newsletter, to keep the public informed and involved in public meetings, and in meetings with in the planning process for Montezuma other government agencies and organiza- Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments. tions: A mailing list was compiled that consisted of members of government agencies, or- • Lands within the existing legislated ganizations, businesses, legislators, local boundaries and adjacent to the na- governments, and interested citizens. tional monuments should be reviewed. These areas should be eva- The notice of intent to prepare an envi- luated for possible boundary adjust- ronmental impact statement was pub- ments. lished in the Federal Register on May 29, 2003. Following additional review, the • The national monuments should be National Park Service determined that the evaluated to determine if additional actions anticipated in the plan would like- opportunities exist to expand the sto- ly not result in significant environmental ry being told at the monuments, link impacts nor was public controversy likely; the prehistoric cultures with contem- therefore, an environmental assessment porary peoples, and increase the areas was appropriate rather than an environ- that are available with the monuments mental impact statement. for visitors to explore. The first newsletter issued in August 2003 • Interaction of the visitors with the re- described the planning effort. Public sources in the national monuments meetings were held in Camp Verde on should be evaluated. September 24, 2003, and Clarkdale on • The character and level of develop- September 25, 2003, and were each at- ment within the national monuments

243 CHAPTER 5: CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

should be evaluated. Questions as to input from the agency on the alternatives whether existing facilities should be and their potential impacts. The list of expanded or additional facilities are threatened and endangered species (see needed at the monuments to accom- appendix D) was compiled using lists and modate visitors and operations should information received from the Fish and also be evaluated. Wildlife Service. • Since the national monuments’ exist- In accordance with the Endangered Spe- ing headquarters and maintenance fa- cies Act and relevant regulations in 50 cilities are outside the national mo- CFR Part 402, the National Park Service numents, the plan should examine determined that the management plan is how best to accommodate these man- not likely to adversely affect any federally agement functions. threatened or endangered species. In informal consultation, the U.S. Fish and • Because the national monuments con- Wildlife Service concluded that imple- stitute only a small portion of the mentation of the management plan is not Verde Valley, the National Park Ser- likely to adversely affect listed species or vice should partner with other land critical habitat. management agencies, local communities, Native American tribes, and local In addition, the National Park Service has organizations in the valley to deal with committed to consult on future actions resource management and visitor use conducted under the framework de- issues and opportunities. scribed in this management plan to ensure that such actions are not likely to adverse- These concerns were considered and in- ly affect threatened or endangered spe- corporated into the issues for the general cies. management plan. A second newsletter, distributed in August ARIZONA STATE AGENCY 2004, described the management prescrip- CONSULTATION tions and alternative concepts for manag- In October 2003 a letter was sent to the ing the national monuments. Public meet- Arizona Game and Fish Department re- ings were held in Cottonwood and Camp questing a list of threatened and endan- Verde on September 7 and 8, 2004, respec- gered species. tively, and were attended by fewer than 20 people. Consultation was also initiated with Ari- zona State Parks because lands under its SECTION 7 CONSULTATION (U.S. administration -- Dead Horse Ranch State FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE) Park and the Verde River Greenway – are adjacent to the national monuments. During the preparation of this document, National Park Service staff has coordi- SECTION 106 CONSULTATION nated informally with the U.S. Fish and (ARIZONA STATE HISTORIC Wildlife Service, Arizona Ecological Ser- vices Field Office. In October 2003 the PRESERVATION OFFICE) planning team initiated informal consulta- Agencies that have direct or indirect juris- tion with the Fish and Wildlife Service to diction over historic properties are re- determine the presence of federally listed quired by section 106 of the National His- threatened and endangered species in toric Preservation Act of 1966, as Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national amended (16 USC 270, et. seq.) to take into monuments. Telephone conversations account the effect of any undertaking on were conducted with the Fish and Wildlife properties listed or eligible for listing in Service to discuss the project and obtain the National Register of Historic Places.

244 History of Public Involvement

To meet the requirements of 36 CFR 800, Hopi Cultural Preservation Office Direc- the National Park Service sent letters to tor, and Clay Hamilton, Hopi Cultural the Arizona State Historic Preservation Preservation Office Research Assistant, to Officer (SHPO) and the Advisory Council present the plan’s goals and schedule and on Historic Preservation on September 25, to provide an overview of the general 2003 inviting their participation in the management planning process. Kuwanwi- planning process. siwma recommended that a memorandum of agreement be developed between the The general management plan represents tribes and the national monuments to plan-level compliance in accordance with cover topics of mutual concern, including the 1995 programmatic agreement among compliance, Archeological Resources Pro- the National Park Service, the Advisory tection Act and the Native American Council on Historic Preservation, and un- Graves Protection and Repatriation Act der the terms of stipulation VI. E. The Na- issues, cultural demonstrations, and pre- tional Park Service, in consultation with servation. the SHPO, will make a determination about which are programmatic exclusions On August 27, 2004, Davis and Harper, under IV. A and B, and for all other under- along with Archeologist John Schroeder takings, whether there is sufficient infor- and Student Conservation Association mation about resources and potential ef- intern Amy Frost returned to the Hopi fects on those resources to seek review Cultural Preservation Office to meet with and comment under 36 CFR 800.4-6 dur- Director Kuwanwisiwma and employees ing the plan review process. Lee Wayne Lomayestewa, Terry Morgart, and Lanell Poseyesva. During the meeting, CONSULTATION WITH a draft memorandum of agreement was NATIVE AMERICANS completed. After further review, the final version of the agreement was sent in Janu- Letters were sent to the following Native ary 2005 to representatives of the eight American groups in September 2003 at the affiliated tribes for their consideration. outset of this general management planning process to invite their participation in Superintendent Davis presented the gen- the planning process: eral management plan process to the “Four Southern Tribes Cultural Resources • Yavapai Apache Nation; Working Group Meeting, Salt River Pima- • Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe; Maricopa Indian Community” on March 26, 2004, at the Salt River Senior Center. • Zuni Pueblo; In attendance: representatives of the To- • The Hopi Tribe; hono O’Odham Nation, Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona, Ak-Chin Indian Com- • Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian munity, Gila River Indian Community, Community; and Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian • Gila River Indian Community; Community. • Ak-Chin Indian Community; and Superintendent Davis also met with the four southern tribes – Ak-Chin, Gila River • Tohono O’Odham Nation. Pima-Maricopa, Salt River Pima- On November 15, 2003, Superintendent Maricopa, and Tohono O’Odham – at Kathy M. Davis and Archeologist Kevin Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national Harper from the Southern Arizona Office monuments on November 15 and 16, visited the Hopi Cultural Preservation Of- 2004. fice (HCPO) in response to the National The tribes will have an opportunity to re- Park Service notification letter. Davis and view and comment on this plan. Harper met with Leigh Kuwanwisiwma,

