Petrified Forest U.S. Department of the Interior

Petrified Forest National Park National Park

Final General Management Plan Revision / Environmental Impact Statement

May 2004

Final General Management Plan Revision / Environmental Impact Statement Petrified Forest National Park Navajo and Apache Counties, Arizona May 2004

This Final General Management Plan Revision / Environmental Impact Statement describes and analyzes four alternatives for managing Petrified Forest National Park. The approved plan revision will help managers make decisions about managing resources, visitation, and development for the next 15 to 20 years. Issues addressed by the plan revision relate to use of Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark, staff housing needs, cultural landscape values, use and treatment of Painted Desert headquarters complex, museum collections, accommodating researchers, concessions, and providing for resource protection and visitor experience/understanding in different areas of the park.

Alternative 1, the no-action alternative, would continue present management. It provides a baseline for understanding changes and impacts of the other alternatives. There would be no new construction or major changes, and the park would be operated and maintained as before. Resources would be protected as funding allows. Visitor and operational facilities would remain concentrated in the Painted Desert and Rainbow Forest areas. Some areas would be closed or access modified to address harmful resource impacts. Visitor uses would be reassessed and revised as new information about natural and cultural resource impacts becomes available. Museum collections would be stored offsite and in the park, some in substandard facilities. In alternative 2, the preferred alternative, reusing and maintaining the historic integrity of Painted Desert headquarters complex would be a priority. Visitor services at Painted Desert Inn (rehabilitated) would be expanded. Facility improvements would be made at Rainbow Forest. Park lands would be managed similar to now, but with greater protection for natural and cultural resources from increased monitoring and adapting to new information. Some trails and turnouts would be added, and visitor hours would be expanded in the north. Most park collections would be housed in a new facility. In alternative 3, the park would be managed as a fossil resource preserve. Painted Desert Inn and the headquarters complex would be rehabilitated and adaptively reused. Improvements would be made at Rainbow Forest developed area. This alternative would provide the most protection for natural and cultural resources. Visitors would be encouraged to explore the park primarily in selected frontcountry areas. Some sensitive areas would be closed to visitor use. Backcountry access would be managed with permits and/or other methods (e.g., guided access only). Interpretive services would be expanded to increase understanding of park resources. Park collections would be reunited at the park in a new facility. In alternative 4, resources would be protected while more opportunities to experience park resources would be provided. Visitor services at Painted Desert Inn (rehabilitated) would be expanded. Painted Desert headquarters complex would be demolished and rebuilt in phases in the same location. Improvements would be made at Rainbow Forest developed area. New trails, turnouts, and other options would expand opportunities to experience and understand park resources. Visitor hours would be expanded in the north. Park collections would be moved to institutions and/or agency facilities outside the park that meet National Park Service standards.

This document includes discussion of the potential environmental consequences of each alternative. Notable impacts of alternative 1 include adverse impacts to the Painted Desert headquarters complex and historic residences near the Painted Desert Inn from continued deterioration; adverse impacts on museum collections from inadequate facilities, limited work space, and difficulties with recordkeeping; adverse impacts on archeological resources and petrified wood and other fossils, primarily from visitor use; adverse impacts on visitor experience and appreciation from dated interpretive materials and lack of opportunities and accessibility. Notable impacts of alternative 2 include potential adverse impacts to archeological sites and petrified wood from new trails; adverse impacts to Rainbow Forest cultural landscape from parking and walkway realignment; beneficial impacts to park collections from construction of a new collections facility; beneficial impacts on visitor experience and appreciation from new turnouts, trails, and facility improvements; beneficial impacts to park operations from improved work conditions and facilities. Impacts of alternative 3 include adverse impacts to Rainbow Forest cultural landscape from parking and walkway realignment; beneficial impacts on archeological sites and petrified wood from reducing trails and controlling backcountry use; adverse impacts to operations from new visitor programs; beneficial impacts on park operations from improved work conditions and facilities. Impacts of alternative 4 include adverse impacts to Rainbow Forest cultural landscape from parking and walkway realignment; adverse impacts to archeological sites and petrified wood from new trails and turnouts; beneficial impacts on visitor experience and appreciation from new facilities, turnouts, trails, and expanded services; beneficial impacts to park operations from new facilities and removal of deteriorating structures.

Please address comments to: Superintendent; Petrified Forest National Park; PO Box 2217; Petrified Forest, Arizona 86028. E-mail: [email protected]

United States Department of the Interior National Park Service

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SUMMARY

Petrified Forest National Park is located in future management of that specific unit. northeastern Arizona, about 100 miles east The last comprehensive planning effort at of Flagstaff, Arizona. The park features one Petrified Forest National Park was of the largest and most colorful concen- completed in 1993, with the development of trations of petrified wood in the world. a General Management Plan/Environmental Present day exposures of the 225-million- Impact Statement (NPS 1993). Although year-old Chinle Formation extend through much of the 1993 General Management the Painted Desert. Fossils preserved in this Plan (1993 GMP) is still relevant, certain formation represent an entire ecosystem. aspects need to be revised due to changing These rare, accessible associations of circumstances, new information, and new animal and plant fossils make it possible to policies. The purpose of this General learn more about the Late Triassic period Management Plan Revision (GMP here than anywhere else in the world. Revision) is to:

The park also contains historic structures, Clearly define the resource archeological sites, , wildlife, conditions and visitor experience, and interpretive exhibits. The Painted understanding, and appreciation to Desert headquarters complex, Painted be achieved in Petrified Forest Desert Inn, and Rainbow Forest areas of the National Park. park are considered key historic resources of Petrified Forest National Park. Of the Provide a framework for park park’s 93,533 acres, about 54% is managers to use when making designated wilderness, arranged in two decisions about such issues as how separate units: the Painted Desert unit in the to best protect park resources, how northern segment of the park (43,020 to provide high-quality visitor acres), and the Rainbow Forest unit in the experiences, how to manage visitor southeast segment of the park (7,240 acres). use, and what kinds of facilities, if any, to develop in the park. The vegetation of Petrified Forest National Park is varied. Juniper stands; pinyon- Ensure that the foundation for juniper woodlands; grasslands, including decision making has been developed shortgrass prairie that has recovered from in consultation with interested over-grazing in many areas; desert plant stakeholders and adopted by communities; and shrublands typical of the National Park Service (NPS) Great Basin cool desert are supported here. leadership after an adequate analysis The Puerco River riparian corridor has the of the benefits, impacts, and most vegetation biodiversity in the park— economic costs of alternative 40 different species (30 native to North courses of action. America) can be found here. This GMP Revision will amend and Every unit of the national park system is supplement the 1993 GMP. It is intended required to operate under a general to: management plan that sets the direction for

iii SUMMARY

Confirm the purpose, significance, Serve as the basis for later, more and mission of the park. detailed management documents such as five-year strategic plans and Determine the best mix of resource implementation plans (e.g., resource protection and visitor experience, management and wilderness understanding, and appreciation management plans). beyond what is prescribed by law and policy. This GMP Revision presents four alterna- tives, including the NPS preferred alterna- Define management zones that tive, for future management of Petrified implement the desired conditions of Forest National Park. The four alternatives the National Park Service and public are alternative 1 (the no-action alterna- with regard to natural and cultural tive—continuation of existing management resource management and protec- according to the 1993 GMP), alternative 2 tion, and visitor experience and (preferred alternative), alternative 3, and appreciation. alternative 4. The alternatives, which are based on the park’s mission, purpose, and Determine the areas to which the significance, provide different ways to meet management zones should be current and future needs at Petrified Forest applied to achieve the overall National Park, to provide visitor experi- desired conditions and mission ences compatible with resource protection goals of the park. goals, and to improve facilities and infra- structure in the park. Reexamine planning and develop- ment decisions as they relate to ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) cultural landscapes, disturbance of new areas, potential reuse of historic Alternative 1 describes a continuation of structures, and reducing theft of existing management of Petrified Forest petrified wood. National Park as maintained by the 1993 GMP and other approved plans. This Conduct a comprehensive look at alternative provides a baseline for evalu- concession facilities, services, and ating changes and impacts of the other housing in light of current policy, alternatives. Existing operations and visitor need, and reuse of historic facilities would remain in place, concen- structures. trated in the Painted Desert and Rainbow Forest areas of the park. The Painted Desert Redefine the scope of research headquarters complex (eligible for the facilities within the park and National Register of Historic Places) and determine the best location for the Painted Desert Inn (listed on the museum collection items. National Register of Historic Places) would continue to be rehabilitated and adaptively Determine whether actions proposed reused according to current plans. Paleon- by the National Park Service or tological, archeological, ethnographic, and others are consistent with goals historic or other cultural resources would be embodied in the approved general protected, as would the shortgrass prairie, management plan. badlands, and scenic vistas. Park managers

iv Summary would continue to close specific areas and potentially adverse impacts on otherwise modify visitor access, as concessioners and suppliers from necessary, to address harmful resource eliminating petrified wood sales in impacts. Visitor uses would be reassessed shops at the park, coupled with and revised as new information about beneficial impacts on shops outside natural and cultural resource impacts the park emerges. Museum collections would continue to be stored at offsite locations, ALTERNATIVE 2 (PREFERRED some of which meet accepted standards for ALTERNATIVE) curation, and in substandard facilities at park headquarters. Visitor opportunities to In alternative 2, maintaining the historic observe and appreciate resources, with a integrity of the Painted Desert headquarters minimum of inadvertent or intentional complex is a priority. In general, historic damage, would continue according to buildings would be adaptively reused for current plans, policies, and procedures. park-related purposes. Visitor services at the Painted Desert Inn could be expanded to Important impacts of continuing the include a trading post or limited food existing management of Petrified Forest service, depending on the outcome of a National Park would be: feasibility study. At Rainbow Forest, improvements would be made to the adverse impacts from the continued museum to improve accessibility and deterioration of residences near the expand exhibit space. Reconfiguration of Painted Desert Inn and the Painted the main parking lot and walkways would Desert headquarters complex, in occur to improve vehicle and pedestrian some cases causing the failure of flow. Some buildings might be added (a buildings in the Painted Desert new fire truck building), and some would headquarters complex be reduced (the concessions building). Any beneficial effects to the Rainbow improvements and/or construction in the Forest historic landscape from Rainbow Forest area would be planned to reversing past modifications to maintain the character of the Rainbow structures Forest cultural landscape. Lands would be adverse impacts on park museum managed similarly to the way they are collections from inadequate currently managed, but there would be facilities, limited work space, and greater protection for natural and cultural inaccuracies in recordkeeping and resources from increased emphasis on accountability resource monitoring and adapting to new adverse impacts on archeological information. Certain areas might be more resources, ethnographic resources, directly managed through permits and petrified wood, and other fossils, guided tours, for example. New trails and depending on the site turnouts would be provided for visitors to adverse impacts on visitor promote understanding and appreciation of experience and appreciation from the park. Early morning and evening visitor dated exhibits, orientation materials, opportunities would be provided in the and interpretive media, as well as a north segment of the park. Options for lack of diverse visitor opportunities increasing education and interpretation and fully accessible facilities services for bus tour groups would be

v SUMMARY considered. Park archives (including deteriorated structures, increases in photos), most paleontological resources, available space, and improved natural history specimens, and historic operational efficiency for furnishings would continue to be stored in employees, visitors, and the park in a new headquarters area researchers/scientists collections facility. Archeological potentially adverse impacts to collections would continue to be stored concessioners and suppliers from offsite. eliminating petrified wood sales in shops at the park, coupled with Important impacts that could result from beneficial impacts to shops outside implementing alternative 2 include: the park

increased potential for adverse ALTERNATIVE 3 impacts from trampling of archeological sites, disturbance of In alternative 3, Petrified Forest National resources, vandalism, and theft in Park would be managed as a resource areas where new trails are proposed preserve, valued primarily for its globally adverse impacts to the Rainbow significant fossils. The Painted Desert Inn Forest cultural landscape from and associated residences would be proposed parking and walkway rehabilitated, preserved, and adaptively realignment used. The Painted Desert headquarters adverse impacts to potential complex would also be rehabilitated, archeological cultural landscapes preserved, and adaptively used, with some (Puerco , The Tepees) from additions to existing buildings or new proposed new trails construction to help accommodate park beneficial impacts to museum space needs. Plans for the Rainbow Forest collections from construction of a area would be similar to those outlined in new collections facility, and use of alternative 2. This alternative would offsite facilities that meet NPS provide the most protection to the natural standards and cultural resources of the park. To adverse impacts to ethnographic protect sensitive resources, visitors would resources, petrified wood, and other be encouraged to explore the park primarily fossils, despite additional protection in selected frontcountry areas such as beneficial impacts on visitor Rainbow Forest and Giant Logs. Some experience and appreciation from sensitive areas (e.g., Blue Mesa Trail) accessibility improvements, would be closed to visitor use. Backcountry expanded exhibit space, new access would be carefully managed with turnouts, trails, and vehicle access to permits for day and overnight use, and/or a portion of old Route 66 other methods (e.g., guided tour access adverse impacts on park operations only) to protect sensitive resources. Visitors from trail modifications and would gain in-depth understanding of the expanded services at the Painted significance of park resources through more Desert Inn tours and programs, multiple media, and beneficial impacts on park interactions with researchers. Most museum operations from improved work specimens that are currently stored at other space conditions, removing institutions or locations would be returned

vi Summary to the park and stored in an adaptively fit or visitors to experience park resources. The newly constructed museum facility. Painted Desert Inn and associated resi- Important impacts associated with dences would be rehabilitated, preserved, implementing alternative 3 include: and adaptively used as in alternative 1. In general, historic buildings would be continued adverse impacts on adaptively used, with the exception of the archeological resources despite Painted Desert headquarters complex. Over additional protection a period of several years, the Painted Desert adverse impacts from the headquarters complex would be demolished construction of new facilities and and rebuilt in phases in the same location. parking realignment at Rainbow Plans for the Rainbow Forest area would be Forest similar to those outlined in alternative 2. beneficial effects on petrified wood New trails, turnouts, and other options and other fossils from better would expand visitor opportunities to delineating, shortening, realigning, experience and appreciate park resources. or closing trails Guided tours would allow more visitors to increasing beneficial effects and experience remote areas of the park. reducing adverse impacts to Opportunities for visitors to interact with ethnographic resources, petrified researchers would be limited, but research wood, and other fossils by focusing results would be woven into park inter- visitor experience toward expanded pretive programs. Early morning and interpretive programs, expanded evening visitor opportunities would be exhibits, and new media programs provided in the north area of the park. The adverse impacts to park operations museum collections would be moved from increases in staff and mainten- outside the park to institutions and/or ance requirements to accommodate agency facilities that meet NPS standards. new programs Similar specimens would be stored beneficial effects on park operations together, enabling scientists to examine from increased accessibility, better related specimens without having to travel housing/working conditions, proper to different locations. storage of museum collections, removal of deteriorating structures Important impacts that could result from that require ongoing maintenance, implementing alternative 4 would be: more efficient maintenance opera- tions, and closing Blue Mesa Trail adverse impacts from the potentially adverse impacts to construction of new facilities and concessioners and suppliers from parking realignment at Rainbow eliminating petrified wood sales in Forest; shops at the park, coupled with adverse impacts to potential beneficial impacts on shops outside archeological cultural landscapes the park (Puerco Pueblo, The Tepees) from proposed new trails ALTERNATIVE 4 adverse impacts on archeological resources, ethnographic resources, Petrified Forest National Park would offer petrified wood, and other fossils, first-hand, managed opportunities for despite additional protection

vii SUMMARY

beneficial effects on visitor experi- eliminating petrified wood sales in ence and appreciation from shops at the park, coupled with accessibility improvements, beneficial impacts on shops outside expanded exhibit space, new turn- the park outs, trails, vehicle access to a potentially beneficial impacts on portion of old Route 66, extended socioeconomics from increased park hours in the north, more visitor park-related spending, construction services at Painted Desert Inn, and and improvements, and visitors more backcountry access spending more time in the park and adverse impacts on park operations local area from new trails, trail modifications, and expanded hours/services at The Next Steps Painted Desert Inn beneficial effects on park operations This Final GMP Revision includes sub- from improving work space condi- stantive comments on the draft document tions, removing deteriorated and NPS responses to those comments. structures, increasing available After a 30-day period, a record of decision space, and improving operational approving a final plan will be signed by the efficiency for employees, visitors, NPS regional director. After the record of and researchers/scientists as a result decision is signed, the plan can be imple- of rebuilding the Painted Desert mented, depending on funding and staffing headquarters complex (a record of decision does not guarantee potentially adverse impacts to funds and staff for implementing the concessioners and suppliers from approved plan).

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CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN 1 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PARK 3 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR THE PLAN REVISION 5 General Management Planning 5 GUIDANCE FOR THE PLANNING EFFORT 8 Purpose, Significance, and Mission Statements 8 Special Mandates, Agreements, and Administrative Constraints 10 Servicewide Mandates and Policies 11 PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES 15 Central Questions of the GMP Revision 17 Sections and Decisions of the 1993 GMP that Remain Valid 17 Issues Not Addressed in the GMP Revision 19 RELATIONSHIP OF OTHER PLANNING EFFORTS TO THIS GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN REVISION 21 General Management Plan, Petrified Forest National Park 21 Housing Needs Assessment, Petrified Forest National Park 21 Wilderness Management Plan, Petrified Forest National Park 21 Phoenix Resource Management Plan, U.S. Bureau of Land Management 22 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE 23 INTRODUCTION 25 Introduction to the Alternatives 25 Formulation of the Alternatives 25 MANAGEMENT ZONES 27 Preservation Emphasis Zone 27 Backcountry Corridor 28 Frontcountry Corridor 28 Special Protection Zone 29 Developed Zone 29 Historic Preservation / Adaptive Use Zone 30 Administrative Road or Area 31 Transportation Corridor 31 Visitor Use and Carrying Capacity 31 ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION 33 Concept and General Management Strategies 33 Boundary Adjustments 35 Costs and Implementation 35 ALTERNATIVE 2: PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE 39 Concept and General Management Strategies 39 Management Zones and Related Actions 40 Boundary Adjustments 47 Costs and Implementation 47 ALTERNATIVE 3 49 Concept and General Management Strategies 49 Management Zones and Related Actions 49 Boundary Adjustments 55

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Costs and Implementation 55 ALTERNATIVE 4 57 Concept and General Management Strategies 57 Management Zones and Related Actions 58 Boundary Adjustments 63 Costs and Implementation 64 MITIGATION MEASURES COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 65 Natural Resources 65 Species of Concern 66 Cultural Resources 67 Sustainability 67 ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE 69 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 79 THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 81 Introduction 81 Impact Topics Considered in this Environmental Impact Statement 81 Impact Topics Considered But Not Analyzed in Detail 81 Cultural Resources 86 Archeological Resources 91 Historic Structures and Districts 92 Cultural Landscapes 93 Ethnographic Resources 99 Museum Collections 99 PaleontologicAL Resources 100 Vegetation 103 Soils 107 Visitor Experience and Appreciation 110 National Park Operations 111 Socioeconomic Resources 118 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES 125 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES 127 Introduction 127 Cumulative Impacts 127 Impairment of National Park Resources 129 Impacts to Cultural Resources and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act 130 Methods and Assumptions for Analyzing Impacts 131 Cultural Resources 131 Ethnographic Resources 133 Museum Collections 133 Paleontological Resources 133 Vegetation 134 Soils 135 Visitor Experience and Appreciation 135 National Park Operations 135 Socioeconomic Resources 136 IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 138 Archeological Resources 138 Historic Structures 140 Cultural Landscapes 141 Ethnographic Resources 143 Museum Collections 144

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Paleontological Resources 145 Vegetation 147 Soils 148 Visitor Experience and Appreciation 149 National Park Operations 151 Socioeconomic Resources 152 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts 154 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources 154 Relationship of Short-Term Uses and Long-Term Productivity 155 IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 2 (PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE) 156 Archeological Resources 156 Historic Structures 157 Cultural Landscapes 159 Ethnographic Resources 160 Museum Collections 161 Paleontological Resources 161 Vegetation 163 Soils 166 Visitor Experience and Appreciation 168 National Park Operations 169 Socioeconomic Resources 172 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts 173 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources 173 Relationship of Short-Term Uses and Long-Term Productivity 173 IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 3 174 Archeological Resources 174 Historic Structures 175 Cultural Landscapes 176 Ethnographic Resources 177 Museum Collections 178 Paleontological Resources 179 Vegetation 181 Soils 183 Visitor Experience and Appreciation 185 National Park Operations 186 Socioeconomic Resources 189 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts 190 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources 190 Relationship of Short-Term Uses and Long-Term Productivity 190 IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 4 191 Archeological Resources 191 Historic Structures 192 Cultural Landscapes 192 Ethnographic Resources 194 Museum Collections 195 Paleontological Resources 195 Vegetation 198 Soils 200 Visitor Experience and Appreciation 202 National Park Operations 203 Socioeconomic Resources 207 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts 208 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources 208 Relationship of Short-Term Uses and Long-Term Productivity 208

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CHAPTER 5: CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION 209 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION 211 Summary of Public Involvement 211 Consultation 211 List of Agencies Contacted for Information or Receiving a Copy of the Plan 214 PUBLIC REVIEW OF THE DRAFT GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN REVISION / ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 215 Summary of Written Comments 215 Written Comments 215 BIBLIOGRAPHY 229 PREPARERS AND CONSULTANTS 235 APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION 237 APPENDIX B: LAWS AND EXECUTIVE ORDERS 247 APPENDIX C: SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND POLICIES 253 APPENDIX D: DEVELOPMENT OF THE PLAN 267 APPENDIX E: CONSULTATION LETTERS 271 APPENDIX F: WILD AND SCENIC RIVER EVALUATION 303 INDEX 315

TABLES

Table 1. Servicewide Mandates and Policies Pertaining to Petrified Forest National Park 12 Table 2. Summary of the Management Alternatives 73 Table 3. Summary of the Impacts of the Alternatives 75 Table 4. Threatened and Endangered Species Potentially Found in Navajo and Apache Counties 83 Table 5. List of Classified Structures Contributing to Rainbow Forest Historic Landscape 96 Table 6. List of Classified Structures: Puerco River Cultural Landscape 98 Table 7. Total 1993 Inventory Percent Cover and Volume Estimates for High Use Areas 102 Table 8. Properties of Soil Types Identified in Petrified Forest National Park 109 Table 9. Building Condition Assessment Summary – Painted Desert Headquarters Complex 116 Table 10. Total County Employment, 1981 to 2001 119 Table 11. Employment By Major Category, 2001 120 Table 12. Personal Income 120 Table 13. Per Capita Personal Income 121 Table 14. Housing Units 122 Table 15. PILT Payments by All Federal Agencies in Apache and Navajo Counties 123 Table 16. Compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act 213

MAPS

Region 4 Alternative 1: No Action 37 Alternative 2: Preferred Alternative 43 Alternative 3 51 Alternative 4 59

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CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PARK

Petrified Forest National Park is located in The vegetation of Petrified Forest National northeastern Arizona, about 100 miles east Park is varied. Soil and terrain conditions of Flagstaff, Arizona. The park is bounded have resulted in a mosaic of grass and shrub by the Navajo Indian Reservation to the communities. Sparse stands of juniper are north and northwest, and by private lands, found on rocky upper slopes and mesa caps. state trust lands, and U.S. Bureau of Land A stand of pinyon-juniper woodland is Management (BLM) lands to the south, found on Chinde Mesa, along the park’s far east, and west. Several other Indian northern boundary. Grasslands occupy reservations and national forests are nearby. middle and upper plateau areas where soils U.S. Interstate Highway 40 (I-40) and the are deeper and richer. Since grazing was Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railroad eliminated from the park in 1962, the bisect the park from east to west. shortgrass prairie has recovered in many areas. Desert plant communities are found The park features one of the largest and in the lower elevations, where soils are most colorful concentrations of petrified heavy and water availability is low. The wood in the world. Present day exposures most diverse area for plants is the Puerco of the 225-million-year-old Chinle River corridor—40 different species (30 Formation extend through the Painted native to North America) can be found Desert. Fossils preserved in this formation here. Willows, cottonwoods, and the appear to represent an entire ecosystem. dominant non-native shrub, tamarisk, are These rare, accessible associations of typical of the Puerco River riparian zone. animal and plant fossils make it possible to Shrubs typical of the Great Basin’s cool learn more about the Late Triassic period desert such as big sagebrush, shadscale, here than anywhere else in the world. greasewood, and winterfat, also occur in the park. Petrified Forest National Park also contains historic structures, archeological sites, Park elevation averages 5,600 feet above petroglyphs, wildlife, and interpretive sea level, which contributes to the cool, arid exhibits. Of the park’s 93,533 acres, about climate. Annual precipitation averages less 54% is designated wilderness, arranged in than 10 inches, about half of which is from two separate units: the Painted Desert unit late summer thunderstorms. Midsummer in the northern section of the park (43,020 temperatures can exceed 100 degrees acres), and the Rainbow Forest unit in the Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius); however, southeast section of the park (7,240 acres). the nights are surprisingly cool. Although Air quality is usually good and provides winter nights are often colder than freezing, opportunities to view scenic vistas such as daytime temperatures are typically mountain peaks more than 100 miles moderate. distant.

3 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

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PURPOSE AND NEED FOR THE PLAN REVISION

GENERAL MANAGEMENT Clearly define the resource PLANNING conditions and visitor experience, understanding, and appreciation to Park planning is a decision-making process be achieved in Petrified Forest and general management planning is the National Park. broadest level of decision making for parks. General management plans (GMPs) are Provide a framework for park required for all units in the national park managers to use when making system and are intended to establish the decisions about such issues as how management direction of a park for the next to best protect park resources, how 15 to 20 years. General management to provide high-quality visitor planning is the first phase of tiered planning experiences, how to manage visitor and decision making. It focuses on why the use, and what kinds of facilities, if park was established (purpose and mission), any, to develop in the park. why it is special (significance), and what resource conditions and visitor experiences Ensure that the foundation for should be achieved and maintained (desired decision making has been developed conditions). GMPs look years into the in consultation with interested future and consider the park holistically, in stakeholders and adopted by NPS its full ecological and cultural context and leadership after an adequate analysis as part of a surrounding region. More of the benefits, impacts, and detailed planning is performed in economic costs of alternative subsequent implementation plans. courses of action.

While a GMP (or in this case, a general management plan revision) provides the Need for the Plan analysis and justification for future funding, the plan in no way guarantees that money Petrified Forest National Park has been will be forthcoming. Requirements for operating under the General Management additional data or legal compliance and Plan / Environmental Impact Statement that competing national park system priorities was prepared in 1993. Although much of can also delay implementation of actions. the 1993 GMP is still applicable, certain Full implementation of a plan could lie aspects need to be revised due to changing many years in the future. circumstances, new information, and new policies. This includes information about the condition and status of the park’s Purpose of the Plan historic structures and landscapes, new information on petrified wood theft in the The approved GMP Revision will be the park, and new NPS guidance on manage- basic document for managing Petrified ment zones and conservation planning, Forest National Park for the next 15 to 20 among other things. Additional information years. The purposes of the GMP Revision is provided in the section titled “Planning are as follows: Opportunities and Issues” in this chapter.

5 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

This GMP Revision will amend and Conduct a comprehensive look at supplement the 1993 GMP. It is intended concession facilities, services, and to: housing in light of current policy, need, and reuse of historic Confirm the purpose, significance, structures. and mission of the park. Redefine the scope of research Determine the best mix of resource facilities within the park and protection and visitor experience, determine the best location for understanding, and appreciation museum collection items. beyond what is prescribed by law and policy. This mix is based on the Determine whether actions proposed mission, purpose, and significance by the National Park Service or statements for the park; natural and others are consistent with goals cultural resources in the park; range embodied in the approved GMP. of public expectations and concerns; impact of alternatives on natural, Serve as the basis for later, more cultural, and socioeconomic detailed management documents conditions; impacts on visitor use such as five-year strategic plans and and experience; and long-term implementation plans (e.g., resource economic considerations and costs. management and wilderness management plans). Define management zones that implement the desired conditions of The GMP Revision does not describe how the National Park Service and public particular programs or projects should be with regard to natural and cultural prioritized or implemented. Those decisions resource management and will be addressed during the more detailed protection, and visitor experience planning associated with later strategic and appreciation. Facilities that are plans and implementation plans. All appropriate within each associated plans will be based on the goals, management zone are also future conditions, and appropriate types of identified. activities established in the approved GMP Revision. Determine the areas to which the management zones should be Legislation establishing the National Park applied to achieve the overall Service as an agency and governing its desired conditions and mission management provides the fundamental goals of the park. direction for the administration of Petrified Forest National Park (and other units of the Reexamine planning and national park system). This GMP Revision development decisions as they relate builds on these laws and the legislation, as to cultural landscapes, disturbance amended, that established Petrified Forest of new areas, potential reuse of National Park to provide a vision for the historic structures, and reducing future of the park. The “Servicewide theft of petrified wood. Mandates and Policies” section of this

6 Purpose and Need for the Plan Revision document calls the reader’s attention to alternatives in this GMP Revision address topics that are important to understanding the desired future conditions that are not the management direction at the park. Table mandated by law and policy, are not 1 summarizes the topic and the desired adequately covered by the 1993 GMP, and management condition. Appendix A that must be determined through a public provides more detail on the law or policy planning process. directing management actions. The

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GUIDANCE FOR THE PLANNING EFFORT

PURPOSE, SIGNIFICANCE, AND Park Significance MISSION STATEMENTS

Park significance statements capture the An essential part of the planning process is essence of the park’s importance to the understanding the purpose, significance, natural and cultural heritage of the United and mission of the park for which the plan States of America. Significance statements is being prepared. do not inventory park resources; rather, they describe the park’s distinctiveness and Park Purpose help place the park within the regional, national, and international context. Defin-

ing park significance helps managers make Park purpose statements are based on decisions that preserve the resources and national park legislation, legislative history, values necessary to accomplish the purpose and NPS policies. The statements reaffirm of Petrified Forest National Park. the reasons for which the park was set aside as a unit of the national park system and they provide the foundation for national Petrified Forest National Park is globally park management and use. significant for its exposures of Chinle Formation fossils that preserve evidence of The purpose of Petrified Forest National the Late Triassic period ecosystem of more Park is to: than 200 million years ago. The detailed paleontologic (fossil) and stratigraphic

(layered) records of the park provide out- Preserve and protect Petrified standing opportunities to study changes in Forest, its outstanding paleon- organisms and their environments in order tologic sites and specimens, its to better understand today’s environment. associated ecosystems, cultural and

historic resources, and scenic and wilderness values for present and Park Mission future generations. Provide opportunities to experience, Park purpose describes the specific reason understand, and enjoy the Petrified the park was established. Park significance Forest and surrounding area in a is the distinctive features that make the park manner that is compatible with the different from any other. Together, purpose preservation of park resources and and significance lead to a concise statement wilderness character. —the mission of the park. Park mission Facilitate orderly, regulated, and statements describe conditions that exist continuing research. when the legislative intent for the park is Promote understanding and being met. stewardship of resources and park values by providing educational The expansive, undulating, and colorful opportunities for students, scientific Painted Desert reveals layers of history groups, and the public. that began over 200 million years ago. Life of the Late Triassic period, hardened into

8 Guidance for the Planning Effort fossils and petrified wood, offers a globally Cultural resources are identified, significant mosaic of an ancient ecosystem, evaluated, preserved, and protected. vastly different from today. Figures pecked Natural resources are identified, into boulders, the remains of ancient evaluated, preserved, and protected. homes, and well-traveled pathways speak of Eroding archeological sites are peoples drawn here for thousands of years. stabilized or data is recovered and Petrified Forest preserves awe-inspiring preserved. vistas and rare opportunities for visitors Ethnographic resources are and scientists to discover and wonder about identified and managed in the stories this land reveals—stories that consultation with traditionally are interconnected with the stories associated tribes. preserved in other fossil parks and across Visual quality of scenery and vistas the Colorado Plateau—stories that are part is preserved. of the cumulative expression of America’s Air quality-related values are national heritage, represented by the protected and preserved. national park system. Night skies and natural soundscapes are protected.

Park Mission Goals Provide for Public Use and Enjoyment and Visitor Experience of Petrified Forest Park mission goals are visions for the National Park future. They describe the ideals that park managers are striving to attain in very broad Visitors enjoy and experience the terms. petrified wood, fossils, and archeological artifacts without Preserve Petrified Forest National Park disturbing or removing them. Resources Public awareness and understanding of park resources is Deposits of petrified wood and enhanced by communication of related fossils are identified, ongoing research, including social evaluated, preserved, and protected. and behavioral research. Scientific research is encouraged to Public awareness and broaden understanding of park understanding of paleontological resources and to expand the park’s resources held in trust by the database. National Park Service, here and at Methods are devised to prevent both other park units, and how these the disturbance and removal of collections relate to each other, is petrified wood, related fossils, and enhanced through interpretation cultural artifacts, while still and education. allowing visitor access. The park’s significance is more Ecosystems are restored and/or effectively communicated to the maintained, where appropriate, as public. they existed prior to disturbance by Opportunities for compatible visitor recent human settlement and use and stewardship are provided technology. for their enjoyment and Trespass and associated impacts to understanding of park resources resources are minimized.

9 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

and values (including petrified compatible with park goals and wood, other fossils, wilderness mission. values, and cultural sites), and for The cooperating association the visitors’ understanding of their maintains a viable business roles in the park’s preservation operation by providing ethic. informational materials to visitors and by supporting interpretation, Ensure Organizational Effectiveness of education, and research in the park. Petrified Forest National Park SPECIAL MANDATES, AGREE- Cooperative relationships are MENTS, AND ADMINISTRATIVE developed with governmental CONSTRAINTS agencies and private interests in planning, management, and use of resources that affect scenic, natural, Special mandates and administrative and cultural values in and near the commitments refer to park-specific park. requirements. These requirements are Traditionally associated tribes are mandated by Congress or by signed consulted on a government-to- agreements with other entities. Often, but government basis. not always, such commitments are Petrified Forest partners with established concurrently with the creation surrounding communities and other of a unit of the national park system. interested entities to accomplish common goals. Special mandates, agreements, and Plans are developed, implemented, administrative constraints for Petrified and updated to guide park Forest National Park include the following: management. Park facilities harmonize with the Petrified Forest National Wilderness natural environment, do not impair Area was one of the first designated significant resources, accomplish wilderness areas in the national park the park mission, and meet the system. It was designated by needs of visitors. Congress on 23 October 1970 (84 Facilities and services are fully Stat. 1105). The wilderness area accessible. within Petrified Forest National Petrified Forest conserves energy, Park is composed of 50,260 acres water, and nonrenewable resources, (about 54% of the park) and consists promotes recycling, and minimizes of two separate units. The Painted pollution. Desert unit in the northern segment A quality workforce is recruited and of the park comprises 43,020 acres, retained. and the Rainbow Forest unit in the A safe and quality infrastructure is southeast segment of the park maintained for visitors, park staff, comprises 7,240 acres. and co-operators. Commercial services are viable, I-40 bisects Petrified Forest necessary, appropriate, and National Park from east to west and is located on national park land. The highway right-of-way is managed

10 Guidance for the Planning Effort

by the Arizona Department of SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND Transportation under an agreement POLICIES with the National Park Service. As with all units of the national park The Burlington Northern-Santa Fe system, the management of Petrified Forest Railroad also bisects the park; the National Park is guided by the 1916 right-of-way is owned and managed Organic Act (which created the National by the railroad. Park Service); the General Authorities Act of 1970; the Act of 27 March 1978, relating AMFAC Resorts, L.L.C. (renamed to the management of the national park Xanterra Parks and Resorts in 2002) system; and other applicable federal laws manages the concessions operation and regulations, such as the Endangered at Petrified Forest National Park Species Act and the National Historic under the Fred Harvey Company Preservation Act. Actions are also guided name. The Fred Harvey Company by NPS Management Policies (NPS 2001a). provides the following services to Also, see appendix C, “Legislation.” visitors under a contract with the National Park Service: food service Many resource conditions and some aspects (restaurant and snack bar), gift of visitor experience are prescribed by legal shops, and a gasoline service mandates and NPS policies. Although station. This contract expired in attaining some of these conditions has been 1994, but has been extended several deferred in the park because of funding or times due to a backlog in NPS staffing limitations, the National Park concessions contracting and new Service will continue to strive to implement NPS concessions regulations. these requirements with or without a GMP Revision. This plan is not needed to decide, The Petrified Forest Museum for instance, that it is appropriate to protect Association is a cooperative entity endangered species, control non-native that produces and sells books and species, protect archeological sites, provide other publications related to the park for universal access, and conserve artifacts. and regional natural and cultural resources. This nonprofit associa- The conditions prescribed by laws, tion currently manages three sales regulations, and policies most pertinent to outlets in the park. Its proceeds are the planning and management of Petrified applied to projects that benefit Forest National Park are summarized in Petrified Forest National Park, table 1 below. Adjacent to each topic are including park-related scientific the desired conditions that park staff strives research and education. The to achieve for that topic. Appendix A museum association operates under expands on this information. a memorandum of agreement with the National Park Service under authority from Congress.

11 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

TABLE 1. SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND POLICIES PERTAINING TO PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

CURRENT LAWS AND POLICIES REQUIRE THAT THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS TOPIC BE ACHIEVED AT PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

The park is managed as part of a greater ecological, social, economic, and cultural system.

Relations with Because the park is an integral part of a larger regional environment, the National Park National Park Service works cooperatively with others to anticipate, avoid, and resolve potential conflicts, Neighbors protect national park resources, and address mutual interests in the quality of life for community residents. Regional cooperation involves federal, state, and local agencies, American Indian tribes, neighboring landowners, and all other concerned parties.

Paleontological resources, including both organic and mineralized remains in body or trace form, are protected and preserved.

Paleontological research by the academic community is encouraged and facilitated when the project cannot be conducted outside the park, involves more than simple collection of additional specimens of types already collected, and will answer an important question Paleontological about the resource. Resources

Management actions are taken to prevent illegal collecting and may be taken to prevent damage from natural processes such as erosion. Protection may include construction of shelters over specimens, stabilization in the field, or collection, preparation, and placement of specimens in museum collections. The localities and geologic settings of specimens are documented when specimens are collected.

Air quality in the park meets ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for specified pollutants. Air Quality Activities in the park do not contribute to deterioration of air quality. Surface waters and groundwaters are perpetuated as integral components of park aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Park managers work closely with other agencies and governing bodies, as appropriate, to maintain or restore the quality of park water resources.

Consumptive use of water in parks is efficient and frugal. Park facilities and programs are maintained and operated to avoid pollution of surface waters and groundwaters.

The National Park Service manages for preservation of floodplain values and minimizes Water Resources potential flood hazards.

The National Park Service provides leadership and takes action to prevent the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands; and to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands.

While preserving its legal remedies, the National Park Service works with state water administrators to protect park resources, and participates in negotiations to seek resolution of conflicts among multiple water claimants. Geologic Natural geologic processes function as naturally as possible, except where special Resources management considerations are allowable under policy.

12 Guidance for the Planning Effort

CURRENT LAWS AND POLICIES REQUIRE THAT THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS TOPIC BE ACHIEVED AT PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Federal and state listed threatened and endangered species and their habitats are protected and sustained.

Populations of native plant and animal species function in as natural a condition as possible, except where special considerations are warranted. Species of Concern Native species populations that have been severely reduced in or eliminated from the park are restored where feasible and sustainable.

The management of populations of non-native plant and animal species, up to and including eradication, will be undertaken wherever such species threaten park resources or public health and when control is prudent and feasible.

Designated wilderness in Petrified Forest National Park will be managed for the use and enjoyment of the American people in such a manner as will leave the park and its resources unimpaired for future generations.

Wilderness Programs and information will enhance opportunities for visitors to safely use and enjoy wilderness resources.

The minimum requirement concept will be applied to all administrative activities, including scientific research and the use of equipment to ensure wilderness character is preserved.

Wild and Scenic No actions will be taken that would adversely affect the values that qualify the Puerco River Rivers as eligible for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

Park fire management programs will be designed to meet resource management objectives for various areas of the park and to ensure that the safety of firefighters and the public is not Fire Management compromised. Until a fire management plan is approved, all wildfires will be suppressed, taking into account the resources to be protected, safety of firefighters and the public, and cost.

The National Park Service cooperates with park neighbors to help minimize the intrusion of Night Sky artificial light into the night sky in the park. Artificial outdoor lighting is limited to that required for safety and is shielded when possible.

The National Park Service preserves natural ambient soundscapes, restores degraded Natural soundscapes to the natural condition wherever possible, and protects natural soundscapes Soundscapes from degradation by human-caused noise.