245 CHAPTER 5: CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

The National Park Service will continue to regarding areas of interest that could be consult with concerned Native American included in research efforts; and promote tribes to learn about sites or resources of ethnographic involvement in excavations cultural or religious significance and to and anthropological research. develop strategies for protecting and preserving the sites and resources that might COUNTY AND LOCAL be identified as well as providing access to GOVERNMENT CONSULTATION areas of traditional cultural and religious The National Park Service consulted with importance. The National Park Service Yavapai County and the towns of Camp will also continue to consult with con- Verde, Sedona, and Cottonwood during cerned Native American tribes before tak- the planning process via partnership meeting actions that might affect traditional ings and newsletters. cultural properties; encourage archeologists, anthropologists, and researchers to consult with the Native American tribes

246

LIST OF PREPARERS

Dennis Casper CORE PLANNING TEAM Biologist, responsible for input to resources management affected environ- Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot ment, 7 years of experience in natural re- National Monuments source management, bachelors degree, Kathy M. Davis ecology, graduate study underway Superintendent, responsible for review Matthew Guebard and development of the general manage- Archeologist, responsible for cultural re- ment plan, 31 years of NPS experience, sources affected environment, 3.5 years of masters degree, forestry NPS experience, masters degree, anthro- Sherry Wood pology Administrative officer, provided scoping input, 28 years of NPS experience Denver Service Center Leonard Ontiveros Patrick Kenney Facility manager (acting), responsible for Project manager (former), responsible for monument operations affected environ- project management and oversight, 19 ment and contribution to scoping issues, years of NPS experience, bachelors de- 34 years of NPS experience gree, zoology Karen Hughes Cynthia Nelson Supervisory park ranger, responsible for Project manager, responsible for project input to monument operations, resource management and oversight, 14 years of protection, interpretation, and visitor use experience with the Federal Aviation Ad- and experience, 22 years of federal gov- ministration and 2 years of NPS expe- ernment experience, bachelor of science rience, masters degree, public administra- degree tion Ed Cummins Kerri Cahill Chief, Division of Resource Protection Community planner, responsible for user and Visitor Services, responsible for input carrying capacity and visitor use and expe- to monument operations, interpretation, rience affected environment and impacts, and visitor use and experience, 27 years of 15 years of experience in natural resource NPS experience, bachelors degree, and recreation planning, Ph.D., natural recreation and park management resource recreation management Randall Skeirik Erin Flanagan Chief, Division of Resources Manage- Natural resource specialist, responsible ment, responsible for input to monument for natural resource affected environment operations and resources management and impacts, 15 years of experience in re- affected environment, 18 years of expe- source planning, masters degree, re- rience as a licensed architect, 4 years with sources law and urban and regional plan- NPS, masters degree, architecture ning John Schroeder Jane Sikoryak Archeologist, responsible for cultural re- Cultural resource specialist, responsible sources affected environment and scoping for cultural resources affected environ- issues, 15 years of experience in archeolo- ment and impacts, 22 years of NPS expe- gy, master degree, archeology (pending) rience, bachelors degree, history

247 CHAPTER 5: CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

Harlan Unrau in biology, bachelors degree, wildlife biol- Cultural resource specialist, responsible ogy for cultural resources affected environ- Janet Snyder, ment and impacts, 35 years of experience Senior writer-editor, 34 years of expe- in history, masters degree, history rience, bachelors degree, zoology Ruth Eitel, graphics specialist Scott Lowry Christy Fischer, writer-editor Writer-editor, 16 years of experience, Ph.D., English CONSULTANTS National Park Service, Parsons Southern Arizona Office John Hoesterey Kevin Harper, Archeologist Project manager, responsible for project Larry Laing, Natural resources management and oversight, 35 years of experience in natural resource and Western Archeological and recreation planning, masters degree, geo- Conservation Center graphy Sue Wells, Archeologist John Martin Community planner, responsible for mo- Western National Parks Association nument operations and socioeconomic impacts, 37 years of experience in com- Jon Fistler, Field manager munity and transportation planning, masters degree, city and regional planning e2M (Engineering Environmental Management) Don Kellett Natural resource specialist, responsible Ron Dutton, Sammons Dutton, LLC for natural resources affected environment and impacts, 16 years of experience

248

LIST OF RECIPIENTS

FEDERAL AGENCIES NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES TRADITIONALLY ASSOCIATED Advisory Council on Historic Preserva- tion WITH THE NATIONAL MONUMENTS Coconino National Forest Chiricahua National Monument Yavapai Apache Nation Natural Resources Conservation Service Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe Petrified Forest National Park Zuni Pueblo Pipe Springs National Monument The Hopi Tribe Saguaro National Park Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Com- Tumacacori National Historic Park munity U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Gila River Indian Community U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Ak-Chin Indian Community U.S. Forest Service Tohono O’Odham Nation U.S. Geological Survey LOCAL AND REGIONAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES U.S. SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES Camp Verde Fire Department U.S. Senator Jon Kyle Camp Verde Marshall’s’ Office U.S. Senator John McCain Camp Verde Schools U.S. Representative Rick Renzi City of Cottonwood U.S. Representative Bob Stump City of Sedona Clarkdale Fire Department STATE AGENCIES Cottonwood Fire Department Arizona Game and Fish Cottonwood Police Department Arizona Office of Tourism Mingus Union High School District Arizona State Parks Montezuma-Rimrock Fire Department Dead Horse Ranch State Park Prescott Department of Public Safety Fort Verde State Park Sedona/Oak Creek School District Jerome State Historical Park Sedona Parks and Recreation State Historic Preservation Office Town of Camp Verde Red Rock State Park Town of Clarkdale Slide Rock State Park Town of Jerome Verde Greenway STATE OFFICIALS Verde Valley Fire Department Office of the Governor Yavapai County State Senator Ken Bennett Yavapai County Development Services State Senator John Vercamp Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office State Representative Henry Camarot State Representative Tom O’Halleran