Archeological sites are identified and inventoried, and their significance is determined and documented.

Archeological Archeological sites are protected in an undisturbed condition unless it is determined through Resources formal processes that disturbance or natural deterioration is unavoidable. In those cases where disturbance or deterioration is unavoidable, the site is professionally documented and salvaged.

13 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

CURRENT LAWS AND POLICIES REQUIRE THAT THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS TOPIC BE ACHIEVED AT PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Appropriate cultural anthropological research is conducted in cooperation with groups that are associated with the park.

The National Park Service accommodates access to and ceremonial use of American Indian sacred sites by American Indian religious practitioners and avoids adversely affecting the physical integrity of these sacred sites.

NPS general regulations on access to and use of natural and cultural resources in the park are applied in an informed and balanced manner that is consistent with park purposes and does not unreasonably interfere with American Indian use of traditional areas or sacred sites and does not result in the degradation of park resources.

Other federal agencies, state and local governments, potentially affected American Indian tribes and other communities, interest groups, and the Arizona State Historic Preservation Ethnographic Office are given opportunities to become informed about and comment on anticipated NPS Resources actions at the earliest practicable time.

The National Park Service consults with tribal governments before taking actions that affect American Indian tribes. These consultations are open and candid so that all interested parties may evaluate for themselves the potential impact of relevant proposals. NPS staff regularly consult with traditionally associated American Indians regarding planning, management, and operational decisions that affect sacred sites or other ethnographic resources with which they are historically associated.

The identities of consultants and information about sacred and other culturally sensitive places and practices are kept confidential.

American Indian tribes and other individuals and groups linked by ties of kinship or culture to ethnically identifiable human remains are consulted when remains may be disturbed or are encountered on national park lands.

Cultural resources are inventoried and their significance and integrity are evaluated under National Register of Historic Places criteria. The qualities of historic properties that Historic contribute to actual listing or eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places Properties are protected in accordance with the Secretary of Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Historic Preservation, unless it is determined through a formal process that disturbance or natural deterioration is unavoidable. All museum objects and manuscripts are identified and inventoried, and their significance is Collections determined and documented. Collections are protected in accordance with established standards. Visitor and employee safety and health are protected.

Visitors understand and appreciate park values and resources and have the information necessary to adapt to the national park environments. Visitors have opportunities to enjoy Visitor the park in ways that leave resources unimpaired for future generations. Experience and Understanding Recreational uses are promoted and regulated. Basic visitor needs are met in keeping with park purposes.

To the extent feasible, facilities, programs, and services in the park are accessible to and usable by all people, including those with disabilities. Sustainable NPS visitor and management facilities are harmonious with park resources, compatible with Design / natural processes, aesthetically pleasing, functional, as accessible as possible to all Development segments of the population, energy efficient, and cost effective. The sale of original objects, artifacts, or specimens of a historical, archeological, Concessions paleontological, or biological nature is prohibited in national parks.

14 Planning Opportunities and Issues

PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES

The public, park staff, and planning team the housing in Holbrook, are members identified a number of issues historic structures; historic facing Petrified Forest National Park. The structures are best preserved issues generally concern the protection and through use. The National Park management of natural and cultural Service desires to reconsider resources, determining types and levels of questions of where housing for facilities and services, and providing for NPS and concessions employees visitor understanding and enjoyment of should be located, the preservation park resources and values. The GMP of historic housing units, and how Revision provides a framework or strategy much housing should be provided. for addressing the following issues within the context of the purpose, significance, and 3. The 1993 GMP did not fully mission goals of the park. recognize and consider the value of historic structures and landscapes. The following GMP Revision issues were New information is becoming identified during the scoping process: available about the significance and integrity of historic structures and 1. The Painted Desert Inn National cultural landscapes within the park. Historic Landmark, which has not Cultural landscapes are areas, been used for overnight lodging including both cultural and natural since the 1950s, is underused for resources, that are associated with a park-related purposes and has historic event or activity, or that major structural problems. The inn exhibit other cultural or aesthetic is a Pueblo Revival-style building values. that overlooks the Painted Desert. 4. Buildings in the Painted Desert 2. Some housing units for NPS visitor center / headquarters employees and concessions staff complex have structural problems. are in poor condition and do not The complex, which includes meet NPS fire and safety standards. nearly 20 structures and several Housing is located within the park courtyards, was built in the early near the Painted Desert head- 1960s. The design and construction quarters area and at the Rainbow of the complex did not adequately Forest developed area. It is compensate for soil conditions at necessary to house some employees the site; walls, floors, and ceilings in the park to provide after-hours in many of the structures have emergency response. Other housing major cracks. Despite NPS efforts is located in nearby Holbrook, to stabilize and repair the buildings, Arizona, where the park owns heaving and cracking continues. several housing units at a former Some structures are so badly U.S. Air Force facility. Two damaged that they may be beyond additional structures are located repair. The complex has recently near the Painted Desert Inn. Park been recognized as a significant housing units, with the exception of Mission 66 work designed by

15 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

renowned architect Richard Neutra. 9. The National Park Service must Because of this significance, the determine which roads should be Painted Desert visitor center / used and maintained for park headquarters complex is potentially purposes, which should be eligible for the National Register of managed for their historic value, Historic Places (NRHP). and which should be closed and returned to natural conditions. 5. The building that houses the There are roads in the park in museum collection does not meet addition to those associated with NPS curatorial standards. The the main road system used by most collection is rapidly expanding as visitors. The condition and uses of research continues and as objects such roads varies. Some roads are on loan to universities and other maintained for park administrative organizations are returned to the purposes (e.g., resource manage- park. The collection is housed at ment and utility access), and others the headquarters complex in a are road traces remaining from building that has structural earlier times. Some roads are problems (see issue 4 above). occasionally used for administra- tive purposes even though they are 6. Petrified Forest National Park not maintained. offers outstanding opportunities for paleontological and other research. 10. Management zones in the 1993 The park has some temporary GMP do not provide adequate housing available for researchers, direction for future management of but there are no designated living park areas. New NPS policy and quarters for long-term researchers guidance for management zones or researchers with families. There were recently approved. Thus, park are no adequate indoor work areas management zones need to be for visiting scientists. revised and updated to meet guidelines now in place. The new 7. Federal law directs that any guidance states that management concessions in national parks must zones are a tool used to identify be “necessary and appropriate for specific areas of the park, their the accommodation of visitors to a significant resources, and how they park.” This direction needs to be will be managed in the future for considered and interpreted for resource protection and visitor Petrified Forest National Park, experience and appreciation. They given the availability of and also specify, in a general way, demand for services now and for appropriate kinds and levels of the life of the GMP Revision, visitor use, management activities, estimated at 15 to 20 years. and facilities.

8. Opportunities for people with 11. Visitor experience, resource various physical disabilities are protection, and development needs limited in the park. must be reconsidered at visitor areas (Crystal Forest and Puerco

16 Planning Opportunities and Issues

Valley, for example) along the limiting access, ongoing main park road. New information research, and/or education? about interpretive needs, cultural Should sales of petrified wood at landscapes, utility capacities, wood the gift shop continue? theft, and other subjects has What are appropriate and become available, and such necessary commercial services information could mean that a and associated facilities? change in management direction is What are the desired condition needed for these areas. and use of park roads?

CENTRAL QUESTIONS OF THE GMP 3. What is the best way to care for and REVISION provide access to the museum collection?

Decision points are the central questions to By improving park storage be answered by the GMP Revision. As with facilities? By consolidating any decision-making process, there are key storage at the park? By decisions that, once made, will dictate or consolidating storage in another influence the direction of subsequent location? decisions. Based on public comments, the issues stated above, and agency concerns 4. To what extent should cooperation for this GMP Revision, the following to protect park-related resources decision points or central questions of the and values (e.g., viewsheds, wildlife plan were identified by the planning team. corridors, archeological and This GMP Revision focuses on alternative paleontological sites, air quality) on ways of addressing these decision points. surrounding lands be a priority for park managers? 1. To what extent should the park continue to foster and enhance 5. To what extent should the park use scientific research in the park and existing structures, especially make it meaningful to the public? historic structures, and/or new structures to meet park needs? 2. What is the desired condition of the resources and experiences in How much housing should be different areas throughout the park, available for park staff to rent? and what type of use is consistent with that condition and fosters understanding? SECTIONS AND DECISIONS OF THE 1993 GMP THAT REMAIN VALID For example, what is the desired character of frontcountry, The 1993 GMP was thoroughly examined backcountry, and wilderness and considered by park managers to areas? determine which decisions remain valid in What is the best way to prevent light of new circumstances, information, theft of petrified wood? Should and policy. Sections of the 1993 GMP that theft be prevented with remain valid and will not be reconsidered in increased protection staff, this GMP Revision, include:

17 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

Continue development concepts for Maintain approved scope of the new Puerco turnout; Crystal collections; the Forest and Jasper Forest intensive Archeological and Conservation use and interpretation; new wayside Center and the park to manage exhibits at Agate Bridge, Jasper collections in accordance with Forest, and Crystal Forest; and standards. removal of the parking trailheads at Prepare a paleontological research the Flattops. plan, scope of collections statement, Implement a long-term evaluation and collection management plan. and monitoring program to Conduct a rare plant survey. determine the extent of petrified Prepare a hazardous materials plan. wood theft and set priorities for Prepare a wilderness management management. plan. Continue recovery of shortgrass Prepare documentation of the park’s prairie. administrative history. Consult with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Prepare an archeological research Service to consider the feasibility of management plan, scope of re-introducing the black-footed collections statement, and ferret. collections management plan. Survey for threatened and Prepare a cultural resources endangered species. management plan. Develop and implement a fire Prepare a cultural landscape study. management plan. Prepare an ethnologic overview and Assess viewshed intrusions and assessment. other impacts to wilderness. Prepare a historic resource study. Establish an air quality database. Develop a historic preservation Establish a research center, although guide for the Painted Desert Inn. on a smaller scale than proposed in Revise the List of Classified the 1993 GMP. Structures. Proactively manage archeological Conduct a traditional use study. sites in consultation with affiliated Remove Long Logs parking lot and American Indian tribes. road and convert from vehicle to Request that the Western pedestrian access. Archeological and Conservation Reuse residences at Rainbow Forest Center oversee all archeological as offices; return them to their research until such time as the park 1930s appearance. has an archeologist. Re-locate Rainbow Forest ranger Develop a resource management station to building east of residential plan to expand site evaluation and complex. monitoring. Improve sewer system at Painted Establish a permanent dialogue with Desert Inn. American Indian tribes. Protect sewage lagoons near Conduct a parkwide survey of all Rainbow Forest from floods. historic sites (including historic Implement boundary changes for landscapes), structures, and objects Chinle Escarpment, West Rim of for eligibility to the NRHP. the Painted Desert, Rainbow Forest

18 Planning Opportunities and Issues

Badlands, Wallace Tank Ruin, park could lead to an increase in Canyon Butte Ruin, and Dead Wash wood theft. If a waiver is not Petroglyphs. granted, petrified wood sales would be discontinued once a new concessions contract is awarded. ISSUES NOT ADDRESSED IN THE

GMP REVISION 2. The 1993 GMP recommended a boundary expansion near Dead Wash Scoping Issues Eliminated from Petroglyphs. The Dead Wash Detailed Consideration Petroglyphs area is located east of the park and just south of I-40. This area

consists mostly of federal lands Three GMP Revision issues were identified managed by the BLM, but during during initial project scoping, but were scoping it was thought that several subsequently dismissed for reasons parcels had recently become new discussed below: Navajo Nation lands.

1. Theft of petrified wood continues to be Subsequent research revealed that a serious problem in the park; as much these parcels are not Navajo lands as one ton of petrified wood may be but rather remain under the stolen or displaced by visitors each jurisdiction of the BLM. Thus, the month. New NPS Management Policies 1993 GMP proposal for a park would eliminate petrified wood sales boundary expansion remains valid, from gift shops within the park. (The and these parcels no longer petrified wood sold in the gift shops represent a planning issue for this comes from outside park boundaries.) GMP Revision. There is concern that eliminating

petrified wood sales in park gift shops 3. There is concern that certain activities might increase wood theft within the on surrounding lands have the potential park. On the other hand, there is also to harm resources within the park. concern that selling petrified wood in Petrified Forest National Park is the park gives the wrong message to the surrounded by lands owned by the state public. of Arizona, the BLM, the Navajo

Nation, and privately owned lands. I-40 Revised NPS Management Policies and the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe (NPS 2001) prohibit the sale of Railroad bisect the park from east to original artifacts or specimens of a west. A propane gas storage plant (the historic, archeological, gas is stored in underground salt paleontological, or biological caverns) is adjacent to the western nature. However, Petrified Forest boundary, and a coal-fired electric National Park managers are seeking power generating station is a waiver from the NPS policy approximately 30 to 40 miles to the banning sales of petrified wood west of the park. Retail shops are within the park. They are seeking a located immediately outside the waiver because a 1997 study southern park boundary. The (Roggenbuck et al.) suggested that subdivision of adjacent lands has the banning petrified wood sales in the

19 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

potential to impact park viewsheds and appropriately addressed in subse- wildlife habitat for species that move in quent planning documents and out of the park. This section briefly describes these issues The 1993 GMP identified lands that and the basis for excluding them from the would be appropriate to include in GMP Revision. an expansion of the park boundary, and evaluated the environmental Several suggestions were made to expand consequences that would result. the park to include specific areas. The 1993 Aside from expanding the park GMP adequately covered the issue of park boundary, the only real option for boundary expansion. addressing resource concerns related to activities outside the park is to A suggestion was made that if the wilder- work cooperatively with park ness area boundaries were expanded, there neighbors. As all park units are now could be implications for U.S. Highway mandated to work with park 180 (US 180). A wilderness suitability neighbors to protect resources study was completed before the Petrified related to the park (NPS Forest National Wilderness Area was Management Policies 2001), there established in 1970. There are currently no was no need to investigate other plans to conduct another wilderness alternatives for addressing such suitability study or to enlarge the wilder- concerns. ness area. If the park boundary were expanded as proposed in the 1993 GMP, a new study would determine the suitability Other Issues Eliminated from of additional park lands for wilderness. Detailed Consideration

A suggestion was made that all action on Not all issues raised by the public were GMP issues should not be postponed until considered in this GMP Revision. Such the GMP Revision is approved; some fixes issues were eliminated from detailed are needed now. Park managers will consideration because they: continue to manage the park according to approved plans and respond to resource were not feasible issues as funds allow until the GMP have been prescribed by law, Revision is approved. regulation, or policy (see “Servicewide Mandates and A suggestion was made regarding manag- Policies” section) ing pronghorn in the park. This issue is too would be in violation of laws, detailed for a GMP, but the suggestion was regulations, or polices passed on to park staff for consideration in were at a level that was too detailed a Petrified Forest Resource Management for a GMP Revision and are more Plan.

20 Relationship of Other Planning Efforts to this General Management Plan Revision

RELATIONSHIP OF OTHER PLANNING EFFORTS TO THIS GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN REVISION

If the park is expanded as proposed in the GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN, 1993 GMP, the need for NPS housing could PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL increase significantly beyond the 28 to 31 PARK units identified by the 1998 housing needs assessment. Petrified Forest National Park has been operating under the GMP/EIS that was prepared in 1993. Although much of the WILDERNESS MANAGEMENT PLAN, 1993 GMP is still pertinent, certain PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL elements need to be reconsidered due to PARK changing circumstances, new information, and new policies. For additional infor- Petrified Forest National Park has initiated mation, see preceding sections titled “Need development of a wilderness management for the Plan” and “Sections of the 1993 plan. According to NPS policy, wilderness GMP That Remain Valid.” management plans must do the following:

Clearly identify the boundaries of HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT, wilderness units of the park. PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL Identify individuals and/or PARK organizations within the park administration responsible for In 1998, every national park with five or wilderness preservation. more housing units was required to perform Establish an administrative process a housing-needs assessment. A contractor to determine “minimum was brought in to verify needs and conduct requirements” for actions in a housing market analysis of the local wilderness. community. Petrified Forest park managers Establish specific management were required to certify units of NPS actions to guide public use and housing needed in two categories: Category preservation of wilderness 1 – NPS-paid staff who must live in the resources, including the establish- park to perform essential services or ment of desired future conditions. respond to emergencies, and Category 2 – An environmental compliance NPS-paid staff who are permitted to live in document that provides the public the park because the park would benefit. A with the opportunity to review and third category describes non-NPS staff, comment on the park’s wilderness such as park volunteers, who are permitted management program will accom- to live in the park for the park’s benefit. pany all wilderness management Petrified Forest certified that 28 to 31 NPS plans, consistent with the require- housing units are needed to accommodate ments of the National Environ- Category 1, Category 2, and non-NPS mental Protection Act (NEPA) and occupants. Thus, alternatives in this GMP appropriate NPS policy guidance. Revision assume that 28 to 31 units of NPS housing are needed.

21 CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PLAN

Wilderness management plans must be Once management zones for wilderness coordinated and integrated with other park areas of the park have been set in an planning documents such as a general approved GMP Revision for Petrified management plan that provides guidance on Forest National Park, a separate wilderness what resource conditions and visitor management plan will be developed using experiences should exist in the park and the GMP Revision as a guide. where those conditions and experiences generally should occur. This is done via PHOENIX RESOURCE MANAGE- management zoning. MENT PLAN, U.S. BUREAU OF LAND

MANAGEMENT Formulation of this GMP Revision included development of management zones. The zones prescribe the management approach The National Park Service consulted BLM for each part of the park, including staff in the Safford, Arizona Field Office wilderness areas. Management zones regarding the relationship of the GMP clearly define the specific resource Revision to BLM plans and programs. The conditions and visitor experiences that are BLM’s Phoenix Resource Management to be achieved and maintained over time. Plan, which was written in the late 1980s They also establish, in a general way, the (BLM 1988), addresses management of kinds and levels of visitor use, management lands around Petrified Forest National Park activities, and development that are and the Painted Desert. The plan states that appropriate for maintaining the desired areas adjoining the park would continue to conditions. For example, a new visitor be managed by the BLM, pending any center would not be constructed in a zone congressional legislation adding those lands designated to provide a primitive to the park. This statement is consistent backcountry experience. Management with boundary expansion language in the zones direct decision making in the park, 1993 GMP and this GMP Revision. BLM including wilderness planning, and they are field staff also indicated that the BLM has the core of the GMP (or in this case, the no plans to change BLM land uses, GMP Revision). resource management, or land management around the park. The BLM anticipates no conflicts between the GMP Revision and BLM actions, plans, or policies.

22

CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION TO THE Park Service solicited input from the public, ALTERNATIVES park staff, government agencies, tribal officials, and other organizations regarding This GMP Revision presents four issues and desired conditions for the park. alternatives, including the NPS-proposed The first opportunity for public comment action, for future management of Petrified was at the beginning of the GMP Revision Forest National Park. The four alternatives project in December 2000. Twenty are: alternative 1 (no-action alternative or comments were received. continuation of existing conditions), alternative 2 (the NPS-proposed action), Planning team members gathered infor- alternative 3, and alternative 4. mation about existing visitor use and the condition of park facilities and resources. The alternatives, which are based on the Team members considered which areas of park mission, purpose, and significance, the park attract visitors and which have present different ways to manage resources sensitive resources. Using this information, and visitor use and improve facilities and the planning team developed eight manage- infrastructure within the park. The no- ment zones for guiding the preservation, action alternative is included as a baseline use, appreciation, and development of for comparing the environmental Petrified Forest National Park and associ- consequences of implementing each ated resources. The management zones are alternative. applied in varying combinations and locations in the alternatives. These zones, This chapter also describes the planning described in the following section, form the process used by the planning team, and basis of the GMP Revision alternatives. includes tables that summarize key differences between the alternatives and As noted above in the “Guidance for the key differences in the expected impacts of Planning Effort” section, the National Park implementing each alternative. The Service would continue to follow existing summary of impacts table is based on the agreements and servicewide mandates, analysis in chapter 4, “Environmental laws, and policies, and sections of the 1993 Consequences.” GMP that remain valid, regardless of the alternative considered in this GMP Revision. These mandates, policies, and FORMULATION OF THE sections of the 1993 GMP are not repeated ALTERNATIVES in this chapter. Other actions do differ among the alternatives, and these actions Many aspects of the desired future are discussed in this chapter. condition of Petrified Forest National Park are defined in establishing legislation; the The alternatives focus on what resource national park mission, purpose, and conditions and visitor experiences and significance statements; and servicewide opportunities should be at Petrified Forest mandates and policies described in chapter rather than on details of how these 1. Within these parameters, the National conditions and experiences should be

25 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE achieved. Thus, the alternatives do not In some cases, all three action alternatives include details of resource or visitor use apply the same management zones to the management techniques. More detailed same area. For example, the Rainbow plans or studies will be required before Forest area is zoned the same for each major modifications are made to facilities. alternative because such zones seem to be The implementation of any alternative also the most appropriate way to manage this depends on future funding, environmental area, regardless of the alternative selected. and cultural compliance, and resource protection issues. This plan does not Some of the main issues of this GMP guarantee that funding will be forthcoming. Revision revolve around structures: Painted The GMP Revision establishes a vision of Desert visitor center / headquarters the future that will guide day-to-day and complex, Rainbow Forest buildings, year-to-year management of the park, but Painted Desert Inn, and the various full implementation could take many years. administrative and visitor needs. A collaborative, focused study was held These four alternatives embody the range of during the planning process to explore what the public and the National Park alternatives for how existing and projected Service agree should be accomplished with needs for building space for business, regard to natural resource conditions, maintenance, administration, concessions, cultural resource conditions, and visitor and employee housing could fit into experience and appreciation at Petrified existing structures (Space Utilization Forest National Park. The actual Charette, Petrified Forest National Park, configurations and management within February – March 2001). New construction each alternative were developed by placing was also considered in some scenarios. This the management zones (described in the information, including general cost next section) on a map. estimates, has been incorporated into the alternatives in this document.

26

MANAGEMENT ZONES

Management zones define specific resource human influences. Natural processes conditions and visitor experiences to be prevail. Evidence of recreational use is not achieved and maintained in each area of the readily apparent. Natural landscapes and park under each of the action alternatives, soundscapes predominate. This zone may except the no-action alternative. Each zone occur in wilderness or non-wilderness description includes the types of activities areas. Resource inventory and monitoring and facilities that are appropriate in that activities help to identify and protect zone. The management zones were resources. developed as a result of this GMP Revision planning effort and, therefore, are not Visitor Experience and Appreciation applied to the no-action alternative and map. Visitors explore remote areas of the park in In formulating the alternatives, the a natural setting. Opportunities for solitude, management zones were placed in different independence, closeness to nature, and locations or configurations on the map adventure are key experiences. Chance according to the overall intent (concept) of encounters with other visitors or park staff each of the alternatives. That is, the are relatively few. Self-reliance is empha- management alternatives represent different sized, as these areas are without comforts or ways of applying the eight management conveniences. Visitors require outdoor zones to the park. skills and must be self-sufficient. Limits on numbers of visitors, length of stay, and The eight management zones for Petrified overnight use may be in place. A visitor Forest National Park are presented in the permit system may be implemented if it is following section. Resource conditions, needed to protect resources. visitor experience and appreciation, and appropriate activities and facilities are Facilities and Activities described for each management zone.

Common visitor activities include cross- In addition to the management zones, park country hiking, backpack camping, managers would continue to use the super- horseback riding, enjoying nature, wildlife intendent’s compendium and wilderness viewing, and photography. Visitor access is designations to effect limitations or by foot or horseback (bicycling is not closures, as necessary, to protect resources permitted). Overnight use may be limited to and wilderness values. certain areas. Buried utilities, primitive and

unmaintained trails, and road traces may be PRESERVATION EMPHASIS ZONE present, but the latter are not designated routes. Management activities include research and monitoring, occasional Resource Condition administrative use of primitive roads, and stabilization and restoration of natural and Natural and cultural resources are cultural resources. In designated unimpaired and generally unaffected by

27 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE wilderness, management is consistent with Administrative road segments that are NPS wilderness management policies. designated as backcountry corridors are zoned as backcountry corridors.

BACKCOUNTRY CORRIDOR FRONTCOUNTRY CORRIDOR

Resource Condition Resource Condition These are designated routes for hiking or horseback travel in a predominantly natural Areas are managed for a moderate to high setting. Disturbance to resources is degree of resource integrity. Some generally limited to the travel corridor, but resources may be modified to provide for there may be some minor modifications to visitor use. Concentrations of significant trailside resources for safety or to prevent resources for which the park was set aside secondary impacts (e.g., installation of may be present, but some human impacts water bars to prevent erosion). are apparent. High quality, scenic land- scapes may be viewed from this zone. Integrity of natural soundscapes and light- Visitor Experience and Appreciation scapes is moderate due to concentrated visitor use. Visitors have opportunities to view and explore the park from well-developed designated routes. These routes are Visitor Experience and Appreciation identified on maps published for visitor use. Visitors have a sense of independence and These easily accessible areas focus on a of being in a natural landscape. Oppor- connection with and appreciation of special tunities for adventure and discovery are park resources. Visitor understanding of moderate. Visitors are somewhat self- park themes is a priority. Some structured reliant and need basic outdoor skills. The opportunities such as guided tours are likelihood of meeting other visitors and provided. There are also opportunities for park staff is low to moderate. There may be independence and contemplation, depend- limits on group size or numbers of people ing on the time of day and season. Sights to protect resources and visitor experiences. and sounds of people and vehicles are Park vehicles may occasionally be encoun- expected. Encounters with others, including tered on some routes. park staff, are more likely than in other management zones. The only limits on numbers of people or on group size are due Facilities and Activities to resource protection concerns or facility design capacities. Frontcountry corridors Visitor activities include hiking, back- may serve as gateways to backcountry packing, and horseback riding (bicycles are areas. not permitted). Facilities are limited to primitive maintained trails, unused administrative roads that are gradually Facilities and Activities reverting to trails, and maintained administrative roads (generally unpaved). Common visitor activities include scenic Visitor access is by foot or horseback. driving, viewing scenic vistas, hiking on

28 Management Zones designated trails, guided tours, photog- about ways to experience these areas raphy, and picnicking. Roads, well-defined responsibly. Visitors are encouraged to trails, interpretive wayside exhibits, explore remote areas of the park in a natural overlooks, shelters, benches, toilets, and setting, but they may be directed away from picnic areas are appropriate in this zone. particularly sensitive resource areas. Visitor support structures such as parking Opportunities for solitude, closeness to lots, protective barriers, signs, and solar nature, and adventure are key elements. phones may also be present. Future Encounters with other visitors are not alternative transportation may be studied, expected. Self-reliance and advanced such as a shuttle bus system to prevent outdoor skills are emphasized. Limits on wood theft. Ranger staff actively manage numbers of visitors, areas visited, length of these areas. Management activities include stay, and overnight use are possible. protecting sensitive resources, promoting enjoyment of the setting, monitoring visitor Facilities and Activities activities, and providing safe experiences.

Activities include cross-country hiking, SPECIAL PROTECTION ZONE backpack camping, horseback riding, enjoying nature, wildlife viewing, and photography. Visitor access is by foot or Resource Condition horseback (no bicycling is allowed). Use may be guided away from certain areas for This zone provides maximum protection for resource protection reasons. Buried utilities, certain exceptional or fragile resources, primitive and unmaintained trails, and road such as unique fossils and sensitive traces may be present, but the latter are not archeological sites. The resource condition designated routes. Management activities ranges from nearly pristine to endangered. include research and monitoring, occasional Very little disturbance from humans is administrative use of primitive roads, and tolerated. Manipulation of resources is stabilization and restoration of natural and generally not permitted unless focused on cultural resources. In designated wilder- restoring natural conditions or preserving ness, management is consistent with NPS special cultural resources. This zone may wilderness management policies. occur in wilderness or non-wilderness areas. DEVELOPED ZONE

Visitor Experience and Appreciation Resource Condition Most visitors learn about and appreciate these areas from offsite, or remotely Natural resources and processes may be through “virtual experiences” such as modified to provide for visitor services and videos. Visitors benefit from knowing that park operations. Integrity of natural sound- sensitive resources are preserved for future scapes and lightscapes is relatively low. generations. A permit or guide is required There are some manicured or maintained to visit these areas. In either case, visitors landscapes but non-native plant species are are educated about the importance of used sparingly. Efforts are made to avoid protecting fragile resources and informed disturbing archeological sites, fossils, and

29 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE other special resources when facilities are HISTORIC PRESERVATION / developed. Historic structures and/or ADAPTIVE USE ZONE cultural landscapes may be present in and around this zone. Resource Condition Visitor Experience and Appreciation The setting is predominantly historic. Integrity of historic complexes and land- The visitor experience is focused on scapes are maintained and visitor use is information, orientation, education, visitor supported. Most structures within historic comfort, and safety. There is frequent complexes are stabilized or rehabilitated, interaction among visitors and between with appropriate modifications for adaptive visitors and park staff. This structured reuse. Some deteriorated structures may be environment is highly accessible. Oppor- removed and some new buildings may be tunities to learn about and understand major constructed. Natural resources and park themes are provided. The only limits processes may be modified to provide for on numbers of people or on group size are visitor services and park operations. Some due to resource protection concerns or landscapes are manicured or maintained, facility design capacities. but non-native plant species are used sparingly. Facilities and Activities Visitor Experience and Appreciation Common activities include learning about the park through contacts with park staff Visitors are immersed in a built environ- and media, short walks, enjoying ment that is rich in architectural and interpretive programs, dining, and gift cultural history. The visitor experience is shopping. Orientation and interpretation highly social and focused on information, facilities such as visitor centers, museum or orientation, education, visitor comfort, and wayside exhibits, and kiosks are safety. Contacts with park staff and other appropriate. Visitor support facilities such visitors are common. This structured as restrooms, snack bars, gift shops, environment is highly accessible. In some parking, shelters, overlooks, picnic areas, cases, historic structures may need to be and paved walks may be present. Park modified to increase accessibility and operational facilities such as maintenance function. Opportunities to learn about and shops, offices, supply storage, potential understand major park themes are provided. future transportation support, and staff Learning about the vicinity’s cultural housing may be present but they are history and architecture is a priority. The visually separated from visitor areas. only limits on numbers of people or on Management activities focus on main- group size are due to resource protection taining visitor facilities, mitigating impacts concerns or facility design capacities. from visitor use, and providing high-quality visitor experiences. Management and resource preservation activities may be Facilities and Activities evident to visitors. Common activities include learning about the park through contacts with staff and

30 Management Zones media (e.g., brochures, and maps), short TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR walks, enjoying interpretive programs, dining, and gift shopping. Learning about the vicinity’s cultural history and archi- Resource Condition tecture is a priority. Orientation and inter- pretation facilities and visitor support These are corridors where highway or rail facilities are present. Operational facilities traffic moves across the park. Park (e.g., maintenance shops and staff housing) landscapes and soundscapes may be may also be present, but they are visually significantly affected. The National Park separated from visitor facilities. Manage- Service is actively engaged in protecting ment activities focus on maintaining wildlife and scenic vistas, managing native historic structures, cultural landscapes, and vegetation, and minimizing pollution and visitor facilities; mitigating impacts from litter within the corridor. visitor use; and providing for quality visitor experiences. Visitor Experience and Appreciation

ADMINISTRATIVE ROAD OR AREA These corridors are visitors’ major routes of approach and access to the park. A key NPS Resource Condition goal is for travelers to understand park boundary locations and the significance of the park. Designated routes and areas are managed for administrative purposes. Disturbance to resources is generally limited to a small Facilities and Activities area or corridor. Most travelers pass incidentally through the Visitor Experience and Appreciation park without stopping. Onboard interpre- tation may be provided on some trains. Facilities include four-lane highways, Areas are managed for administrative railroads, embankments, bridges, ramps, purposes only, although visitors traveling signs, and culverts. NPS management by foot or horseback are not expressly activities include promoting visitor prohibited. appreciation and understanding of the park, cooperating with other entities for manage- Facilities and Activities ment, mitigating harmful impacts, manag- ing safety, and providing emergency

response. Facilities include maintained administrative roads and utilities such as sewage treatment ponds and pump houses. Management VISITOR USE AND CARRYING activities are oriented toward maintenance CAPACITY of park infrastructure, resource monitoring and protection, and visitor safety. Under the 1978 National Parks and Recreation Act (Public Law (PL) 95-625), the National Park Service is required to address the issue of carrying capacity in its

31 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

GMPs. The concept of carrying capacity is The National Park Service would complete intended to safeguard the quality of park a carrying capacity implementation plan resources and visitor experiences. (possibly as part of its wilderness Identifying resource conditions and visitor management plan) that would succeed this experiences by management zone is part of GMP Revision. This plan would identify general management planning. At this level indicators and standards, develop a of decision making, the desired resource monitoring strategy, and identify manage- conditions and experiences describe ment actions needed to address conditions carrying capacity in qualitative terms. when standards are reached or exceeded. These qualitative terms are then translated The park would subsequently implement a into quantitative standards over time during carrying capacity monitoring program, and implementation planning. it would take action, as necessary, to keep resource and visitor experience conditions within established standards.

32

ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION

CONCEPT AND GENERAL (for washing and preparing specimens, for MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES example) would remain very limited.

After a new concession contract is awarded, The no-action alternative describes petrified wood would no longer be sold in continuation of existing conditions at gift shops in Petrified Forest National Park. Petrified Forest National Park. It provides a (Petrified wood sold in stores comes from baseline for evaluating the changes and outside the park.) Revised NPS Manage- impacts of the other alternatives. The ment Policies (NPS 2001) prohibit the sale National Park Service would manage the of original objects, artifacts, or specimens park as it is currently managed, in of a historic, archeological, paleontological, accordance with the 1993 GMP and other or biological nature. approved plans. Paleontological, archeo- logical, ethnographic, and historic or other Existing commercial services activities cultural resources would be protected, as would continue. would the shortgrass prairie, badlands, and scenic vistas. Park managers would The park would continue to own 11 housing continue to close specific areas and other- units (former U.S. Air Force housing) in wise modify visitor access as necessary to Holbrook, Arizona. This housing would address harmful resource impacts. Visitor probably continue to be underused because uses would be reassessed and revised as the number of Petrified Forest employees new information about natural and cultural authorized to reside in NPS housing was resource impacts emerges. decreased by a NPS-wide assessment

conducted in 1999 (NPS 1999), and due to The park would continue to open each day a shortage of funds for equipment and about one hour after sunrise and close about structural repair. one hour before sunset. No designated campgrounds would be provided within the park; however, non-NPS campgrounds are Park Developed Areas and Facilities located just outside the south entrance to the park, in nearby towns, and at Homolovi The Painted Desert headquarters complex State Park. would remain the base for most visitor support and other park operations: visitor Park museum collections would continue to center, concessions (restaurant, gift shop, be stored at several offsite locations, some and service station / mini-mart), offices and of which meet accepted standards for associated work and storage areas for park curation, and in substandard facilities at managers, administration, resource manage- park headquarters. Park managers would ment, museum collections, interpretation, continue to welcome and encourage maintenance, protection, dispatch, fee scientists who are interested in conducting collection, and cooperating association appropriate research. Facilities to support staff. The headquarters complex was built such research, such as temporary, overnight in the early 1960s and is eligible for the accommodations and indoor work space NRHP. In general, buildings and facilities in the complex do not meet current needs

33 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE for space and function, do not meet NPS the complex. These conditions would standards or fire and safety codes, are in continue. fair to poor condition, and are not universally accessible. These conditions Main Park Road and Related Areas and current level of maintenance would continue. The park has requested funds to expand the existing visitor center (either a The Giant Logs Trail, located behind and new addition or an expansion of the public just west of the Rainbow Forest Museum, use spaces within the existing footprint). would continue to be managed as a self- When the funding is awarded, some of the guided interpretive trail. complex’s conditions would improve slightly. The level of improvement is Long Logs proposals from the 1993 GMP undetermined because specific plans have would continue to be implemented. The not been formulated. Long Logs spur road would be converted to a pedestrian trail, the parking lot would be The Painted Desert Inn area (see alternative removed, and the Long Logs experience 1 map) includes the historic inn, the would be converted to a pedestrian and grounds, two associated historic residences, hiking experience. Trailhead parking would and the overlook east of the inn. Ongoing be at existing Rainbow Forest parking lots. rehabilitation efforts at the inn (reroofing, repairing surface cracks, improving access, The Crystal Forest Trail and parking area and providing additional exhibits) would would continue to be managed to preserve continue. The two historic residences would the remaining petrified wood for observa- also be rehabilitated and adaptively reused. tion and appreciation. Park managers would continue to use features such as signs, The Rainbow Forest area at the south end barriers, and minor trail realignments in an of the park includes a museum and visitor effort to prevent additional loss of petrified contact station, residences, maintenance wood from theft. structures, parking and picnic areas, a concessions building, and concessioner The Jasper Forest and Agate Bridge parking residence. Offices for interpretation and lot and overlook areas would continue to be protection staff, cooperating association managed as they are now, except that vault storage (of publications), and restrooms are toilets might be installed at one of the located in the museum. Two additions have locations. The Blue Mesa spur road and been added to the building, but the museum Blue Mesa interpretive trail would be has limited space for exhibits and is not managed the same. Management of the fully accessible. The concessions building Newspaper Rock area would also remain has also been enlarged several times and is the same; visitors would continue to view no longer in keeping with the historic scene the petroglyphs from spotting scopes because of its altered scale. NPS employees provided at the overlook. live in some of eight residential units, but several other Rainbow Forest residences are Management of the Puerco Pueblo area not being used. One of the maintenance would generally remain the same: paved buildings has been enlarged to accommo- trails would come close enough to allow date a fire truck, but the building addition is visitors to see and learn about interesting not in keeping with the historic character of archeological resources, while remaining far enough away that inadvertent or

34 Alternative 1: No Action intentional damage is minimized. Vault documented in a wilderness management toilets would be installed at the Puerco plan. Pueblo area.

BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS The turnouts and overlooks and the parking areas along the main park road north of I-40 would be managed the same as they are No boundary adjustments other than those currently. Chinde Point (spur road, over- described and evaluated in the 1993 look, and picnic area) would continue to be Petrified Forest General Management managed as it now is, except that restrooms Plan / Environmental Impact Statement would be refurbished or replaced with vault would be proposed by the National Park toilets. Service under the no-action alternative.

Backcountry and Wilderness Areas COSTS AND IMPLEMENTATION of the Park Costs given are for comparison to other Backcountry areas of the park, including alternatives only and are not to be used for the two wilderness units, would be budgeting purposes. managed as they are now. A permit would be required for overnight camping, but no Capital costs for the no-action alternative permit would be required for day use unless are estimated to be $8,700,000. Life cycle increased use and impacts dictate a need for costs over the 15- to 20-year life of the additional permit requirements. Details of plan, which include maintenance, opera- wilderness management would be tions, and personnel costs (as well as capital costs), are estimated at $40,000,000. See table 2 for additional details.

35 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

36

ALTERNATIVE 2: PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

CONCEPT AND GENERAL These artifacts would remain at their MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES traditional locations provided the facilities meet NPS collections standards or unless Globally significant park resources would the storage price becomes prohibitive for be protected for future generations, while the National Park Service; in either case the some additional opportunities to experience artifacts would be returned to the park’s resources would be provided. Visitor collection facility. services and exhibits would be expanded. New trails and turnouts would be provided The park would continue to welcome and for visitors to understand and appreciate the encourage scientists who are interested in park; these and other new facilities would conducting appropriate research in the park. generally be sited in developed or disturbed Basic overnight accommodations for temp- areas to minimize resource impacts. Visitor orary stays and laboratory work space could hours would be extended in the front- be provided. country north of I-40 to allow early morning and evening activities such as The National Park Service would keep the watching the sun rise or set over the Painted employee housing in nearby Holbrook, Desert. Options for increasing education Arizona, to retain flexibility in housing and interpretation services for bus tour options and protect the government’s groups would be considered, with the goal investment. If some units are not needed to of increasing visitor appreciation and house employees, the National Park Service understanding of park resources. would investigate options for partnering with government entities to keep the Hol- In general, historic buildings would be brook residences occupied and maintained adaptively reused for park-related purposes. in good condition. More generally, park Maintaining the historic integrity of the staff would continue to seek partnerships to Painted Desert headquarters complex would adaptively reuse historic park structures be a priority. and/or provide compatible new buildings for personnel and services that benefit the Park archives (including photos), most National Park Service. This would include, paleontological resources, natural history but not be limited to, protection and specimens, and historic furnishings would emergency response services, volunteers, be stored in a new collections facility. This researchers, and seasonal employees. facility could be located at park head- quarters in Holbrook, on NPS land, or in a Necessary and appropriate commercial nearby regional facility for NPS collections. services at Petrified Forest National Park Archeological collections would continue would include the following: to be stored at the Western Archeological and Conservation Center in Tucson and the Concessions at the north (Painted Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. Desert) end of the park: food and Some paleontological and other artifacts beverage service, gift shop, gas have historically been stored at other station / mini-mart. Food, fuel, and locations (e.g., universities and museums). merchandise sales at the north end

39 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

encourage visitors to remain and traditional activities such as guided experience the park, especially hiking or backpacking tours would during “spur-of-the-moment” visits. be appropriate. Such services would Visitors can eat a meal and purchase encourage visitors to experience the supplies like film, hats, and sun- park’s backcountry, help them to screen before setting off to enjoy the understand and appreciate the park’s park. Concession services would be special resources, and ensure that provided at the Painted Desert visitor use is compatible with complex and/or at Painted Desert protecting sensitive resources. Inn. Decisions on location would be based on the following criteria: Water conservation measures would be finding adaptive uses for historic incorporated as new visitor and operational structures, maintaining integrity of structures are built and as older structures cultural landscapes, minimizing are remodeled or updated. Such measures impacts to natural resources, could include low-volume flush toilets, providing sufficient space for water-saving fixtures, and use of rainwater visitors and vehicles, maintaining runoff for landscape irrigation, for example. viability of concessions operations, and providing utility service and Unless a waiver is granted from the NPS waste disposal. policy banning sales of paleontological artifacts within the park, petrified wood Concessions at the south end of the sales in park gift shops would be dis- park (Rainbow Forest area): food continued once a new concessions contract and beverage service and gift shop. is awarded. Whether or not a waiver is Concession services at the south end granted, the park would continue to closely allow visitors who travel through monitor wood theft and conduct additional the park in either direction the studies to better understand the relationship option of remaining at the Rainbow between wood sales and wood theft in the Forest area to see Giant Logs and park. As new information becomes avail- Long Logs before moving on. These able, managers would take appropriate services would remain in the con- actions to minimize theft of petrified wood. cessions building on the south side (See the chapter 1 section titled “Scoping of the main parking area unless Issues Eliminated from Detailed Consider- there is a pressing future need to ation” for more background information on move them. The current location this topic.) works well from space and logistics standpoints, and it maintains the MANAGEMENT ZONES AND historical use of the concessions RELATED ACTIONS building (a supporting structure in the Rainbow Forest historic designed landscape, NPS 1999b). The greatest proportion of the park would be managed under the preservation empha- Guided tours, as specified under the sis zone, followed in descending order by terms of individual incidental the frontcountry zone, administrative road business permits. In particular, and area zone, transportation corridor zone, “step-on” bus tours and low impact, and historic preservation / adaptive use zone. There would be no developed zone,

40 Alternative 2: Preferred Alternative special protection zone, or backcountry Frontcountry Zone corridor zone in this alternative. The main road system, plus access points The remaining discussion describes how and overlooks at many significant features, different areas of the park would be would be zoned frontcountry. These managed and what actions the National features are discussed below, from the Park Service would take under alternative south end of the park moving northward. 2. These actions are those believed most likely to take place over the next 15 to 20 Giant Logs Trail and Crystal Forest Trail years given alternative 2’s concept, would be managed as frontcountry. These management zones, the conditions that exist trails would be modified for improved now in the park, and environmental accessibility and resource protection, constraints. particularly protection of petrified wood. Modifications could include shortening the Preservation Emphasis Zone trails, better defining the trail edges, or making portions accessible by means of

guided tours only (leaving other portions Most of the park would be zoned preserva- for self-guided tours). Changes to the trails tion emphasis, including all wilderness would be made with consideration of lands (see alternative 2 map). Lands would possible impacts to cultural landscapes. be managed similarly to the way they are Park staff would continue to use signs and currently managed, but there would be patrols, as necessary, to prevent disturbance increased emphasis on monitoring and or removal of petrified wood. adapting to new information. As park managers learned more about specific The Jasper Forest and Agate Bridge parking threats to resources, they would make lot and overlook areas would be zoned adjustments, as necessary, to protect frontcountry, as would the Blue Mesa spur resources. Certain areas might be more road, associated overlooks, and the Blue directly managed through permits and Mesa interpretive trail. No significant guided tours, for example. management changes would be expected

for these areas, although restrooms at Agate As in alternative 1, a permit would be Bridge would be rehabilitated. required for overnight camping, but no permit would be required for day use. A new universally accessible frontcountry Details of wilderness management would trail would be provided near “The Tepees” be decided by a wilderness management badland formation. From a new turnout on plan. the east side of the main park road, the trail

would head east along an old roadbed for Backcountry Corridor about one mile. Visitors would retrace their paths to return to their starting point. The No areas of the park would be managed as trail would provide views of the surround- the backcountry corridor zone in alternative ing landscape, including The Tepees and 2. Blue Mesa.

Several small, informal (gravel) turnouts would be provided adjacent to the main

41 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE park road. These would serve as back- petrified wood, archeological sites, and country access points where visitors can important wildlife habitat. park to hike into backcountry areas. Park staff would identify sites for the turnouts Northeast of the headquarters area, a short considering resource sensitivity, existing segment of old Route 66 that is currently disturbed areas, and scenic considerations. used for administrative purposes would be An information pamphlet would be devel- improved and zoned frontcountry. This oped to inform visitors of hiking options change would allow visitors to drive to an (untrailed) from the turnouts. These parking intact section of Route 66 within the park. areas would be monitored and changed This frontcountry road would end at an (e.g., closed or locations changed), as overlook and parking area with wayside necessary, on the basis of resource exhibits describing the historic transpor- considerations. tation route. The overlook and parking area would also serve as trailhead parking for The overlook and parking area at News- users of the Route 66 frontcountry trail. paper Rock and the parking area and trail at Puerco Pueblo would be zoned front- In addition, a new frontcountry trail would country. A new frontcountry loop trail follow the Route 66 road trace northeast would be provided near the Puerco River. from the new Route 66 overlook and The trail would provide opportunities for parking area (located northeast of the birdwatching and learning about the Puerco visitor center / headquarters). This trail River system. Parking for the trail would be would provide a longer hike for visitors at the existing Puerco Pueblo lot. Rest- who would like to see more of the park, rooms near Puerco Pueblo would be especially those interested in old Route 66 rehabilitated. and vistas of the Painted Desert to the north. The trail, about two miles in length, The turnouts / overlooks and parking areas would end near the eastern boundary of the along the main park road north of I-40 park. Visitors can hike into the backcountry would be zoned frontcountry. These areas or wilderness area from this point or return would generally be managed the same as to the parking lot along the same route. they are now; the only anticipated change is Alternative transportation may be studied construction of a turnout with wayside for future consideration. While there is not exhibits and an overlook to interpret present or foreseeable crowding and historic Route 66, located just north of congestion to warrant alternative trans- where the park road passes over I-40. portation, a shuttle bus system may be an Chinde Point (spur road, overlook, and effective tool for further prevention of picnic area) would be managed as front- wood theft. country, and the restrooms there would be refurbished or replaced. The portion of the The National Park Service would establish park that is north of I-40 and within the baseline conditions before new frontcountry loop formed by the park road would also be facilities (e.g., trails, waysides, turnouts, zoned frontcountry (see map). This area is etc.) were developed. The National Park relatively free of sensitive resources, e.g., Service would then monitor resources in and near areas where new facilities are

42

Alternative 2: Preferred Alternative

installed. If monitoring suggests that where it would be inconspicuous from unacceptable levels of resource impacts visitor areas like the museum, concessions could occur, the National Park Service building, and main parking area. The build- would take timely action to avert these ing that currently houses the fire truck is impacts. also located in the north end of the Rain- bow Forest area. The building was enlarged to accommodate the fire truck, but it has Special Protection Zone insufficient room to meet safety standards and the building addition is not consistent No areas would be zoned special protection with the character of the original structure. in this alternative. Most of the residential structures at Rain- Developed Zone bow Forest would be used for housing NPS or other support staff such as volunteers.

Residential structures not needed for No areas would be zoned developed in this housing would be used for other park- alternative. related purposes.

Historic Preservation / Adaptive Use The main parking lot and walkways at Zone Rainbow Forest would be redesigned to improve vehicle and pedestrian flow and Three areas would be zoned for historic reduce potential conflicts between autos preservation and adaptive use: the Rainbow and pedestrians. The concessions building, Forest complex (including Long Logs Trail) which includes a gift shop and snack bar, in the south, and the park headquarters would be reduced in scale to appear more complex and Painted Desert Inn in the similar to its original size and more in north. keeping with the character of other buildings in the Rainbow Forest area. In A few changes would be implemented at general, any new buildings or modifications the Rainbow Forest area, which includes in the Rainbow Forest area would be sited the museum, residences, maintenance and designed with the intention of main- structures, parking and picnic areas, and a taining both the integrity of the area’s concessions building (and small out- cultural landscape and separating public building). The Rainbow Forest Museum uses from residential and operational uses. would be remodeled to improve access- ibility and provide space for expanded The Long Logs Trail area is part of the exhibits. To make room for expanded Rainbow Forest cultural landscape and exhibits and universally accessible would be zoned historic preservation / restrooms, ranger staff offices would be adaptive use. Long Logs proposals from the moved out of the museum into a nearby 1993 GMP are being implemented, as in the adaptively remodeled structure such as a no-action alternative. These proposals residence or the old fire truck garage. include converting the Long Logs spur road to a trail, removing the parking lot, and A new fire truck garage would be built at encouraging better understanding of the the north end of the Rainbow Forest area,

45 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE area by means of a pedestrian / hiking mobile home pad located east of the three- experience. bedroom residences) may be removed. These actions would be taken only in The Painted Desert headquarters complex, consultation with the Arizona State Historic which includes the visitor center, would be Preservation Office (SHPO). Consideration zoned historic preservation / adaptive use. would also be given to reversing some past Interpretation, including exhibits, would be structural modifications to restore the expanded at the visitor center to improve original design intent for the complex. appreciation and understanding of park resources. Most historic structures in the A comprehensive design plan for the complex would be kept, remodeled, and headquarters complex would decide the adaptively reused to help meet the need for details and phasing for headquarters better function, safety, and accessibility. improvements, including building There is insufficient space (and the wrong stabilization, new construction, and other kind of space) in the headquarters complex improvements. In any case, modifications to fully accommodate park needs. There- to existing structures and new buildings fore, additions to buildings and/or some would be planned, sited, designed, and new structures would be constructed. A constructed to maintain the historic new collections storage facility that meets integrity of the complex. NPS standards and includes laboratory work space and a curator’s office is one The Painted Desert Inn area would be such example. managed as historic preservation / adaptive use. Rehabilitation of the inn would A charette workshop conducted in February continue, as in the no-action alternative. and March 2001 (e2M 2001) identified Rehabilitation plans included reroofing the several options for improving the Painted inn, repairing surface cracks, improving Desert headquarters complex while universal access, and providing additional maintaining its historic integrity. Sub- exhibits. Services at the Painted Desert Inn sequent analyses (see appendix D) indicated might be expanded. A feasibility study that headquarters options with more new would be conducted to find out whether construction, but that still preserve the services such as a trading post or limited complex’s historic integrity, provide the food service (both are historical uses) could best value (benefits per dollar expended). reasonably be provided by a concessioner. Thus, new construction could include a Visitor hours at the inn could also be museum collections facility, maintenance extended, as the north end of the park facility, staff offices and work space, and would open earlier in the morning and close residences, all within the “footprint” of the later in the evening in this alternative. The existing headquarters complex. Additional two historic residences near the inn would maintenance and construction projects be repaired and used as residences or would be planned and implemented to offices. If a future alternative transportation correct structural problems, stabilize system is studied and determined feasible, buildings, improve accessibility, and parking and support would be integrated address code deficiencies. Some non-visitor into the three historic complexes in a oriented structures (e.g., three employee manner consistent with their character. residences that are in poor condition, maintenance structures, and the large

46 Alternative 2: Preferred Alternative

Administrative Road or Area BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS

Several road corridors and associated areas No boundary adjustments other than those would be managed as administrative roads, described and evaluated in the 1993 Petri- but this designation would mean little fied Forest General Management Plan / change from current management. In the Environmental Impact Statement would be south end of the park, the stretch of old US proposed under alternative 2. 180 between Rainbow Forest and the west park boundary would be zoned admini- COSTS AND IMPLEMENTATION strative; the NPS materials storage area and horse corrals near the west park boundary would be included. The Rainbow Forest Costs given are for comparison to other sewage lagoons and associated access road alternatives only and are not to be used for would be zoned administrative. Portions of budgeting purposes. the waterline access road in the south of the park would be zoned administrative (see Capital costs for alternative 2 are estimated alternative 2 map); visitor use of these road at $25,200,000. Life cycle costs over the segments would not be encouraged. The 15- to 20-year life of the plan, which small spur road northwest of Agate Bridge include maintenance, operations, and would also be zoned administrative. personnel costs (as well as capital costs), are estimated at $65,700,000. See table 2 The sewage lagoon and well area west of for additional details. Puerco Pueblo and another well and access road adjacent to the railroad would be To best protect resources and provide for zoned administrative. At the north end of visitor enjoyment and appreciation, alterna- the park, the NPS target range and its tive 2 would adaptively use the Painted access road, the water storage tank and its Desert headquarters complex, rehabilitating access road, the materials storage yard and the most significant and intact structures, its spur road, and the sewage lagoons and and replacing the most deteriorated struc- their access road, would be zoned tures. The cost of adaptively reusing the administrative. headquarters complex, as proposed in alter- native 2, is very high (about $16,990,000 in life-cycle costs over the next 25 years). Yet Transportation Corridor alternative 2 would not significantly enlarge visitor or management functions (except for Two corridors would be zoned trans- a museum collections and curatorial facil- portation corridors: the I-40 right-of-way ity) over their present size. Replacing the and the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Painted Desert headquarters complex, as in Railroad right-of-way. alternative 4, would have a similar high cost (about $15,370,000 in life cycle costs). With the backlog of maintenance needed on existing structures in the complex, even alternative 1 (no action) would have a substantial cost (about $11,010,000 in life cycle costs).

47 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

The cost estimates prepared for this project conclusion from the consultations was that are very general at this time. They will there are indeed potential partners who become more detailed as more information would be advocates and would help to is collected regarding the condition of the increase public awareness of the signifi- structures and as there are more specifics cance of this property and the need for its about their future adaptive use. When more preservation and rehabilitation. Participants detailed plans and designs are developed, also recognized that some portions of the value analysis studies will be included. rehabilitation would, in the future, be Value analysis is part of the decision- eligible to compete for funding from certain making process that closely examines the grant sources. Participants suggested that a value received for dollars expended. The fundraising feasibility study could help National Park Service uses these studies to determine what level of funding could be find significant savings and ensure sound raised from non-federal sources. Even so, projects of real value. This process will the general conclusion was that some level likely yield savings as the project proceeds. of federal appropriations would be needed to undertake and complete the rehabilitation Rehabilitation of the headquarters complex project, as envisioned in alternative 2. will be difficult to fund in its entirety through finite NPS funding sources. During If efforts to fund rehabilitation of the head- the GMP planning process, park staff quarters complex are not successful, members met with representatives of the alternative 1 (no-action alternative) will be Arizona State Historic Preservation Office implemented by default. In this case, the and the Trust for Historic Preservation to National Park Service would continue to explore the potential for developing maintain the complex to the best of its partnerships in support of rehabilitating the ability, given limited funding and com- Painted Desert headquarters complex. peting resource priorities in the park. The During those discussions the significance of park would continue to seek funds to the complex and its uniqueness were re- complete the most critical needs for curring themes, as was ongoing loss of maintaining and adaptively reusing the modern architecture in America. One complex.

48

ALTERNATIVE 3

CONCEPT AND GENERAL small laboratory with work space for MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES researchers. The park would continue to welcome and encourage scientists who are The park would be managed as a resource interested in conducting appropriate preserve, valued primarily for its globally research in the park. Additional overnight significant fossils. Visitor use and under- accommodations for temporary stays would standing would be encouraged, while be provided. providing for increased resource protection and visitor safety. To protect sensitive The park would divest itself of the 11 staff resources, visitors would be encouraged to residences in nearby Holbrook, Arizona. explore the park, primarily in selected Historic buildings within the park would be frontcountry areas such as Rainbow Forest used to the greatest possible extent for staff and Giant Logs. Some sensitive areas housing or other park purposes and the would be closed to visitor use. Backcountry Holbrook residences would no longer be access would be carefully managed with used. permits and/or other methods to protect sensitive resources. Visitors would gain in- Necessary and appropriate commercial depth understanding of the significance of services at Petrified Forest would include park resources through more tours and the following (see alternative 2 for programs, multiple media, and interactions additional details): with researchers. The value of the park as an outdoor classroom would be concessions at the north (Painted emphasized. Desert) end of the park: food and beverage service, gift shop, gas The park would open to visitors each day station / mini-mart about one hour after sunrise and close about concessions at the south end of the one hour before sunset, as in the no-action park (Rainbow Forest area): food alternative. and beverage service, gift shop guided tours, as specified under the Park managers would encourage neighbors terms of individual incidental and partners to develop additional and business permits diverse camping opportunities outside the park. As in the no-action alternative, there As in the no-action alternative, petrified would be no campgrounds within the park. wood would no longer be sold in gift shops in Petrified Forest National Park once a A new museum collections facility would new concessions contract is awarded. be constructed or adaptively fit into an existing structure at park headquarters. MANAGEMENT ZONES AND Most museum specimens that are currently RELATED ACTIONS stored at other institutions or locations would be returned to the park and stored in The greatest proportion of the park would the new facility. The facility would include be managed under the special protection a small park-related research library and a zone, followed by the preservation

49 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE emphasis zone, frontcountry zone, Frontcountry Zone administrative road and area zone, transportation corridor zone, historic Access points and overlooks at many of the preservation / adaptive use zone, and park’s significant features would be zoned backcountry zone. There would be no frontcountry, as would the main park road developed zone in this alternative. system that provides access. These features are discussed below, from the south end of The remaining discussion describes how the park moving northward. The Giant Logs different areas of the park would be Trail, located just west of Rainbow Forest managed and what actions the National Museum, would be managed to discourage Park Service would take under alternative theft of petrified wood and improve 3. These actions are those believed most accessibility. The trail section adjacent to likely to take place over the next 15 to 20 and visible from the museum would be years given alternative 3’s overall concept, realigned and made universally accessible. management zones, the conditions that now Visitors could continue to use this portion exist in the park, and environmental of the trail on their own. The western constraints. section of the trail (the portion not visible from the museum) is more difficult to Preservation Emphasis Zone monitor for wood theft, so access would require a guide. A schedule of guided tours

would be developed. Other management A portion of the park immediately north of options could be tried if this solution did I-40 would be zoned preservation emphasis not prove effective. (see alternative 3 map). This area includes a portion of the Route 66 road trace. At Crystal Forest, the trail area would be

shortened and the trail realigned to better Backcountry Corridor protect concentrations of petrified wood. Items such as signs, benches, and barriers One area in the north part of the park would could also be installed to encourage people be zoned as a backcountry corridor in this to stay on the trail and off petrified wood. alternative—the trail from Kachina Point to The Jasper Forest and Agate Bridge parking Lithodendron Wash (see alternative 3 map). lot and overlook areas would also be zoned The existing trail leads from the Painted frontcountry, and vault toilets would be Desert Inn down the steep rim face via a installed at Agate Bridge or Jasper Forest series of switchbacks. Once at the desert overlook, but no major changes to these floor, the trail gradually becomes faint, then areas would be anticipated. disappears. In this alternative, the trail would be better delineated to encourage The Blue Mesa spur road and associated users to stay on the trail, allowing visitors overlooks would be zoned frontcountry. to experience the Painted Desert badlands The Blue Mesa interpretive loop trail, without fear of becoming lost, and better protecting fossils and other resources near the trail.

50

Alternative 3

which winds off the mesa to the desert floor Special Protection Zone and back, would be closed and rehabilitated to prevent additional loss of fossils and petrified wood. Barriers would be placed, Most of the remainder of the park would be as necessary, to reduce social trails created managed as a special protection zone by visitors who wander from the overlooks. because these large areas contain sensitive or special resources (e.g., fossils, archeo- The overlook and parking area at News- logical sites, and wildlife breeding areas) paper Rock and the parking area and trail at that are difficult to monitor and protect. Puerco Pueblo would be zoned front- Some sensitive and special resources are country; no major changes are anticipated scattered over the landscape, and others are for these sites. As in the no-action alterna- clustered or associated with particular tive, vault toilets would be installed at geographic features. Although visitor use Puerco Pueblo. and understanding would be encouraged, visitor use would be highly regulated to The turnouts and overlooks and the parking protect special resources. Visitors would be areas along the main park road north of I-40 required to obtain a permit for day or would be zoned frontcountry. These areas overnight use or to visit the area as part of a would generally be managed the same as guided tour. They also may be directed they are now. The only anticipated change away from certain resource areas. is construction of a turnout with wayside exhibits and an overlook to interpret North of I-40, the special protection zone historic Route 66, just north of where the would extend from the rim, where the park road passes over I-40. Chinde Point terrain starts to drop away to the desert (spur road, overlook, and picnic area) floor, north to the park boundary. The zone would be managed as frontcountry, and the would include all of the Painted Desert restrooms would be refurbished or replaced wilderness lands. South of I-40, the special with vault toilets, as in the no-action protection zone would include all park alternative. The portion of the park that is lands that are not managed for other north of I-40 and within the loop formed by purposes, including the Rainbow Forest the park road would also be zoned wilderness lands (see map). Details of frontcountry (see map). This area is wilderness management would be decided relatively free of sensitive resources, e.g., by a wilderness management plan, as in the petrified wood, archeological sites, and no-action alternative. important wildlife habitat. Alternative transportation may be studied for future Developed Zone consideration. While there is no present or foreseeable crowding and congestion to No areas in the park would be managed as warrant alternative transportation, a shuttle the developed zone under this alternative. bus system may be an effective tool for further prevention of wood theft.

53 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

Historic Preservation / Adaptive Use The Long Logs Trail area is part of the Zone Rainbow Forest cultural landscape and would be zoned historic preservation / Three areas would be zoned for historic adaptive use. Long Logs proposals from the preservation / adaptive use: the Rainbow 1993 GMP are being implemented, as in the Forest complex (including Long Logs Trail) no-action alternative. These proposals in the south, and the park headquarters include converting the Long Logs spur road complex and Painted Desert Inn in the to a trail, removing the parking lot, and north. encouraging better appreciation of the area by means of a pedestrian or hiking Several minor changes would be anticipated experience. in the Rainbow Forest area, which includes the museum, residences, maintenance The Painted Desert Inn area in the north of structures, parking and picnic areas, and a the park includes the inn and its grounds, concessions building (and concessioner’s two associated historic residences, and the residence). Offices for ranger staff would overlook east of the inn. This area would be be moved from the museum to a nearby managed as historic preservation / adaptive residence and/or maintenance building that use. Rehabilitation of the inn would would be adapted to accommodate this use. continue, as in the no-action alternative. The museum would be remodeled to Rehabilitation plans include reroofing the improve accessibility and provide for inn, repairing surface cracks, improving expanded exhibits. Some limited new access, and providing additional exhibits. construction (e.g., a fire truck garage) might The two residences would be repaired and also be needed to improve accessibility and used for housing or offices. No other operations. Accessible restrooms would be changes to the Painted Desert Inn area are provided, either in the remodeled museum anticipated under this alternative. or in a new structure. Most of the resi- dential structures would be used for NPS The Painted Desert headquarters complex employee housing. If not needed for would be zoned historic preservation / housing, some structures would be used for adaptive use. Most historic structures in the other park-related purposes. headquarters complex would be kept and adaptively reused to help meet the need for increased space and improved accessibility. The main parking lot and walkways at 2 Rainbow Forest would be redesigned to A recent study (e M 2001) compared improve vehicle and pedestrian flow and current park space needs with existing reduce confusion. The concessions building space and found that there is insufficient (gift shop and snack bar) would be space (and inappropriate types of space) in modified to reduce its scale and make it the headquarters complex to fully accom- more consistent with the cultural scene. In modate park needs. Therefore, additions to general, any new facilities or facility buildings and/or new structures would also modifications would be carefully sited and be constructed. In this alternative, a new designed to maintain the integrity of the museum collections facility that meets NPS Rainbow Forest cultural landscape. standards would be built for most items in the collection. It would include laboratory work space for researchers, curator work space, and a small library for park-related

54 Alternative 3 publications. A few structures that are not adjacent to the road near the west park in visitor use areas (e.g., three employee boundary would be included in this zone. residences that are in poor condition, The Rainbow Forest sewage lagoons and maintenance structures, and the large associated access road would be zoned mobile home pad east of the three-bedroom administrative. The waterline road, which residences) may be removed. runs roughly parallel to and west of the main park road in the south, and Agate In keeping with the management emphasis Mesa Road (the small spur road northwest for the headquarters complex in this of Agate Bridge) would also be managed as alternative, any modifications to existing administrative roads. structures or new buildings would be sited, designed, and constructed to maintain the Near the Puerco River, the sewage lagoon historic integrity of the complex. To and well area west of Puerco Pueblo, reinforce the original architectural intent, another well, and Adamana Road adjacent consideration would be given to reversing to the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe some modifications to structures that have Railroad would be zoned administrative. In been made in the past. Additional main- the north (Painted Desert) end of the park, tenance and construction projects would be the NPS firing range and access road, the planned and implemented to correct water storage tank and access road, the structural problems, stabilize buildings, and materials storage yard and access road, and address code deficiencies. the sewage lagoons and access road would be zoned administrative. Interpretation would be expanded at the Painted Desert visitor center to improve Transportation Corridor visitor appreciation of park resources and to complement the special protection zone. Expanded interpretation could include Two corridors would be zoned “virtual visits” to special backcountry transportation corridors: the I-40 right-of- resource areas, multimedia presentations, way and the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe additional ranger-led programs, and the Railroad right-of-way. like. If a future alternative transportation system is studied and determined feasible, BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS parking and support would be integrated into the three historic complexes in a No boundary adjustments other than those manner consistent with their character. described and evaluated in the 1993

Petrified Forest General Management Administrative Road or Area Plan / Environmental Impact Statement would be proposed under alternative 3. Several road corridors and associated areas would be managed as administrative roads; COSTS AND IMPLEMENTATION there would be essentially no change from current management. In the south end of the Costs given are for comparison to other park, the stretch of old US 180 between alternatives only and are not to be used for Rainbow Forest and the west park boundary budgeting purposes. would be zoned administrative; the NPS materials storage area and horse corrals

55 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

Capital costs for alternative 3 are estimated include maintenance, operations, and at $20,200,000 to $28,200,000, depending personnel costs (as well as capital costs), on the scenario for adaptive use and limited are estimated at $62,000,000 to new construction at the Painted Desert $69,000,000. See table 2 for additional headquarters complex. Life cycle costs over details. the 15- to 20-year life of the plan, which

56 Alternative 4

ALTERNATIVE 4

CONCEPT AND GENERAL appropriate research in the park. Additional MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES overnight accommodations for temporary stays and a small laboratory work space Globally significant park resources would would be provided in the park. be protected for future generations, while diverse opportunities for visitors to experi- Historic structures would be adaptively ence resources would also be provided. used for park-related purposes to the Expanded visitor services and exhibits greatest extent possible, except in the case would be provided at existing developed of structures in the Painted Desert head- areas. Existing and several new trails would quarters complex (see “Developed Area” provide a first-hand experience that is section below). highly managed to protect resources. Guided tours would allow more visitors to The park would keep the 11 units of experience remote areas of the park. employee housing in nearby Holbrook, Opportunities for visitors to interact with Arizona. If some of the units are not needed researchers would be limited, but research to house park employees, the National Park results would be woven into park inter- Service would investigate options for part- pretive programs. Early morning and nering with the city of Holbrook and/or the evening visitor opportunities would be Holbrook School District to make sure that provided in the north part of the park. all units are occupied and maintained in good condition. Visitor hours would be expanded in the frontcountry, north of I-40, to provide Necessary and appropriate commercial opportunities for early morning and evening services at Petrified Forest would include activities, including watching the sun rise or the following (see “Alternative 2” for set over the Painted Desert. additional details):

Park staff would encourage neighbors and concessions at the north (Painted partners to develop additional and diverse Desert) end of the park: food and camping opportunities outside park beverage service, gift shop, gas boundaries. As in the no-action alternative, station / mini-mart there would be no campgrounds within the concessions at the south end of the park. park (Rainbow Forest area): food and beverage service, gift shop The museum collections would be moved guided tours, as specified under the outside the park to institutions and/or terms of individual incidental agency facilities that meet NPS standards. business permits Similar specimens would be stored together, enabling scientists to examine As in the no-action alternative, petrified related specimens without having to travel wood would no longer be sold in gift shops to different locations. The park would in Petrified Forest National Park once a continue to welcome and encourage new concessions contract is awarded. scientists who are interested in conducting

57 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

MANAGEMENT ZONES AND country corridors. Designated routes would RELATED ACTIONS be illustrated on park maps provided to visitors, and visitors would be encouraged The greatest proportion of the park would to stay on the trails to minimize inadvertent be managed as the preservation emphasis damage to backcountry resources. These zone, followed in descending order by the routes would allow visitors to experience frontcountry zone, backcountry corridor less visited areas of the park without fear of zone, administrative road and area zone, becoming lost. transportation corridor zone, historic preservation / adaptive use zone, and the In the southern portion of the park, several developed zone. There would be no special unpaved road segments occasionally used protection zone in this alternative. for administrative purposes would be zoned backcountry corridor. These include part of The remaining discussion describes how the waterline road and shorter segments that different areas of the park would be connect the waterline road with the main managed and what actions the National park road. These backcountry corridors Park Service would take under alternative provide interesting, moderate-length trail 4. These actions are those believed most options. Several small trailhead parking likely to take place over the next 15 to 20 areas, located adjacent to the main park years given alternative 4’s overall concept, road, would be provided for access to these management zones, the conditions that exist backcountry corridors (see frontcountry in the park, and environmental constraints. zone discussion).

In the northern (Painted Desert) portion of Preservation Emphasis Zone the park, there would be several additional backcountry corridors. A new loop trail Most of the park would be zoned would lead from Kachina Point (Painted preservation emphasis, including all Desert Inn parking area), down into the wilderness lands (see alternative 4 map). Painted Desert in a northerly direction. The This designation would mean essentially no trail would loop back to the east, where it change from the way these lands are would connect with the Route 66 road currently managed. As in the no-action trace. From there, visitors could turn south- alternative, a permit would be required for east and hike along old Route 66, then overnight camping, but no permit would be return to Kachina Point via a new trail required for day use unless increased use segment on the Painted Desert floor. A new and impacts dictate a need for additional spur trail would lead from the loop trail to permit requirements. Details of wilderness an interesting geologic feature—Onyx management would be decided by a wilder- Bridge. Another backcountry corridor trail ness management plan. would provide a designated route for wilderness access. It would follow the Route 66 trace eastward to near the park Backcountry Corridor boundary, then turn north and follow an unmaintained administrative road to the In keeping with the alternative concept, wilderness boundary. several areas would be zoned as back-

58

Alternative 4

Corps (CCC) work camp. The second, a Frontcountry Zone short loop trail, would interpret the Puerco River system and its resources. Trailhead Access points and overlooks at many parking for these trails would be at the significant features would be zoned existing Puerco Pueblo parking area. As in frontcountry, as would the main park road the no-action alternative, vault toilets would system providing access. These features are be installed at Puerco Pueblo. discussed below, from the south end of the park moving northward. The turnouts and overlooks and parking areas along the main park road north of I-40 Giant Logs Trail and Crystal Forest Trail would be zoned frontcountry. These areas would be managed as frontcountry. As in would generally be managed the same as the no-action alternative, park staff would they are now; the only anticipated change is continue to use signs, patrols, and trail construction of a turnout with wayside barriers, as necessary, to prevent disturb- exhibits and an overlook to interpret the ance or removal of petrified wood. Between Route 66 road trace, just north of where the Crystal Forest and Blue Mesa spur road, park road passes over I-40. Chinde Point several areas near the main park road would (spur road, overlook, and picnic area) be zoned frontcountry to allow small trail- would be managed as frontcountry, and the head parking areas for backcountry corridor restrooms would be refurbished or replaced users. The Jasper Forest and Agate Bridge with vault toilets, as in the no-action parking lot and overlook areas would be alternative. The portion of the park that is zoned frontcountry, as would the Blue north of I-40 and within the loop formed by Mesa spur road, associated overlooks, and the park road would also be zoned front- the Blue Mesa interpretive trail. No country (see map). This area is relatively significant management changes would be free of sensitive resources like petrified expected for these areas, but vault toilets wood, archeological sites, and important would be installed at Agate Bridge or wildlife habitat. Jasper Forest Overlook. Northeast of the headquarters area, a short A new frontcountry trail to the badland segment of old Route 66 that is currently formation known as The Tepees would be used for administrative purposes would be provided. The Tepees Trail would be improved and zoned frontcountry. This universally accessible. Because there are would allow visitors to drive to an intact sensitive resources in the vicinity, this trail section of Route 66 within the park. This would be sited, designed, and constructed frontcountry road would end at an overlook to minimize resource impacts. The News- and parking area that would include way- paper Rock overlook and parking area side exhibits that interpret this historic would be zoned frontcountry, but no transportation route. The overlook and changes are anticipated there. parking area would also serve as trailhead parking for users of nearby backcountry Two new frontcountry interpretive trails corridor trails. Alternative transportation would be provided in the vicinity of Puerco may be studied for future consideration. Pueblo. The first would follow an old road While there is no present or foreseeable trace east of Puerco Pueblo; it would crowding and congestion to warrant interpret an old Civilian Conservation

61 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE alternative transportation, a shuttle bus provided. If a future alternative trans- system may be an effective tool for further portation system is studied and determined prevention of wood theft. feasible, parking and support would be integrated into the new complex.

Special Protection Zone Most of the museum collections would be moved outside the park to institutions No areas would be zoned special protection and/or agency facilities that meet NPS in this alternative. standards.

Developed Zone Historic Preservation / Adaptive Use Zone The Painted Desert headquarters complex would be managed as a developed zone. Two areas would be zoned for historic Over a period of several years, the entire preservation / adaptive use: the Rainbow complex would be demolished and rebuilt Forest complex (including Long Logs Trail) in the same location. New facilities would in the south and Painted Desert Inn in the be designed to accommodate current and north. anticipated future needs for space, as 2 determined by a 2001 study (e M 2001) or At the Rainbow Forest area, the following more current information, as appropriate. changes would be anticipated: offices for New facilities would be built to current protection staff would be moved from the NPS standards and to fire and safety codes, museum to a new building located on the and would be accessible to those with north side of the main parking area. This limited mobility. Demolition and construc- new building would also include a fire truck tion would be phased, and temporary garage and public restrooms. The building buildings would be used, as needed, to would be sited, designed, and constructed ensure that park operations were disrupted to reinforce historic emphasis on the view as little as possible during demolition and to the museum from the Jim Camp Wash construction. bridge and entrance. It would partially screen the Rainbow Forest residential area Functions that would be accommodated in from the main parking lot. Most of the the new headquarters complex include a residential structures would be used for visitor center with exhibit space, con- NPS employee housing. cessions (restaurant, gift shop, and service station), and offices and associated work The museum would be remodeled to and storage areas for park managers and for improve accessibility and provide for administration, resource management, expanded exhibits. Offices for inter- interpretation, maintenance, protection, pretation staff and cooperating association dispatch, fee collection, and cooperating storage (i.e., publications) would remain in association staff. Approximately 10 the museum building. employee residences would be built, and adaptable living quarters for seasonal The main parking lot and walkways at employees, researchers, and park volunteers Rainbow Forest would be redesigned to would be constructed. A small laboratory improve vehicle and pedestrian flow and and work area for researchers would also be reduce confusion. The concessions building

62 Alternative 4

(gift shop and snack bar) would be modi- Administrative Road or Area fied to reduce its scale and make it more consistent with the cultural scene. In Several road corridors and associated areas general, any new facilities or facility modi- would be managed as administrative roads, fications would be carefully sited and but this designation would mean little designed to maintain the integrity of the change from current management. In the Rainbow Forest cultural landscape. south end of the park, the stretch of old US 180 between Rainbow Forest and the west The Long Logs Trail area is part of the park boundary would be zoned admin- Rainbow Forest cultural landscape and istrative; the NPS materials storage area would be zoned historic preservation / and horse corrals adjacent to the road near adaptive use. Long Logs proposals from the the west park boundary would be included 1993 GMP are being implemented, as in the in this zone. The Rainbow Forest sewage no-action alternative. These proposals lagoons and associated access road would include converting the Long Logs spur road be zoned administrative. Portions of the to a trail, removing the parking lot, and waterline road in the southern segment of encouraging better understanding of the the park would be zoned administrative (see area by means of a pedestrian and hiking alternative 4 map); visitor use of these road experience. segments would not be encouraged. The Agate Bridge storage road would also be The Painted Desert Inn area, north of the zoned administrative. park, includes the inn and its grounds, two associated historic residences, and the Near the Puerco River, the sewage lagoon overlook east of the inn. This area would be and well area west of Puerco Pueblo and managed as historic preservation / adaptive another well and Adamana Road adjacent use. Rehabilitation of the inn would con- to the railroad would be zoned administra- tinue, as in the no-action alternative. Reha- tive. In the north end (Painted Desert) of the bilitation plans include reroofing the inn, park, the NPS firing range and its access repairing surface cracks, improving access road, the water storage tank and its access for those with limited mobility, and pro- road, the materials storage yard and its spur viding additional exhibits. road, and the sewage lagoons and their access road would be zoned administrative. Services at the Painted Desert Inn would be expanded. This could include providing limited food service or a trading post—both Transportation Corridor are historical uses. Visitor hours at the inn could also be extended, as the north end of Two corridors would be zoned the park would open earlier in the morning transportation corridor: the I-40 right-of- and close later in the evening in alternative way and the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe 4. The two historic residences near the inn Railroad right-of-way. would be repaired and adaptively reused for offices. BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS

No boundary adjustments other than those described and evaluated in the 1993 Petrified Forest General Management

63 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

Plan / Environmental Impact Statement Capital costs for alternative 4 are estimated would be proposed under alternative 4. to be $25,500,000. Life cycle costs over the 15- to 20-year life of the plan, which include maintenance, operations, and COSTS AND IMPLEMENTATION personnel costs (as well as capital costs), are estimated at $64,300,000. See table 2 Costs given are for comparison to other for additional details. alternatives only and are not to be used for budgeting purposes.

64 Mitigation Measures Common to all Action Alternatives

MITIGATION MEASURES COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES

In the legislation that created the National Measures to control dust and erosion during Park Service, Congress charged the agency construction would be implemented and with managing lands under its stewardship could include the following: watering dry “in such manner and by such means as will soils; using silt fences and sedimentation leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of basins; stabilizing soils during and after future generations” (NPS Organic Act, 16 construction with specially designed United States Code [USC]). As a result, the fabrics, certified straw, or other materials; National Park Service routinely considers covering haul trucks; employing speed and implements mitigation measures limits on unpaved roads; and revegetating whenever activities that could adversely disturbed areas with native species as soon affect the sustainability of resources or as possible after construction. systems are anticipated. Standard noise abatement measures would A common set of mitigation measures be implemented during park operations and would be applied to the action alternatives construction activities. These measures in this GMP Revision. The National Park could include the following: scheduling Service would avoid, minimize, and activities so that impacts are minimized, use mitigate adverse impacts whenever of the best available noise control tech- practicable. niques, use of hydraulically or electrically powered tools, and situating noise- producing machinery as far as possible NATURAL RESOURCES from sensitive uses or resources.

New facilities would be sited in disturbed Wetlands and riparian habitats would be areas whenever feasible to avoid causing delineated by qualified specialists and new impacts to resources. Boardwalks, clearly marked before construction work, fences, signs, and similar measures would and these areas would be avoided. To be used to route people off of or away from protect water quality and wetlands/riparian sensitive resources such as petrified wood areas, best management practices would be and other fossils, while still permitting employed and could include all or some of access to important viewpoints. the following actions, depending on site- specific requirements. Construction zones would be identified and fenced with temporary fencing or a similar Work would be scheduled to avoid material prior to any construction activity. the wet seasons. The fencing would define the construction Barriers would be provided zone and confine activity to the minimum between stream channels and trails area required. All protection measures or paved areas to reduce erosion would be clearly stated in construction potential. specifications and workers would be Disturbed areas would be kept as instructed to avoid areas beyond the small as possible to minimize fencing. exposed soil and erosion potential.