249 CHAPTER 5: CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

ORGANIZATIONS Sedona Historical Society AND BUSINESSES Sedona-Oak Creek Chamber of Com- Camp Verde Historical Society merce Camp Verde Journal Sedona Red Rock News Central Arizona Land Trust Shumway Family Living Trust Clarkdale Chamber of Commerce Sierra Club Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce Southwest Expedition Institute, Inc. Glen Canyon Institute The Nature Conservancy Glen Canyon Trust Trust for Public Lands Jerome Chamber of Commerce United Christian School of Camp Verde Jerome Historical Society Verde Independent/Camp Verde Bugle Keep Sedona Beautiful Verde River Citizens Alliance Northern Arizona Audubon Society Verde Valley Archeological Society Northern Arizona University Department Verde Valley Open Space Committee of Biological Sciences Verde Watershed Association Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold, Walmart Inc. (formerly Phelps-Dodge Company) Western Archeological and Conservation Plateau Group Center Radio Station KAZM Western National Parks Association Radio Station KNAU Yavapai Broadcasting Sedona Academy Yavapai College, Verde Valley Campus

250 REFERENCES

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Arizona Department of Commerce University. December. Tempe, (ADOC) Arizona. 1989 Community Profiles. Camp Verde Basso, K.H. (April), Clarkdale (April), Cotton- 1983 “Western Apache.” In Handbook wood (May), and Jerome (April). of North American Indians: Vol. Phoenix. 10, Southwest 462-88. Washing- Arizona Department of Economic ton, DC: Smithsonian Institution. Security Bond, B. 1990 Arizona Revised Population Esti- 1996 Wisdom sits in places: Landscape mates, 1981-1989 and Population and language among the Western Projections, 1989-2040. Arizona Apache. Albuquerque: University Department of Economic Security, of New Mexico Press. Research Administration, Popula- tion Statistics Unit. May. 2005 Personal communication with Brian Bond, Federal Emergency 1997 Arizona County Population Pro- Management Agency. September jections, July 1, 1997 to July 1, 27. 2050. Research Administration, Population Statistics Unit. Breternitz, D.A. Arizona Game and Fish Department 1960 Excavation at Three Sites in the (AGFD) Verde Valley, Arizona, Museum of N. Arizona Bulletin Number 34, 2007 Arizona's Natural Heritage Pro- Flagstaff, Arizona. gram: Heritage Data Management System (HDMS). Accessed via the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. De- internet, July 2007, at partment of the Interior http://www.azgfd.gov/w_c/edits/s 1999 Tavasci Marsh Supplemental pecies_concern.shtml. Sampling Report. Prepared by Arizona State Parks URS Greiner Woodward Clyde, Denver, Colorado. September. 1992 Verde River Greenway Manage- ment Plan. Prepared by Design Council on Environmental Quality Workshop, Inc. for Arizona State 1978 “Regulations for Implementing the Parks. Procedural Provisions of the Na- 2004 Dead Horse Ranch State Park and tional Environmental Policy Act.” Verde River Greenway Informa- Code of Federal Regulations, Title tion Page. 40, Parts 1500-1508. http://www.pr.state.az.us/Parks/pa Federal Register rkhtml/deadhorse.html. 2006 71 FR 53755, September 12. En- Averitt, E., C. Bodeker, V. Coltman, G. dangered and Threatened Wildlife DelMonte, J. Duvall, D. Gelfand, and T. and Plants; Review of Native Spe- Toliver. cies That Are Candidates or Pro- 1990 Verde River Corridor Clarkdale, posed for Listing as Endangered An Ecological Inventory and or Threatened; Annual Notice of Analysis. Department of Planning, Findings on Resubmitted Peti- College of Architecture and Envi- tions; Annual Description of ronmental Design. Arizona State Progress on Listing Actions. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

253 REFERENCES

Fish, P.R. and S.K. Fish Conservation Center. September 24. 1977 Verde Valley Archeology; Review and Perspective, Museum of 1990 Montezuma Castle National Mo- Northern Arizona Research Paper nument Archeological District. 8, Flagstaff, Arizona. Draft National Register of Historic Places Registration Form. Pre- Fistler, J. pared by Ron Beckwith, Archeol- 2005 Personal communication with Jon ogist, and Keith Anderson, Re- Fistler, manager, Western Nation- gional Research Archeologist, al Parks Association. Western Archeological and Con- servation Center. May 2. Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agri- culture 1992a Water Resources Management Plan: Montezuma Castle and Tu- 2002 Fishing Verde River. Accessed on zigoot National Monuments. the Internet August 2008 at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/fi 1992b Secretary of the Interior’s Stan- shing/fishing_verde.htm dards for the Treatment of Histor- ic Properties. National Park Ser- Gifford, E.W. vice, Washington D.C. 1936 Northeastern and Western Yava- 1998 Director's Order #28: Cultural Re- pai. Univ. of California Publica- source Management. Washington, tions in American Archaeology DC. and Ethnology, vol. 34. 2001 Director’s Order #12 and Hand- Grenville, G. and J.T. Goodwin, ed. book: Conservation Planning, En- 1942 The social organization of the vironmental Impact Analysis, and Western Apache. The University Decision Making. Washington, of Chicago publications in anthro- D.C. pology: Ethnological series. Chi- 2003 Director’s Order 77-2: Floodplain cago: The University of Chicago Management. Washington D.C. Press. [reprinted 1969 by Tucson: University of Arizona Press]. 2006 Management Policies: The Guide to Managing the National Park Lehner, R.E. System. Washington, D.C.: NPS 1958 Geology of the Clarkdale Qua- Office of Policy. drangle, Arizona. U.S. Geological 2007 Park Museum Collection Storage Survey Bulletin. Washington, D.C. Plan. Accessed via the Internet Minckley, W.L. and D.E. Brown August 2008 at http://www.nps.gov/history/ mu- 1982 "Wetlands." Desert Plants 4(1-4), seum/parkmuseum collectionsto- special issue part 6. Tucson: Uni- rageplan.html. versity of Arizona. 2008a Collection Management Plan: National Park Service (NPS), U.S. De- Montezuma Castle National Mo- partment of the Interior nument. Prepared by the Western Archeological and Conservation 1987 Tuzigoot National Monument Center. June. Archeological District. National Register of Historic Places Inven- 2008b Collection Management Plan: Tu- tory – Nomination Form. Pre- zigoot National Monument. Pre- pared by Susan J. Wells, Archeolo- pared by the Western Archeologi- gist, Western Archeological and cal and Conservation Center. June.