65 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

Silt fences, temporary earthen Undesirable species such as tamarisk (salt- berms, temporary water bars, cedar) (Tamarix ramosissima), would be sediment traps, stone check dams, controlled in high-priority areas. Other or other equivalent measures would undesirable species would be monitored be installed prior to construction. and control strategies initiated if these Regular site inspections would be species occur. To prevent the introduction conducted during construction to of and to minimize the spread of non-native ensure that erosion control vegetation and noxious weeds, the follow- measures were properly installed ing measures would be implemented: and functioning effectively. Chemicals, fuels, and other toxic Minimize soil disturbance. materials would be stored, used, Pressure wash all construction and disposed of in a proper manner. equipment before it is brought into the park. Following completion of construction Limit vehicle parking to existing activities, all areas of disturbed soils and roads, parking lots, or previously vegetation would be regraded and revege- disturbed areas. tated as soon as possible. Natural topo- Obtain all fill, rock, or additional graphic features would be restored to the topsoil from the project area. extent possible using excavated soils from Initiate revegetation of a disturbed park projects, and native species would be site immediately following con- used in all revegetation efforts. Rocks struction activities by spreading would be used to reestablish surface rough- desert soil with its associated seed ness and to blend the disturbed areas into bank. the landscape. Permeon (or a similar Monitor all disturbed areas for two approved treatment method) could be used to three years following con- to match local soil colors to reduce visi- struction to identify noxious weeds bility of the impacts to visitors. or non-native vegetation.

To maximize restoration efforts after Park managers are seeking a waiver from completion of construction activities, the the NPS policy banning sales of paleon- following measures would be implemented: tological artifacts due to concern that banning petrified wood sales within the Salvage topsoil from construction park could result in more wood theft. for reuse during restoration on disturbed areas to ensure proper SPECIES OF CONCERN revegetation. Salvage native vegetation for subsequent replanting in the Mitigation actions would occur prior to disturbed area. construction to minimize immediate and Monitor revegetation success for long-term impacts to rare, threatened, and three years following construction, endangered species. Surveys would be implement remedial and control conducted for such species as warranted. measures as needed. Facilities would be sited and designed so as to avoid adverse effects on rare, threatened, and endangered species whenever possible. If avoidance is infeasible, adverse effects

66 Mitigation Measures Common to all Action Alternatives would be minimized and compensated for, National Park and the Arizona SHPO as appropriate, and in consultation with (and/or, as necessary, the Advisory Council appropriate resource agencies. on Historic Preservation). In the event that human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, or objects of cultural patrimony are CULTURAL RESOURCES discovered during construction, provisions outlined in the Native American Graves Efforts would be made to avoid adverse Protection and Repatriation Act (25 USC impacts through use of the Secretary of the 3001) (NAGPRA) of 1990, would be Interior’s Standards for Archeology and followed. Historic Preservation, and by using visual screens and/or sensitive designs that are Petrified Forest National Park will consult compatible with historic resources. with associated American Indian tribes (Navajo Nation, Tribe, Zuni Pueblo, Mitigation measures, based on consultation and White Mountain Apache Tribe) to with the Arizona SHPO, may include develop and accomplish the programs of documentation according to standards of the park in a way that respects the beliefs, the Historic American Buildings Survey / traditions, and other cultural values of the Historic American Engineering Record American Indian tribes who have ancestral (HABS/ HAER). The thoroughness of this ties to park lands. The park will maintain documentation, which includes government-to-government relations with photography, archeological data recovery, associated tribes to ensure a collaborative and/or a narrative history, would depend on working relationship, and it will consult significance (national, state, or local) and regularly with them before taking actions individual attributes. When demolition of a that would affect natural and cultural historic structure is proposed, architectural resources that are of interest and concern to elements and objects may be salvaged for them. The park will accommodate access reuse in rehabilitating similar structures, or to, and ceremonial use of, American Indian they may be added to the museum collec- sacred sites by American Indian religious tion. In addition, demolished historic practitioners in a manner that is consistent resources may be interpreted for park with park purposes and applicable law, visitors. regulation, and policy.

If, during construction, any previously In compliance with NAGPRA, the National unknown archeological resources are Park Service would also notify and consult discovered, all work in the immediate concerned tribal representatives for the vicinity of the discovery would be halted proper treatment of human remains and of until the resources could be identified and funerary and sacred objects should these be documented and an appropriate mitigation discovered during the course of projects strategy developed, in consultation with the involving ground disturbance. Arizona SHPO and other consulting parties.

All proposed documentation, recordation, SUSTAINABILITY and mitigation measures for archeological, historical, and ethnographic resources The National Park Service has adopted the would be stipulated in a memorandum of concept of sustainable design as a guiding agreement between Petrified Forest principle of facility planning and

67 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE development. The objectives of and supports the practice of sustainable sustainability are to design NPS facilities planning, design, and use of the park and to: associated public and administrative facilities. minimize adverse effects on natural and cultural values New facilities (e.g., buildings, utilities, reflect their environmental setting roads, and trails) or modified facilities maintain and encourage biodiversity would be designed to fit into their surround- construct and retrofit facilities using ings to the extent practicable, whether those energy-efficient materials and surroundings are historic districts or natural building techniques landscapes. operate and maintain facilities to promote their sustainability Projects would be sustainable, whenever illustrate and promote conservation possible, by recycling and reusing mater- principles and practices through ials, by minimizing materials, and by sustainable design and ecologically minimizing energy consumption. Facilities sensitive use would be designed, sited, and constructed to avoid or minimize adverse effects on Essentially, “sustainability” is living within natural plant and animal communities and the environment with the least impact on visual intrusion into the natural landscape. the ecosystem. Alternative 2 subscribes to

68 Environmentally Preferred Alternative

ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

According to Council on Environmental the National Park Service preferred Quality regulations implementing NEPA, alternative. Alternative 2 was chosen as the and the National Park Service NEPA environmentally preferred alternative guidelines (Director’s Order–12), an because a choosing by advantages work- environmentally preferred alternative must shop (see appendix D) and other impact be identified in environmental documents. analyses (see “Environmental Conse- In order for an alternative to be environ- quences” section) indicated that it best met mentally preferred, it must meet the criteria the six criteria listed above. established in section 101(b) of NEPA and subsequently adopted by the National Park Alternative 2 places priority on mainten- Service: ance of the historic integrity of the Painted Desert headquarters complex. In general, 1. Fulfill the responsibilities of each historic buildings would be remodeled and generation as trustee of the adaptively reused for park-related purposes. environment for succeeding Visitor services at the Painted Desert Inn generations. would be expanded. At Rainbow Forest, 2. Ensure for all Americans safe, improvements would be made to the healthful, productive, and museum to improve accessibility and esthetically and culturally pleasing expand exhibit space. Lands would be surroundings. managed similarly to the way they are 3. Attain the widest range of beneficial currently managed, but there would be uses of the environment without greater protection for natural and cultural degradation, risk of health or safety, resources from increased emphasis on or other undesirable and unintended resource monitoring and adapting to new consequences. information. Certain areas might be more 4. Preserve important historic, cultural, directly managed through permits and and natural aspects of our national guided tours. New trails and turnouts would heritage and maintain, wherever be provided for visitors to understand and possible, an environment that appreciate the park. Early morning and supports diversity and variety of evening visitor opportunities would be individual choice. provided in the north part of the park. 5. Achieve a balance between Options for increasing education and inter- population and resource use that pretation services for bus tour groups would will permit high standards of living be considered. Park archives, most pale- and a wide sharing of life’s ontological resources, natural history amenities. specimens, and historic furnishings would 6. Enhance the quality of renewable be stored in a new headquarters area resources and approach the collections facility. Archeological collec- maximum attainable recycling of tions would continue to be stored offsite. depletable resources. Compared to alternative 1 and alternative 3, alternative 2 better accomplishes goals 3 The environmentally preferred alternative and 5 by providing more diverse visitor in this GMP Revision is NPS alternative 2, experiences. Alternative 2 better meets

69 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE goals 4 and 6 (protection of natural and also be rehabilitated, preserved, and adap- cultural resources) than do alternatives 1 tively used, with some additions to existing (no action) and 4. Alternative 2 best buildings or new construction to help realizes the set of goals in section 101 of accommodate park space needs. Plans for NEPA. Therefore, NPS alternative 2 is also the Rainbow Forest area would be similar the environmentally preferred alternative. to those outlined in alternative 2. This alternative would provide the most pro- Alternative 1, the no-action alternative, tection to the natural and cultural resources represents continuation of existing manage- of the park. To protect sensitive resources, ment of Petrified Forest National Park by visitors would be encouraged to explore the means of the 1993 GMP and other park, primarily in selected frontcountry approved plans. Existing operations and areas such as Rainbow Forest and Giant visitor facilities would remain in place, Logs. Some sensitive areas (e.g., Blue Mesa concentrated in the Painted Desert and Trail) would be closed to visitor use. Back- Rainbow Forest areas of the park. Paleon- country access would be carefully managed tological, archeological, ethnographic, and with permits for day and overnight use historic or other cultural resources would be and/or other methods (e.g., guided tour protected, as would the shortgrass prairie, access only) to protect sensitive resources. badlands, and most scenic vistas. Park Visitors would gain in-depth understanding managers would continue to close specific of the significance of park resources areas and otherwise modify visitor access, through more tours and programs, multiple as necessary, to address harmful resource media, and interactions with researchers. impacts. Museum collections would Most museum specimens currently stored at continue to be stored at offsite locations, other institutions or locations would be some of which meet accepted standards for returned to the park and stored in an curation, and in substandard facilities at adaptively fit or newly constructed museum park headquarters. Visitor opportunities to facility. Alternative 3 best meets goal 4 observe and appreciate resources with a (protection of cultural and natural minimum of inadvertent or intentional resources) compared to the other alterna- damage would continue, according to tives, but only partially meets goals 2, 3, current plans, policies, and procedures of and 5. resource management personnel at Petrified Forest National Park. Alternative 1 (the no- Alternative 4 would offer first-hand, action alternative) does not fully realize managed opportunities for visitors to provisions criteria 3, 4, 5, and 6. Alternative experience park resources. The Painted 2 and alternative 4 provide for a better, Desert Inn and associated residences would more varied visitor experience, and be rehabilitated, preserved, and adaptively alternative 3 provides the greatest level of used as in the no-action alternative. In resource protection. general, historic buildings would be adap- tively used, with the exception of the In alternative 3, Petrified Forest National Painted Desert headquarters complex. Over Park would be managed as a resource a period of several years, the headquarters preserve, valued primarily for its globally complex would be demolished and rebuilt significant fossils. The Painted Desert Inn in the same location. Plans for the Rainbow and associated residences would be rehabil- Forest area would be similar for alternative itated, preserved, and adaptively used. The 2. New trails, turnouts, and other options Painted Desert headquarters complex would would expand visitor opportunities to

70 Environmentally Preferred Alternative experience and appreciate park resources. visitor opportunities would be provided in Guided tours would allow more visitors to the north part of the park. The museum experience remote areas of the park. collections would be moved outside the Opportunities for visitors to interact with park to institutions and/or agency facilities researchers would be limited, but research that meet NPS standards. Alternative 4 best results would be woven into park interpre- accomplishes goals 3 and 5, and partially tive programs. Early morning and evening meets goals 2 and 6.

71 CHAPTER 2: ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

72

TABLE 2. SUMMARY OF THE MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVES

ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 2: PREFERRED ACTION ALTERNATIVE 3 ALTERNATIVE 4

Globally significant park resources would be protected for future The park would be managed as a resource preserve, valued This alternative describes continuation of existing conditions at generations, while some additional opportunities to experience primarily for its globally significant fossils. Visitor use and Globally significant park resources would be protected for future Petrified Forest National Park. It provides a baseline for evaluating resources would be provided. Visitor services and exhibits would be understanding would be encouraged, while providing for generations, while diverse opportunities for visitors to experience the changes and impacts of the other alternatives. The National expanded. New trails and turnouts would be provided for visitors to increased resource protection and visitor safety. To protect resources would also be provided. Expanded visitor services and Park Service would manage the park as it is currently managed, in understand and appreciate the park; these and other new facilities sensitive resources, visitors would be encouraged to explore the exhibits would be provided at existing developed areas. Existing and accordance with the 1993 GMP and other approved plans. would generally be sited in developed or disturbed areas to park primarily in selected frontcountry areas such as Rainbow several new trails would provide a first-hand experience that is highly Alternative Paleontological, archeological, ethnographic, and historic or other minimize resource impacts. Visitor hours would be extended in the Forest and Giant Logs. Some sensitive areas would be closed to managed to protect resources. Guided tours would allow more Concept cultural resources would be protected, as would the shortgrass frontcountry north of I-40 to allow early morning and evening visitor use. Backcountry access would be carefully managed with visitors to experience remote areas of the park. Opportunities for prairie, badlands, and scenic vistas. Park managers would continue activities, like watching the sun rise or set over the Painted Desert. permits and/or other methods to protect sensitive resources. visitors to interact with researchers would be limited, but research to close specific areas and otherwise modify visitor access, as Options for increasing education and interpretation services for bus Visitors would gain in-depth understanding about the significance results would be woven into park interpretive programs. Early necessary, to address harmful resource impacts. Visitor uses would tour groups would be considered, with the goal of increasing visitor of park resources through more tours and programs, multiple morning and evening visitor opportunities would be provided in the be reassessed and revised as new information about natural and appreciation and understanding of park resources. media, and interactions with researchers. The value of the park north part of the park. cultural resource impacts emerges. as an outdoor classroom would be emphasized.

Management Zones Note: Percentages are Approximate Preservation N/A 92% 6% 91% Emphasis Backcountry N/A N/A 1% 2% Frontcountry N/A 4% 3% 3% Special N/A N/A 86% N/A Protection Developed N/A N/A N/A 1% Historic Preservation / N/A 2% 2% 2% Adaptive Use Administrative N/A 2% 2% 1% Road or Area Transportation N/A 4.25 miles 4.25 miles 4.25 miles Corridor Continue to rehabilitate and adaptively use the Painted Desert Inn as in the no-action alternative. A feasibility study would be conducted to determine if expanded services (e.g., a trading Continue to rehabilitate and adaptively use the NRHP-listed Continue to rehabilitate and adaptively use the NRHP-listed post or limited food service) could reasonably be provided by a Painted Desert Inn and two associated residences, as in the Painted Desert Inn and two associated residences as in the no- concessioner. no-action alternative. action alternative. A feasibility study would be conducted to Repair the two historic residences at the Painted Desert Inn for At Rainbow Forest, remodel the museum to improve determine if expanded services (e.g., a trading post or limited Continue to rehabilitate and adaptively use the NRHP-listed use as residences or offices. accessibility and expand exhibit space; adaptively use a food service) could reasonably be provided by a concessioner. Painted Desert Inn and two associated residences according At Rainbow Forest, remodel the museum to improve residence or the maintenance building for ranger offices; At Rainbow Forest, remodel the museum to improve access- to current plans. accessibility and expand exhibit space; adaptively use a use residential structures not needed for housing NPS or ibility and expand exhibit space; construct a new building for Manage structures in the Rainbow Forest cultural landscape residence or the old fire truck garage for ranger offices; support staff for other park-related purposes; construct a protection staff, a fire truck garage, and public restrooms; use Cultural as they are currently. construct a new fire truck building inconspicuous from visitor new fire truck building and/or accessible comfort station; residential structures for NPS housing; redesign the main Resources Continue to allow recovery of the Route 66 road trace to a areas like the museum, concessions building, and main redesign the main parking lot and walkways to improve parking lot and walkways to improve vehicle and pedestrian natural environment. parking area; use residential structures not needed for housing vehicle and pedestrian flow; and reduce the scale of the flow; and reduce the scale of the concessions building to keep Continue to manage for the protection of cultural resources NPS or support staff for other park-related purposes; redesign concessions building to keep with the character of other with the character of other buildings in the Rainbow Forest (e.g., archeological, ethnographic, and historic resources) the main parking lot and walkways to improve vehicle and buildings in the Rainbow Forest cultural landscape. cultural landscape. while making them available for appropriate visitor use. pedestrian flow; and reduce the scale of the concessions Provide the most protection to cultural resources (e.g., Provide additional protection to cultural resources (e.g., building to keep with the character of other buildings in the archeological, ethnographic, and other resources) by archeological, ethnographic, and other resources) by applying Rainbow Forest cultural landscape. applying the special protection zone to most of the park. the preservation emphasis zone to most of the park, requiring Provide additional protection to cultural resources (e.g., Options for accessing all of this zone include permits for day permits and guides in certain areas. archeological, ethnographic, and other resources) by applying or overnight use, or as part of a guided tour. the preservation emphasis zone to most of the park, requiring permits and guides in certain areas. Management Continue to rehabilitate, preserve, and adaptively use the Continue to rehabilitate, preserve, and adaptively use the of the Painted As limited funds allow, continue to make cosmetic repairs and NRHP-eligible Painted Desert headquarters complex. NRHP-eligible Painted Desert headquarters complex. Over a period of several years, demolish and rebuild the Desert repairs related to safety at the NRHP-eligible Painted Desert Maintaining the historic integrity of the complex is a priority. Maintaining the historic integrity of the complex is a priority. complex in phases in the same location. Headquarters headquarters complex. Some additions to existing buildings or new construction helps Some additions to existing buildings or new construction Complex accommodate park space needs. helps accommodate park space needs.

73

TABLE 2. SUMMARY OF THE MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVES

ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 2: PREFERRED ACTION ALTERNATIVE 3 ALTERNATIVE 4

Provide the most protection to natural resources (e.g., paleontological resources, shortgrass prairie, badlands, and Provide additional protection to natural resources (e.g., pale- scenic vistas) by applying the special protection zone to ontological resources, shortgrass prairie, badlands, and scenic Provide additional protection to natural resources (e.g., pale- most of the park. Options for accessing this zone include Continue to manage natural resources (e.g., paleontological vistas) by applying the preservation emphasis zone to most of ontological resources, shortgrass prairie, badlands, and scenic permits for day or overnight use, or as part of a guided tour. Natural resources, shortgrass prairie, badlands, and scenic vistas) for the park, requiring permits and guides in certain areas. vistas) by applying the preservation emphasis zone to most of Modify trails (e.g., shorten them, better define trail edges, or Resources the perpetuation and protection of the natural environment Modify trails (e.g., shorten them, better define trail edges, or the park, requiring permits and guides in certain areas, as make portions accessible only via guided tours) at Giant while making them available for appropriate public use. make portions accessible only via guided tours) at Giant Logs necessary. Logs and Crystal Forest for enhanced resource protection, and Crystal Forest for enhanced resource protection, particularly petrified wood protection. particularly petrified wood protection. Close and rehabilitate the Blue Mesa interpretive loop trail to prevent additional loss of fossils and petrified wood. Store park archives, most paleontological resources, natural Museum collections would be moved outside the park to history specimens, and historic furnishings in a new collections Construct a new museum collections facility or adaptively fit Continue to store museum collections at several offsite institutions and/or agency facilities that meet NPS standards. Museum facility. Paleontological resources stored at other locations one into an existing structure at park headquarters. locations, some of which meet accepted standards for Similar specimens would be stored together, enabling scientists Collections would remain there provided the facilities meet NPS collection Store most museum collections currently offsite in the new curation, and in substandard facilities at park headquarters. to examine related specimens without traveling to different standards, or unless the storage price becomes prohibitive. facility. locations. Archeological collections would continue to be stored offsite. Extend hours in the frontcountry north of I-40 to allow early Continue to open the park each day about one hour after Extend hours in the frontcountry north of I-40 to allow early morning and evening activities, like watching the sunrise or sunrise and close it about one hour before sunset, as in morning and evening activities, like watching the sunrise or sunset. alternative 1. sunset. Provide new opportunities for visitor experience appreciation. Provide a better delineated trail from Kachina Point to the Continue to open the park each day about one hour after Provide new opportunities for visitor experience/appreciation: These include: converting unpaved road segments to back- Painted Desert floor to allow visitors to experience the sunrise and close it about one hour before sunset. a new universally accessible trail near The Tepees formation; country trail options in the southern part of the park with informal badlands without the fear of becoming lost. Visitor Continue to manage the Giant Logs, Crystal Forest, Blue small, informal turnouts adjacent to the park road that would trailhead turnouts; a new loop trail from Kachina Point, including Manage a portion of the Giant Logs Trail to improve Experience Mesa, and Puerco Pueblo Trails to allow visitors to observe serve as backcountry access points; a new frontcountry loop a segment of the Route 66 road trace, and a spur trail to Onyx universal accessibility. Appreciation and appreciate resources with a minimum of inadvertent or trail at Puerco River for birdwatching and learning about the Bridge; and a new backcountry trail along the Route 66 road Expand interpretation at the Painted Desert Visitor Center to intentional damage. river system; a new frontcountry driving experience, overlook trace to the boundary of the park and northward towards the include virtual visits, multimedia presentations, additional parking area, and wayside exhibits at the Route 66 road trace. wilderness area; a new universally accessible trail near The ranger-led programs, and the like. Consider options for increasing education and interpretation Tepees formation; two new frontcountry trails near Puerco Close the Blue Mesa interpretive loop trail to prevent services for bus tour groups. River; and a new frontcountry driving experience, overlook additional loss of fossils and petrified wood. parking area, wayside exhibits, and backcountry trailhead at the

Route 66 road trace. Keep the 11 housing units in Holbrook, Arizona. If some units Keep the 11 housing units in Holbrook, Arizona. If some units are not needed, the National Park Service would investigate are not needed, the National Park Service would investigate Holbrook Keep the 11 housing units in Holbrook, Arizona. Some would The park would divest itself of the 11 housing units in options for partnering with government entities to keep the options for partnering with government entities to keep the Housing likely remain unused and continue to deteriorate. Holbrook, Arizona. Holbrook residences occupied and maintained in good Holbrook residences occupied and maintained in good condition. condition. New parkwide improvements – $200,000 New parkwide improvements – N/A New parkwide improvements – $700,000 New parkwide improvements – $1,500,000 Headquarters – $12,500,000-$20,000,000 Headquarters – $5,700,000 Headquarters – $18,000,000 Headquarters – $13,000,000 Estimated Painted Desert Inn – $1,000,000 Painted Desert Inn – $1,000,000 Painted Desert Inn – $2,000,000 Painted Desert Inn – $2,000,000 Capital Costs Rainbow Forest – $6,500,000 Rainbow Forest – $2,000,000 Rainbow Forest – $4,200,000 Rainbow Forest – $9,000,000 Total Capital (construction) costs: $20,200,000 – Total Capital (construction) costs: $8,700,000 Total Capital (construction) costs: $25,200,000 Total Capital (construction) costs: $25,500,000 $28,200,000 Estimated Costs Over the 15-Year Life of the Plan (includes $40,000,000 $65,700,000 $62,000,000 to $69,000,000 $64,300,000 capital [construction] and operating costs)

74

TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF THE IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES

IMPACT TOPIC ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 2: PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE 3 ALTERNATIVE 4

There would be increased potential for trampling of archeological sites, disturbance of resources, vandalism, and theft in areas where new trails Implementation of the special protection zone could contribute to are proposed (near Route 66, Puerco River, east of The Teepees). less trampling, moving, vandalism, and theft of archeological Impacts would be long term, minor to moderate, and site-specific. Other Alternative 4 would allow for increased impacts near Route 66, the Puerco Localized archeological impacts from visitor use, livestock resources. However, overall impacts from visitor use would remain actions related to changes to a portion of old Route 66 and new turnouts River, and new backcountry corridor trails. Parkwide, there would be trespass, park operations and facilities, and natural processes long term, adverse, and minor to major, depending on the site. Trail Archeological along the main park road would have minor, localized, long-term impacts minimal change (from alternative 1) in impacts from trampling, moving, would be long term, adverse, and range from minor to major, reductions at Crystal Forest and Giant Logs would have long-term, Resources on subsurface archeological resources. Trail modifications at Crystal vandalism, and theft of resources. Potential impacts from reconstruction of depending on the archeological site. localized, and minor, beneficial impacts. Potential impacts from Forest and Giant Logs would benefit archeological sites; impacts would the Painted Desert headquarters complex would be localized, long term, construction of a new museum collections facility would be be long term, localized, and minor. Impacts to archeological resources negligible, and adverse. localized, long term, negligible, and adverse. Other impacts would from a new fire truck garage at Rainbow Forest, and other facilities at the be the same as for alternative 1. headquarters complex would be localized, long term, negligible, and adverse. Other impacts would be the same as for alternative 1.

Impacts to the Painted Desert Inn would be the same as in alternative 1. Two residence structures near Painted Desert Inn would continue Rehabilitation of residences near Painted Desert Inn would result in a to deteriorate, potentially resulting in a long-term, site-specific, long-term, site-specific, minor, beneficial impact. Modifications to Impacts to the Painted Desert Inn would be the same as for alternative 1. minor, adverse impact. Without major stabilization and renovation, Historic buildings at Painted Desert headquarters complex for adaptive reuse, Demolishing and rebuilding the Painted Desert headquarters complex the Painted Desert headquarter complex would continue to Same as alternative 2. Structures plus addition of a few new structures to accommodate current and future would result in a regional, long-term, major, adverse impact to the deteriorate, and in some cases, fail. Depending on the building, space needs, would further change character-defining features of the resource. this could constitute a moderate to major, long-term, adverse complex if not properly designed, resulting in a long-term, site-specific, impact to the historic Painted Desert headquarters complex. moderate to major, adverse impact.

Changes at Rainbow Forest would have mixed impacts on the cultural Changes at Rainbow Forest would create mixed impacts on the cultural landscape. Reducing the scale of the Rainbow Forest concessions Reversing some past modifications to historic structures at landscape. Reducing the scale of the concessions building would have a Reconfiguration of Giant Logs and Crystal Forest Trails would have building would have a long-term, negligible or minor, beneficial effect. Rainbow Forest would have a site-specific, long-term, minor to long-term, negligible or minor, beneficial effect. Proposed parking and long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the Rainbow Forest and Proposed parking and walkway realignment would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial effect to the Rainbow Forest historic walkway realignment would have a long-term, minor to moderate, Crystal Forest cultural landscape. Reducing the scale of the minor to moderate, adverse impact. Adding a new structure on the north landscape. Continued high use at Crystal Forest would result in adverse impact. Addition of new structures would result in a long-term, concessions building would have a long-term, negligible or minor, side of the parking lot at Rainbow Forest could have a long-term, loss of petrified wood and degradation of the visual quality, a site- Cultural moderate, adverse impact, and reconfiguration of the Giant Logs Trail beneficial effect to the historic landscape. Other new facilities at moderate, adverse impact. Proposed new trails near Puerco Pueblo and specific, long-term, minor, adverse impact to the Crystal Forest Landscapes would have a long-term, minor, adverse impact. At Crystal Forest, Rainbow Forest have long-term, minor to moderate, adverse The Tepees would have long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts cultural landscape. Continued high use of Puerco Pueblo would shortening and realigning the trail would have a long-term, minor, impacts to the historic landscape. The proposed parking realign- on a potential archeological cultural landscape. Proposed trail changes result in degradation of the character-defining features, such as adverse impact to the cultural landscape. Proposed new trails near ment would have a long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impact to below Painted Desert Inn would have a long-term, negligible to minor, damage to archeological resources, resulting in a long-term, Puerco Pueblo and The Tepees would have long-term, minor to the historic landscape. Impacts associated with the Puerco River adverse impact if determined to be a cultural landscape. Impacts negligible to minor, adverse impact to the cultural landscape. moderate, adverse impacts on a potential archeological cultural and Painted Desert Inn would be the same as for alternative 1. associated with proposed actions for Crystal Forest would be the same as

landscape. for alternative 1: site-specific, long-term, minor, adverse impact to this landscape.

Fewer visitors would come into contact with sensitive ethnographic Ethnographic resource impacts related to visitor use would be resources in the special protection zone, which would lead to less long term, adverse, and minor to major, depending on the trampling, moving, vandalism, and theft of resources. Overall resource. Impacts from park operations would be long term, Ethnographic impacts from visitor use would remain minor to major, depending on minor, localized, and adverse. Impacts from natural processes Same as alternative 1. Same as alternative 1. Resources the resource. Impacts from park operations would be long term, would be long term, adverse, and minor to major, depending on minor, localized, and adverse. Impacts from natural processes the site. would be long term, adverse, and minor to major, depending on the

site.

Construction of a new museum collections facility would have a Benefits from moving museum collections to facilities where they would long-term, major, beneficial impact. Consolidating collections at the receive better protection would be long term, moderate, and beneficial. Museum collections are threatened by environmental factors and The new museum collections facility at Painted Desert headquarters park would make all items accessible in one location for study and Offsite researchers would be able to access certain aspects of collections lack of space. Museum collections would continue to suffer long- complex would have a long-term, major, beneficial impact. Offsite protection, a long-term, moderate, and beneficial impact. Better more easily and gain information from the items, a long-term, minor, Museum term, adverse, moderate impacts from facility shortcomings and collections would be stored only at facilities that meet NPS standards, a recordkeeping and accountability associated with consolidated beneficial impact. Better recordkeeping and accountability would have a Collections long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts from inaccuracies long-term, negligible to moderate, beneficial effect. No cumulative collections would have a long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial long-term, minor, beneficial impact. Offsite storage at more than one in recordkeeping and accountability, and from limited work space. impacts to museum collections would be expected. impact, depending on whether a full-time curator is hired. Some location could have a minor, long-term, adverse impact on the park staff’s researchers could be inconvenienced by having to travel to the ability to gain a complete picture of the collections. No cumulative impacts relatively remote park to access the park museum collection. would be expected.

75

TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF THE IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES

IMPACT TOPIC ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 2: PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE 3 ALTERNATIVE 4

Long-term, negligible to moderate, adverse impacts from theft and displacement of petrified wood would be expected to continue at Jasper Despite benefits from rezoning most of the park as a special Forest, Agate Bridge, and Blue Mesa. Modifications to trails and trail protection zone, long-term, negligible, adverse impacts would be Long-term, major, adverse impacts would be anticipated at management at Crystal Forest and Giant Logs would have short-term, Impacts to high-use frontcountry areas like Giant Logs, Blue Mesa, Crystal likely to continue. Better delineating the trail from Kachina Point to Crystal Forest, Giant Logs, Jasper Forest, and Blue Mesa from negligible to moderate, beneficial effects on petrified wood, but long- Forest, Jasper Forest, Agate Bridge, and Long Logs would be the same as Petrified Wood Lithodendron Wash, and shortening and realigning the trail at continued disturbance and theft of paleontological resources. term, major, adverse impacts to petrified wood near the Crystal Forest for alternative 1. Impacts from building a new frontcountry trail near The and Other Crystal Forest would result in short-term, negligible to moderate, Long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts would be parking area would probably continue. Impacts would be long term, Tepees would have a long-term, minor, adverse impact. New backcountry Fossils beneficial effects. Changes in management of Blue Mesa Trail expected in the backcountry, depending on the site. negligible to minor, and adverse over the rest of Crystal Forest and Giant corridor routes in the Painted Desert area would have long-term, (which would be closed), and Giant Logs Trail would have long- Logs areas. Long-term, minor, adverse impacts would be expected from moderate, adverse impacts to petrified wood in this part of the park. term, minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on petrified wood and construction of the roadbed trail near The Tepees. Long-term, minor to other fossils. moderate, adverse impacts (depending on the site) would be expected to continue in the backcountry.

Negligible to minor, localized, adverse impacts would be anticipated from increased backcountry hiking opportunities that could result in increased trampling of vegetation in the wilderness areas. However, negligible to Localized, negligible to minor, adverse impacts on vegetation resources minor, localized, beneficial effects could result from better delineating the would be expected from construction of small trailhead parking areas and trail from Kachina Point to Lithodendron Wash. Negligible to minor, long- several new backcountry trails; off-trail hiking in these areas; construction Despite efforts to reduce trampling of vegetation, long-term, term, local, adverse impacts on vegetation resources at the park would of the turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting Route 66; improvements to localized, negligible, adverse impacts to vegetation resources occur from construction of several small informal turnouts adjacent to the the Route 66 road trace; construction of a Puerco River overlook trail; Hikers trampling vegetation in the wilderness areas of the park would be anticipated to occur from off-trail hiking. Construction of main park road for backcountry access; construction of the turnout and construction of a CCC work camp trail; and construction of a parking area / Vegetation result in local, long-term, negligible to minor, adverse impacts to the turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting Route 66 would wayside exhibit interpreting Route 66; improvements to the Route 66 universally accessible trail near The Tepees. Some beneficial effects could vegetation. constitute a negligible, localized, long-term, adverse impact on road trace; construction of a Puerco River overlook trail; and construction occur from construction of the Puerco River overlook trail (as a result of vegetation resources. of a parking area / universally accessible trail near The Tepees. Some removing tamarisk, if necessary), and from encouraging concessioners to

beneficial effects could occur from construction of the Puerco River provide low-impact, guided hiking and backcountry experiences. These overlook trail (as a result of removing tamarisk, if necessary), and from effects would be negligible to moderate, local, short- and long-term, encouraging concessioners to provide low-impact, guided hiking and beneficial impacts. backcountry experiences. These effects would be negligible to moderate, local, short- and long-term, beneficial impacts.

Increased backcountry hiking opportunities could increase soil Impacts to soils in the backcountry would be expected to be the disturbances in the wilderness areas resulting in negligible to minor, same as in alternative 1, as a result of off-trail hiking in the localized, adverse impacts. Negligible, site-specific, long-term, adverse wilderness areas of the park. Minor, site-specific, long-term, impacts on soils would be expected from construction of several small beneficial effects on cryptobiotic and highly erosive soils could Construction of small trailhead parking areas would have long-term, site- informal turnouts adjacent to the main park road for backcountry access, occur from careful management of the backcountry, including specific, negligible, adverse impacts on soils. Off-trail hiking could have and construction of the turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting Route closing certain areas, providing guided tours, and/or directing long-term, somewhat local, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on soils. 66. Improvements to the Route 66 road trace, construction of a Puerco visitors away from such soils. Negligible, long-term, site-specific, Construction of turnouts and wayside exhibits would constitute a Impacts to soils, including cryptobiotic soils that result from off-trail River overlook trail, and construction of a parking area / universally beneficial effects to soils would also result from closing the Blue negligible, site-specific, long-term, adverse impact on soils. Improvements Soils hiking in the wilderness areas would constitute negligible to minor, accessible trail near The Tepees would result in negligible to moderate, Mesa Trail and reducing the footprint of the trail at Crystal Forest. to the Route 66 road trace, trail construction, and construction of a parking somewhat localized, adverse impacts to soils. short- and long-term, site-specific, adverse impacts on soils at the park. Long-term, negligible, site-specific, adverse impacts on soils would area/universally accessible trail near The Tepees would result in negligible Negligible, local, adverse impacts to cryptobiotic soils would continue as be anticipated from construction of a turnout with wayside exhibits to minor, long-term, local or site-specific, adverse impacts on soils at the a result of off-trail hiking. Negligible to moderate, site-specific, beneficial and an overlook to interpret historic Route 66. Minor, localized, park. Some negligible to moderate, site-specific, short-term, adverse effects would be anticipated for cryptobiotic and highly erosive soils as a adverse impacts to cryptobiotic soils would occur due to off-trail impacts to soils would result from construction workers and the result of guided hikes and backcountry trips compatible with this hiking in the wilderness areas of the park; however, the extent of use/storage of equipment. alternative. Some negligible to moderate, site-specific, short-term, impact is unknown. Negligible to moderate, site-specific, short-term, adverse impacts to soils would result from construction workers and the adverse impacts to soils would result from construction workers and use/storage of equipment. the use/storage of equipment.

Visitors would experience minor, long-term, adverse impacts from Various accessibility improvements and additional space at Painted trail closures and reductions, and by the permit requirement for Desert headquarters complex and Rainbow Forest Museum for improved independent entrance into the special protection zone. Minor, long- exhibits would have long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts. Parking term, beneficial impacts would result from the availability of guided New trails and turnouts would have a long-term, minor, adverse impact on Long-term, moderate, adverse, impacts would be expected from and walkway improvements at Rainbow Forest, and new turnouts, trails, trips into the special protection zone, the Route 66 turnout and views of natural scenery (Painted Desert) and on visitors seeking remote dated exhibits, orientation materials, and interpretive media. Lack and vehicle access to a portion of old Route 66 would have long-term, wayside exhibit, and the opportunity to interact with researchers. backcountry experiences. Minor, long-term, beneficial impacts would result Visitor of diverse visitor opportunities and fully accessible facilities would minor to moderate impacts. However, certain new trails and turnouts Parking and walkway improvements at Rainbow Forest would from the new Route 66 turnout and wayside exhibit, and new vehicle Experience and also have long-term, moderate, adverse impacts. Discontinuation could have a long-term, minor, adverse impact on visitors desiring produce a long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial impact. access to a portion of Route 66. Moderate, long-term, beneficial impacts Appreciation of petrified wood sales in gift shops in the park would have a long- unmarred views of the Painted Desert and a remote backcountry Universal accessibility improvements at Giant Logs Trail, Rainbow would result from extended park hours in the northern portion of the park, term, minor, adverse impact on visitor experience and experience. Extended hours and the potential for expanded visitor Forest Museum, and Painted Desert headquarters complex would more visitor services at the Painted Desert Inn, new trails, more appreciation. services at the Painted Desert Inn would have long-term, minor to have a minor to moderate, beneficial impact. Expansion of backcountry access, and more turnouts. Major, long-term, beneficial moderate, beneficial impacts on visitor experience and appreciation. interpretive programs would have a moderate, long-term, beneficial impacts would also be expected from improved accessibility. Development of an information pamphlet to inform visitors about off-trail impact. Creation of more space for better exhibits and media at hiking options would have a long-term, beneficial, minor impact. Rainbow Forest Museum and Painted Desert headquarters complex would constitute a long-term, beneficial, major impact.

76

TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF THE IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES

IMPACT TOPIC ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 2: PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE 3 ALTERNATIVE 4

General Operations: Operations would become more complex and intensive, requiring more resources, equipment, and time. New trails and General Operations: Long-term, moderate, adverse impacts to park trailheads would require additional maintenance, and expand needs for operations would result from providing guided access only to the resource protection, resulting in long-term, moderate to major, adverse western portion of Giant Logs; increased interpretation throughout impacts on park operations. Expanded hours and expanded interpretation the park; maintenance associated with new interpretive and concession services at the Painted Desert Inn would have long-term, technologies and monitoring systems; maintaining the Kachina major, adverse impacts to park operations. Long-term, minor to major, Point to Lithodendron Wash Trail; and administering and monitoring beneficial effects would be expected from phased demolition and an expanded permit program. These adverse impacts would be due General Operations: Long-term, moderate, adverse, impacts to park reconstruction of the Painted Desert headquarters complex. Employee to increases in staff to accommodate new interpretive programs, operations would be expected from trail modifications at Giant Logs and housing and workspace would be sufficient and appropriate. Museum General Operations: Painted Desert headquarters complex facility maintenance, and monitoring, as well as new maintenance Crystal Forest and expanded interpretation at Rainbow Forest and the collection storage facilities would be appropriate, meet applicable problems (e.g., limited space, deteriorating structures, health and responsibilities. Painted Desert headquarters complex. Long-term, moderate, beneficial standards, and be more accessible to park staff and researchers. Health safety concerns) have long-term, minor to major, adverse impacts effects on park operations would be expected from improved work space and safety concerns that impact park operations would be alleviated by on park operations. Beneficial effects of implementing alternative 3 would result from conditions, removing deteriorated structures, increases in available demolishing existing buildings and replacing them with buildings that meet increased accessibility to facilities; better housing and working space, and improved operational efficiency for employees, visitors, and standards. Short-term, minor, adverse impacts would be expected to occur Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential: Implementing conditions; proper storage of museum collections; removal of National Park researchers and scientists. Expanded services at the Painted Desert Inn during demolition and reconstruction, as certain functions would be this alternative would not affect energy requirements at Petrified deteriorating structures that require ongoing maintenance; more Operations and extended park hours in the north would have long-term, minor to temporarily relocated and interrupted. Forest National Park. Energy conservation potential is limited efficient maintenance operations; and closing Blue Mesa Trail. moderate, adverse impacts on park operations. under this alternative. Few energy conservation techniques could Morale would be enhanced as a result of better housing and Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential: Demolishing and be implemented without incurring significant costs. Long-term, working conditions. Less maintenance would be required for Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential: Long-term, negligible, reconstructing the Painted Desert headquarters complex would eliminate minor, adverse impacts to energy conservation potential would be inadequate structures such as residences. Renovating and reusing adverse impacts to energy requirements at the park would continue. energy inefficiencies and allow incorporation of sustainable technologies expected. structures would alleviate some health and safety concerns. Long- Incorporation of sustainable development technologies in a few new that reduce energy requirements. This reconstructed complex would result term, beneficial impacts would range from minor to moderate in structures would have negligible, long-term, beneficial effects on the in long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial effects for energy requirements intensity. potential to conserve energy. at the park. As some new materials would have to be consumed, energy

required to produce and transport these materials increase, a short-term, Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential: Long-term, negligible, adverse impact to energy requirements. Short-term, negligible, negligible, adverse impacts to energy requirements at the park adverse impacts would also result from building a somewhat larger would continue. Incorporation of sustainable development complex than exists presently; but these impacts would be mitigated in the technologies in a few new structures would have negligible, long- long term by the benefits of sustainable technologies. As energy term, beneficial effects on the potential to conserve energy. conservation would be considered during siting, design, construction, and

furnishing, long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial effects would result for conservation potential.

Current beneficial economic effects from the park from Payments in Lieu of Taxes and from park-related spending would be Beneficial effects from park-related spending would increase; benefits expected to continue. Impacts would be long term and beneficial, Beneficial effects from park-related spending would increase; benefits would be greater than for alternative 1, but still long term, beneficial, and Beneficial effects from park-related spending would increase; and would range from minor to moderate. Eliminating petrified would be greater than for alternative 1, but still long term, beneficial, and moderate. Elimination of petrified wood sales within the park would have benefits would be greater than for alternative 1, but still long term, wood sales within the park would potentially have a long-term, moderate. Elimination of petrified wood sales within the park would have a a long-term, major, adverse impact on the concessioner and its beneficial, and moderate. Elimination of petrified wood sales within major, adverse impact on the concessioner and its suppliers, and long-term, major, adverse impact on the concessioner and its suppliers, Socioeconomic suppliers, but local businesses would realize a moderate, long-term, the park would have a long-term, major, adverse impact on the a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on shops that sell but local businesses would realize a moderate, long-term benefit. Potential Resources benefit. Potential benefits from new construction and improvements to concessioner and its suppliers, but local businesses would realize a petrified wood outside the park. Renovations to the Painted benefits from new construction and improvements would be long term, existing facilities would be short term, beneficial, and minor in intensity. moderate, long-term benefit. Potential benefits from new Desert Inn would have minor, temporary, beneficial effects on beneficial, and moderate. Minor to moderate impacts would result if Negligible to minor, long-term, beneficial impacts would result if construction and improvements to existing facilities would be short employment opportunities and revenue for local businesses. proposed actions result in visitors spending more time in the park and in proposed actions result in visitors spending more time at the park and in term, beneficial, and minor in intensity. Closure of the inn during renovation would have a short-term, the local area. the local area. adverse, minor to moderate impact on cooperating association sales.

77

78

CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Energy Requirements and INTRODUCTION Conservation Potential Socioeconomic Resources The “Affected Environment” section describes the existing environment of Petrified Forest National Park. The focus is IMPACT TOPICS CONSIDERED BUT on key park resources, visitor experiences, NOT ANALYZED IN DETAIL socioeconomic characteristics, and park operations that could be affected by the Ecologically Critical Areas and Wild alternatives should they be implemented. and Scenic Rivers These topics were selected on the basis of federal law, regulations, executive orders, NPS expertise, and concerns expressed by No areas within the park have been other agencies or members of the public designated as ecologically critical. The during project scoping. The conditions segment of the Puerco River within the described establish the baseline for the national park has been found eligible and analysis of effects in the “Environmental suitable for designation as a scenic river Consequences” section. area (see appendix F: Wild and Scenic River Evaluation). However, the segment is The “Affected Environment” section first not recommended for designation at this identifies impact topics the planning team time. None of the alternatives would affect chose to analyze and discuss in this the qualities that make the Puerco River document, followed by topics the team segment eligible and suitable for desig- chose not to discuss and the rationale for nation as a scenic river. Therefore, this making these decisions. topic was dismissed from detailed analysis.

IMPACT TOPICS CONSIDERED IN Threatened and Endangered THIS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Species, and Species of Special STATEMENT Concern

Archeological Resources The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as Historic Structures amended, requires that federal agencies Cultural Landscapes consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ethnographic Resources Service before taking any action that could Museum Collections jeopardize the continued existence of any Paleontological Resources federally listed threatened or endangered Petrified Wood plant or animal (vertebrate or invertebrate) Other Fossils species. Agencies must consider potential Vegetation effects the proposed action may have on the Soils species. NPS policy also requires the Visitor Experience and Appreciation examination of impacts on federal National Park Operations candidate species, as well as state listed General Operations

81 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT threatened, endangered, candidate, rare, Two known state species of special concern declining, and sensitive species. are found in the park: the gladiator milk- vetch and the paper-spined cactus. Gladi- In a letter dated February 14, 2001, the U.S. ator milkvetch occurs in 15 populations in Fish and Wildlife Service provided an the north and south areas of Petrified Forest inventory of threatened or endangered National Park. A 1988/1989 inventory species, or those proposed to be listed as recorded a total of approximately 5,000 such under the Endangered Species Act of plants (NPS 1992). The gladiator milkvetch 1973, as amended, that may potentially is known to occur in some areas of the park exist in Apache and Navajo Counties. This that could be impacted by development; information was updated from a letter from however, that development would not occur the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service dated if this species could not be avoided. In any April 9, 2004 (see Appendix E: Consulta- case, such development would be covered tion Letters). The Arizona Department of under a separate NEPA compliance effort. Game and Fish, through the Arizona Natural Heritage Program, was also con- The paper-spined cactus is found at the sulted to provide input on state-listed park’s higher elevations and populations are species that may occur at Petrified Forest located in remote areas well away from any National Park. The Arizona Department of present or proposed development. Two Game and Fish responded regarding the other species of concern, the Springerville Draft General Management Plan Revision / pocket mouse and giant sand treader EIS with some concerns, but none specifi- cricket, are believed to occur within the cally involved threatened or endangered park, but no populations have been identi- species (see “Consultation and Coordina- fied thus far (NPS 1992). tion” section). The topic of threatened and endangered Table 4 was prepared to identify state and species and species of special concern was federally threatened or endangered species, dismissed as an impact topic because (1) candidate species, and state species of none of the federally listed threatened or special concern that may exist within park endangered species have been observed in boundaries. This list includes species any of the project areas proposed in the known to occur in the park, those that may alternatives; (2) no critical habitat for winter in the area (bald eagle), those that federally listed threatened or endangered have likely been extirpated (black-footed species or species of special concern has ferret), and those that have been been identified; and (3) suitable habitat for reintroduced (gray wolf, California condor). migrating birds is found throughout the This list does not include species identified park and escape cover is available else- by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or where; therefore, they would not be Arizona Department of Game and Fish adversely affected by the activities pro- whose habitat is not supported in Petrified posed in the alternatives. In addition, the Forest National Park. alternatives would seek to better protect these species, resulting in beneficial effects.

82 The Affected Environment

TABLE 4. THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES POTENTIALLY FOUND IN NAVAJO AND APACHE COUNTIES

Common Name Scientific Name Status Habitat

Large trees or cliffs Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Threatened near water Grassland plains Black-footed Ferret Mustela nigripes Endangered often associated with prairie dogs High desert California Condor Gymnops californianus Endangered canyonlands and plateaus Streams, ponds, and stock tanks that are Chiricahua Leopard Frog Rana chiricahuensis Threatened free of introduced fish and bullfrogs Species of special Sand dunes in Giant Sand Treader Cricket Daihinibaenetes arizonensis concern Petrified Forest area Broken sandstone Species of special and clay bluffs in the Gladiator Milkvetch Astragalus xiphoides concern valley of the Shortgrass prairie in Species of special Gunnison’s Prairie Dog Cynomys gunnisoni mountain valleys concern and plateaus Chaparral, woodland, and Mexican Gray Wolf Canis lupus baileyi Endangered forested areas— may cross desert Canyons and dense Mexican Spotted Owl Strix occidentalis lucida Threatened forest Species of special Open arid plains, Mountain Plover Charadrius montanus concern shortgrass prairie Silty soil near Navajo Sedge Carex specuicola Threatened springs and seeps Northern Arizona Species of special and New Mexico; Paper-spined Cactus Pediocactus papyracanthus concern associated with blue gramma grass Gravely soils in the Pediocactus peeblesianus var. Shinurump Peebles Navajo Cactus Endangered peeblesianus conglomerate of the Chinle Formation Cottonwood, willow, Southwestern Willow Empidonax traillii extimus Endangered and tamarisk habitat Flycatcher along streams Shortgrass prairie Species of special north of Springerville Pocket Mouse Perognathus flavus goodpasteri concern Springerville, Arizona Selenium rich soils derived from the Zuni Fleabane Erigeron rhizomatus Threatened Chinle and Baca Formations

83 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

General Wildlife protect park air quality-related values from adverse air pollution impacts.

The management zones and specific actions Regional air quality and visibility would associated with each alternative have been not be affected by the alternatives. Air evaluated with regard to effects on common pollution from sources outside the park wildlife species within the park. Consulting would be addressed through Clean Air Act biologists have determined that there would authorities and through cooperative efforts be little, if any, effect on common wildlife between the National Park Service and species. No dramatic changes on habitat, other entities. Construction activities pro- resident or migratory populations, or the posed in some alternatives could result in diversity of wildlife in general within the short-term, negligible, localized effects park would be expected. To a large degree, from dust and emissions, but these effects this lack of change is due to the fact that would be controlled and mitigated, and no impacts to wildlife were considered and long-term change in air quality would be avoided as the alternatives were developed. expected. Air quality was, therefore, Consistent with the regulations imple- dismissed from detailed analysis. menting NEPA, this topic was not included because the effects would be negligible. Water Resources (Wetlands, Floodplains, and Water Quality) Geologic Hazards

There are 10 named surface water drainages There are no specific geologic hazards such in Petrified Forest National Park. The as earthquakes, volcanoes, or landslides in largest are the Puerco River and Litho- Petrified Forest National Park. None of the dendron, Dry, Cottonwood, and Jim Camp actions analyzed in this GMP Revision washes. These streams flow with snowmelt would affect geologic hazards. This topic (in the case of the Puerco River) and rain in was, therefore, dismissed from further the spring, and sometimes flash flood discussion. during the summer monsoon rainy season.

Streams flowing through the park ulti- Air Quality mately flow into the Little Colorado, a tributary of the Colorado River. Surface The 1963 Clean Air Act, as amended (42 water is also intermittently available in USC 7401 et seq.), requires land managers small pools and seeps. The park has access to protect air quality. Section 118 of the to groundwater resources in an alluvial Clean Air Act requires parks to meet all aquifer (the Puerco River Alluvial Aquifer) state, federal, and local air pollution and a deep, more saline, regional aquifer standards. NPS Management Policies (the Coconino Regional Aquifer). The (2001) addresses the need to analyze park’s drinking water supply has been potential impacts to air quality during park provided by the Utility Authority of the planning. Petrified Forest National Park is neighboring Navajo Nation since 1997. classified as a Class I air quality area under More detailed information on the water the Clean Air Act, as amended. The Clean resources of Petrified Forest National Park Air Act also states that the federal land can be found in Whealan et al. (in prep- manager has an affirmative responsibility to aration).

84 The Affected Environment

Executive Order 11990, Protection of document would generally be avoided, Wetlands, requires federal agencies to except for some temporary, negligible avoid, where possible, impacts on wetlands. impacts related to construction. Potential Wetland areas within Petrified Forest impacts would be minimized or avoided by National Park are few and are generally using best management practices and other associated with rivers or washes. The mitigation measures. management zones and specific actions associated with each alternative have been Because there would be no impacts to evaluated with regard to potential effects on wetlands, floodplains, or water quality, wetlands. New trails could cross or be water resources was dismissed as an impact located near rivers or washes, but the trails topic. would not adversely affect wetlands. Trail activity would be limited to light foot traffic Soundscape and Lightscape on coarse sand or gravel soils, which are Management resilient to such activities. Nonetheless, areas proposed for trails would be carefully evaluated before any ground-disturbing In accordance with NPS Management activities are initiated to ensure that wetland Policies (2001) and Director’s Order–47, impacts are avoided. Sound Preservation and Noise Manage- ment, an important part of the NPS mission Executive Order 11988, Floodplain is preservation of natural soundscapes Management, requires federal agencies to associated with national park units. Natural avoid construction within floodplains soundscapes exist in the absence of human- unless no other practical alternative exists. caused sound. The natural ambient sound- A new riparian trail would be constructed in scape is an aggregate of all the natural or near the Puerco River floodplain in some sounds that occur in park units, together alternatives, but foot trails constructed with the physical capacity for transmitting outside of high hazard areas are excepted natural sounds. Natural sounds occur within actions (National Park Service Floodplain and beyond the range of sounds that Management Guidelines 1993, Excepted humans can perceive and can be transmitted Actions). No other actions proposed in any through air, water, or solid materials. The alternative would be within the regulatory frequencies, magnitudes, and durations of floodplain. human-caused sound considered acceptable varies among NPS units, as well as poten- The 1972 Federal Water Pollution Control tially throughout each park unit, and it is Act, as amended by the Clean Water Act of generally greater in developed areas and 1977, is a national policy to restore and less in undeveloped areas. maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters; Effects of the alternatives on vehicle traffic to enhance the quality of water resources; or other sources of human-caused noise and to prevent, control, and abate water would be negligible. Noise associated with pollution. The 2001 NPS Management construction would be short term, localized, Policies provides direction for the preser- and scheduled so as to minimize effects on vation, use, and quality of water in national visitor experiences. parks. Impacts to water quality from implementation of the alternatives in this In accordance with NPS Management Policies, the National Park Service strives

85 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT to preserve natural ambient landscapes that United States to protect tribal lands, assets, are natural resources and values that exist in resources, and treaty rights, and it repre- the absence of human-caused light. sents a duty to carry out the mandates of federal law with respect to American Indian New or remodeled facilities or buildings and Alaska Native tribes. would require some night time lighting, but the National Park Service would minimize There are no Indian trust resources in effects on natural lightscapes by limiting Petrified Forest National Park. The lands lighting to that required for safety and by comprising the park are not held in trust by using light shields and styles that project the Secretary of the Interior for the benefit light downward rather than upward and of Indians due to their status as Indians. outward. Overall, actions proposed in the Therefore, Indian trust resources was alternatives would have a negligible, dismissed as an impact topic. positive effect on the natural lightscapes of the area. Environmental Justice

Soundscape and lightscape management were dismissed from detailed consideration. Executive Order 12898 requires federal agencies to identify and address dispro- portionately high and adverse human health Prime and/or Unique Farmland or environmental effects of federal pro- grams and policies on minority and low- In August 1980, the Council on Environ- income populations and communities. None mental Quality directed that federal of the actions proposed in this GMP agencies must assess the effects of their Revision would have disproportionate or actions on farmland soils classified by the adverse impacts on minorities or econom- U.S. Natural Resource Conservation ically disadvantaged populations. There- Service as prime or unique. Prime farmland fore, this topic is not discussed in detail. is defined as soil that produces general crops such as common foods, forage, fiber, Executive Order 13045 requires federal and oil seed; unique farmland produces agencies to identify and address dispro- specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, portionately high and adverse human health and nuts. There are no prime or unique or environmental effects of federal pro- farmlands within the park, so this topic was grams and policies on children. None of the dismissed from further analysis. actions proposed in this GMP Revision would have disproportionate or adverse impacts on children. Therefore, this topic is American Indian Trust Resources not discussed in detail.

Secretarial Order 3175 requires that any anticipated impacts to Indian trust resources CULTURAL RESOURCES from a proposed project or action by Department of the Interior agencies be Historic Overview explicitly addressed in environmental documents. The federal Indian trust responsibility is a legally enforceable In Arizona, archeologists and historians fiduciary obligation on the part of the define the period of time between

86 The Affected Environment approximately 12,000 years ago and the Archaic Period. The Archaic period began first contact by people of European, Asian, about 8,000 years ago. Local inhabitants or African descent with the region as the lived in a more desert-like environment prehistoric era and the period after contact than their predecessors, yet population as the historic era. increased as groups moved into the region from the basin and range province. The The narratives below are summaries of the hunting of bison and small- to medium- views held by most archeologists and sized game dominated life. It was during historians. The National Park Service does this period that the atlatl (spear thrower) realize that there are various interpretations came into widespread use. As the years of . went by, people in the area began to eat more plant foods as is evident in the Prehistory appearance of metates (basins) and manos (hand-held grinding or pounding stones) for Paleoindian Period. There is limited the processing of seeds and grains. They evidence that the first people to inhabit the also began using plant products for clothing Colorado Plateau were in the area approxi- (woven sandals) and other items. mately 11,000 years ago. Geologically, the region looked much as it does now, but Land now designated as Petrified Forest temperatures were 5°–10º Fahrenheit cooler National Park was visited by Archaic than current averages and moisture was hunters who left chipped stone artifacts on plentiful and dependable. The mobile, ridges and mesa tops. Corn associated with dispersed population of Paleoindians the Archaic period has also been found in pursued mammoths, ancient horses, camels, the park, but it is not clear if it was culti- lions, giant bison, great bears, and other vated here or brought in from elsewhere animals that lived on the savanna-like (NPS Rev. 1996). Colorado Plateau. Eventually, the popu- lations of large animals the residents Basketmaker Period. Life 1,800 years depended upon declined from a combin- ago, while Archaic traditions continued, ation of environmental factors and pressure was markedly different than the Archaic from hunting. As the large animals period. People still hunted fauna and disappeared, the Paleoindians modified gathered flora, but they also lived in their hunting styles to enable them to catch relatively permanent settlements and more agile animals such as deer, bighorn practiced agriculture. It was during this sheep, and smaller, quicker, animals. period that people began growing (corn) in the region that became Petrified The Paleoindians left little evidence of their Forest National Park. Items that set - passing. Abandoned , stone tools makers apart from earlier cultures were (lithics), and other scattered remains are the cradleboards with soft headrests, square- only resources archeologists can study to toed sandals, woven bags, subterranean understand the Paleoindian inhabitants of slab-lined storage facilities, intricate the Colorado Plateau. Pieces of Paleoindian , and curved throwing sticks for tools (for example, a point made from local hunting game. petrified wood) have been found in the park (Stewart 1980). Petrified Forest was an active place throughout the Basketmaker period.

87 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Archeologists have discovered the remains Basin, the White Mountains, southeastern of pit houses, single- and multi-room Arizona, northwestern Chihuahua, the dwellings, petroglyphs, and scatters area, and Petrified Forest associated with this period throughout the (Stewart 1980). park. The number of sites discovered in Petrified Pueblo Period. The Pueblo period (1,300 Forest National Park that represent this to 600 years ago) was a time of transition period is quite small compared with earlier and activity around Petrified Forest. The periods. Sixteen sites representing the late Petrified Forest region suffered through a phase of the Pueblo Period are scattered drought during the first 250 years of this throughout the park with the greatest period. Residents of the area built small concentration within one mile of Puerco settlements () on terraces near Pueblo. The majority of these sites appear watercourses and arable land. to have been abandoned by the 15th century. While it is not clear where the Approximately 1,050 years ago, the climate residents went, it can be surmised that they became more amenable, thus enabling were incorporated into some of the larger greater population densities and more stable regional pueblos (for example, Hopi and settlements. The Petrified Forest region was Zuni). not only an important agricultural area, it was also a trade center involving Western Navajo Period. In the 16th century Pueblo, Mogollon, and Sinagua cultures. (1500s), the Navajo moved into the area from the north, and as a nomadic tribe, they The prosperity of the region during these relied on hunting for sustenance. Eventu- years is clearly represented in over 200 sites ally, they incorporated limited farming into recorded by archeologists working in the their livelihoods and by the early 1700s park. Sites include single- and multi-room began the practice of livestock herding, pueblos with (ceremonial pithouses), which they learned from the Spanish artifact scatters, lithic scatters, pithouse (Stewart 1980). Today, the Navajo Tribe structures, rock shelters, extensive petro- continues to inhabit much of the land north glyphs, and an agricultural site (Wells of the park, while a few scattered sites 1988). Puerco Pueblo and Agate House associated with the Navajo remain within were built during this time period. park boundaries (NPS 1998a).

A dramatic change occurred in the History Southwest approximately 800 years ago that included the Petrified Forest region. Exploration. The first European Americans Prosperity of the past suffered severe to see the Painted Desert were probably setbacks due to changed climactic Spaniards in search of riches. In July 1540, conditions, specifically drought. The Francisco Vasquez de Coronado and his population became less stable as people entourage were searching for the fabled struggled to survive. New population Seven Cities of Cibola. Evidence that they alignments arose. Residents moved into viewed the Painted Desert appears in a brief larger, more centralized settlements in the journal account that mentions the Desierto Rio Grande area, Acoma and Zuni country, Pintado (Lubick 1996). the Hopi mesas, Verde Valley and Tonto

88 The Affected Environment

It was not until after Arizona became a Early Tourism. Settlement began in the United States Territory in 1848 that the region after the Civil War when Spanish- region once again received attention. The speaking sheepherders and cattle ranchers U.S. Army Corps of Topographical Engi- entered the area that became the park. neers dispatched expeditions into the Shortly thereafter, Mormons moved into the region. The first of these groups to encoun- area and began ranching in the Little Colo- ter the Petrified Forest was a contingent rado River Valley. By the 1880s, workers in under the command of Captain Lorenzo L. Arizona were laying track for the Atlantic Sitgreaves. In September 1851, Sitgreaves and Pacific Railroad Company (eventually traveled from Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe) along to the Little Colorado River. On 28 Septem- the 35th parallel. Towns such as Winslow, ber, he decided to abandon the muddy Holbrook, and Adamana sprouted along the stream for higher ground where he and his railroad right-of-way (Lubick 1996). men came across areas covered with Petri- fied wood stumps and ancient fallen trees Before long, people began envisioning (Sitgreaves 1853). Sitgreaves and his men ways to make a profit from what many did not tarry, however, returning to the river considered an oddity of nature—petrified and the appointed task—exploration of the wood. Various groups began to claim the Colorado and Little Colorado Rivers. deposits of petrified wood, shipping vast quantities to processing plants in Chicago, On 8 November 1853, Lieutenant Amiel San Francisco, and other areas. This activ- Weeks Whipple and a group of scientists ity sparked a movement to protect the left Albuquerque with orders to survey a unique landscape. Will C. Barnes, a resi- potential rail line along the 35th parallel dent of Holbrook, introduced a petition in (Lubick 1996). On the first day of Decem- the Eighteenth Territorial Legislature that ber they crossed the Puerco River. The next called for the removal of all lands covered evening the party stopped for the night at a by petrified forests from settlement until a wash the lieutenant named Lithodendron determination could be made by the general Creek. A number of abandoned pueblos and land office as to whether they deserved “quite a forest of petrified trees” captivated federal protection as a national park or the men. The party explored the area more preserve. That determination occurred 1 extensively than Sitgreaves had (Whipple February 1895. By 15 December, two 1856). However, they too had orders and townships containing petrified wood were before conducting more than cursory withdrawn from settlement. Four years surveys the men continued west. later, the amount of land closed to settlement had doubled (Lubick 1996). The most unusual expedition to visit the Petrified Forest was led by Lieutenant National Monument to National Park. By Edward F. Beale. In 1858, he led the ill- the turn of the century, concern for the fated U.S. Camel Corps across the South- well-being of American antiquities was west. His route approximated Whipple’s increasing. In 1900, Congressman John F. through the Petrified Forest (Lubick 1996). Lacey of Iowa launched legislative efforts However, official exploration in the area to create Petrified Forest National Park. His ground to a halt with the coming of the bills were defeated in 1900 and again in Civil War. 1902. Proponents for protection were undaunted, and Lacey, working closely

89 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT with Edgar L. Hewett of the Bureau of Roads and trails were expanded and Ethnology, drafted a bill calling for the improved through New Deal funds protection of American antiquities. and programs (specifically the Theodore Roosevelt signed An Act for the CCC). Preservation of American Antiquities into New structures were built and older law on 8 June 1906 (Lubick 1996), which ones, associated with park head- granted U.S. presidents the authority to quarters at Rainbow Forest and create national monuments. Roosevelt facilities such as Painted Desert Inn, established Petrified Forest National received required repairs. Monument on 8 December 1906. The Fred Harvey Company began offering tours through the park The new designation was important, but in (Lubick 1996). reality it did little to safeguard park resources. There was no National Park Through the 1950s and 1960s, the monu- Service or funding to ensure the park’s ment experienced many changes. On protection. Vandalism and wood theft were 8 February 1956, National Park Service already a pressing problem and continued Director, Conrad Wirth, announced a new to be so. When the National Park Service program intended to modernize the national was created in 1916, Petrified Forest fell parks and monuments and help NPS under the agency’s management and was properties better serve visitors. Known as granted an annual budget of $166 (Lubick Mission 66, it encompassed hundreds of 1996). construction and renovation projects (Sellars 1997). New structures were built at The same year the National Park Service the park and others renovated (such as the came into existence, legislation was intro- concessions building at Rainbow Forest). duced to establish a national highway Richard J. Neutra designed the Painted system. It took nine years for the govern- Desert headquarters complex, which was ment to accept and begin execution of a completed in 1960. Shortly thereafter, on plan for such a system of roads. In 1926, 9 December 1962, through an act of one of the routes, a roughly diagonal path Congress (72 Stat. 69), Petrified Forest from Chicago to Los Angeles that traversed National Monument became Petrified Petrified Forest National Monument, was Forest National Park. designated “66.” By 1938, the entire length of the road was paved. Eventually, historic Historic Property Definitions Route 66 became outdated and was replaced by the new interstate highway system developed in the late 1950s Historic properties, under 36 CFR Part 800, (National Historic Route 66 Federation are defined as “any prehistoric or historic 1995). district, site, building, structure, or object included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the The 1930s was an important decade for [National Register of Historic Places].” The Petrified Forest National Monument: phrase “eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places” The monument expanded to the includes both the properties formally deter- north with the addition of Herbert mined as such by the National Park Service D. Lore’s Painted Desert property. on behalf of the Secretary of the Interior

90 The Affected Environment and all other properties that meet NRHP A landscape is associated with listing criteria. events, persons, design styles, or ways of life that are significant in National Park Service guidelines regarding American history, landscape the definition of buildings, sites, structures, architecture, archeology, objects, districts, and landscapes are listed engineering, or culture. below.

ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES A building is created principally to shelter any form of human activity such as a barn, house, church, or Prehistoric resources are extensive in hotel. Petrified Forest National Park. Over 600 recorded sites representing Paleoindian, A site is the location of a significant Archaic, Basketmaker, Puebloan, and event; a prehistoric or historic Navajo cultures exist within the park. Pit occupation or activity; or a building houses, campsites, multi-room pueblos, or structure, whether standing, projectile points, ceramics, and other ruined, or vanished, where the resources comprise the park’s archeological location itself possesses historic, record. Pictographs are rare, but large cultural, or archeological value, concentrations of petroglyphs are etched regardless of the value of the into the desert varnish that forms on the existing structure. sandstone that abounds in the park. There is evidence that Petrified Forest National Park A structure is a functional has numerous unrecorded sites within its construction usually made for boundaries. Twelve of the 600 recorded purposes other than creating human sites have been excavated. The others form shelter such as tunnels, bridges, a regionally significant “data bank” of dams, and fire towers. future scientific information (NPS Rev. 1996). An object is primarily artistic in nature or is relatively small in scale Historic archeological resources are also and simply constructed. Although located throughout the park. The central an object may be movable by nature portion of the park contains widespread or design, it is associated with a evidence of historic use and travel. The specific setting or environment. 35th parallel route, followed by Whipple Examples include sculpture, and Beale, crosses the park near the Painted boundary markers, and statues. Desert headquarters, as does the Prescott and Santa Fe mail route. Later, the Santa Fe A district possesses a significant Railroad and Route 66 crossed the park. concentration, linkage, or continuity Other areas of Petrified Forest National of sites, buildings, structures, or Park hold archeological sites representing objects united historically or the expanse of the park’s history, from the aesthetically by plan or physical 19th century to the 1950s. development, such as a college campus, central business district, The 35th parallel route / Beale Wagon Road large fort, or rural village. was one of three major immigrant routes to California prior to the Civil War that

91 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT brought large numbers of people through windows. Originally, the two rooms of the northern Arizona. It was surveyed and structure were connected by a covered constructed between 1857 and 1859 by breezeway that is now filled in with Lieutenant Edward F. Beale, who com- rockwork. The original flagstone floor and manded the Army’s experimental camel walkway are now concrete. Currently, a corps in Arizona. The Beale Road was a portion of the building is still used as a precursor to the 1882 transcontinental comfort station and the rest is used for Atlantic and Pacific Railroad (Santa Fe). storage. Although the structure is not Until the railroad arrived, the Beale Road eligible for the NRHP, the park’s List of was one of the most important roads in Classified Structures states that the building Arizona. It continued to be used until the (#56686 on the List of Classified 1940s. Traces of the route are still visible in Structures) should be preserved and the park and are listed on the NRHP (NPS maintained. 1998a).

Painted Desert Inn Route 66 once extended for 2,000 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It played a major role in the The Painted Desert Inn, a former trading westward migration of Americans fleeing post and inn on the rim of the Painted the Dust Bowl, in the boom in tourist travel Desert, has been designated as a national following World War II, and in other historic landmark in recognition of its aspects of 20th-century American history. historic and aesthetic qualities. It also has A portion of the abandoned Route 66 regional significance as a product and roadbed and some associated structures symbol of New Deal work relief programs. (telephone poles) are still visible cutting Originally constructed in 1924, the petrified across the northern portion of the park. wood and stone structure was gutted and There is the potential for subsurface rebuilt between 1937 and 1940 by the CCC historical archeological resources along the using local materials, including some petri- road corridor. The roadbed itself was fied wood. The resulting Pueblo Revival evaluated for inclusion on the NRHP in structure is two stories, but it is banked into 1995 and deemed ineligible. However, park the hillside so it exposes a low profile to the staff understands the historic importance of Painted Desert. The thick stone walls are the old highway and will continue to covered with earth-toned stucco. Interior interpret it. spaces are finished with log vigas, carved posts, flagstone floors, and wood-framed casement windows. A painted glass sky- HISTORIC STRUCTURES AND light of Hopi pottery motifs designed by DISTRICTS Lyle Bennet in 1937, and murals by Hopi artist Fred Kabotie painted in 1947, enhance the building’s combination of Agate Bridge Comfort Station architecture and design. The 28 rooms were originally used for public information, The building was constructed as a com- restrooms, park offices, dining rooms, soda bination checking station and comfort fountain, bar, trading post, and six sleeping station in 1935 by Olds Lumber Company rooms. Over time, the inn has badly of Winslow, Arizona. It is a one-story, deteriorated. During the late 1960s and pueblo-style building with deep narrow early 1970s, the building’s condition was so

92 The Affected Environment poor it was closed to the public. It was collection storage reopened in 1976 for the Bicentennial and apartment wing with 8 one-bedroom has closed only temporarily since for units repairs. Today it is minimally used for six triplex residence wings (18 information and orientation, book sales, three-bedroom units) building tours, restrooms, and a few display two 1-bedroom teacher residences cases. school building and post office community building Two historic residences across the road concessions building with service from the Painted Desert Inn are included in station the impacts analysis of this resource maintenance building because proposals in the GMP Revision maintenance vehicle storage alternatives involve these two structures. building trailer storage building public courtyard Painted Desert Headquarters private residence courtyards Complex residence carports mobile trailer pads The Painted Desert headquarters complex concessioner’s house (not a Mission was constructed as part of the NPS Mission 66 design) 66 initiative. Mission 66 was a major parking lots, sidewalks, roads, and program for national park improvements driveways from 1956 through 1966. The complex, restroom facilities (part of the designed by Richard Neutra, was conceived visitor center) as a planned community combining public entrance station (replacement for the space, workspace, concession buildings, original Mission 66 structure) school, post office, library, and housing. gate house Neutra’s designs are becoming increasingly recognized as representative examples of The condition of buildings in the Painted modern architecture. The complex has been Desert headquarters complex is discussed in recognized as a significant example of the “National Park Operations, Facilities” Mission 66 Program architecture (NPS section of this chapter. 1997a). Recently it was included in a study of Mission 66 architecture throughout the National Park Service (NPS 2000a) The CULTURAL LANDSCAPES visitor center / headquarters complex is considered significant by the Arizona According to National Park Service SHPO, and potentially eligible for the Cultural Resources Management Guideline NRHP. Park managers intend to seek funds (Director’s Order–28), a cultural landscape to have a determination of eligibility is: conducted for the complex as soon as possible. …a reflection of human adaptation and use of natural resources and is The complex consists of often expressed in the way land is organized and divided, patterns of administrative building with offices, settlement, land use, systems of library, visitor center, theater, and circulation, and the types of

93 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

structures that are built. The While the Rainbow Forest area has changed character of a cultural landscape is over time, the overall cultural landscape defined, both by physical materials retains many of its original design such as roads, buildings, walls, characteristics, including: and vegetation, and by use reflecting cultural values and visitor area at Rainbow Forest traditions. designed with a straight sight line between the museum and Jim Camp Thus, cultural landscapes are the result of Wash bridge / entry road the long interaction between people and the use of naturalistic principles of land: the influence of human beliefs and national park design—rustic design actions over time upon the natural style, use of vernacular materials landscape. Shaped through time by (particularly stone) on both build- historical land-use and management ings and landscape elements, and practices, as well as by politics and the relatively small scale of the property laws, levels of technology, and single-story buildings and structures economic conditions, cultural landscapes that make up the building com- provide a living record of an area’s past. plexes The dynamic nature of modern human life, general harmonizing of develop- however, contributes to the continual ment with the natural setting, with reshaping of cultural landscapes, making buildings subordinate to the natural them a good source of information about topography specific times and places, but at the same public access and visitor use areas time rendering their long-term preservation arranged around the main parking a challenge. area, with housing and other non- visitor use areas situated in clusters to the side of the main parking area Rainbow Forest Historic Landscape primary circulation substantially intact, although the northern Rainbow Forest Historic Landscape, which circulation loop to the maintenance encompasses the Jim Camp Wash bridge; area was modified, and the original parking plaza and access road; housing one-way loop was modified to two- complex; museum; concessions building way in the 1960s and outbuildings; picnic area; connecting unity between architecture and walks; planting islands; Giant Logs Trail; landscape architecture, through the and the Long Logs road, trails, and parking use of similar material in buildings area, has been determined eligible by the and landscape elements Keeper of the National Register for listing on the NRHP as a historic designed landscape. The Rainbow Forest historic Rainbow Forest Historic Landscape landscape was planned and designed by the Associated Historic Structures National Park Service and, for the most part, constructed by the CCC during the Table 5 lists the historic structures 1930s. When constructed, it was the visitor identified as contributing elements of the contact area and headquarters for the park Rainbow Forest Historic Landscape that are (NPS 1999b). also listed on the park’s List of Classified Structures. The List of Classified Structures

94 The Affected Environment is an evaluated inventory of all historic and integrity of design, materials, and work- prehistoric structures of architectural or manship has been diminished by significant engineering significance. exterior and interior modification (AZ SHPO 1989). The concessions building, Most of the structures in table 5 are listed which is the oldest structure on the site, has on the NRHP as contributing elements to been drastically altered and no longer the Rainbow Forest Historic Landscape resembles the other structures. Architectur- (only Agate House is independently ally incompatible modifications, including eligible). The Mather plaque is considered room additions, changes in interior layout, ineligible for the NRHP. and the addition of pipes, fences, antennas, solar panels, and other amenities of modern A number of other features were called out living, have also been made to several as elements that contribute to the cultural residences and to the rear of the visitor landscape. These elements include the center / museum building. In finding the culverts along Long Logs and Giant Logs buildings ineligible, however, the Arizona Trails and along Road, areas SHPO concluded that alterations to build- landscaped with native species, the ings 51 and 52 (the west, north, and east cottonwoods in front of residences, the buildings surrounding the courtyard) could approach to Rainbow Forest from Jim be reversed and recommended a number of Camp Wash, Long Logs Road, the original actions to bring the structures back into trailhead, pedestrian circulation areas, the eligibility status. A National Park Service spur road to the CCC camp, Long Logs and historic architect evaluated the buildings in Giant Logs Trail layouts, and various views detail and concurred that the structures of and from Rainbow Forest (NPS 1999b). could be restored to their 1930s appearance (NPS 2001b). The park plans to pursue a Most of the structures identified as determination of eligibility and NRHP elements that contribute to the Rainbow nomination for the Rainbow Forest Historic Forest historic landscape date from the District. 1930s, and were built under the New Deal- era work programs, including the CCC. The Crystal Forest Cultural Landscape visitor center / museum, residences, and maintenance building are all rustic sand- stone structures. They are low and flat Tourists began visiting this site long before roofed, in the southwestern tradition, and Petrified Forest became an NPS property. the residences are oriented around a central In the 19th and early 20th centuries, patio, further evincing the Southwest theme homesteaders set up ranches and various (NPS 2001b). entrepreneurs came to the area to commercially exploit petrified wood and The buildings were evaluated for eligibility tourism. Scientists also began to take an for listing on the NRHP separately as interest in the ancient landscape. During historic structures and found by the Arizona this time, a railroad stop was established in SHPO to be ineligible because their the adjacent town of Adamana.

95 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 5. LIST OF CLASSIFIED STRUCTURES CONTRIBUTING TO RAINBOW FOREST HISTORIC LANDSCAPE

Management LCS Management Structure Structure LCS No. Decision/date No. Decision/date

Rainbow Forest Should be Rainbow Forest Should be Employee Residence preserved 56679 Employee Residence preserved 217273 (51-A1) 04-01-2001 (50) 04-01-2001 Rainbow Forest Should be Should be Rainbow Forest Employee Residence preserved 56682 preserved 56675 Employee Garage (52-B) 04-01-2001 04-01-2001 Rainbow Forest Should be May be Rainbow Forest Gas Employee Residence preserved 56683 preserved 56677 and Oil Building (52-C) 04-01-2001 04-01-2001 Rainbow Forest Should be May be Rainbow Forest Employee Residence preserved 56681 preserved 56673 Fitness Center (52-A) 04-01-2001 04-01-2001 Rainbow Forest Should be May be Rainbow Forest Employee Residence preserved 56678 preserved 56674 Storeroom (51-A) 04-01-2001 04-01-2001 Rainbow Forest May be May be preserved Rainbow Forest Employee Residence 56690 preserved 56676 Warehouse and Shop (53) 04-01-2001 04-01-2001 May be Rainbow Forest Should be disposed of, Long Logs Parking Employee Residence preserved 56680 altered, or 217319 Area (51-A2) 04-01-2001 destroyed 04-01-2001

Should be Rainbow Forest Should be Rainbow Forest Visitor Connecting Wall / preserved 56672 preserved 56684 Center / Museum Fencing Built Before 04-01-2001 1943 04-01-2001 May be disposed Should be of, altered, or Rainbow Forest Plaza Jim Camp Wash Bridge 216005 preserved 216008 destroyed and Features 04-01-2001 04-01-2001 Must be Must be Agate House preserved 1217 Mather Plaque preserved 56689 04-01-2001 04-01-2001 Should be Rainbow Forest Cabins preserved 56685 08-27-2003 ______Source: List of Classified Structures, Petrified Forest National Park, October 2001.

96 The Affected Environment

Crystal Forest has a large concentration of remaining curbing and retaining petrified wood coupled with remarkable walls along the trail views. The trail and parking area at Crystal sandstone culvert faces along the Forest were installed during early park trail development. They were planned according to the principles of naturalistic design that The Crystal Forest cultural landscape was dominated the landscape profession in the evaluated for NRHP eligibility and was early part of the 20th century. The designed deemed eligible as a historic designed landscape of Crystal Forest offers visitors landscape by the Arizona SHPO (2000d). an opportunity to examine specimens of petrified wood and enjoy the beauty of the Potential Cultural Landscapes natural landscape with relatively little visual intrusion from the built environment (NPS 2000b). Additional cultural landscapes may exist within the park, but to date they have not The Crystal Forest cultural landscape is an been formally evaluated. These areas are excellent example of NPS design principles associated with proposals in the GMP and philosophies of the 1920s to the 1940s. Revision alternatives and are summarized During this time, the National Park Service below: developed and implemented design guide- lines that emphasized harmonious construc- Puerco Cultural Landscape tion that allowed for visitor enjoyment and In the early 1930s, the area containing the edification without compromising the Puerco Pueblo became part of the park. natural features, resources, and views that During the early park years, the poor made the site unique (NPS 2000b). condition of internal roads curtailed travel.