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Northern Arizona University 2000 Money Generation Model Ver- sion 2 (MGM2): Estimating re- 2002 The Economic Impact of Arizona gional economic impacts of park State Parks. The Arizona Hospital- visitor spending. East Lansing, MI: ity Research and Resource Center, Department of Park, Recreation School of Hotel and Restaurant and Tourism Resources, Michigan Management, Northern Arizona State University. University. Tagg, M.D. Protas, J. 1986 The Tuzigoot Survey and Three 2002 A Past Preserved in Stone: A His- Small Verde Valley Projects, tory of Montezuma Castle Na- Western Archeological and Con- tional Monument. Western Na- servation Center, Publication in tional Parks Association, Tucson, Anthropology Number 40, Tuc- Arizona. son, Arizona. Powers, Robert P. and Nancy E. Pearson U.S. Bureau of the Census 2008 An Overview and Assessment of 2000 U.S. Census of the Population. Middle Verde Valley Archeology. U.S. Department of Commerce. Western Archeological and Con- servation Center, Publications in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. De- Anthropology No. 99. National partment of the Interior Park Service, Tucson. 2004 Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Rowlands, P.G. Available at http://www.fws.gov. January. 1999 Vegetation Survey of Montezuma Castle National Monument. April Verde River Corridor Project Steering 20. Committee Schroeder, A. H. 1991 Verde River Corridor Project: Fi- nal Report and Plan of Action. 1960 A Study of Yavapai History, NPS June. Verde Valley, Arizona. Publication. Santa Fe, NM. Wells, S.J. and K.M. Anderson Sedona Verde Valley Tourism Council 1988 Archeological Survey and Archi- 2007 Enjoying an Arizona Treasure: tectural Study of Montezuma Cas- The Verde Valley Greenway. Ac- tle National Monument, Western cessed via the Internet August Archeological and Conservation 2008 at http://www.sedona- Center, Publications in Anthro- verdevalley.com/ ar- pology Number 50, Tucson, Ari- ticles/Greenway.htm. zona. Soil Conservation Service and U.S. Forest White, D. and R. Virden Service (SCS and USFS), U.S. Department of Agriculture 2004 Visitor Study Final Technical Re- port: Montezuma Castle and Tuzi- 1972 Soil Survey of Yavapai County, goot National Monuments. Arizo- Arizona. Wendt, G. E. and Rich- na State University. ardson (Eds.). Washington, D. C. Yavapai County, Arizona. Stynes, D.J., D.B. Propst, W.H. Chang, and Y. Sun 2003 The Yavapai County General Plan 2003.

255

INDEX

Alternative A, i, iv, v, x, xiv, xvii, xviii, 4, Cottonwood, 119, 130, 146, 147, 148, 149, 45, 51, 53, 54, 55, 72, 83, 86, 87, 90, 91, 150, 151, 210, 232, 244, 246, 249, 250, 93, 94, 96, 98, 99, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 253 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, Cultural resources, i, iii, iv, v, vi, vii, 4, 11, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 191, 192, 14, 15, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 35, 46, 193, 194, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 207, 48, 49, 51, 59, 64, 66, 67, 76, 77, 80, 86, 209, 210, 215, 216, 218, 219, 220, 230, 88, 91, 98, 104, 105, 109, 113, 114, 133, 238, 239 144, 159, 161, 162, 163, 167, 188, 191, Alternative B, i, iv, v, vi, x, xiv, xv, xvii, 3, 4, 192, 200, 204, 206, 213, 214, 222, 236, 45, 56, 57, 61, 62, 63, 64, 67, 72, 82, 86, 237, 238, 247, 248, 267, 270 87, 90, 91, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 196, Dead Horse Ranch State Park, vi, 16, 31, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 203, 204, 205, 39, 58, 67, 84, 88, 92, 136, 138, 172, 175, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 179, 190, 192, 194, 211, 213, 234, 235, 214, 215, 216, 221, 222, 224, 225, 227, 244, 249, 253 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 237 Desired future conditions, iii, 10, 27, 161 Alternative C, i, iv, vi, vii, xi, xv, xvii, 4, 45, 64, 65, 68, 69, 70, 72, 82, 83, 84, 86, 87, Erosion, 38, 48, 52, 78, 79, 87, 94, 96, 109, 90, 91, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 162, 218, 111, 165, 170, 171, 173, 174, 175, 177, 220, 222, 223, 226, 228, 229, 230, 231, 178, 179, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 199, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238, 239, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 221, 222, 223, 240 224, 225, 226, 227, 229 American Indians (see Native Americans), Ethnographic resources, v, vi, viii, 36, 37, 39, 253, 300 38, 76, 77, 94, 104, 111, 163, 180, 181, 198, 199, 220, 221 Back cabin, 14, 19, 58, 66, 94, 95, 118, 173, 212, 216, 225, 227, 234 Fire, x, 25, 35, 123, 249 Beaver Creek, vii, 6, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, Flooding, 14, 36, 65, 87, 111, 119, 121, 123, 21, 36, 38, 51, 52, 56, 57, 58, 65, 66, 82, 164, 171, 174, 182, 199, 200, 201, 221, 87, 88, 92, 119, 121, 123, 125, 131, 135, 222, 223, 237, 271 140, 182, 185, 188, 196, 199, 200, 201, Floodplain, 19, 77, 94, 106, 109, 119, 121, 205, 207, 211, 218, 221, 222, 225, 232, 123, 164, 165, 182, 183, 199, 200, 201, 233, 237, 239 221, 222, 223, 271 Campgrounds, 13, 14, 138, 145 Hiking, v, vii, 4, 31, 57, 58, 65, 84, 87, 92, Camping, 31, 111, 138, 172, 175, 190, 213, 111, 138, 141, 145, 172, 175, 196, 211, 235 214, 222, 233, 237, 239 Carrying Capacity, 119, 199, 247 Interaction and Discovery Zone, xi, 196 Coconino National Forest, vi, 12, 31, 32, Interpretation and orientation, i, iv, v, vi, 39, 58, 67, 88, 92, 117, 120, 137, 144, 211, viii, ix, xii, xiii, xiv, xv, 17, 20, 21, 24, 29, 234, 237, 249 31, 34, 45, 49, 50, 51, 56, 58, 65, 66, 72, 74, 86, 88, 91, 92, 93, 98, 99, 126, 134, Consultation, iv, 10, 23, 24, 26, 36, 51, 76, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 142, 189, 190, 77, 78, 87, 88, 90, 112, 122, 180, 181, 192, 191, 192, 196, 200, 203, 204, 209, 211, 207, 230, 244, 245, 246, 269 212, 213, 214, 215, 216,218, 222, 228, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238, 239, 247 Invasive species, 27

257 REFERENCES

Mine tailings, v, vii, x, 32, 34, 35, 56, 58, 59, Native American (see American Indians), 60, 64, 67, 81, 86, 88, 90, 133, 136, 137, x, xii, xvi, 23, 24, 27, 32, 37, 38, 58, 107, 179, 189, 190, 213, 214, 215, 236, 237, 111, 112, 117, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 238, 239 139, 144, 149, 180, 190, 192, 194, 212, 235, 243, 244, 245, 246, 249, 270 Montezuma Castle, i, ii, iii, iv, v, vi, vii, viii, ix, x, xi, xii, xiii, xiv, xv, xvi, xvii, xviii, 3, Native Americans, 39, 253, 300 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, Natural resources, i, iv, v, vi, 4, 20, 24, 25, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 31, 32, 33, 34, 27, 33, 34, 40, 46, 48, 49, 51, 64, 79, 82, 37, 38, 39, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 51, 53, 54, 84, 86, 90, 91, 115, 120, 133, 134, 136, 56, 57, 61, 62, 64, 65, 68, 69, 72, 73, 74, 138, 142, 159, 164, 177, 178, 179, 237, 81, 82, 84, 86, 87, 92, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 247, 248, 267, 268, 271, 300 99, 103, 105, 106, 107, 108, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, Park Operations Zone, xi, 73 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, Parking, vi, vii, 4, 6, 14, 50, 57, 58, 59, 65, 130, 131, 133, 134, 138, 140, 141, 142, 66, 67, 72, 74, 79, 81, 84, 87, 88, 92, 95, 144, 145, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 159, 98, 133, 134, 141, 185, 187, 188, 190, 191, 160, 161, 165, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 192, 196, 205, 208, 210, 211, 212, 213, 172, 173, 174, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 214, 216, 218, 224, 231, 233, 235, 236, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 238 189, 190, 191, 192, 194, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, Pit houses, vii, 15, 65, 88, 106, 108, 116, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 214, 216, 218, 170 219, 220, 221, 223, 226, 227, 228, 229, Pueblos, iv, vi, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 37, 51, 230, 231, 232, 233, 235, 236, 238, 239, 56, 58, 59, 67, 74, 84, 88, 91, 106, 108, 243, 244, 245, 247, 254, 255, 259, 267, 109, 110, 111, 112, 114, 117, 118, 136, 299 137, 138, 141, 174, 192, 196, 212, 214, Montezuma Well, i, iii, iv, v, vii, viii, xi, xiii, 216, 234, 237, 239, 245, 249 xv, xvii, 4, 6, 8, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, Religious significance, 180, 246 21, 34, 38, 51, 56, 58, 64, 66, 74, 81, 84, 88, 91, 95, 96, 98, 99, 106, 108, 111, 112, Section 106, xvi, 3, 244 113, 115, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, Sedona, 32, 112, 113, 120, 130, 144, 146, 123, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 134, 148, 149, 150, 151, 193, 246, 249, 250, 135, 136, 138, 141, 144, 170, 172, 173, 255 176, 177, 180, 182, 185, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 194, 200, 202, 205, 207, 210, Sinaguan culture, x, 4, 6, 11, 12, 17, 19, 32, 211, 212, 213, 214, 216, 218, 222, 225, 49, 57, 106, 109, 112, 115, 116, 117, 118, 227, 229, 230, 232, 233, 234, 235, 237, 126, 131, 133, 136, 137, 139, 141, 151, 239, 240, 259 176, 177, 181, 189, 190, 192, 194, 211, 213, 233, 236 National Environmental Policy Act, i, 3, 10, 22, 73, 81, 82, 85, 159, 160, 253, 267, Soils, vii, 26, 36, 77, 78, 79, 94, 95, 106, 112, 270, 271 113, 120, 121, 123, 165, 183, 184, 201, 202, 203, 204, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228 National Historic Preservation Act, 3, 21, 22, 23, 51, 73, 81, 104, 116, 159, 162, 163, Southwestern willow flycatcher, 97, 120, 172, 173, 176, 179, 180, 181, 196, 197, 123, 124, 186, 187, 207, 208, 209, 230, 198, 199, 218, 219, 220, 221, 244, 270 231 National Register of Historic Places, v, xii, Tavasci Marsh, vi, 34, 36, 59, 67, 72, 88, 90, xiii, 23, 48, 58, 66, 76, 77, 87, 104, 108, 94, 96, 97, 120, 121, 124, 136, 184, 185, 111, 113, 114, 115, 117, 118, 162, 163, 186, 187, 188, 200, 201, 203, 204, 205, 170, 173, 174, 176, 177, 244, 254, 270 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 214, 216,