With the completion of the Petrified Forest The original design of the Crystal Forest Highway (the main north-south park road) parking area and trail system was subdued in 1932, many of these problems were and sparse. There were few features that mitigated and year-round travel became a interfered with the visitors’ experience of reality. Bridges were installed over all the landscape with its dramatic views, major washes, including the Puerco River. varied topography, and colorful specimens of petrified wood. Although there have With the boundary and road changes, the been some changes to the parking lot and Puerco River area became the park entrance trail system since its installation in 1933, for visitors traveling Route 66. Initially, the current landscape continues to reflect only limited development was undertaken the intentions of the earlier design. The to support this new function. In 1933, a main contributing features include: small checking station was built of canvas

on a wood frame, stone shelter / restroom, all views and vistas from the trail and a parking lot laid out behind it. layout and circulation in the parking

area Between 1934 and 1942, the CCC under- view of the “Battleship” rock took major improvements throughout the formation from the road and trail park that included:

97 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

digging the Puerco well and a well this area at the time. The duration of this at headquarters (then Rainbow camp was short, from July to October 1934. Forest) The second camp, from October 1934 to renovating and improving the August 1938, was located at Rainbow Painted Desert Inn Forest headquarters. In 1938, the third CCC completing a water pipeline from camp was established at the base of the Puerco pump house to both Rain- mesa, about one-half mile south of Puerco bow Forest headquarters and Pueblo. This site offered more space and Painted Desert Inn (the longest was closer to work sites than the Rainbow pipeline constructed by the CCC in Forest location. any national park) cleaning and improving roads in the The Puerco River cultural landscape was park evaluated for eligibility for the NRHP, but developing foot trails for viewing was determined not to be eligible by the petrified forests SHPO (NPS 2000c). However, the archeological landscape (prehistoric) has The first CCC camp in the park, consisting not been fully evaluated. Table 6 lists primarily of canvas tents, was located on classified structures located at the Puerco the south side of the Puerco River, west of River cultural landscape. the bridge. Workers focused their efforts in

TABLE 6. LIST OF CLASSIFIED STRUCTURES: PUERCO RIVER CULTURAL LANDSCAPE

Management List of Classified Structure Decision Date Structures No.

Must be preserved Puerco Pueblo 5573 04-01-2001

Rio Puerco Comfort Should be preserved 56687 Station 04-01-2001

Should be preserved Rio Puerco Pump House 56775 04-01-2001

______Source: List of Classified Structures, Petrified Forest National Park, October 2001.

Painted Desert Headquarters Complex features, circulation patterns, and views. This area has not been evaluated as a The Painted Desert headquarters complex is cultural landscape. potentially eligible for the NRHP as a historic district, and it is summarized in the Painted Desert Inn “Historic Structures” section of the “Affected Environment.” The complex may The Painted Desert Inn is a national historic also qualify as a cultural landscape, which landmark. The inn is summarized in the would encompass associated natural “Historic Structures” section of the

98 The Affected Environment document. The inn may also qualify as a They view much of the park landscape as cultural landscape, which would encompass spiritually active, containing sites vital to associated natural features and views and the continuation of their lifeways. While the two residences across the street from the some of these ethnographically significant inn. This landscape is considered poten- resources are shared by more than one tially eligible for listing on the NRHP; American Indian ethnic group, most are evaluation is not yet complete (J. Cowley, unique to specific tribes. The park considers pers. comm., June 2002). such sites significant and is committed to their preservation, protection, and Ethnographic Landscapes confidentiality.

An ethnographic landscape study of the The park has drafted an ethnographic over- park has not been initiated and, therefore, view and assessment, but has not conducted there are no known ethnographic land- a detailed analysis or evaluation of sites to scapes. The northern boundary of the park determine which sites are purely archeo- is the southern boundary of the Navajo logical in nature and which are ethno- Reservation. The reservations for the Hopi, graphic. Through consultation, a number of Zuni, and White Mountain Apache are all ethnographic resources have been identified located within 150 miles of the park. The within the park. These resources occur in cultures of these people are bound to the areas affected by alternatives in this docu- lands once occupied by their ancestors, and ment. Therefore, ethnographic resources certain sites within the park may be impor- will be considered in the environmental tant in their ceremonial life (NPS 1993). impact statement.

ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES MUSEUM COLLECTIONS

Ethnographic resources are objects, plants, The park’s museum collections contain animals, and landscape features of nearly 128,000 cataloged items— traditional significance to contemporary paleontological and other natural history peoples and communities. The identified specimens, and archeological, historical, contemporary communities with and ethnological objects. Some items are ethnographic ties to Petrified Forest stored offsite. National Park are the Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation, Zuni Pueblo, and White Mountain At this time, over 55,000 items have not Apache Tribe. The archeological, historical, been cataloged. The majority of these items and ethnographic records reveal a long are paleontological and archeological and history of human use of the park area for are housed offsite, primarily at the Western these cultures, spanning from the Archeological Conservation Center, the Paleoindian period to the present. Museum of Northern Arizona, and the Museum of Paleontology at the University The park is adjacent to the Navajo of California, Berkeley (NPS Rev. 1996). Reservation, and the White Mountain Apache, Hopi, and Zuni Reservations are Onsite collections are housed in the all within an 80-mile radius. These peoples’ administration building of the Painted cultures are inextricably bound with the Desert headquarters complex. The building lands once occupied by their ancestors. does not meet structural and safety

99 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT standards. For example, fire detection and Paleontological research began in the park suppression systems are non-existent (or when the Whipple Expedition discovered not operational), the electrical system is some of the wood preserved there in 1853. overloaded, exterior walls are cracking, the In 1953, after a century of research, the heating and boiler system is malfunction- remains of only about 30 species of plants ing, and the building has no security and the remains of several amphibians and system. reptiles from the park had been described. Since then, many new discoveries have The collections storage area includes a been made at Petrified Forest National Park small work area with work tables, a dark- in what is now considered one of the most room, a curator’s office, and three large important and easily accessible exposures rooms filled with storage cabinets. of Late Triassic terrestrial strata in the world. To date, over 200 fossilized plant Currently, the onsite collections are housed species and 60 animal species have been in a 1,400-square foot storage area in the described from the Chinle Formation in the headquarters building. The park needs an park (NPS 1998a). additional 3,600-square feet of storage area to adequately store existing specimens and Petrified Wood foreseeable future acquisitions (e2M 2001).

Items in the collections storage area are Seven species of trees have been described stored in protective cabinets. Flammable from Petrified Forest National Park. How- objects are stored in fire-resistant cabinets. ever, approximately 99% of the park’s Some items from the museum collections petrified wood is derived from trees that are exhibited at the Painted Desert Inn, belong to the species Araucarioxylon Painted Desert visitor center, and Rainbow arizonicum. Much of the petrified wood in Forest Museum. the park that contains the bright, vivid array of colors and the quartz crystals is derived from this species. Two other unusual types PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES of petrified wood that have been described from the Black Forest are classified as the Though the primary resource of the park is genera Woodworthia and Schilderia (NPS petrified wood, large quantities of other 1996). This wood is generally black. The fossils including leaves and seeds, as well other species, consisting of lycopods, tree- as vertebrate, invertebrate, and trace fossils ferns, and cycads, are represented by only a also occur there. All of the fossils occur in few specimens, but are just as important to the Chinle Formation of Late Triassic age. note. Sediments that now make up Chinle rocks were deposited by meandering rivers and Some of the largest concentrations of streams in lakes and swamps and in flood- petrified wood are located south of I-40 in plains on the floor of a broad basin about Jasper, Crystal, and Rainbow Forests. 225 million years ago. In the park, the However, north of the interstate in the Chinle Formation is about 300-meters thick Painted Desert badlands are vast exposures and consists mainly of thick beds of of wood that include the Black Forest. brightly colored mudstone and thinner beds Easily accessible trails at Giant Logs, Long of relatively dull sandstone and conglom- Logs, and Crystal Forest offer visitors the erate. opportunity to walk through major

100 The Affected Environment concentrations of petrified logs, while the roadsides each month, especially near park Black Forest is accessible only to the more exits. Petrified wood is also recovered when adventurous. At Crystal Forest, named for law enforcement officers apprehend visitors the brilliantly colored petrified logs that who steal it. It is the policy of Petrified contain cavities filled with crystals of clear Forest National Park not to put these pieces quartz, smoky quartz, and amethyst back in the park because they have been (Petrified Forest National Park 2000), removed from their original context; it is visitors can observe the impact that impossible to tell where they came from, petrified wood theft has had on the primary and therefore, what the context was resource of the park. Here, the areas originally. Instead, the pieces are kept in adjacent to the Crystal Forest parking lot undisclosed locations and used by and trails have been picked clean of small interpreters and in displays, including those pieces of petrified wood. aimed at deterring petrified wood theft.

Petrified wood theft has been a problem at In the past, various intervention methods Petrified Forest National Park since 1906, have been employed in an attempt to reduce when the Petrified Forest National wood theft at the park. They include giving Monument was established. Reportedly, an free samples (purchased from commercial estimated 12 tons of petrified wood is vendors) to visitors as they leave the park; stolen from or displaced within the park stationing uniformed rangers at high-theft each year (NPS 1986). Estimates have been sites, patrolling by foot or horseback; made (NPS 1994) of the volume and searching vehicles; exhibiting letters in the percent cover of petrified wood at five visitor center from people who took wood high-use areas within the park for the and returned it; placing fences along trails purposes of monitoring the amount of wood to keep visitors away from the resource; lost (table 7). These include Giant Logs, discussing the problem in interpretation Long Logs, Crystal Forest, Jasper Forest, programs; and charging heavy fines to and Blue Mesa, which as noted above, have people caught stealing petrified wood. some of the highest concentrations of There is a minimum fine of $275 for petrified wood in the park. However, it anyone convicted of stealing petrified should be emphasized that actual figures for wood, rocks, fossils, living plants, or wood theft are hard to determine since in animals. many cases, pieces of wood are simply picked up by visitors to be examined and In 1997, Virginia Polytechnic and State then dropped back to the ground in a University completed a study of wood theft different position. Visual monitoring of and its prevention, which found that specific sources of petrified wood cannot uniformed personnel and interpretive signs distinguish whether these pieces were were most useful for deterring petrified actually stolen or simply displaced. wood theft. The majority of thefts (70%) were found to occur in zones close to A small portion of the petrified wood stolen parking lots and trails, and the majority of from the park is returned by mail each year, incidents occurred within 10 feet of a trail. and even more is recovered from along park

101 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 7. TOTAL 1993 INVENTORY PERCENT COVER AND VOLUME ESTIMATES FOR HIGH USE AREAS AT PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Size Class 1 Size Class 2 Size Class 3

Blue Mesa Percent Cover 6.61 7.73 4.55 Volume (ft3) 9,605 33,312 411,390

Crystal Forest Percent Cover 7.71 5.91 3.64 Volume (ft3) 9,246 10,775 82,939

Giant Logs Percent Cover 4.52 5.33 6.27 Volume (ft3) 13,010 36,080 163,454

Jasper Forest Percent Cover 13.75 4.28 7.77 Volume (ft3) 21,787 51,458 626,081

Long Logs Percent Cover 6.15 5.94 9.82 Volume (ft3) 12,070 32,944 217,944

______SOURCE: Adapted from “Assessing Petrified Wood Change in Petrified Forest National Park” by Nicholas S. Monkevich, Timothy G. Gregoire, and Joseph W. Roggenbuck, December 1994. NOTES: Size Class 1 (0.25 inches to 1.0 inches in length), Size Class 2 (1.0 inches to 5.0 inches in length), and Size Class 3 (greater than 5.0 inches in length).

Approximately 90% of visitors surveyed for Petrified Forest National Park, 40 of which this study stated that they refrained from were described from fossilized leaves, stealing wood out of concern for protecting stems, and seeds. The others were described park resources. A smaller percentage of from fossil spores and pollen. These fossils visitors stated that they refrained out of fear represent species from most of the major of being caught by rangers or fear of being plant groups, excluding flowering plants. fined. Horsetails (relatively primitive plants) and ferns are abundant in the Chinle Formation Other Fossils at Petrified Forest National Park. These fossils show that some of the horsetails in Fossil Plants the Petrified Forest during the Late Triassic grew much larger than modern represen- Nearly 200 fossilized species of plants have tatives of these species. The stems of some been discovered in the Chinle Formation at of these tall giants were nearly 2-feet in

102 The Affected Environment diameter and probably 30-feet tall or taller. presence of insects here during the Late Cycads, which can be found in tropical Triassic period. This evidence consists of areas of the world today, were also abun- several types of borings and trails in dant in the park where they are represented petrified wood and bite marks on the edges by three species. Bennittitales, which are of leaves. Aquatic invertebrates identified distant extinct relatives of the cycads, have in the park include crayfish, horseshoe been described from compressed leaf fossils crabs, snails, clams, and clam-shrimp. In at the park. Many of the plant species found addition, several fossilized forms of fish, in Petrified Forest National Park are closely including fresh water sharks, have also been related to modern species, although some of collected (NPS 1998a). them represent species that are now extinct (NPS 1998a). In the badlands areas of Petrified Forest National Park, such as the Painted Desert, Fossil Animals The Tepees, Blue Mesa, and Rainbow Forest areas, fossil resources are regularly Reptiles, amphibians, insects, and aquatic and continually exposed and destroyed by invertebrates have been described from wind and water. Theft of plant and animal Petrified Forest National Park. The most fossils is also a problem in some areas of abundant reptile fossils are the phytosaurs, the park. The resource management staff large, crocodile-like animals, that were has implemented procedures to monitor and dominant predators during the Late protect these fossil resources through a Triassic. Other crocodile-like reptiles have paleontological site inventory project been described from fossils at the park, funded under the Fee Demonstration Pro- including herbivorous forms such as gram. This project involves monitoring aetosaurs and fearsome predators such as known fossil sites, collecting locality data, Postosuchus. Metoposaurs were giant, flat- tying archival and collection information to headed amphibians that were approximately the site, photo-documenting and mapping 10-feet long and probably weighed over sites, and collecting some representative 1,000 pounds. The dimensions of this specimens for park collections. A second animal are one indicator that quite a few fee demonstration project has been author- Triassic reptiles and amphibians attained ized to extend the inventory project for sizes much greater than most modern another two years. forms.

The Late Triassic period has been called the VEGETATION “Dawn of the Dinosaurs”—these animals formed an uncommonly large portion of the A preliminary vegetation classification has ancient fauna at Petrified Forest National been prepared by Thomas, Hansen, and Park. These early dinosaurs were much Seger (2002), for Petrified Forest National smaller than latter types common during the Park. Although preliminary, this classifi- Late Mesozoic, and included Coelophysis, cation identified seven shrubland alliances, Revueltosaurus, and possibly three dwarf-shrubland alliances, five herba- Chindesaurus. ceous alliances, one dwarf shrubland-herba- ceous alliance, two shrubland-herbaceous Although only a few fossil beetles have alliances, one sparse vegetation alliance, as been found in Petrified Forest National well as unvegetated areas that characterize Park, much other evidence indicates the the plant communities of the park. None of

103 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT the sampling efforts for this classification Dunebroom Shrubland Alliance identified a community with enough tree cover to be considered a woodland or forest Dunebroom is the dominant shrub sup- (NPS 2002a). ported by this alliance at the park (7% to 23% cover). Other shrubs present include Bigelow’s Sagebrush Dwarf- rubber rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa) Shrubland Alliance (0% to 8% cover), and snakeweed (0% to 5% cover). Grasses present include alkali

sacaton (5% to 15% cover) and galleta (0% Plant communities characterized by this to 7% cover). Plant communities at Petri- alliance support Bigelow’s sagebrush fied Forest National Park that support (Artemisia bigelovii) as the dominant shrub dunebroom are not classified in this alliance (3% to 14% cover). Other shrubs that could if Bigelow’s sagebrush occurs as an indi- be present include cliffrose (Purshia cator species as well. Instead, they are stansburniana) (0% to 8% cover), crispleaf classified in the Bigelow’s Sagebrush buckwheat (Eriogonum corymbosum) (0% Dwarf-Shrubland Alliance. Forb cover is to 10% cover), dunebroom (Parryella low (1% to 4%), while one plant commu- filifolia) (0% to 10% cover), shadscale nity has 4% tree cover (NPS 2002a). (Atriplex confertifolia) (0% to 4% cover), snakeweed (Gutierrezia sarothrae) (0% to 13% cover), and Torrey’s joint-fir (Ephedra Four-Wing Saltbush Shrubland torreyana) (0% to 8% cover). Galleta Alliance (Pleuraphis jamesii) is the most prevalent herbaceous (grass) species supported in this The plant communities in this alliance are alliance (0% to 7% cover) (Thomas, characterized by the presence of at least Hansen, and Seger 2002). 19% four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens) cover (19% to 30%). Galleta Drummond Goldenweed Dwarf- and alkali sacaton are supported consis- Shrubland Alliance. tently (5% to 28% and 5% to 37% cover, respectively) as the most prevalent grass This alliance is dominated by Drummond species. Other shrubs that are common goldenweed (Isocoma drummondii) (20% included Bigelow’s sagebrush (0% to 6% to 22% cover), but is also characterized by cover) and/or snakeweed (0% to 5% cover). the presence of herbaceous species. Alkali Little forb and no tree cover was measured sacaton (Sporobolus airoides) and galleta (NPS 2002a). (12% to 15% and 5% to 8% cover, respectively) are both supported in this alliance at Petrified Forest National Park. New Mexico Saltbush Dwarf- Other shrub species that could be present Shrubland Alliance with less cover are New Mexico saltbush (Atriplex obovata), shadscale, and This alliance is dominated by New Mexico snakeweed (NPS 2002a). saltbush (9% to 49% cover), which contri- butes to at least one-third of the total cover in any plant community characterized in the New Mexico Saltbush Dwarf-Shrubland Alliance. Alkali sacaton (0% to 25% cover) and galleta (0% to 7% cover) was the most

104 The Affected Environment common herbaceous species. Forb cover Snakeweed Dwarf-Shrubland was noted as slight (0% to 1%) in this Alliance alliance, and no trees are present (NPS 2002a). Plant communities characterized in this alliance are dominated by dwarf-shrub Rubber Rabbitbrush Shrubland snakeweed (4% to 32% cover), which Alliance constitutes half of the shrub cover. Grass species commonly supported in these

communities include alkali sacaton (0% to The plant communities characterized in this 10% cover), blue grama (0% to 40% cover), alliance are dominated by at least 6% and Indian ricegrass (0% to 10% cover) rubber rabbitbrush cover (6% to 17%), an (NPS 2002a). indicator of grassland deterioration. They also support several other shrubs including buckwheat (Eriogonum spp.) (0% to 12% Tamarisk Semi-Natural Temporarily cover), New Mexico saltbush (0% to 5% Flooded Shrubland Alliance cover), sandsage (0% to 5% cover), and snakeweed (0% to 10% cover). The grasses Tamarisk (Tamarix spp.), an invasive non- alkali sacaton (2% to 20% cover), blue native species found throughout the Puerco grama (Bouteloua gracilis) (0% to 10% River corridor at Petrified Forest National cover), galleta (0% to 15% cover), and Park, is identified in only one sampling sandhill muhly (Muhlenbergia pungens) location used for this vegetation classi- (0% to 7% cover) are common. Forbs are fication. The plant community has low total sparse (0% to 2% cover), while no tree vegetation cover (10%), half of which is cover was measured (NPS 2002a). provided by tamarisk (NPS 2002a).

Sandsage Shrubland Alliance Wild-Privet Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance The plant communities in this alliance are characterized by at least 10% sandsage One plant community sampled along the cover (10% to 30%). Other shrubs that can Puerco River drainage, is characterized as be present include buckwheat (0% to 10% this alliance and has 12% cover of wild- cover), four-wing saltbush (0% to 3% privet. Other shrub species supported are cover), rubber rabbitbrush (0% to 10% four-wing saltbush (7% cover) and rubber cover), and snakeweed (0% to 8% cover). rabbitbrush (14% cover). Alkali sacaton Herbaceous species commonly present (18% cover) is the dominant grass species include blue grama (0% to 25% cover), present (NPS 2002a). hairy grama (Bouteloua hirsuta) (0% to 20% cover), Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis [achnatherum] hymenoides) (0% to 25% Alkali Sacaton Herbaceous Alliance cover), and sandhill muhly (0% to 10% cover). Little forb cover (0% to 1.5%) and Alkali sacaton is the dominant grass in no tree cover was measured (NPS 2002a). these plant communities (10% to 36% cover). Blue grama and galleta could co- occur, but always with lower cover (0% to 9% and 0% to 6%, respectively), while

105 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT hairy grama (15% cover) or sandhill muhly or more of shrubs distinguishes this type (20% cover) is also supported. Indian from the Blue Grama Dwarf-Shrub ricegrass is an associate in some of the Herbaceous Alliance described next (NPS plant communities (0% to 7% cover). 2002a). Shrubs are supported in this alliance and include Drummond goldenweed (0% to Blue Grama Dwarf-Shrub 10% cover), shadscale (0% to 13% cover), Herbaceous Alliance or snakeweed (0% to 7% cover) (NPS 2002a). These plant communities are characterized by the presence of blue grama (9% to 50% Alkali Sacaton Sod Herbaceous cover). Other grass species could co-occur Alliance such as alkali sacaton (0% to 25% cover), galleta (0% to 15% cover), Indian ricegrass Plant communities characterized in this (0% to 12% cover), needle-and-thread (0% alliance have high total cover greater than to 20% cover), and wildrye (Elymus spp.) 50%, and a high cover of alkali sacaton (up (0% to 10% cover). In addition, an uniden- to 35%). Alkali sacaton cover should be tified needle-and-thread (Heterostipa spp.) twice as much as galleta (0% to 20% cover) occurs in three plant communities charac- and blue grama (15% to 40% cover), hence terized in this alliance, with up to 15% forming a sod. Sand dropseed (Sporobolus cover. A suite of shrubs could be supported cryptandrus) provides 25% cover in one including four-wing saltbush (0% to 12% plant community characterized as the Alkali cover), Bigelow’s sagebrush (0% to 8% Sacaton Sod Herbaceous Alliance at cover), Mormon tea (Ephedra viridis) (0% Petrified Forest National Park (NPS 2002a). to 6% cover), New Mexico saltbush (0% to 10% cover), sandsage (0% to 13% cover), snakeweed (0% to 15% cover), Torrey’s Blue Grama Herbaceous Alliance joint-fir (0% to 6% cover), and winterfat (Kraschenninikovia lanata) (0% to 5% To be included in this alliance, blue grama cover). Little forb and no tree cover was must contribute at least 10% of the grass measured (NPS 2002a). cover. Blue grama cover ranges from 9% to 70% in these plant communities, while galleta and alkali sacaton provide 0% to Galleta Herbaceous Alliance 28% and 0% to 15% cover, respectively. Other grass species could co-occur with This alliance is characterized by the blue grama, including hairy grama (0% to presence of at least 2% galleta (2% to 30% 15% cover), Indian ricegrass (0% to 7% cover). Blue grama is present but with less cover), needle-and-thread (Heterostipa than 10% cover (0% to 9%). Alkali sacaton comata) (0% to 8% cover), and red three- also commonly occurs in these plant awn (Aristida purpurea) (0% to 15% communities (0% to 15% cover), but with cover). Shrub species commonly supported no more than twice the cover as galleta. An by this alliance include four-wing saltbush unidentified needle-and-thread is present in (0% to 7% cover), New Mexico saltbush one community with 25% cover. Shrubs (0% to 8% cover), and snakeweed (0% to that are commonly supported in this 7% cover). Little forb and no tree cover was alliance at the park include New Mexico measured. Generally, the presence of 10%

106 The Affected Environment saltbush (0% to 7% cover) and shadscale to 6% cover), snakeweed (1% to 10% (0% to 4% cover) (NPS 2002a). cover), and Torrey’s joint-fir (0% to 6% cover). Little forb and tree cover (both 0% to 4%) is supported in all of these plant Galleta Shrub Herbaceous Alliance communities (NPS 2002a).

The presence of at least 1% galleta (1% to 51% cover), less than 10% blue grama, and Painted Desert Sparse Vegetation alkali sacaton cover, no more than twice the cover of galleta, characterize this alliance at Typically, sparsely vegetated alliances have Petrified Forest National Park. These plant at least 2%, but less than 10%, total cover. communities have greater shrub cover and Grass cover is 0% to 4%, while shrub cover more shrub species than the Galleta is 0% to 10% in this alliance at Petrified Herbaceous Alliance described above. Forest National Park. Grasses typical of the Shrubs supported include Bigelow’s Colorado Plateau, including alkali sacaton, sagebrush (0% to 4% cover), Drummond blue grama, galleta, and Indian ricegrass, goldenweed (0% to 4% cover), dunebroom are supported by this alliance, with galleta (0% to 8% cover), New Mexico saltbush and alkali sacaton occurring most (0% to 12% cover), shadscale (0% to 5% frequently. Shrubs that are commonly cover), and snakeweed (0% to 11% cover). supported include Arizona siltbush (Zuckia Little forb cover and no tree cover was brandegeei var. arizonica), buckwheat, measured (NPS 2002a). Drummond goldenweed, New Mexico saltbush, shadscale, and snakeweed, with New Mexico saltbush and Arizona siltbush Hairy Grama Herbaceous Alliance occurring most frequently (NPS 2002a).

Although 14 species are identified in the single plant community characterized in Unvegetated Surfaces this alliance at Petrified Forest National Park, it is clearly dominated by hairy grama Many areas throughout the park will likely at 50% total cover. Total grass cover meet the criteria of less than 2% cover used measures 62.5%, while shrub cover to distinguish unvegetated from sparsely measures 11% (NPS 2002a). vegetated areas.

Indian Ricegrass Shrub Herbaceous SOILS Alliance The soils of Petrified Forest National Park Plant communities in this alliance are are generally characterized by four soil characterized by at least 10% Indian associations: the Moenkopie-Sandstone ricegrass cover (10% to 27%). Other rock land association, the Tours-Jocity grasses that may be found are alkali sacaton association, the Badland-Claysprings (0% to 8% cover), galleta (0% to 10% association, and the Clovis-Palma-Hubert cover), sandhill muhly (0% to 15% cover), association (USDA, SCS 1975). The and in some cases, trace amounts of blue Moenkopie-Sandstone rock land association grama. Common shrubs are dunebroom is characterized by well-drained, shallow (0% to 15% cover), rubber rabbitbrush (0% and very shallow, nearly level to

107 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT moderately sloping loamy sands formed in soils in the Colorado Plateau are usually material eroded from sandstone and darker than the surrounding soil. This is due sandstone rock outcrops. The Tours-Jocity in part to the density of the organisms and association consists of well-drained, deep, to the often dark color of the cyanobacteria, nearly level to gently sloping clay loams lichens, and mosses that comprise these and sandy clay loams formed in alluvium soils (BLM, NPS, and USGS 1999). (stream sediments). The Badland-Clay- springs association is characterized by Cryptobiotic soils contribute to a number of barren, eroded land and well-drained, ecological functions in the environment. undulating clays formed in material eroded The filamentous growths generated by the from clayey shales. Finally, the Clovis- cyanobacteria, lichens, and mosses bind the Palma-Hubert association consists of well- soil particles together, providing soil drained, deep, nearly level to undulating stability and resistance to wind and water loamy sands and gravelly loams formed in erosion. Studies have shown that crypto- eolian (wind-blown) sands and alluvium biotic soils increase both surface roughness (USDA, SCS 1975). and water infiltration. Where such soils do not significantly increase surface rough- Numerous soil types have been identified as ness, infiltration is generally reduced due to occurring within the boundaries of Petrified the presence of cyanobacteria filaments Forest National Park. However, as the GMP (BLM, USGS, NPS 1999). Revision does not recommend actions that could impact all of these soil types, only Cryptobiotic soils also have an effect on those potentially affected by implementing plant germination and growth in arid any one of the alternatives will be des- environments like those found at Petrified cribed. Table 8 summarizes these soil types. Forest National Park. Increased surface relief provided by these soils is presumed to In addition to recognized soils, cryptobiotic provide a suitable site for germination, soils also occur within the park. In more while the darker surface color increases soil arid regions, vegetative cover is generally temperatures required for germination sparse. Open spaces may be covered by earlier in the season, coinciding with spring these soils, which are a highly specialized water availability (BLM, NPS, and USGS community of cyanobacteria, mosses, and 1999). However, large-seeded plants and lichens. Cryptobiotic soils, also known as native seeds require burial for germination, biological soil crusts, are formed by these either by self-drilling mechanisms or living organisms and their by-products, caching by rodents. Cryptobiotic soils creating a surface crust of soil particles reduce soil movement, and this may limit bound together by organic materials (BLM, passive burial and germinations of large- NPS, and USGS 1999). Mature cryptobiotic seed non-native plants (BLM, NPS, and

108 The Affected Environment

TABLE 8. PROPERTIES OF SOIL TYPES IDENTIFIED IN PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Soil Name Properties

Severely eroded, hilly to extremely steep, almost barren land that is dissected Badland (BA) by intermittent drainageways. Mainly soft shale of the Chinle Formation containing numerous large pieces of petrified wood. Erosion hazard is high. Undulating soil found on clayey shale plains. Formed in material derived from Claysprings clay, 0% to clayey shale on plains near the breaks to well-defined drainageways. Erosion 8% slopes (CDB) hazard is moderate. Nearly level to undulating soil on broad plains. Formed in eolian sand and Clovis loamy sand, 0% alluvium derived from quartzite, gneiss, schist, sandstone, and limestone. to 8% slopes (CLB) Erosion hazard is slight. This association is dominated by 65% Clovis loamy sand, 0% to 8% slopes, and Clovis-Palma 30% Palma loamy sand, 0% to 8% slopes. Both were formed in eolian sand and association, undulating alluvium derived from quartzite, gneiss, schist, sandstone, and limestone. (CTB) Erosion hazard is slight for both. Nearly level soil on broad, extensive alluvial fans and floodplains. Formed in Jocity sandy clay loam alluvium derived mainly from shale and shaley sandstone. Erosion hazard is (JR) moderate. This complex is dominated by 60% Jocity sandy clay loam, 25% Claysprings clay, and 10% shale outcrop. The Jocity sandy clay loam formed in alluvium Jocity-Claysprings derived mainly from shale and shaley sandstone, while the Claysprings clay complex (JS) formed in material derived from clayey shale on plains near the breaks to well defined drainageways. Erosion hazard is moderate for both soils in the complex. Moenkopie loamy sand, Found on hills and broad plains. Formed in material weathered from hard 0% to 8% slopes (MKB) sandstone on hills and broad plains. Erosion hazard is moderate. Nearly level soil found mainly on broad, smooth floodplains (associated with Navajo clay (NC) Nine-Mile Wash at Petrified Forest National Park). Formed in alluvium derived from shale, sandstone, and basalt. Erosion hazard is slight. Nearly level soil consisting of finely stratified soil material that is subject to Riverwash (RH) frequent overflow and to modification resulting from the overflow. Found on floodplains (associated with Puerco River at Petrified Forest National Park). Consists of shallow and very shallow soil material, mostly loam and sandy loam, over shale. It is steep on dissected terrace breaks, and shale outcrops are Rough broken land (RO) prominent. Parent material are mostly shales of the Chinle Formation. Erosion hazard is very high, and geologic erosion is active. Found on mesa caps and breaks. Parent rock is of the Moenkopi, Chinle, or Dakota Formations. It is approximately 50% sandstone rock, 35% very shallow Sandstone Rock Land or shallow, coarse/moderately coarse textured soils underlain by sandstone, 7% (SA) rough broken land, 5% Badland, and 3% Tours soils. Erosion hazard is moderate. Undulating soil found on dunes and broad plains. Formed in eolian sand on Sheppard loamy sand, dunes and broad, undulating plains. Water erosion hazard is slight, but wind 0% to 8% slopes (SMB) erosion hazard is high. Nearly level soil found on broad floodplains and alluvial fans. Formed in alluvium Tours clay loam (TO) derived from sandstone, shale, and basalt. Erosion hazard is slight.

______Source: USDA, SCS 1975.

109 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

USGS 1999). These soils also appear to Petrified Forest National Park is not the enhance the ability of a plant species to primary trip destination for most visitors. survive in arid environments. Many studies Other sites on visitor itineraries commonly have shown increases in plant survival include National Park, and/or nutrient content in plants growing in Wupatki National Monument, cryptobiotic soil-covered environments, as Volcano National Monument, Walnut opposed to bare soil (BLM, NPS, and Canyon National Monument, Hubbell USGS 1999). Trading Post National Historic Site, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Meteor Crater National Landmark, and the VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND Navajo and Hopi Reservations. APPRECIATION

Seeing petrified wood and viewing the Annual park visitation from 1991 to 2000 Painted Desert are the two most common ranged from 605,312 to 935,185 visitors. reasons people give for visiting the park. Visitation was relatively high in the early Eighty-five percent of visitors stop at 1990s, peaked in 1995, and declined each Painted Desert overlooks. More than half year since then. Some general trends in also stop to enjoy the following park park visitation are summarized below. locations: Painted Desert Inn, Painted Desert visitor center, Puerco Pueblo, Monthly visitation peaks in July, but visitor Newspaper Rock, Jasper Forest, Blue Mesa, numbers are high throughout the summer Rainbow Forest Museum, Crystal Forest, months. An increase in visitation is usually Giant Logs, and Long Logs (Delost and Lee noted from mid-December until mid-Janu- 2001). ary as people travel during the holidays. During spring and autumn months seniors A wide variety of visitor experiences are and school groups increase. available in the park’s frontcountry including day hiking on established trails; A study of petrified wood theft (Roggen- picnicking; viewing scenic vistas, historic buck et al. 1997) and a recent visitor study properties and wildlife; auto touring; and (Delost and Lee 2001) provide some informational and interpretive (educational) information about visitor characteristics. opportunities. The latter are discussed in Park visitors tend to be highly educated and detail below. have relatively high incomes. Most visitors come in family groups that include children Backcountry experiences tend to be less or adolescents. Average group size is just diverse due to the nature of the resource. over three people. About one-quarter of Much of the backcountry is managed as groups include a member over 65 years of wilderness and there are few maintained age. About three-quarters of all visitors are trails, no reliable water sources, and visiting the park for the first time. Average summer temperatures can soar to over length of stay in the park is 2.4 hours. 100ºF. Thunderstorms can turn dry washes About 10% of visitors are Arizona resi- into rushing torrents. For these reasons, dents, with California the next most relatively few visitors venture into the common state of residence. backcountry. Day hiking and overnight backpacking are the most common types of

110 The Affected Environment backcountry experience. Horseback riding in the park are inaccessible to those with is allowed in the backcountry and the area limited physical abilities. However, most is accessed in this manner by a few visitors. visitor-oriented areas (e.g., visitor centers, gift shops, and restrooms) of the buildings Information and interpretation is a critical are accessible. Most scenic viewpoints are aspect of visitor experience and appreci- accessible, but there are no accessible trails. ation. At Petrified Forest, information and Petrified Forest National Park is aware of interpretation is provided at information this deficiency and is currently conducting desks, ranger-led walks, museum exhibits at a trail accessibility survey. In general, Painted Desert visitor center, Rainbow accessibility improvements are made as Forest and Painted Desert Inn, and commer- buildings are rehabilitated or renovated, cial bus tours. In addition, the National Park according to the Americans with Service provides educational programs for Disabilities Act of 1990. school groups, a junior ranger program, an orientation film (shown at the Painted NATIONAL PARK OPERATIONS Desert visitor center), wayside exhibits, and several self-guided nature trails. Operations A variety of visitor services are provided within the park. The nonprofit Petrified Petrified Forest National Park is admin- Forest Museum Association operates istered by a superintendent and several bookstores at three locations—Painted division chiefs. Operations are managed out Desert Inn, Rainbow Forest Museum, and of the Painted Desert headquarters area, the Painted Desert visitor center. AMFAC where most staff is located. Further assign- Resorts, L.L.C., operates a gift shop, café, ments of staff are made from headquarters and gas station / mini-mart at the Painted to fulfill other park operational Desert headquarters, and a gift shop and requirements. snack bar at Rainbow Forest. These con- cession services are provided under a Management of Petrified Forest National contract with the National Park Service. Park is organized into the following main

functions. About half of all visitors purchase at least one item at park gift shops. About 21% of Administration visitors purchase petrified wood inside the park (this wood is collected outside the Administration provides coordination, park) at concession-run gift shops. About guidance, and is responsible for the park 22% purchase petrified wood outside the budget and fiscal and real property park. NPS Management Policies (2001) management activities. All contracting and prohibits the sale of original fossil speci- purchasing for the park is conducted mens within the park, so petrified wood through this division. It also has sales within the park will be discontinued responsibility for human resources, once the current concession contract information management, and housing expires. administration in the park.

Opportunities for limited-mobility visitors are few. Portions of every public building

111 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Interpretation and Education systems, picnic areas, roads, park signs, and vehicles. Interpretation and education is responsible for the interpretation of identified park Resource Management themes, education services for diverse audiences, and providing information and Resource management is responsible for orientation for park visitors through management of natural and cultural personal and non-personal services such as resources. It also oversees the research the park Web site, publications, exhibits, program; consults with outside experts, and Volunteer-In-The-Parks program. This agencies, and associated tribes; plans for function manages the Rainbow Forest future research and management needs; Museum, Painted Desert visitor center, and monitors and protects resources; ensures Painted Desert Inn, in close cooperation that management has pertinent scientific with the Petrified Forest Museum information on which to base decisions; and Association. provides information for staff and visitor education. Protection Museum Collections Management Protection is responsible for visitor and employee safety, resource protection, Resource management and interpretation emergency response, park and facility and education share museum collections patrols, security, emergency medical management and library management services, search and rescue, structural and responsibilities. The park’s museum wildland fire, law enforcement, air collection includes natural objects (fossils, operations, resource protection education, floral and faunal specimens) and cultural dispatch, and concession operations in the objects (pottery and other material culture), park. The protection function also provides archives, and photographs. emergency and law enforcement response and aid to local, county, and state agencies Facilities through cooperative agreements.