258 Index

222, 223, 226, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, Verde River, iv, vii, x, 13, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 234, 239 31, 36, 38, 39, 51, 59, 67, 88, 92, 96, 105, 106, 107, 109, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, Threatened and endangered species, 21, 120, 121, 123, 124, 125, 128, 136, 138, 26, 32, 57, 64, 78, 90, 97, 103, 120, 166, 139, 172, 175, 179, 182, 183, 185, 186, 188, 210, 233, 244 187, 190, 192, 194, 196, 200, 202, 203, Traffic, 12, 74, 133, 144, 193 204, 206, 208, 210, 211, 213, 218, 222, 223, 226, 229, 231, 234, 235, 244, 250, Trails, v, vi, vii, 4, 6, 13, 14, 31, 36, 38, 40, 253, 254, 255 49, 50, 57, 58, 59, 64, 65, 66, 67, 72, 73, 74, 78, 80, 81, 84, 86, 87, 88, 90, 91, 92, Verde River Greenway, vii, x, 16, 31, 39, 94, 95, 96, 98, 109, 111, 122, 131, 133, 59, 67, 88, 92, 96, 120, 137, 138, 172, 175, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 141, 145, 179, 182, 183, 185, 187, 190, 192, 194, 171, 174, 175, 178, 179, 182, 183, 184, 200, 203, 204, 206, 208, 210, 211, 213, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 223, 226, 229, 231, 234, 235, 244, 253 196, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, Verde Valley, i, iii, iv, v, x, xii, xviii, 11, 15, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 17, 18, 20, 23, 32, 33, 35, 39, 56, 64, 66, 214, 216, 218, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 76, 86, 91, 92, 98, 105, 106, 107, 108, 112, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 117, 119, 120, 128, 133, 134, 135, 136, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238, 239 137, 138, 139, 141, 144, 145, 146, 147, Tuzigoot, i, ii, iii, iv, v, vi, vii, viii, ix, xi, xii, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, xiii, xiv, xv, xvi, xvii, xviii, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 170, 193, 194, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 233, 234, 235, 236, 244, 249, 250, 253, 26, 28, 29, 31, 32, 33, 34, 37, 38, 39, 45, 254, 255 46, 47, 48, 49, 51, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 63, Viewshed, 59, 80, 189, 190, 213, 236 64, 65, 66, 67, 70, 72,"74, 81, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 94, 95, 96, 97, 99, 103, 105, 106, Visitor center, iv, vii, viii, 4, 6, 14, 15, 21, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 40, 50, 51, 57, 59, 64, 66, 67, 71, 72, 73, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 74, 77, 84, 87, 88, 91, 94, 95, 98, 118, 131, 123, 124, 125, 126, 128, 130, 131, 133, 133, 134, 136, 137, 138, 141, 152, 173, 136, 137, 138, 139, 141, 142, 144, 145, 174, 183, 189, 190, 191, 192, 213, 214, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 159, 160, 161, 215, 216, 225, 227, 234, 235, 236, 237, 167, 168, 169, 170, 172, 173, 174, 175, 239 176, 177, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, Visitor experience, 28, 33, 45, 46, 47, 48, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 50, 73, 76, 80, 88, 98, 126, 133, 159, 160, 194, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 167, 168, 189, 190, 193, 211, 212, 213, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 233, 234, 235, 236 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 225, 226, 227, 228, Visual intrusion, 80, 111, 151 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 237, Water quality, 25, 36, 39, 88, 133, 135, 137, 238, 239, 243, 244, 245, 247, 254, 255, 164, 194, 209, 232, 269 264, 267, 299 Water quantity, iv Vegetation, vii, 26, 32, 36, 38, 59, 77, 78, 79, 95, 108, 111, 115, 119, 120, 121, 123, Wetlands, 21, 79, 81, 96, 164, 184, 185, 204, 124, 165, 171, 177, 183, 184, 187, 190, 205, 228, 269, 271 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 207, Wildlife, v, vi, vii, 20, 25, 27, 32, 36, 48, 78, 208, 213, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 79, 96, 120, 122, 124, 131, 133, 135, 136, 227, 228, 231, 236 137, 141, 164, 166, 167, 184, 185, 186, Vehicles, vii, 4, 40, 48, 65, 72, 74, 87, 133, 201, 205, 206, 207, 228, 229, 230, 248, 138, 141, 143, 145, 188, 211, 233 267, 269, 271, 299, 300

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Yavapai County, i, xvii, 15, 21, 31, 119, 122, 144, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 155, 246, 249, 255, 299 Yavapai-Apache Tribe, x, 32, 107, 112, 144, 145, 149, 151, 171, 175, 178, 190, 192, 194, 212, 235 Yellow-billed cuckoo, 97, 124, 125, 188, 210, 232, 233 Yuma clapper rail, v, 97, 124, 188, 209, 210, 232, 299

260

APPENDIX A: LEGAL MANDATES

Appendix A includes summaries and descriptions of the application of federal laws, regulations, executive orders, policies, and guidelines that are applicable to the National Park Ser- vice’s management of resources in the natural and human environment.

ENABLING LEGISLATION

ANTIQUITIES ACT OF 1906 AND PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION 696, DECEMBER 8, 1906, ESTABLISHING MONTEZUMA CASTLE NATIONAL MONUMENT Montezuma Castle National Monument was founded by virtue of Presidential Proclamation 696, under the authority granted the president by the Antiquities Act of 1906 (16 United States Code 431-433). President Theodore Roosevelt issued the proclamation on December 8, 1906. The Antiquities Act and the subsequent proclamation form the foundation for all the rules, regulations, laws, and policies of the monument. Montezuma Well was added in 1943 as a detached unit of the monument with an act of Congress (October 19, 1943, 57 Stat. 572).

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262 Appendix A: Legal Mandates

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264 Appendix A: Legal Mandates

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PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION 2344, JULY 25, 1939, ESTABLISHING TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENT Tuzigoot National Monument was established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt with the signing of Presidential Proclamation 2344, on July 25, 1939. The proclamation and the Antiq- uities Act of 1906 form the foundation for all the rules, regulations, laws, and policies of the monument.

266 Appendix A: Legal Mandates

267 REFERENCES

268

LAWS AND POLICIES GUIDING MANAGEMENT OF MONTEZUMA CASTLE AND TUZIGOOT NATIONAL MONUMENTS

Three overarching environmental protection laws and policies guide the actions of the Na- tional Park Service in the management of parks and their resources: the NPS Organic Act of 1916, the National Environmental Policy Act and its implementing regulations, and the Omni- bus Management Act. For an in-depth discussion of guiding regulations, refer to the section “Servicewide Mandates and Policies” in the “Purpose of and Need for Action” chapter. These guiding regulations are briefly described below. • The Organic Act of 1916 (16 United States Code [USC] 1) commits the National Park Ser- vice to making informed decisions that perpetuate the conservation and protection of park resources unimpaired for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations. • The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 is implemented through CEQ regulations (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 1500-1508). The National Park Service has, in turn, adopted procedures to comply with NEPA and CEQ regulations, as found in Director’s Order 12: Conservation Planning, Environmental Impact Analysis, and Decision Making (NPS 2001) and Handbook. • The Omnibus Management Act (16 USC 5901 et seq.) underscores NEPA in that both are fundamental to park management decisions. Both acts provide direction for connecting resource management decisions to the analysis of impacts, and communicating the impacts of these decisions for the public, using appropriate technical and scientific information. Both acts also recognize that such data may not be readily available, and they provide options for resource impact analysis should this be the case. Management Policies 2006 states that the “fundamental purpose” of the national park system is to conserve park resources and values and to provide for the public enjoyment of the parks resources and values to the extent that the resources will be left unimpaired for future generations. Native wildlife is identified as a park resource. Management Policies 2006 provides general principles for the maintenance of natural resources in the park by: “preserving and restoring the natural abundances, diversities, dynamics, distribu- tions, habitats, and behaviors of native plant and animal populations and the communities and ecosystems in which they occur.” Because many forms of recreation can take place outside a national park setting, the National Park Service will therefore seek to: • Provide opportunities for forms of enjoyment that are uniquely suited and appropriate to the superlative natural and cultural resources found in a particular unit; and • Defer to local, state, and other federal agencies; private industry; and non-governmental organizations to meet the broader spectrum of recreational needs and demands that are not dependent on a national park setting.

269 REFERENCES

Any closures or restrictions, other than those imposed by law, must be consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and policies, and (except in emergency situations) require a written determination by the superintendent that such measures are needed to: • Protect public health and safety; • Prevent unacceptable impacts on park resources or values; • Carry out scientific research; • Minimize visitor use conflicts; or • Otherwise implement management responsibilities. Section 4.5 of Director’s Order 12 adds to this guidance by stating, “when it is not possible to modify alternatives to eliminate an activity with unknown or uncertain potential impacts, and such information is essential to making a well-reasoned decision, the National Park Service will follow the provisions of the CEQ regulations (40 CFR 1502.22).” In summary, the Na- tional Park Service must state in an environmental assessment or impact statement (1) whether such information is incomplete or unavailable; (2) the relevance of the incomplete or unavailable information to evaluating reasonably foreseeable significant adverse impacts on the human environment; (3) a summary of existing credible scientific adverse impacts that is relevant to evaluating the reasonably foreseeable significant adverse impacts; and (4) an evaluation of such impacts based on theoretical approaches or research methods generally accepted in the scientific community. Collectively, these guiding regulations provide a framework and process for evaluating the impacts of the alternatives proposed in this general management plan and environmental assessment.

FISH AND WILDLIFE The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, as amended, prohibits the taking, killing, possession, transportation, and importation of migratory birds, their eggs, parts, and nests except as authorized under a valid permit (50 CFR 21.11). Additionally, the act authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Interior to determine if, and by what means, the take of migratory birds should be allowed and to adopt suitable regulations permitting and governing take (for example, hunting seasons for ducks and geese). “Take” includes pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound, kill, capture, trap, collect, molest or disturb. The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits, with certain exceptions, the take of marine mammals in U.S. waters and by U.S. citizens on the high seas, and the importation of marine mammals and marine mammal products into the U.S. See http://www.fws.gov/laws/lawsdigest/marmam.html for more information. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management and Conservation Act (particularly the 1996 amendments) requires regional fishery management councils with the assistance of NMFS to delineate Essential Fish Habitat for all managed species, for the purpose of maintaining sustainable fisheries. See http://swr.nmfs.noaa.gov/hcd/efhprim.htm for more information.

THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES Management Policies 2006 and Natural Resources Management Guidelines (Director’s Order 77) direct the National Park Service to “encourage productive and enjoyable harmony between man and his environment; to promote efforts which will prevent or eliminate damage to the environment and biosphere and stimulate the health and welfare of man and to enrich the understanding of the ecological systems and natural resources important to the Na-

270 Appendix A: Legal Mandates tion…” Policies and guidelines for natural resources direct that the park must (1) identify and complete the inventories of natural resources for baseline information; (2) minimize impacts of human activities, developments, and uses on marine and terrestrial resources; (3) continue to close areas to protect nests; and (4) manage endangered, threatened, and candidate species. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 provides strict legal protection for endangered and threatened species, as well as those special concern species that may be in jeopardy of extinc- tion, and for which special protection under federal and state law is afforded. The federal list of plants and animals is published in 50 CFR 17.11-12, and is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Special status species of plants and wildlife are included in this section. If the National Park Service determines that an action may adversely affect a federally listed species, consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is required to ensure that the action would not jeopardize the species’ continued existence or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940, as amended, provides for the protection of the bald eagle and the golden eagle (as amended in 1962) by prohibiting the take, possession, sale, purchase, barter, offer to sell, purchase or barter, transport, export or import, of any bald or golden eagle, alive or dead, including any part, nest, or egg, unless allowed by permit. “Take” includes pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound, kill, capture, trap, collect, molest or disturb.

WETLANDS Under section 404 of the Clean Water Act, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material resulting from water resources projects (such as dams or levees) into the waters of the U.S. through a permit program. The section 404(b)(1) guidelines are the substantive criteria by which proposed dredged material discharge actions are evaluated. The U.S. EPA also maintains general environmental oversight, including section 404(c) permit veto authority, if there will be an "unacceptable adverse effect." The basic premise of the program is that no discharge of dredged or fill material can be permitted if a practicable alternative exists that is less damaging to the aquatic environment or if the nation's waters would be significantly degraded. Executive Order 11990: Protection of Wetlands requires federal agencies to minimize destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands and to preserve and enhance natural and beneficial values of wetlands in carrying out the agency’s responsibilities. Also, each agency must consider factors relevant to effects on the survival and quality of wetlands when proposing an action.

WATER RESOURCES The objective of the Clean Water Act (CWA), or Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972, and its amendments is to “restore and maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the nation’s waters.” The goal of the Clean Water Act is to produce waters of the United States that are “fishable and swimmable.” A primary means for evaluating and protecting water quality is the establishment and enforcement of water quality standards. Under the Clean Water Act, the federal government delegated responsibility for establishing water quality criteria to each state, subject to approval by the EPA. Water quality standards consist of three parts: 1) designated beneficial uses of water [e.g., drinking, recreation, aquatic life]; 2) numeric criteria for physical and chemical characteristics for each type of designated use; and 3) an “antidegradation” provision to protect uses and water quality.

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Management Policies 2006 states that the National Park Service “will determine the quality of park surface and groundwater resources and avoid, whenever possible, the pollution of park waters by human activities occurring within and outside the parks.” Management Policies 2006 also state that the National Park Service will “take all necessary actions to maintain or restore the quality of surface waters and groundwaters within the parks consistent with the Clean Water Act and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.”