Fee Collection Facilities at Petrified Forest National Park 2 were recently inventoried (e M 2001), and Fee collection is associated with the existing spaces and current park space protection division and is responsible for needs were compared. The study examined revenue management, greeting visitors, facilities in three areas within the park visitor safety, and dissemination of the (Rainbow Forest, Painted Desert Inn, and resource protection messages. Painted Desert headquarters complex). Holbrook housing was considered in this Maintenance study only as available residential units and not included in the square footage analysis. Maintenance is responsible for the The space-needs assessment concluded that operation and maintenance of all park approximately 70,000-square feet of space facilities and equipment including: utilities is being used at the park. Additional space (water, wastewater, power, and solid needs were identified totaling approxi- waste), structures and grounds, frontcountry mately 16,700-square feet. The total and backcountry visitor use areas, trail amount of square feet of the three park

112 The Affected Environment locations equals approximately 102,000- duplex has been converted to a single square feet. Although adequate space exists residence for a concessions staff member. to house needed uses, structure integrity, space type (office vs. storage building), and Maintenance facilities include an oil and functional relationship (physical relation- hazardous materials storage building ship to other related functions) prevent the (where evidence and other materials are space from being used. also stored) and a long garage structure where the park fire truck is kept. A Condition Assessment and Preservation Plan (NPS 2001b) is also underway for Overall, the buildings at Rainbow Forest various structures at Rainbow Forest and are listed in fair condition. A complete list the Painted Desert headquarters complex. of deficiencies and recommendations are The plan will assist the park with under- included in the condition assessment report, standing the condition of its historic and include: structures, and outlines general recommen- dations for the maintenance and preser- exterior shows signs of weathering vation of these structures. The buildings interior walls do not provide were surveyed and assessed for arch- adequate fire ratings itectural, structural, life safety, mechanical, buildings are not universally and electrical condition. accessible buildings do not have fire detection, Rainbow Forest fire alarms, and fire suppression systems Eight units originally designed as site drainage is causing flooding of residences are located in this part of the building interiors park. Two residences are currently roofs need to be replaced occupied by NPS employees, another is available as a temporary residence, four are Painted Desert Inn not being used, and one (a studio unit) is used as a break room for interpretive and The Painted Desert Inn area in the north protection staff based in the museum. A section of the park includes the historic inn picnic pavilion for residents and visitors and its grounds and two associated historic alike is located east of the residences at residences. Currently, the inn is used for Rainbow Forest. interpretive purposes, with exhibits, book- store, and publications storage. The historic The Rainbow Forest Museum / visitor residences are not currently being used. contact station and the concessions building are the only two visitor service facilities in The conditions of the buildings at the this area. The museum, which is not fully Painted Desert Inn range from fair to poor. accessible, has interpretive exhibits, a Poor construction and inadequate repairs bookstore, offices for interpretation and have resulted in major structural problems protection staff, cooperating association at the inn, including significant cracks in storage (publications), and restrooms. The interior and exterior walls. Because the concessions building, which has been historic residences are not being used, they greatly enlarged over the years through are also deteriorating. several additions, offers food services, a gift shop, and restrooms. The freestanding

113 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

The Painted Desert Inn will undergo major Park administration and management rehabilitation in 2003; this work is part of offices are generally located on the second all alternatives in this GMP Revision. floor of the visitor center in the head- quarters area. This area also includes a Painted Desert Headquarters Complex small conference room, two small libraries, and a supply storage area. Petrified Forest The Painted Desert headquarters complex National Park interpretive staff occupies the includes park housing units, visitor former park school building, which is used services, park maintenance, and park for audiovisual equipment storage, work- administration, with a central courtyard. stations, and interpretive staff offices. The Residential units include 18 three-bedroom U.S. Postal Service also manages a small units (6 triplexes) with detached carports, 8 post office in the building. one-bedroom apartments connected to the visitor center, and 2 one-bedroom units A community building is located in the configured in a duplex. The apartments are Painted Desert headquarters complex and is used for housing and adaptively for offices. used for visitor and/or park staff functions Three of the three-bedroom units are unsafe that must accommodate large groups such due to structural deterioration. Several other as training or special presentations. units are also vacant, some due to mainten- ance problems that require additional There is a trailer parking area east of the funding to repair. complex that is used by concessions and Arizona Department of Public Safety The Painted Desert visitor center is the personnel who live at the park. Associated primary location for visitor information and with this area is a trailer storage building orientation at Petrified Forest National that is used for resource management, Park. It consists of a bookstore, very limited interpretation, maintenance, fitness center, exhibit space, cooperating association and Petrified Forest Museum Association storage, auditorium, and museum collec- dry storage. East of this area is a house tions office and storage. The adjacent occupied by one of the concessions staff concessions building includes a gift shop, members. food services, restrooms, concessions offices, and a gasoline service station / The buildings at the Painted Desert mini-mart. headquarters complex are listed in poor to good condition (table 9) (NPS 2001b). The Painted Desert headquarters complex Some structures have major structural also includes most of the maintenance problems as a result of poor construction, facilities for the park. These facilities inadequate repairs, and altered stormwater include carpenter, automotive, sign, drainage patterns. Roofs leak, frequently electrical, welding, and plumbing shops; damaging walls, floors, equipment, and and storage areas for the snow plow, fire supplies. Many interior and exterior walls and rescue cache, oil and hazardous have significant cracks. Rainwater and materials, vehicles, dry storage, and offices. snowmelt drip from roof edges to form An outside storage yard for large materials pools on sidewalks and cause an ice safety (“bone yard”) is located northeast of the hazard in freezing weather. The roofs of headquarters complex. two maintenance buildings, the school house, apartment wing, and a covered

114 The Affected Environment walkway in the headquarters complex have Vehicle access to Petrified Forest National recently been replaced. In addition, the Park is provided by I-40 (north end of the roofs of structures 207, 208, and 209 (three- park) and US 180 (the south end of the bedroom residences) were recently park); approximately 65% of all vehicles replaced. Funding has been requested to enter through the I-40 entrance. The address the remainder of the roofing Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railroad also situation. passes through the park. Vehicle access through the park is limited to the main park Deficiencies for Painted Desert head- road and its associated spur roads. An quarters complex buildings are much more unmaintained trace of historic Route 66 extensive due to improper soil preparation passes through the park north of I-40. and poor construction (lack of structural reinforcing), and they are further compli- Campgrounds cated by building modifications. In addition to having structural problems, the buildings Backcountry camping is allowed by permit, are not universally accessible; they lack fire but there are no designated campgrounds detection, fire alarms, and fire suppression within the park. Campgrounds are systems; heating, ventilation, and air- available, however, just outside the south conditioning systems are not working park entrance, in Holbrook, and near I-40 properly; and fire exits are too few and too between the park and Holbrook. far apart. Table 9 summarizes the condition of major NPS-owned buildings in the Operational Efficiency Painted Desert headquarters complex. This information is taken from the draft condition assessment report (NPS 2001b). The operational efficiency of the park is not optimal. All park operations are located in Holbrook Housing historic or potentially historic structures, many of which are being adaptively reused The National Park Service owns 11 two- and are deteriorating. Office and storage and three-bedroom houses in Holbrook, space is limited, and most buildings are not Arizona. Currently, eight of these units are universally accessible. Several structures, in use. including residences, lack proper fire suppression, are not large enough to meet Trails and Roads their intended needs, and represent health and safety risks. Because all administrative Trails are located at the following park functions are located in the headquarters features: Long Logs / Agate House, Giant area, communication between staff is good. Logs, Tawa Point (Rim Trail), Crystal Forest, Blue Mesa, Puerco Pueblo, and Emergency response time in the park is Kachina Point. There are no backcountry good throughout. Because protection campgrounds at Petrified Forest National personnel are available at both ends of the Park, and the trail from Kachina Point that park, routine emergencies are generally leads down the steep rim face to the Painted easily handled. Desert gradually disappears.

115 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 9. BUILDING CONDITION ASSESSMENT SUMMARY – PAINTED DESERT HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX

Building Condition Major Issues

Structure is not stable—settlement of the floor slab, foundations, cracking and settlement of the walls in the one-story section of the building. The interior floor slab in the southwest corner of the building has settled approximately 2 inches. The courtyard wall has settled and pulled away from the southwest Visitor Center / corner of the building. Fair to good Administration Settlement, cracking, and separation of the walls in the area of the boiler room, transformer room, and at the transition from the visitor center to the maintenance building. Wall has displaced an inch or more laterally. The east end of the south wall (outside of the boiler room) is also severely cracked. If settlement and cracking continues to occur, a portion of either of these walls could collapse, leading to failure of the roof. Of serious concern is the settlement, cracking, and separation of Maintenance Fair the walls where this building joins the one story wing of the visitor Building center / administration building. Structural settlement and cracking Apartments Fair to good Damage from past roof leaks One unit uninhabitable Serious cracking and settlement problems with the walls. The expansion control joint on the west wall has separated and displaced. Longitudinal exterior masonry walls appear to have rotated away Community from the transverse walls. This has caused cracking in the Fair Building transverse walls. This rotation may be due to poor footing design, or lack of reinforcing in the corners. While the roof may be restraining this movement, movement does appear to be getting worse. If this rotation continues, the walls could fail by falling “out” of the building. Most obvious problems are the condition of the exterior walls, doors School Building Fair and windows, and the problems in the mechanical room. The building looks worn, neglected, and dirty. The most pressing problems are structural concerns and roofing. In several of the units there are serious cracking and settlement problems along interior and exterior walls, courtyard walls, and floor slabs. Cracks reappear soon after they are repaired, indicating still- active settlement. In some cases, where cracks go completely through the concrete walls, no reinforcing is visible inside of the walls. In other cases, it is possible to see that the masonry walls are not built directly over the foundations; in several places the 201–203, vertical steel reinforcing comes up outside of the surface of the 3-Bedroom Fair to good walls. Residences Past roof leaks have contributed to the structural damage, as well as damaging nonstructural materials and interior and exterior finishes. Damage also creates a health and safety problem by allowing water into the electrical system and fixtures, as well as into the heating and cooling systems; and moisture in the structure and building materials contributes to the growth of mold and mildew, threatening user health.

116 The Affected Environment

Building Condition Major Issues

The most pressing problems are structural concerns and roofing. In several of the units, there are serious cracking and settlement problems along interior and exterior walls, courtyard walls, and floor slabs. Cracks reappear soon after they are repaired, indicating still- active settlement. In some cases, where cracks go completely Buildings 204– through the concrete walls, no reinforcing is visible inside of the 209, Fair to good walls. In other cases, it is possible to see that the masonry walls 3-Bedroom are not built directly over the foundations; in several places the Residences vertical steel reinforcing comes up outside of the surface of the walls. One particularly bad area is located at the southeast corner of unit 207—the walls have been bolted together to keep them from falling down. The most pressing problems are structural concerns and roofing. In several of the units, there are serious cracking and settlement problems. Along interior and exterior walls, courtyard walls, and Building 210– floor slabs. Cracks reappear soon after they are repaired, indicating 215, still-active settlement. In some cases, where cracks go completely Fair to good 3-Bedroom through the concrete walls, no reinforcing is visible inside of the Residences walls. In other cases, it is possible to see that the masonry walls are not built directly over the foundations. In several places the vertical steel reinforcing comes up outside of the surface of the walls. Buildings 216– 218, These buildings are not being occupied and are uninhabitable due Poor 3-Bedroom to their poor condition. Residences Past roof leaks have damaged wood framing, nonstructural materials, and interior and exterior finishes. One portion of the ceiling in unit J has collapsed and there is quite Buildings J and a bit of damage to the walls in the living room. Damage creates a K "Teachers Fair to good safety problem by allowing water into the electrical system and Residences" fixtures, as well as into the heating and cooling systems; and the presence of moisture in the structure and building materials contributes to the growth of mold and mildew, threatening user health.

is rapidly expanding, is housed in the Administrative Access to Museum headquarters complex in an inadequate Collection room in a building that has major environ- mental and structural problems. The Some paleontological artifacts excavated building also lacks adequate security from Petrified Forest National Park are systems. There is convenient access to the stored offsite at various institutions. collection by park staff and onsite Convenient access to these collections is researchers. not optimal for onsite park staff.

Onsite storage facilities for museum collections do not meet current NPS curatorial standards and are often shared with other functions. The collection, which

117 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Energy Requirements and The Painted Desert headquarters complex Conservation Potential was built during the early 1960s, at a time when energy costs were low and few Petrified Forest National Park receives most energy-saving methods were employed. of its electrical energy from conventional Buildings were constructed with minimal sources such as coal-fired power plants. insulation, and windows were typically Solar energy is used to power small pieces single-pane with no insulating qualities. As of equipment, including park gates and a result, heating and cooling efficiency is emergency telephones. In general, energy limited in these buildings, and energy consumed by the park is used to heat, cool, requirements are higher than those for a and light buildings, provide power to complex built with state-of-the-art facilities such as maintenance shops and technologies and materials. park residences, run a network of computers, and provide interpretive SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES programs (e.g., the visitor center audiovisual program). The park has requested technical and financial assistance Regional Setting from the Department of Energy to help establish a fuel cell / solar electrical backup Petrified Forest National Park is located in system for the Painted Desert visitor a remote, arid, and sparsely populated area complex. This system would provide of northeast Arizona, about 27 miles east of emergency and operational electrical Holbrook, and 15 miles west of Navajo. backup power and would constitute a test Most of the park, approximately 70,493 program for efficiency, sustainability, acres, including the Painted Desert suitability, and future potential of fuel cell headquarters complex, is in Apache County technology. and the remainder in Navajo County.

At the Rainbow Forest and Painted Desert The Navajo Reservation abuts the northern Inn, energy requirements and conservation and northeastern boundary of the park. The potential would not be affected sufficiently remaining adjacent land is a checkerboard by implementing any alternative to warrant of public and private lands alternating in further consideration in this document. A square-mile sections. Most of the land has few small, new structures would be built at been managed as part of large cattle ranches Rainbow Forest and none at the Painted for the past 120 years. I-40 passes through Desert Inn; general operations would the northern segment of the park and is the remain the same in both areas. Thus, the primary highway access to Petrified Forest environment at Rainbow Forest and the National Park. US 180 provides access Painted Desert Inn is not anticipated to from the south into Rainbow Forest. change in regard to energy requirements and conservation potential. In contrast, Existing conditions for the affected energy requirements and conservation socioeconomic environment are described potential at the Painted Desert headquarters below. Based on the location of the park, complex would be affected and is therefore highway networks, distances to nearby addressed as follows. communities, and residency patterns of park staff, the region of influence encompasses adjacent portions of Apache

118 The Affected Environment and Navajo Counties and includes the city averages compare to Arizona’s statewide of Holbrook. average of 5.7% for Arizona in 2002.

Population TABLE 10. TOTAL COUNTY EMPLOYMENT, 1981 TO 2001

Apache Navajo Apache County encompasses about 11,205- Year square miles and has a population of County County 69,423. St. Johns is the county seat and 1981 14,271 21,081 home to approximately 6% of county 1991 17,764 26,353 residents. Eagar is the largest town and has 7%, and Springerville has 3% of the 2001 24,656 34,345 population (2000 Census). The remaining Percent 72% 62% 84% live in smaller communities or on the Change

White Mountain Apache and Navajo ______Reservations. Apache County’s population Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of increased by 12.7% from 1990 to 2000. Economic Analysis, August 2003.

Neighboring Navajo County covers 9,953- In Apache County, the two largest private, square miles and has a population of non-farm industries are retail trade (17% or 97,470. Holbrook is the county seat and 2,525 of the total employment) and services home to approximately 6% of county (56% or 8,073 of the total employment). In residents. Twelve percent live in Winslow, Navajo County, the two largest private non- the largest town in the area (2000 Census). farm industries are also retail trade (25% or Thirty percent of Navajo County residents 6,624 of the total employment) and services live on the White Mountain Apache, Hopi, (39% or 10,137 of the total employment). and Navajo Reservations. Navajo County population increased by 25.5% from 1990 Local employment in the retail trade and to 2000. services industries is supported in part by the needs of travelers through the area. Economic Conditions Originating with stagecoach travel, such needs evolved over time to highway- oriented travel served by clusters of gas During 1999, employment in Apache stations, cafés, and small motels dotting the County totaled 21,315 full- and part-time landscape along the highways. Due to jobs, and employment in Navajo County changing economic conditions, many of totaled 33,660 jobs. Table 10 illustrates those establishments are now closed. Many changes in employment during the past 20 travelers are tourists visiting Petrified years. Forest National Park on their way to Flagstaff and other attractions. Conse- Unemployment in the region for calendar quently, highway travel-oriented services year 2002 averaged 12.9% in Apache are dispersed along I-40. Overnight lodging County and 10.2% in Navajo County is available in Holbrook and Chambers. (Arizona Department of Commerce 2003). Unemployment in Holbrook was 5.7% in Table 11 categorizes regional employment. 2000 and dropped to 5.1% in 2002 (Arizona Private, non-farm employment for this Department of Commerce 2003a). These region consists of mining, construction,

119 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT manufacturing, transportation and public During the 1990s, total personal income utilities, wholesale trade, retail trade, growth ranged from 79% to 80% in Apache finance, insurance, real estate, and services. and Navajo Counties. Apache County registered total personal income of about $1,007,302 in 2001, while Navajo County Personal Income registered $1,480,330 in personal income. Some of the growth in total personal Total and per capita personal income trends income can be attributed to increases in over time in the two counties mirror local employment combined with higher differences in their dependency on travel wages. However, growth was dampened by and tourism. As shown in table 12 and table slowing tourism. 13, total personal and per capita income in the two counties has risen over time and is slightly higher in Navajo County.

TABLE 11. EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR CATEGORY, 2001

Arizona Apache County Navajo County Statewide Employment by Major Category Farm 271 448 19,429 Private Nonfarm 11,742 23,248 2,441,222 Government and Government Enterprises 12,643 10,649 398,592 24,656 34,345 2,859,243 Distribution by Major Category Farm 1% 1% 1% Private Nonfarm 48% 68% 85% Government and Government Enterprises 51% 31% 14% 100% 100% 100%

______Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, August 2003.

TABLE 12. PERSONAL INCOME

1991 2001 Change

Apache County $579,094 $1,007,302 73%

Navajo County $832,052 $1,480,330 77%

Arizona $66,077,264 $137,331,072 208%

Below-average personal incomes translate cutoff) that are substantially above the into local poverty percentages (“poverty national average. According to the U.S. level” is generally used for an income Census Bureau, 13.3% of the nation’s

120 The Affected Environment population lived in poverty in 1997. This As a result of weak economic conditions, figure is higher in Apache and Navajo per capita personal incomes in the region Counties: 39.7% and 28.4%, respectively. have persistently lagged behind state and The percentage for Apache County is more national averages. Per capita personal than double the Arizona statewide average income in 2001 was $14,802 in Apache of 15.5% for the same period. County and $14,934 in Navajo County, compared with the national average of $30,413.

TABLE 13. PER CAPITA PERSONAL INCOME

Percent of Geographic Area 1991 2001 2001 U.S.

U.S. $20,023 $30,413 100%

Arizona – Statewide $17,441 $25,878 85%

Apache County $9,246 $14,802 49%

Navajo County $10,572 $14,934 49%

______Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, August 2003.

The historically low per capita personal 36.6% in Navajo County, but most of these income is an indication of a depressed units are listed as seasonal, recreational, or economy. occasional-use units. Rental vacancy for Apache and Navajo Counties are 13.5% and 9.6%, respectively. Housing

The concentration of homes nearest Housing stock and availability in the region Petrified Forest National Park is in reflects the size and distribution of the Holbrook, Arizona. Only a few privately corresponding population base in each owned homes are located close to the park county. Thus, most of the housing is such as farm residences adjacent to the park concentrated in or near key communities in in Apache and Navajo Counties. each county and many of the remaining units are associated with local ranch and The park has 31 housing units on its official farm operations dispersed throughout rural inventory. Including 11 units in Holbrook, portions of the county. there are a total of 50 units that were built as residences. However, seven units are Total housing stock from Census 2000 being adaptively reused for other purposes, numbered 31,621 units in Apache County three are unstable, and 11 are not on the and 47,413 units in Navajo County. Overall inventory due to maintenance deficiencies vacancy rates were high in the region, or safety concerns. ranging from 36.8% in Apache County to

121 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 14. HOUSING UNITS Area Homeowner Homeowner Vacant Units for Seasonal, Vacancy Rate Percent Vacant Occupied Units Occasional Use Recreational, or Recreational, Vacant Units Listed Total Housing Units Units Housing Total Rental Vacancy Rate Apache 31,621 19,971 11,650 36.8 6,530 2.0 13.5 County Navajo 47,413 30,043 17,370 36.6 13,007 2.8 9.6 County Holbrook 1,906 1,626 280 14.7 16 3.1 20.8

______Source: U.S. Commerce Department, Bureau of the Census, July 2001.

The average commute time for employees and surrounding region, including Petrified living in Holbrook is approximately 30 Forest National Park employees and their minutes each way. Employees who live in families. These functions include churches, the park have a similar commute to schools, community college, the newspaper, Holbrook for groceries and other grocery store, cafés, automotive shops, and necessities. hotels. Holbrook has two elementary schools, one junior high, and one high school. The park’s link to Holbrook is Nearby Communities strengthened by the fact that about 22 permanent park employees live in Holbrook Petrified Forest National Park’s key visitor and its outskirts (including Woodruff), facilities and onsite staff housing are all either in private homes or park-owned located more than 25 miles from nearby housing. The park acquired 11 units in communities. Consequently, the park is Holbrook in 1996, when the U.S. Air Force self-sufficient in many respects. For conveyed the housing complex and example, the park operates its own waste- property to the National Park Service, as water treatment systems, waterlines, water authorized by 1995 legislation (PL 103- storage tanks, and fire equipment; and the 337). In addition, seasonal staff is U.S. Postal Service manages a small post commonly hired from the Holbrook office in the park. However, the park buys community. The park cooperating water from the Navajo Tribal Utilities association and concessions hire staff from Authority. Other important economic, Holbrook as well as other areas. social, and public service links also exist between the park and nearby communities. Other socioeconomic ties to Petrified Forest National Park include temporary housing at The strongest such link exists with the park for Arizona Department of Public Holbrook, Arizona (population 4,917). Safety and concessions employees. Holbrook provides essential retail and service functions for residents of the town

122 The Affected Environment

Baseline Socioeconomic Factors and benefits paid to park staff). In fiscal Related to Petrified Forest National year 2001, for example, 81% of the Park operating budget was devoted to personnel costs. The remainder was allocated to Visitors to Petrified Forest National Park, facility and vehicle maintenance, utilities, park staff, and their households are integral miscellaneous supplies, travel, and the like. parts of the region’s economic and social Substantial portions of annual expenditures structure. Some of the key dimensions of circulate through the regional economy in the park’s role within the affected the form of consumer and business environment are described below. purchases, yielding indirect economic impacts. Staffing at Petrified Forest National Park has risen over time as visitation has Under current law, federal landholders are increased and visitor facilities, trails, and expected to compensate local governments other improvements have been planned and for losses to their tax base that federal completed. Authorized staffing at Petrified ownership implies. The most common Forest National Park is presently 45 full- compensation program is known as time equivalent employees. In addition, Payments in Lieu of Taxes, or PILT. construction contractors, seasonal Payments are calculated following a employees, researchers, cooperators, and complex formula that takes into account the volunteers supplement park staff. population of the county, change in the Consumer Price Index, previous payments Another measure of Petrified Forest under other compensation programs, and National Park’s economic role is the state pass-through laws (requiring payments stimulus provided by ongoing operating and to pass from counties to local communities capital expenditures. The budget for fiscal rather than staying with the county govern- year 2001 was $2,449,295. The largest ment). Recent PILT payments from federal share of Petrified Forest National Park’s agencies to Navajo and Apache Counties annual operating budget is salaries (wages are listed in table 15.

TABLE 15. PILT PAYMENTS BY ALL FEDERAL AGENCIES IN APACHE AND NAVAJO COUNTIES

1999 2000 2001

Apache County 680,968 680,968 680,968 Acres (63,866 NPS) (63,866 NPS) (63,866 NPS) Payments $ 489,540.00 $ 523,885.00 $ 745,100.00 Navajo County 597,161 596,483 596,483 Acres (18,904 NPS) (18,904 NPS) (18,904 NPS)

Payments $ 415,070.00 $ 435,596.00 $ 641, 880.00

In addition to the direct stimulus to Petrified Forest National Park contributes attributable to the park, spending by visitors (significantly) to the local economy. Trends

123 CHAPTER 3: THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT in visitation are most likely attributable to Policies (2001) stipulate that original regional travel trends, gas prices, paleontological objects will not be sold at demographics, and the like. Annual park national parks. Thus, when the current visitation from 1991 to 2000 ranged from concession contract expires, petrified wood 605,312 to 935,185 visitors. Visitation was will no longer be sold in the park. In a 1997 relatively high in the early 1990s. It peaked study, 75 (of 178 visitors surveyed) spent in 1995 and has declined each year since an average of $14.91 purchasing petrified then. wood that is legally collected on lands outside the park at park concession The direct population associated with facilities. Figures were approximately the Petrified Forest National Park, that is, NPS same for wood purchased outside the park employees, their spouses, and children (Roggenbuck et al. 1997). living at home, presently numbers approximately 75. The cooperating Cooperating Association association and concession population associated with the park is about 36 and 132 individuals, respectively. Because of The Petrified Forest Museum Association the distance from the park to local schools was established and approved in 1941 by in Holbrook, some park staff families with the Secretary of the Interior. The associa- school-age children choose to live in tion is a nonprofit, non-governmental Holbrook for convenience. Others home organization whose principal objective is to school their children. aid preservation and interpretation of the park. The association operates three book sales outlets in the park at the Painted Concessions Desert visitor center, Painted Desert Inn, and Rainbow Forest Museum. It also The park currently has a concession publishes park-specific books for sale and contract with AMFAC Resorts, L.L.C. prints free informational materials such as (under the Fred Harvey Company name) for the park newspaper, brochures, flyers, and a gasoline station / mini-mart services at site bulletins. Proceeds from the sale of park headquarters, and food services and publications are used to support educational gift shops at headquarters and Rainbow and interpretive activities and research in Forest. National Park Service Management the park.

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

unavoidable adverse effects, effects from INTRODUCTION short-term uses and long-term productivity, and irreversible and irretrievable commit- NEPA mandates that environmental impact ments of resources. statements disclose the environmental impacts of a proposed federal action. In this Note that aside from evaluating the case, the proposed federal action is the cumulative impacts for certain impact implementation of the GMP Revision for topics, the planning team did not reexamine Petrified Forest National Park. This chapter consequences of valid decisions from the analyzes the potential effects of the 1993 GMP. For additional information, see management alternatives on cultural chapter 1, “Sections and Decisions of the resources, natural resources, socioeconomic 1993 GMP that Remain Valid.” resources, visitor experience and appreciation, and park operations. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The alternatives in this document provide broad management direction. Because of The Council on Environmental Quality the general, conceptual nature of their regulations that implement NEPA, require potential consequences, the alternatives can assessment of cumulative impacts in the only be analyzed in general terms. Thus, decision-making process for federal this environmental impact statement should projects. Cumulative impacts are defined as be considered a programmatic document. follows: Prior to undertaking specific actions as a result of the GMP Revision, park managers The impact on the environ- will determine whether or not more detailed ment, which results from the environmental documents will need to be incremental impacts of the prepared, consistent with provisions of action when added to other NEPA. past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, The first part of this chapter discusses regardless of what agency policy and terminology related to (federal or non-federal) or cumulative impacts and impairment of park person undertakes such other resources. The next section discusses actions. Cumulative impacts methods that the planning team used to can result from individually identify impacts and includes definitions of minor, but collectively terms. The alternatives are then analyzed in significant, actions taking the order they appear in chapter 2, “Alter- place over a period of time natives.” Each impact topic includes a (40 CFR 1508.7). description of the positive and negative effects of the alternative, a discussion of Cumulative impacts are considered for both cumulative effects, and a conclusion. the no-action and action alternatives. To determine potential cumulative impacts, the At the end of the discussion for each planning team considered past actions by alternative, there is a brief discussion of the National Park Service and others, and it

127 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES consulted agencies and governments. Outside the park, where petrified wood is Development and industrial activities that found on private lands, it has been have occurred in the recent past, are now harvested for many years, and the underway, or would be implemented in the harvesting continues today. The wood is reasonably foreseeable future were then sold in many forms: raw, polished, included. fashioned into jewelry, bookends, furniture, and the like. These projects or actions were evaluated in combination with the impacts of each GMP Many other types of fossils have also Revision alternative to determine if any gradually disappeared from the park. This is cumulative effects on natural, cultural, due to a combination of factors including socioeconomic resources, visitor experience natural erosion, visitor use, the lack of an and appreciation, or park operations would active inventory and monitoring program, be expected. Because most of these cumu- and, to a lesser extent, theft. Fossil loss is lative actions are in the early planning particularly acute in areas where trails and stages, evaluation of cumulative impacts other visitor facilities are close to fossil was based on a general description of concentrations. projects or actions. Archeological sites inside and outside the Park buildings that are now considered park have been vandalized by pot hunters historic have undergone alterations in the and others. This problem continues today; past that were designed to improve their in fact, vandals destroyed a major archeo- function. For example, exterior surfaces and logical site located just outside the park in new rooms have been added to the early 2001. restaurant / gift shop building at the park headquarters complex. Some historic Semi-tractor trailer drivers frequently use structures have deteriorated from deferred the I-40 interchange ramps near the north maintenance or from actions that were well- entrance to the park as a parking / rest area. intentioned but had unexpected results, i.e., Some drivers throw bottles, cans, and other changes to gutters and surface drains were litter onto the highway right-of-way, made gradually over the years and are creating a significant visual and natural believed to have caused damage to resource problem. In cooperation with the foundations and walls. National Park Service, the Arizona Department of Transportation reconfigured Specific deposits of Petrified Forest’s the I-40 interchange, in part to reduce this petrified wood resources have significantly problem. diminished since Petrified Forest National Monument was established in 1906. A new truck stop is planned for lands Despite signs and information on park adjacent to I-40 and just east of the park. maps, visitors to the park continue to New businesses and new residences are displace or steal petrified wood. Petrified being built on lands near the park and a wood theft is prosecuted to the fullest residential development of about 20 houses extent, but as much as one ton of petrified is planned for Navajo lands just east of the wood is displaced or stolen by visitors each park. Grazing livestock may accompany the month. new residents.

128 Environmental Consequences

Numerous helium and carbon dioxide wells IMPAIRMENT OF NATIONAL PARK are planned for the area between the town RESOURCES of St. Johns (located about 40 miles southeast of the park) and the New Mexico National Park Service policy (Management border. Park managers are not sure what the Policies 2001) requires analysis of potential resource implications of these wells might effects to determine whether or not alter- be. natives or actions would impair park resources. The fundamental purpose of the Coal-powered, energy generating stations national park system, established by the operate near Joseph City, about 30 miles Organic Act and reaffirmed by the General west of the park, and near St. Johns, about Authorities Act, as amended, begins with a 40 miles southeast of the park. Other coal- mandate to conserve park resources and powered energy generating stations operate values. NPS managers must seek ways to near Springerville and Page, and several avoid, or minimize to the greatest degree additional coal-fired power plants have practicable, adversely impacting park been proposed for the region. resources and values. However, laws do give NPS management discretion to allow Specific projects that have recently been impacts to park resources and values when carried out or might be carried out by the necessary and appropriate to fulfill the National Park Service within the purposes of a park, as long as the impact foreseeable future include: does not constitute impairment of the affected resources and values. replacement of Jim Camp Wash bridge at Rainbow Forest (2002) Although Congress has given NPS conversion of Long Logs Road to a management discretion to allow certain pedestrian trail (2002) impacts within parks, that discretion is reroofing and rehabilitation of limited by the statutory requirement that the Painted Desert Inn (2002–2004) National Park Service must leave park conversion of a water-based system resources and values unimpaired, unless a to vault or pit toilets at Agate Bridge particular law directly and specifically / Jasper Forest (2003) provides otherwise. The prohibited address failing septic / leach field impairment is an impact that, in the systems at Chinde Point picnic area professional judgment of the responsible and Painted Desert Inn (2005) NPS manager, would harm the integrity of conversion of 1930s structures at park resources or values, including Agate Bridge and Puerco Pueblo opportunities that would otherwise be from restroom use to interpretive / present for the enjoyment of those resources shade structures (more in keeping or values. An impact to any park resource or with original use (2005) value may constitute an impairment. An replacement of sewer system lines at impact would be more likely to constitute Painted Desert complex and an impairment to the extent that it has a Rainbow Forest (2003) major or severe, adverse effect upon a removal of Puerco sewage lagoons resource or value whose conservation is: (2003) necessary to fulfill specific park purposes identified in the

129 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

establishing legislation or procla- resources, either listed in or eligible to be mation of the park listed in the NRHP; and (4) considering key to the natural or cultural ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate integrity of the park or to oppor- adverse effects. tunities for enjoyment of the park identified as a goal in the park’s Under the Advisory Council’s regulations, GMP or other relevant NPS a determination of either adverse effect or planning documents no adverse effect must also be made for affected cultural resources eligible for the Impairment may result from NPS activities NRHP. An adverse effect occurs whenever in managing the park, visitor activities, or an impact alters, directly or indirectly, any activities undertaken by concessioners, characteristic of a cultural resource that contractors, and others operating in the qualify it for inclusion in the NRHP, e.g., park. A determination concerning diminishing the integrity of the resource’s impairment is made in the conclusion location, design, setting, materials, section of each impact topic. workmanship, feeling, or association. Adverse effects also include reasonably foreseeable effects caused by alternative 2 IMPACTS TO CULTURAL that would occur later in time, be farther RESOURCES AND SECTION 106 OF removed in distance, or be cumulative (36 THE NATIONAL HISTORIC CFR Part 800.5, Assessment of Adverse PRESERVATION ACT Effects). A determination of no adverse effect means there is an effect, but the In this environmental impact statement, effect would not diminish in any way the impacts to historic structures and districts characteristics of the cultural resource that and archeological resources are described in qualify it for inclusion in the NRHP. terms of type, context, duration, and intensity, as described above, which is The Council on Environmental consistent with the regulations of the Quality regulations and the National Council on Environmental Quality that Park Service’s Conservation Plan- implement NEPA. These impact analyses ning, Environmental Impact Analy- are intended, however, to comply with the sis and Decision-making (Director’s requirements of both NEPA and section Order–12) also call for a discussion 106 of the National Historic Preservation of the appropriateness of mitigation, Act. In accordance with the Advisory as well as an analysis of how effec- Council on Historic Preservation’s tive the mitigation would be in regulations implementing section 106 of the reducing the intensity of a potential National Historic Preservation Act (36 CFR impact, e.g., reducing the intensity Part 800, Protection of Historic Properties), of an impact from major to moder- impacts to historic structures and districts ate or minor. Any resultant reduc- and archeological resources were identified tion in intensity of impact due to and evaluated by (1) determining the area mitigation, however, is an estimate of potential effects; (2) identifying cultural of the effectiveness of mitigation resources present in the area of potential under NEPA only. It does not effects that were either listed in or eligible suggest that the level of effect as to be listed in the NRHP; (3) applying the defined by section 106 is similarly criteria of adverse effect to affected cultural

130 Environmental Consequences reduced. Although adverse effects future under the action alternative with under section 106 may be mitigated, conditions 15 to 20 years in the future the effect remains adverse. under alternative 1. In other words, the impacts of the action alternatives describe A section 106 summary is included in the the difference between implementing impact analysis sections for historic alternative 1 and implementing the action structures and archeological resources alternative. To understand the consequences under alternative 2 and alternatives 3 and 4. of any action alternative, the reader must The section 106 summary is intended to also consider what would happen if no meet the requirements of section 106 and is action were taken. an assessment of the effect of the under- taking (implementation of the alternative) CULTURAL RESOURCES on cultural resources, based upon the criterion of effect and criteria of adverse effect found in Advisory Council Archeology regulations.

Certain important research questions about METHODS AND ASSUMPTIONS FOR human history can only be answered by the ANALYZING IMPACTS actual physical material of cultural resources. Archeological resources have the This section presents the methods used to potential to answer, in whole or in part, conduct the environmental impact analyses. such research questions. An archeological Each resource topic area includes a dis- site can be eligible to be listed in the NRHP cussion of impacts, including the intensity, if the site has yielded, or may be likely to duration, and type of impact. Impact yield, information important in prehistory intensity considers whether the impact or history. would be negligible, minor, moderate, or major. Impact duration considers whether All available information on archeological the impact would occur in the short term or resources was compiled from planning long term. Short-term impacts are those documents, research reports, and consul- that, within a short period of time, would no tation with park resource specialists. longer be detectable as the resource returns to its predisturbance condition or appear- Impacts are described in terms of duration ance, generally less than five years. Long- (short term or long term), type (beneficial term impacts refer to a change in a resource or adverse), context (site specific, local, or or its condition that is expected to persist regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, for five or more years. The type of impact moderate, or major). The thresholds of refers to whether the impact on the environ- change for the intensity of an impact are ment would be beneficial or adverse. defined as follows:

The impact analyses for alternative 1 Negligible: The impact is at the lowest compares resource conditions 15 to 20 levels of detection—barely perceptible years in the future with existing conditions and not measurable. today. The impact analyses for the action alternatives (alternative 2, 3, and 4) Minor: The impact is measurable or compare conditions 15 to 20 years in the perceptible, but slight and localized

131 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

within a relatively small area of a site Minor: The impact does not affect the or group of sites. The impact does not character-defining features of a NRHP affect the character-defining features of eligible or listed building, structure, or a NRHP eligible or listed archeological district. site and would not have a permanent effect on the integrity of any Moderate: For a NRHP eligible or archeological sites. listed building, structure, or district, the impact changes a character-defining Moderate: The impact is measurable feature(s) of the resource, but does not and perceptible. The impact changes diminish the integrity of the resource to one or more character-defining features the extent that its NRHP eligibility is of an archeological resource but does jeopardized. not diminish the integrity of the resource to the extent that its NRHP Major: For a NRHP eligible or listed eligibility is jeopardized. building, structure, or district, the impact changes a character-defining Major: The impact is substantial, feature(s) of the resource, diminishing noticeable, and permanent. The impact the integrity of the resource to the is severe or of exceptional benefit. For extent that it is no longer eligible to be NRHP eligible or listed sites, the listed on the NRHP. impact changes one or more character- defining feature, diminishing the Cultural Landscapes integrity of the resource to the extent that it is no longer eligible for listing on the NRHP. All available information on cultural landscapes was compiled from planning documents, research reports, surveys, and Historic Structures consultation with park resource specialists.

All available information on historic Impacts are described in terms of duration structures was compiled from planning (short term or long term), type (beneficial documents, research reports, surveys, and or adverse), context (site specific, local, or consultation with park resource specialists. regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, moderate, or major). The thresholds of Impacts are described in terms of duration change for the intensity of an impact are (short term or long term), type (beneficial defined as follows: or adverse), context (site specific, local, or regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, Negligible: The impact is at the lowest moderate, or major). The thresholds of levels of detection—barely perceptible change for the intensity of an impact are and not measurable. defined as follows: Minor: The impact does not affect the Negligible: The impact is at the lowest character-defining features of a NRHP levels of detection—barely perceptible eligible or listed cultural landscape. and not measurable. Moderate: For a NRHP eligible or listed cultural landscape, the impact

132 Environmental Consequences

changes a character-defining feature(s) of the landscape, but does not diminish Major: The impact is severe or of the integrity of the resource to the exceptional benefit. extent that its NRHP eligibility is jeopardized. MUSEUM COLLECTIONS

Major: For a NRHP-eligible or listed cultural landscape, the impact changes All available information on the museum a character-defining feature(s) of the collections was compiled from existing landscape, diminishing the integrity of planning documents, research reports, and the resource to the extent that it is no consultation with park resource specialists. longer eligible to be listed on the NRHP. Impacts are described in terms of duration (short term or long term), type (beneficial or adverse), context (site specific, local, or ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, moderate, or major). The thresholds of Ethnographic resources are those cultural change for the intensity of an impact are and natural resources to which park- defined as follows: associated communities ascribe cultural significance and that continue to play a role Negligible: The impact is at the lowest in a community’s identity and way of life. levels of detection—barely perceptible Only members of the communities to whom and not measurable. the resources hold cultural value can determine ethnographic resources and Minor: The impact is slight, but potential impacts to them. Information detectable. about ethnographic resources and impacts was determined in consultation with the Moderate: The impact is readily Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, Zuni Pueblo, apparent. and the White Mountain Apache Tribe. Major: The impact is severe or of Impacts are described in terms of duration exceptional benefit. (short term or long term), type (beneficial or adverse), context (site specific, local, or PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, moderate, or major). Thresholds of change for the intensity of an impact are defined as This section covers paleontological follows: resources. Other natural resource areas were dismissed as impact topics. Negligible: The impact is barely detectable. All available information on paleon- tological resources was compiled from Minor: The impact is slight, but existing planning documents, research detectable. reports, surveys, and consultation with park resource specialists. Moderate: The impact is readily apparent.

133 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Impacts are described in terms of duration level of detection—barely perceptible (short term or long term), type (beneficial and not measurable. or adverse), context (site specific, local, or regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, Minor: The impact to the site(s) or moderate, or major). For paleontological fossiliferous layer is slight but resources, the thresholds of change for the detectable. The impact affects a intensity of an impact are distinct for paleontological site(s) with modest petrified wood versus other fossils. They data potential. are defined as follows: Moderate: The impact to the site(s) or fossiliferous layer is readily apparent. Petrified Wood The impact affects a paleontological site(s) with high data potential. Negligible: The impact to a site with concentrations of petrified wood is at Major: The impact to the site(s) or its lowest levels of detection—barely fossiliferous layer is severe or of perceptible and not measurable. exceptional benefit. The impact affects a paleontological site with exceptional Minor: The impact to a site with data potential (e.g., a particular concentrations of petrified wood is sediment layer known to contain slight but detectable, or the impact to a significant concentrations of fossils or special site (one with dense unique fossils). concentrations or special kinds of petrified wood) is barely perceptible and difficult to measure. VEGETATION

Moderate: The impact to a site with All available information on vegetation was concentrations of petrified wood is compiled from existing planning docu- apparent, or the impact to a special site ments, research reports, and consultation (one with dense concentrations or with park specialists. special kinds of petrified wood) is detectable. Impacts are described in terms of duration (short term or long term), type (beneficial Major: The impact to a site with or adverse), context (site specific, local, or concentrations of petrified wood is regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, severe or of exceptional benefit, or the moderate, or major). The thresholds of impact to a special site (one with dense change for the intensity of an impact are concentrations or special kinds of defined as follows: petrified wood) is readily apparent. Negligible: The impact is barely detectable and/or would affect a Other Fossils minimal area of vegetation.