CULTURAL RESOURCES The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), as amended, requires in §106 that federal agencies with direct or indirect jurisdiction over undertakings take into account the effect of those undertakings on properties that are listed on, or eligible for listing on, the National Register of Historic Places. This act and its implementing regulations provide guidance for deciding whether cultural resources are of sufficient importance to be determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The NHPA uses the term “historic properties,” to mean all prehistoric and historic sites, buildings, structures, and objects included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the National Register of Historic Places. Regulations that guide the implementation of NHPA are contained in 36 CFR, Part 800 (36 CFR 800). The management and protection of cultural resources are guided by a variety of laws and policies, including: • National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, and its implementing regulations at 36 CFR 800; • Antiquities Act of 1906; • NPS Organic Act of 1916; • Historic Sites Act of 1935; • Archeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974; • Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979; • General Authorities Act of 1976; • Management of Museum Properties Act of 1955, as amended; • National Environmental Policy Act of 1969; • Executive Order 11593; • Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Historic Preserva- tion; • Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Historic Preserva- tion with Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes; • Departmental Manual 411 DM 1-3, Managing Museum Property; • Departmental Manual 519 DM 1, Protection of the Cultural Environment; Departmental Manual 519 DM 2, Preservation of American Antiquities and Treatment and Disposition of Native American Cultural Items; • Programmatic Agreement among the National Park Service, Advisory Council on Histor- ic Preservation, and the National Council of State Historic Preservation Officers (1995); • Management Policies 2006; • Director’s Order 28, Cultural Resource Management;

272 Appendix A: Legal Mandates

• Director’s Order 28A, Archeology; and • Director’s Order 24, NPS Museum Collections Management.

COASTAL ZONE AND FLOODPLAINS In recognition of the increasing pressures of development on the nation's coastal resources, Congress enacted the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) in 1972 and has amended it several times (16 United States Code 1450 et seq.). The CZMA encourages states to preserve, protect, develop, and, where possible, restore or enhance valuable natural coastal resources such as wetlands, floodplains, estuaries, beaches, dunes, barrier islands, and coral reefs, as well as the fish and wildlife using those habitats. The CZMA specifies that coastal states may protect coastal resources and manage coastal development. A state with an OCRM-approved program can deny or restrict any development that is inconsistent with its coastal zone management program. Management Policies 2006 states that the National Park Service, in managing floodplains on park lands, “will (1) manage for the preservation of floodplain values; (2) minimize potentially hazardous conditions associated with flooding; and (3) comply with the NPS Organic Act and all other federal laws and executive orders related to the management of activities in flood-prone areas, including Executive Order 11988 (Floodplain Management), the National Environmental Policy Act, applicable provisions of the Clean Water Act, and the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act of 1899.” Specifically, the National Park Service will “protect, preserve, and restore the natural resources and functions of floodplains.” Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management, which in part addresses coastal areas, mandates all federal agencies to develop agency-specific guidance, provide leadership, and take action to:

• Reduce the risk of flood loss; • Minimize the impact of floods on human safety, health, and welfare; and • Restore and preserve the natural and beneficial values served by floodplains.

273

APPENDIX B: CONSULTATION AND CORRESPONDENCE

275 REFERENCES

276 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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278 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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280 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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282 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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284 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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286 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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288 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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290 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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292 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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294 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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296 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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298 Appendix B: Consultation and Correspondence

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APPENDIX C: THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES Table C.1 presents the species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as endangered, threatened, proposed, or candidates for listing and having potential to occur in Yavapai County, Arizo- na. The Arizona Game and Fish Department does not make any distinctions with regard to status such as threatened or endangered; all state special status species are classified as Wildlife of Spe- cial Concern. The Arizona Game and Fish Department Heritage Data Management System provided lists of the state special status species that may be found within five miles of Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot national monuments.

TABLE C.1: ENDANGERED, THREATENED, CANDIDATE, AND SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR IN YAVAPAI COUNTY, ARIZONA

Common Name Scientific Name Status a/ Plant Arizona cliffrose Purshia subintegra FE, AWSC Invertebrate Page springsnail Pyrgulopsis morrisoni FC, AWSC Reptile Northern Mexican garter snake Thamnophis eques megalops AWSC Amphibians Chiricahua leopard frog Rana chiricahuensis FT, AWSC Lowland leopard frog Rana yavapaiensis AWSC Fish Colorado pikeminnow Ptychocheilus lucius FE, AWSC Desert pupfish Cyprinodon macularius FE, AWSC Gila chub Gila intermedia FE, AWSC Gila topminnow Poeciliopsis occidentalis FE, AWSC Headwater chub Gila nigra FC, AWSC Razorback sucker Xyrauchen texanus FE, AWSC Roundtail chub Gila robusta AWSC Spikedace Meda fulgida FT, AWSC Birds Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus FT b/, AWSC Belted kingfisher Ceryle alcyon AWSC California brown pelican Pelecanus occidentalis californicus FE, AWSC Common black hawk Buteogallus anthracinus AWSC Mexican spotted owl Strix occidentalis lucida FT, AWSC Southwestern willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii extimus FE, AWSC Yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus FC, AWSC Yuma clapper rail Rallus longirostris yumanensis FE, AWSC Mammal Western red bat Lasiurus blossevillii AWSC a/ FE = federal endangered; FT = federal threatened; FC = federal candidate; AWSC = Arizona wildlife of special concern b/ The bald eagle was recently delisted (June 28, 2007), although the delisting is not administratively complete.

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As the nation’s principal conservation agency, the Department of the Interior has the responsibility for most of our nationally owned public lands and natural resources. This includes fostering sound use of our land and water resources; protecting our ﬁsh, wildlife, and biological diversity; preserving the environmental and cultural values of our national parks and historical places; and providing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor recreation. The department assesses our energy and mineral resources and works to ensure that their development is in the best interests of all our people by encouraging stewardship and citizen participation in their care. The department also has a major responsibility for American Indian reservation communities and for people who live in island territories under U.S. administration.

NPS 309/100861 / January 2010

Na t i o n a l Pa r k Se r v i c e • U.S. De p a r t m e n t o f t h e In t e r i o r Ge n e r a l Ma n a g e m e n t Pl a n /En v i r o n m e n t a l As s e s s m e n t