Negligible: The impact to the site(s) or Minor: The impact is slight, but fossiliferous (has the potential to detectable, and/or would affect a small contain fossils) layer is at its lowest area of vegetation.

134 Environmental Consequences

Moderate: The impact is readily VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND apparent and/or would affect a large APPRECIATION area of vegetation. All available information on visitor Major: The impact is severely adverse experience and appreciation was compiled or exceptionally beneficial and/or from existing planning documents, research would affect a substantial area of reports, and consultation with park vegetation. specialists.

SOILS Impacts are described in terms of duration (short term or long term), type (beneficial All available information on soils was or adverse), context (site specific, local, or compiled from existing planning docu- regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, ments, research reports, and consultation moderate, or major). The thresholds of with park specialists. change for the intensity of an impact are defined as follows: Impacts are described in terms of duration (short term or long term), type (beneficial Negligible: The impact is barely or adverse), context (site specific, local, or detectable and/or would affect few regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, visitors. moderate, or major). The thresholds of change for the intensity of an impact are Minor: The impact is slight, but defined as follows: detectable, and/or would affect some visitors. Negligible: The impact is barely detectable and/or would affect a Moderate: The impact is readily relatively minimal area of soil or soils apparent and/or would affect many with slight erosion hazards. visitors.

Minor: The impact is slight, but Major: The impact is severely adverse detectable, and/or would affect a or exceptionally beneficial and/or relatively small area of soil or soils would affect the majority of visitors. with moderate erosion hazards. NATIONAL PARK OPERATIONS Moderate: The impact is readily apparent and/or would affect a relatively large area of soil or soils General Operations with a high or very high erosion hazard. All available information on park operations was compiled from planning Major: The impact is severely adverse or documents, research reports, surveys, and exceptionally beneficial and/or would affect consultation with park resource specialists. a substantial area of soil with a very high erosion hazard. Impacts are described in terms of duration (short term or long term), type (beneficial or adverse), context (site specific, local, or

135 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, would not be of any measurable or moderate, or major). The thresholds of perceptible consequence. change for the intensity of an impact are defined as follows: Minor: An action that could change the energy requirements and conservation Negligible: An action that could potential of the park, but the change change the operations of the park, but would be slight and localized with few the change would be so small that it measurable consequences. would not be of any measurable or perceptible consequence. Moderate: An action that would result in readily apparent changes to the Minor: An action that could change the energy requirements and conservation operations of the park, but the change potential at the park, with measurable would be slight and localized with few consequences. measurable consequences. Major: A severely adverse or Moderate: An action that would result exceptionally beneficial change in park in readily apparent changes to park energy requirements and conservation operations with measurable potential. consequences.

SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES Major: A severely adverse or exceptionally beneficial change in park operations would result. Issues were identified through the scoping process. This section includes effects on adjacent landowners, nearby communities, Energy Requirements and concessioners, incidental business permit Conservation Potential holders, and cooperators (for example, the Petrified Forest Museum Association, the Information on park operations was Arizona Department of Public Safety, and compiled from existing planning docu- universities and museums that hold park ments, research reports, surveys, and museum specimens). The economic contri- consultation with park resource specialists. bution of the park to local economies, traditional land uses external to the park Impacts are described in terms of duration boundaries, and possible conflicts between (short term or long term), type (beneficial the local, state, or Indian tribal land use or adverse), context (site specific, local, or plans, policies, or controls were also regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, analyzed. moderate, or major). The thresholds of change for the intensity of an impact are Impacts are described in terms of duration defined as follows: (short term or long term), type (beneficial or adverse), context (site specific, local, or Negligible: An action that could regional), and intensity (negligible, minor, change the energy requirements and moderate, or major). The thresholds of conservation potential of the park, but change for the intensity of an impact are the change would be so small that it defined as follows:

136 Environmental Consequences

Negligible: The impact is barely Moderate: The impact is readily detectable and/or would not affect apparent and/or would affect many adjacent landowners, nearby commun- adjacent landowners, nearby communi- ities, concessioners, incidental business ties, concessioners, incidental business permit holders, and cooperators. permit holders, and cooperators.

Minor: The impact is slight, but Major: The impact is severely adverse detectable, and/or would affect a or of exceptional benefit and/or would minority of adjacent landowners, affect the majority of adjacent land- nearby communities, concessioners, owners, nearby communities, conces- incidental business permit holders, and sioners, incidental business permit cooperators. holders, and cooperators.

137

IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES resources. Park staff monitor sites for potential impacts from natural processes. If Current management policies and impacts a resource were in imminent danger, it would continue under alternative 1. Visitor would be recorded and recovered (when- use in areas of archeological sensitivity ever possible). This recovery would be results in inadvertent trampling of sites and performed in consultation with the Arizona moving of resources. More deliberate SHPO. The impacts from natural processes visitor impacts such as vandalism and theft are long term, localized, adverse, and minor also affect archeological resources. Because to major, depending on the site. the park contains a wealth of archeological sites, potential adverse impacts tend to be The Route 66 roadbed and the 35th Parallel/ widespread. Site-specific impacts are long Beale Camel Trail are currently not term, adverse, and range from minor to managed as archeological sites. Without major (depending on the site). Frontcountry active management, these landscapes areas are much more likely to be affected continue to degrade through use and/or than those in the backcountry due to the natural processes, resulting in potential loss numbers of visitors that the frontcounty of contributing elements that reflect their attracts compared with the backcountry. period of significance, resulting in minor to moderate, long-term, adverse impacts. As Livestock trespass (trampling) is a localized funding and staffing permit, these sites impact. Typically, impacts are concentrated would be evaluated to determine eligibility on the periphery of the park near drainages and appropriate management. and washes where it is easiest for livestock to cross over or under fences. Impacts to Cumulative Impacts. Archeological archeological sites are long term, adverse, resources within Petrified Forest National and minor to major depending on the site. Park are subject to damage from a variety of natural events and human activities. Park operations affect archeological sites in Development, park maintenance, vandal- various ways. Adverse impacts from ism, theft, traditional visitor use, and maintenance operations (e.g., grading natural processes all pose a threat to roads) and park facilities (e.g., water resources. Past development has resulted in drainage systems) are long term, localized, disturbance to, and loss of, some archeo- and minor to moderate. Other activities logical resources. Vandalism of sites and such as minor trail realignments and the theft of resources has occurred in the past, installation of vault toilets constitute long- both within and outside park boundaries. term, minor, localized, adverse impacts to Resources have been directly and indirectly archeological resources. damaged through visitor use and natural processes. Reasonably foreseeable future Many known archeological resources are park management and visitor use activities located on mesa tops and in other exposed could pose a threat to archeological areas. It has been demonstrated that natural resources. For example, minor trail processes such as wind and water erosion realignments and installation of facilities can move, damage, or destroy these such as wayside exhibits and vault toilets

138 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action) have the potential to affect archeological site and, if necessary, data would be resources. If archeological sites cannot be recorded and the resource recovered in avoided, the data they possess regarding consultation with the Arizona SHPO and prehistoric and/or historic lifeways would interested federally recognized American be recorded and recovered. This recovery Indian tribes. would be done in consultation with the Arizona SHPO. If previously unknown archeological resources are discovered during park In some areas, lithics are scattered among maintenance or construction activities petrified wood. Theft and displacement of (including minor trail realignments and petrified wood can lead to theft and vault toilet installation), all work in the displacement of archeological resources. immediate area of the discovery would Cattle trespass has impacted archeological cease until the resources could be identified resources in the past and would continue to and documented. Work could resume only do so in the future unless park managers after an appropriate mitigation strategy is can find more effective ways of keeping developed in consultation with the Arizona livestock from crossing fences. A cluster SHPO and archeological clearances are community of 20 houses is planned on obtained. Navajo land just east of the park, north of I- 40. Grazing livestock (sheep and cattle) are All proposed documentation / recordation expected to accompany the residents. and mitigation measures for archeological Therefore, there may be increased impacts resources would be stipulated in a Memo- from grazing animals in the future. randum of Agreement between Petrified Forest National Park and the Arizona Cumulative impacts to archeological SHPO (and/or, as necessary, the Advisory resources would be long term, adverse, and Council on Historic Preservation). range from minor to major depending on the scope, type, and location of the activity. Conclusion. Localized archeological impacts from visitor use, livestock trespass, Mitigation. The park boundary is park operations and facilities, and natural monitored for signs of livestock trespass. processes would be long term, adverse, and Damaged fences are repaired as soon as range from minor to major, depending on practicable after they are discovered. the archeological site. Cumulative impacts would be long term, adverse, and range If archeological sites cannot be avoided from minor to major, depending on the during minor trail realignment projects and scope, type, and location of the activity. installation of facilities like wayside exhibits and vault toilets, the data they Although major, adverse impacts to possess regarding prehistoric and/or historic archeological resources would be possible, lifeways would be recorded and recovered. such impacts would not occur throughout This would be performed in consultation the park. They would be confined instead to with the Arizona SHPO. individual sites. Most archeological resources in the park would remain well If an archeological resource is endangered protected. Thus, there would be no by natural processes or visitor use (e.g., impairment of archeological resources trail erosion), park staff would stabilize the from this alternative (see specific definition

139 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES of impairment in “Impairment of National Without major stabilization and renovation, Park Resources Section” above). the Painted Desert complex buildings would continue to deteriorate, and in some cases, fail. HISTORIC STRUCTURES

Once a building reaches the point that the Rehabilitation plans for the Painted Desert cost to repair greatly exceeds the cost to Inn and nearby residences are being replace (and also considering long-term addressed under a separate NEPA com- maintenance or life-cycle costs), a building pliance process. The projects would have a is more likely to be demolished than long-term, site-specific, minor, beneficial renovated. Depending on the building, this effect due to stabilization of the structure could constitute a moderate to major, long- (Arizona State Parks 1996). These plans term, adverse impact to the historic Painted would not alter the characteristics of the Desert headquarters complex. structures. Studies to address geotechnical instability associated with the construction Cumulative Impacts. Past repair and of the inn on bentonite soil are also being maintenance projects have been insufficient conducted, and following their completion, to keep pace with the deterioration of the appropriate repairs would be implemented. Painted Desert Inn. Recent projects have opened portions of the structure to visitors Two residence structures near the inn are while other portions remain closed to the currently not in use and are deteriorating public. Planned projects under alternative 1 due to lack of use, potentially resulting in a would address the most serious of these long-term, site-specific, minor, adverse problems, resulting in a cumulative, minor, impact. long-term, beneficial effect to the resource.

Maintenance and repair projects for Painted Modifications of the Painted Desert head- Desert headquarters complex are being quarters complex over the past 30 years addressed in a separate NEPA compliance have compromised the historic integrity of process. Projects include resurfacing flat some of the buildings. For example, a roofs and patching and repairing cracked noticeable roof addition over the visitor walls. These plans would not alter the center and modifications to the concessions characteristics of the buildings or complex. building façade have altered the character The projects would have a long-term, site- of the plaza. The visitor center entry has specific, negligible, beneficial effect due to been altered. Roofing projects have repair of damaging leaks. However, repairs changed drainage patterns around buildings, to the roof will not correct damage already which has exacerbated building movement done or the structural deficiencies of the and settling. Repair and maintenance original construction. projects have also been insufficient to keep pace with the deterioration caused by initial Funds for major renovation projects are not construction on uncompacted soils. The readily available within the National Park proposed project in alternative 1 would Service. All park units must compete for address some of these problems, resulting the limited amount of funds available each in a beneficial effect to the structures. year. It can also take one or more years for However, the proposed projects would not authorization to carry out a particular address past modifications, nor building project due to backlogs in the system. stabilization, so potential cumulative effects

140 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action) would be long term, site specific, moderate proclamation of the park, or (2) key to the to major, and adverse. natural or cultural integrity of the park or to opportunities for enjoyment of the park. Mitigation. Mitigation would be proposed Although preservation of cultural resources through consultation with the Arizona has been identified as a mission goal in this SHPO and additional NEPA compliance, as GMP Revision, the fundamental purpose of necessary. Mitigation measures are devel- the park (protecting paleontologic sites) oped to reduce potential effects when could still be accomplished without pre- cultural resources cannot be avoided. serving the Painted Desert headquarters Mitigation measures may include limiting complex. Furthermore, the park could still the magnitude of the proposed project; compete for renovation funding under the modifying the proposed project; repairing, current GMP, so there are still management rehabilitating, or restoring affected options that could be taken to avoid loss of resources; documenting resources that must the complex. Thus, there would be no be destroyed; or recovering and recording impairment of historic structures from this archeological information. alternative (see specific definition of impairment in the “Impairment of National Conclusion. Two residence structures near Park Resources” section above). Painted Desert Inn would continue to deteriorate, potentially resulting in a long- CULTURAL LANDSCAPES term, site-specific, minor to moderate, adverse impact. Planned improvements to Painted Desert Inn would have a cumu- At Rainbow Forest, replacement of the Jim lative, minor, long-term, beneficial effect to Camp Wash bridge and conversion of Long this resource. Without major stabilization Logs spur road to a trail will soon be and renovation, the Painted Desert head- completed. This action is addressed in a quarters complex buildings would continue previous environmental assessment / to deteriorate, and in some cases, fail. assessment of effect, as well as in a Depending on the building, this deterior- Memorandum of Agreement negotiated ation could constitute a moderate to major, between the park and the Arizona SHPO. long-term, adverse impact to the historic Mitigation includes Historic American Painted Desert headquarters complex. Engineering Record documentation (NPS However, the proposed projects would not 2001b). As funding and staffing permit, address past modifications or building some past modifications to historic stabilization at the Painted Desert head- structures at Rainbow Forest would be quarters complex, so potential cumulative reversed (e.g., solar panels removed) to effects would be long term, site specific, bring the structures back into NRHP moderate to major, and adverse. eligibility status. These modifications would result in a site-specific, long-term, Major, adverse impacts to historic minor to moderate, beneficial effect to the structures from continued deterioration at Rainbow Forest historic landscape. the Painted Desert headquarters complex would be possible under this alternative. At Crystal Forest, current management Conservation of the complex is not (1) practices would continue, including using necessary to fulfill specific park purposes signs, minor trail realignments, patrols, and identified in the establishing legislation or trail barriers to prevent moving, damage to, and removal of petrified wood. Continued

141 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES high use of this site would potentially result Rehabilitation of the south waterline from in the loss of petrified wood and degrada- Puerco River to Rainbow Forest is also in tion of the visual quality of this cultural process. This action is addressed in a landscape, resulting in a site-specific, long- separate environmental assessment / term, minor, adverse impact. assessment of effect. The rehabilitation project includes the replacement of the At Puerco Pueblo, plans include the con- water distribution system within the struction of a new vault toilet. This project Rainbow Forest cultural landscape and the will be addressed as a separate environ- installation of fire suppression systems in mental assessment / assessment of effect most of the buildings. The assessment and is likely to result in a negligible adverse concluded that the replacement of the effect. Current management practices distribution system would not have long- would continue, including signage, patrols, term, adverse impacts to the landscape or and trail barriers to prevent moving, structures. The fire suppression system damage to, and removal of cultural would offer a slight benefit to the protection resources. Continued high use of this site of the cultural resources. A Memorandum would result in the degradation of the of Agreement will be negotiated between character-defining features such as damage the park and the Arizona SHPO. to archeological resources, resulting in a long-term, negligible to minor, adverse Combined with other past, present, and impact to the site. reasonably foreseeable future actions, the cumulative impact would be long-term, Cumulative Impacts. Past and ongoing minor to moderate, adverse effects on the modifications to the roads, bridge, and Rainbow Forest cultural landscape, and parking areas would result in a minor to long-term, minor, adverse impacts to the moderate, long-term, adverse impact to Crystal Forest cultural landscape. Rainbow Forest. Proposed reversal of past modifications to historic structures under Mitigation. Mitigation would be proposed alternative 1 would have a long-term, through consultation with the Arizona minor, beneficial effect. SHPO and additional NEPA compliance, as necessary. Mitigation measures are devel- At Crystal Forest, past and present high use oped to reduce potential effects when of the area by visitors has resulted in a cultural resources cannot be avoided. noticeable loss of petrified wood (a com- Mitigation measures may include limiting ponent of the visual quality of the land- the magnitude of the proposed project; scape), rendering the area nearest the modifying the proposed project; repairing, parking lot almost barren of petrified wood. rehabilitating, or restoring affected Past projects involving modifications to resources; documenting resources that must trails and addition of a sun shelter have also be destroyed; or recovering and recording had a minor, adverse impact to the cultural archeological information. landscape. Continued high use of the area would result in further loss of wood and Conclusion. Reversing some past degradation of the visual quality, resulting modifications to historic structures at in a long-term, minor, adverse impact to the Rainbow Forest would have a site-specific, landscape (primarily around the parking long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial lot). effect to the Rainbow Forest historic

142 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action) landscape. Continued high use at Crystal of vault toilets, constitute a long-term, Forest would result in loss of petrified minor, localized, adverse impact to wood and degradation of the visual quality, ethnographic resources. a site-specific, long-term, minor, adverse impact to the Crystal Forest cultural It has been demonstrated that natural pro- landscape. Continued high use of Puerco cesses such as wind and water erosion can Pueblo would result in degradation of the move, damage, or destroy ethnographic character-defining features such as damage resources (specifically traditional cultural to archeological resources, resulting in a properties). The park staff monitors sites for long-term, negligible to minor, adverse damage from natural processes. If a re- impact to the cultural landscape. Combined source were in imminent danger, the area with other past, present, and reasonably would be closed and stabilized. These foreseeable future actions, the cumulative actions would be performed in consultation impact would have long-term, minor to with the Arizona SHPO and interested moderate, adverse effects on the Rainbow American Indian tribes. The impacts from Forest cultural landscape, and long-term, natural processes would be long term, minor, adverse impacts to the Crystal Forest adverse, and minor to major, depending on cultural landscape. the site.

There would be no impairment of cultural Cumulative Impacts. Ethnographic landscapes from this alternative (see resources have been directly and indirectly specific definition of impairment in the damaged through visitor use and natural “Impairment of National Park Resources” processes. Reasonably foreseeable future section above). park management and visitor use activities could pose a threat to ethnographic re- sources. For example, the minor trail ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES realignments and installation of facilities like wayside exhibits and vault toilets have Current management policies and impacts the potential to affect ethnographic re- would continue under alternative 1. Visitor sources. Cumulative impacts to ethno- use in areas of ethnographic sensitivity graphic resources would be long term and results in the inadvertent trampling of sites adverse and would range from minor to and moving of resources. More deliberate major depending on the scope, type, and visitor impacts such as vandalism and theft location of the activity. also affect ethnographic resources. Because the park contains a wealth of ethnographic Mitigation. The park has initiated resources, impacts tend to be widespread. consultation with interested American Areas along the main park road are much Indian tribes to determine issues and more likely to be affected than those in the concerns and how to protect and preserve wilderness areas due to the large number of ethnographic resources. visitors in these areas. Impacts would be resource-specific and long term and would Conclusion. Ethnographic resource range from minor to major (depending on impacts related to visitor use would be long the resource). term, adverse, and minor to major, depend- ing on the resource. Impacts from park Impacts from park operations, such as operations would have long-term, minor, minor trail realignments and the installation

143 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES localized, adverse impacts. Impacts from Indoor workspace is limited. This lack of natural processes would be long term, workspace constitutes a minor impact adverse, and minor to major, depending on because it limits the staff’s and researchers’ the site. Cumulative impacts to ethno- ability to study and protect the material and graphic resources would be long term and interpret the information contained in the adverse, and they would range from minor collections. to major, depending on the scope, type, and location of the activity. Portions of the collections are stored at various institutions across the United Although major, adverse impacts to ethno- States. Some of these repositories may not graphic resources would be possible, such meet NPS standards for curation, and some impacts would not occur throughout the objects may be susceptible to accelerated park. They would be confined instead to deterioration. This constitutes a long-term, individual sites. Most ethnographic re- minor, adverse impact. In the past, due to sources in the park would remain well the lack of good curatorial practices, some protected. Thus, there would be no impair- of the offsite collections and, to a lesser ment of ethnographic resources from this extent, onsite collections suffered from alternative (see specific definition of inadequate recordkeeping and account- impairment in the “Impairment of National ability and some items stored offsite (and to Park Resources” section above). a lesser extent onsite) were lost. The impacts from these two situations are minor and moderate, respectively, because with- MUSEUM COLLECTIONS out adequate recordkeeping and account- ability it is difficult to gain an overall view Current management policies and impacts of the museum collections and information would continue under alternative 1. Under that may have been extracted from the lost this alternative, the physical storage (e.g., items. fire resistant storage cabinets) of materials is adequate, but space is inadequate and the Cumulative Impacts. No past, ongoing, or facility (building) does not meet NPS reasonably foreseeable future actions by curation standards for ultraviolet and visible others would be expected to combine with light, fire safety, humidity, temperature, or these actions and result in a cumulative security. Items exhibited at the Painted impact on the museum collections under Desert Inn, Painted Desert visitor center, alternative 1. and Rainbow Forest Museum are threatened by many of the same problems as items in Mitigation. Housekeeping and emergency storage (Rainbow Forest Museum does plans are in place to provide guidance to have ultraviolet filters on the windows), but park staff (both curatorial and others) in the they do not have the advantage of storage care of museum property. The plans include cabinets that minimize the impacts of cleaning, maintenance, and monitoring environmental threats. Thus some of the procedures. The collections storage area is materials in the collections are subject to cleaned and monitored for evidence of deterioration and are vulnerable to theft and mold and insect and rodent infestations on fire. The impact of alternative 1 on an ongoing basis. As part of the house- collections would be long term, adverse, keeping plan, a data logger and lux-meter and moderate. are used to record environmental factors

144 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action)

(relative humidity, temperature, and the especially petrified wood, as well as visible spectrum of light) on a regular basis addressing other interpretive issues. to provide an accurate and complete picture Implementation of this plan, including of environmental changes over time. Many educating visitors on the importance of of these tasks are performed in order to give leaving petrified wood where it is found, the park staff early indications of problems. would have long-term, minor to moderate, When problems are found, the park staff is beneficial effects for petrified wood at the able to minimize them by placing traps, park. As new NPS policies mandate, sale of moving items out of potentially dangerous petrified wood (and other fossils) would be locations, repairing leaks, adjusting room discontinued at all gift shops in the park. temperature, and so forth. The impact that this directive would have on petrified wood theft is unknown, but Recordkeeping and accountability is part of there is concern that it could result in a redundant system, minimizing the risk of additional wood theft in the park. lost or incomplete records. Long-term, minor to major, adverse impacts Conclusion. Under current conditions, the would be expected to continue in the Giant museum collections are threatened by Logs, Jasper Forest, Crystal Forest, and environmental factors and lack of space. Blue Mesa areas. Visitors tend to concen- Museum collections would continue to trate at these areas because of the oppor- suffer long-term, adverse, moderate impacts tunity to leave their vehicles and access the from facility shortcomings and long-term, unique and/or extensive petrified wood minor to moderate, adverse impacts from deposits. At Crystal Forest, signage, patrols, inaccuracies in recordkeeping and and trail barriers would continue to be used accountability, and from limited work to help prevent moving, damage to, and space. No cumulative impacts to museum removal of petrified wood. Long-term, collections would be expected under adverse impacts to petrified wood in alternative 1. proximity to the parking turnout at Crystal Forest, which sustains the highest use, There would be no impairment of museum would continue to be locally major. Long- collections from this alternative (see term, negligible to minor, adverse impacts specific definition of impairment in the would potentially occur over the rest of “Impairment of National Park Resources” Crystal Forest. section above). In general, the backcountry experience at Petrified Forest National Park is not PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES “advertised,” meaning that few visitors are encouraged to use these areas and that Petrified Wood petrified wood theft and vandalism is probably fairly low. Under alternative 1,

long-term, minor to moderate, adverse Current management policies would impacts would be expected in the back- continue under alternative 1. The country, depending on the site. It is difficult Comprehensive Interpretive Plan for to determine how many people damage, Petrified Forest National Park seeks to steal, or relocate, petrified wood in these educate visitors about the importance of areas of the park, so the impacts could be protecting paleontological resources,

145 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES more or less severe. Impacts to petrified Continued theft and disturbance of wood in wood probably decrease the farther one the future would continue to decimate this travels into the backcountry because fewer resource at Crystal Forest and in other park visitors reach these areas. areas where petrified wood is found near high visitor use areas. As sources of petrified wood on private and public lands Other Fossils surrounding the park are depleted, the potential for theft of this resource from Many of the same impacts discussed for backcountry areas may increase. Petrified petrified wood under this alternative would wood harvesting for commercial purposes result for other paleontological resources occurs legally on private lands outside the (fossils). However, most visitors typically park and is unregulated, further adding to have a harder time identifying plant and the loss of this resource and cumulative animal fossils than petrified wood; there- effects. Cumulative effects on petrified fore, the impacts tend to be less severe for wood would be localized, moderate to these fossils. Fossil loss occurs in areas major, long term, and adverse. where visitors are concentrated and leave their vehicles to experience park resources At Long Logs, another high use area with first hand. For most of these sites, long- major concentrations of petrified wood, the term, minor, adverse impacts result, with spur road is being converted to a pedestrian the exception of one known site (location trail and the parking lot removed. These undisclosed) where the impacts are major. changes could reduce visitation in the Long It is expected that, under alternative 1, these Longs / Agate House area, and reduce minor to major impacts would continue. petrified wood theft, and visitors would be farther from their vehicles. These changes As discussed for petrified wood, imple- would result in a long-term, moderate, mentation of the Comprehensive Interpre- beneficial impact to petrified wood and tive Plan would result in long-term, minor other fossils in these areas. to moderate, beneficial effects for plant and animal fossils. The lack of advertising for The cumulative effect of alternative 1 on backcountry use would also result in long- petrified wood and other fossils, in combin- term, minor, adverse impacts that probably ation with other past, present, and reason- decrease in intensity the deeper one gets ably foreseeable future actions, would be into the backcountry. Installation of vault localized, moderate to major, long term, toilets at Puerco Pueblo and Agate Bridge / and adverse. Jasper Forest would also result in long- term, negligible, adverse impacts to fossil Mitigation. Proposed changes to Long Logs resources. Trail, trailhead, and parking area would mitigate some of the impacts to paleon- Cumulative Impacts. Despite the best tological resources within park boundaries. efforts of the park staff, petrified wood theft Other mitigation measures would include at the park continues to be a serious prob- increased interpretation to communicate the lem. The cumulative effect of past and significance of these resources to visitors, ongoing wood theft is obvious. For signage, ranger patrols, and trail barriers. example, Crystal Forest has been picked clean of petrified wood in the areas surrounding the parking lot and trail.

146 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action)

Conclusion. Long-term, major, adverse rather spend their time crisscrossing the impacts would be anticipated at Crystal same areas. This results in additional Forest, Giant Logs, Jasper Forest, and Blue trampling of vegetation. This has long-term, Mesa from continued disturbance and theft negligible to minor, local, adverse impacts of paleontological resources. Long-term, on the vegetation resources of the park. minor to moderate, adverse impacts would Impacts to vegetation also occur in the be expected in the backcountry, depending wilderness area in the southern section of on the site. The cumulative effect of the park. There are no defined trails here, so alternative 1 on petrified wood and other hikers who use this wilderness area are fossils, in combination with other past, trampling vegetation as they traverse the present, and reasonably foreseeable future area. Because use of this area is limited, the actions, would be localized, moderate to impacts to vegetation resources are major, long term, and adverse. expected to be negligible, local, and adverse. Although major, adverse impacts to petrified wood would be expected, such Cumulative Impacts. Past and ongoing impacts would not be spread throughout the trampling of vegetation in the backcountry park. They would be confined instead to of Petrified Forest National Park would high visitor use areas located near result in long-term, minor, adverse impacts concentrations of petrified wood. Most to vegetation. Replacement of sewer system significant deposits of petrified wood in the lines at the Painted Desert headquarters park would remain well protected. Thus, complex and Rainbow Forest, as well as there would be no impairment of petrified removal of the Puerco sewage lagoons, are wood or other fossils from this alternative planned activities that would have short- (see specific definition of impairment in the term, local, negligible to minor, adverse “Impairment of National Park Resources” impacts on vegetation resources of Petrified section above). Forest National Park. Current plans to replace restroom facilities at Jasper Forest and Agate Bridge would have local, VEGETATION negligible, long-term, adverse impacts. Removal of the parking trailheads in the Current management policies and impacts vicinity of the Flattops would result in would continue under alternative 1. In local, minor, long-term, beneficial impacts general, the backcountry experience at on vegetation resources, as these areas Petrified Forest National Park is not would be reverted back to native advertised and few take the opportunity to landscapes. use these areas. The Kachina Point Trail currently disappears before reaching the Combined with other past, present, and Lithodendron Wash in the Painted Desert reasonably foreseeable future actions, the wilderness area. Evidence of resource cumulative impact would be long-term, damage due to off-trail hiking along the negligible to minor, adverse effects on the trail is readily apparent, including trampling vegetation resources of Petrified Forest of vegetation. Once beyond the wash, National Park. hikers travel cross-country in a somewhat random fashion, as there are no defined Mitigation. Revegetation plantings would trails. Most hikers are attempting to locate seek to reconstruct the natural spacing, Onyx Bridge; however, most do not, but

147 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES abundance, and diversity of native species. cryptobiotic soils, as they traverse the area. All disturbed areas associated with con- The soils in the wilderness areas range from struction activities would be restored as having slight to very high erosion hazards. nearly as possible to pre-construction However, as visitor use of these areas is conditions during and/or as soon as limited, the impacts to soils are not as practicable following construction. The severe as would be expected. Therefore, the principal goal is to avoid interfering with impacts to soils are anticipated to be negli- natural processes and to minimize erosion gible to moderate, somewhat localized, and caused by construction related activities. adverse due to off-trail hiking. Efficient planting and staging, as well as careful machine work, would be Although cryptobiotic soils exist at emphasized. Petrified Forest National Park, resource staff do not manage for these soils, and Conclusion. Impacts to vegetation their exact locations are generally resources are predominantly localized and unknown. These soils do not respond well associated with use of trails and the lack of to human disturbances such as compaction trails in the backcountry. Hikers trampling associated with off-trail hiking. Therefore, vegetation in the wilderness areas of the it would be anticipated that some negligible park result in local, long-term, negligible to to minor, localized, adverse impacts to minor, adverse impacts to vegetation. cryptobiotic soils would occur due to off- Combined with other past, present, and trail hiking in the wilderness areas of the reasonably foreseeable future actions, the park; however, the extent of impact is cumulative impact would have long-term, unknown. negligible to minor, adverse effects on vegetation resources of Petrified Forest Cumulative Impacts. The erosive action of National Park. wind and water are readily apparent throughout Petrified Forest National Park. There would be no impairment of vege- These natural processes have long-term, tation resources from this alternative (see moderate, adverse impacts on soils, specific definition of impairment in the including cryptobiotic soils. Past and “Impairment of National Park Resources” ongoing soil disturbances from off-trail section above). hiking in the backcountry of Petrified Forest National Park would result in long- term, negligible to moderate, adverse SOILS impacts to soils, including cryptobiotic soils. Replacement of sewer system lines at Current management policies and impacts the Painted Desert headquarters complex would continue under alternative 1. In and Rainbow Forest, as well as removal of general, the backcountry experience at the Puerco sewage lagoons, are planned Petrified Forest National Park is not activities that would have short-term, site- advertised, meaning that few visitors are specific, negligible to minor, adverse encouraged to use these areas, and few take impacts on soils of Petrified Forest National the opportunity to do so. Impacts to soils Park. Current plans to replace restroom occur in both wilderness areas of the park, facilities at Jasper Forest and Agate Bridge as there are no defined trails. Therefore, would have negligible to moderate, site- hikers who use these wilderness areas could specific, long-term, adverse impacts on be disturbing soils, potentially including

148 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action) soils. Removal of the parking trailheads in VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND the vicinity of the Flattops would result in APPRECIATION site-specific, minor, long-term, beneficial impacts on soils, as these areas would be Visitor-oriented portions of some park returned to native landscapes. buildings (the Rainbow Forest Museum, Painted Desert visitor center, and con- Combined with other past, present, and cessions structures, for example) are reasonably foreseeable future actions, the partially accessible to people with limited cumulative impact would be long-term, mobility. Plans for accessibility improve- negligible to moderate, adverse effects on ments at the Painted Desert Inn will soon be the soils of Petrified Forest National Park. implemented. In contrast, most other buildings in the park are not universally Mitigation. All proposed construction accessible. These buildings include several activities would be located, to the extent administrative, management, maintenance, possible, to avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and residential structures at park head- and highly erosive soils. All disturbed areas quarters. Thus, the National Park Service associated with construction activities cannot effectively recruit and retain staff would be restored during and/or as soon as with limited physical abilities, nor can practicable following construction. The individuals with limited mobility visit or principal goal is to avoid interfering with conduct business in most park buildings. natural processes. Efficient planning and There are also no universally accessible staging, as well as careful machine work, trails in the park. Overall, impacts to would be emphasized. visitors and others with physical limitations would constitute a moderate, negative, Conclusion. Currently, the greatest threat long-term impact under alternative 1. to soils, including cryptobiotic soils, at Petrified Forest National Park result from Visitors to Petrified Forest National Park off-trail hiking in the wilderness areas. This generally do not benefit from in-depth park activity is anticipated to constitute negli- experiences. Instead, most visitors see the gible to moderate, somewhat localized, park from their vehicles and briefly stop at adverse impacts to soils in the wilderness a few to several park features, short trails, areas. Combined with other past, present, and visitor areas. This pattern is due in part and reasonably foreseeable future actions, to a lack of diverse visitor opportunities in the cumulative impact would have long- the park. This negative, moderate impact on term, negligible to moderate, adverse visitor experience and appreciation would effects on soils of Petrified Forest National continue over the long term in alternative 1. Park. There are limited orientation materials and There would be no impairment of soils from inadequate or dated exhibits and this alternative (see specific definition of interpretive media at the park. This lack of impairment in the “Impairment of National interpretive materials produces a moderate, Park Resources” section above). adverse impact on visitor experience and appreciation at Petrified Forest National Park because visitors are unable to obtain current, comprehensive information about resources (partly due to lack of space). New

149 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES wayside exhibits are proposed in the park’s likely have a minor, long-term, beneficial Comprehensive Interpretive Plan. Imple- impact. mentation of this plan would improve visitor experience and appreciation to some The lack of designated campgrounds within extent, because exhibits and orientation the park constitutes a long-term, minor materials would be updated and expanded. impact on visitor experience and appreci- Also, Petrified Forest staff and the Petrified ation. (Backpack camping is the only Forest Museum Association would work camping option available within the park.) together to update and distribute various Campers may stay at nearby non-NPS other forms of information and orientation campgrounds outside the park. Under this materials. alternative, the camping situation is not expected to change in the foreseeable Discontinuation of petrified wood sales at future. the park could disappoint some visitors who wish to purchase this type of souvenir. The Cumulative effects of alternative 1, in impact on visitor experience and appre- combination with other past, present, and ciation from the discontinuation of wood foreseeable future actions, would include sales would be minor because petrified both long-term, minor to moderate, adverse wood would still be available for purchase effects, and minor beneficial effects. outside the park. Mitigation. The lack of universally Cumulative Impacts. Visitor experience accessible facilities is addressed as facilities and appreciation would be affected by the are renovated or rehabilitated. Planned planned Jim Camp Wash bridge replace- renovations at the Painted Desert Inn and ment and Long Logs area changes. These changes to the Long Logs area include actions are covered under a separate modifications that will allow for greater environmental assessment. Vehicle access accessibility. Any future renovations would is being eliminated from Long Logs, include similar provisions. adversely affecting people who are unable to walk far or who do not have time to visit Conclusion. Long-term, moderate, adverse Long Logs on foot. However, those who impacts would be expected from dated prefer to walk will benefit from the con- exhibits, orientation materials, and inter- version of the access road to a trail. The pretive media. Lack of diverse visitor impact is expected to be minor to moderate opportunities and fully accessible facilities and long term for both groups. would also have long-term, moderate, adverse impacts. Discontinuation of Interstate 40 bisects the park and primary petrified wood sales in gift shops in the vehicle access is from Exit 311. The park would have a long-term, minor, Arizona Department of Transportation is adverse impact on visitor experience and planning to improve this interchange. appreciation. Cumulative effects on visitor During construction, visitors would experience and appreciation, in combin- potentially experience minor inconven- ation with other past, present, and fore- iences and the construction would have a seeable future actions, would include both short-term, minor, adverse impact on their long-term, minor to moderate, adverse introduction to the park. However, once effects, and long-term, minor, beneficial completed, the improved interchange would effects.

150 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action)

NATIONAL PARK OPERATIONS Frequent maintenance is required to stabilize and rehabilitate structures in the Painted Desert headquarters complex. Other General Operations maintenance and construction projects often have to be put off or forgone so that emer- In this alternative, the Painted Desert gency repairs can be made. For example, headquarters complex would remain the the staff has had to patch roofs and walls, base for most visitor support and park taking time away from scheduled main- operations. In general, buildings and tenance activities. The cost of this main- facilities in the complex do not meet current tenance has a long-term, moderate, adverse needs for space and function, do not meet impact on park operations as a result. NPS standards or fire and safety codes, are in fair condition, and are not universally The headquarters complex was built during accessible. Although there is plenty of the 1960s when asbestos and lead-based housing available in this complex, many paints were still in use. Health and safety units are only in fair condition, which concerns arise from exposure to asbestos lowers employee morale, increases and lead-based paint, insufficient fire maintenance operations (maintenance suppression and alarm systems (with the personnel must continually attend to the exception of the Painted Desert Inn), and deteriorating structures because of code violations. Hantavirus is also a health problems like water leaks), and limits the concern for employees, especially for those opportunities for housing visiting working in structures that have remained researchers and scientists. Other units are unused for long periods. Some trails and not in use and would require major grounds are in poor condition due to renovations in order to make them livable. erosion and pose a safety concern for Such facility problems have long-term, visitors, park employees, and others. These moderate, adverse impacts on park concerns represent major long-term, operations. adverse impacts to park operations.

As with the residences, there is plenty of Cumulative Impacts. Ongoing rehabili- available work space in the headquarters tation and stabilization of the Painted complex; however, this space is inadequate Desert headquarters complex would be for other reasons. Most work areas are required for the life of the structures. At the adaptively reused and the appropriate types current level of maintenance and repair of spaces and associated equipment are not over the next 20 years, some buildings will available for the type of work being per- structurally fail or, at a minimum, become formed (as in the facilities used to house the structurally unfit to occupy. This will park’s museum collection). Electrical exacerbate current space needs. Additional outlets and restrooms are outdated. In maintenance and repair would be necessary addition, some work spaces are in poor to keep buildings from deterioration and condition. Work space for visiting possible failure and to address safety researchers and scientists is also very concerns. This increasing level of main- limited. The lack of decent, appropriate tenance would require funding, staff time, work space for employees and visiting and equipment to preserve the integrity of researchers and scientists has a long-term, these potentially historic structures and moderate impact on the operational continue to route funding away from other efficiency of the park. needed repair and resource management.

151 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

As a result, park operations would sustain buildings without incurring significant long-term, moderate to major, adverse costs. As a result, long-term, minor, adverse cumulative impacts. impacts to energy conservation potential would be expected. Mitigation. Trail studies could be per- formed to identify potential and existing Cumulative Impacts. No cumulative erosion problems, and where necessary, impacts to energy requirements and erosion and sedimentation control measures conservation potential at the park would be would be implemented. Asbestos and lead- anticipated. based paint remediation would occur in areas where workers are exposed to friable Mitigation. Mitigating measures would be asbestos and where children are exposed to implemented to reduce the energy require- lead-based paint, in accordance with ments of Petrified Forest National Park, applicable regulations. The areas of concern most of which are related to energy for hantavirus would be sampled for the efficiency. Where incandescent light bulbs virus and cleaned up, as necessary. are in use, they should be replaced by regular and compact fluorescent lighting. Conclusion. Painted Desert headquarters Fluorescent bulbs use 75% less electricity complex facility problems (e.g., limited than incandescent bulbs. Lighting, ventila- space, deteriorating structures, and health tion, and other devices or systems can be and safety concerns) have long-term, controlled by sensors that reduce electricity moderate to major, adverse impacts on park consumption and, therefore, energy operations. Cumulative impacts related to requirements. continuing maintenance of deteriorating structures at the Painted Desert complex Conclusion. Implementing this alternative would be long term, moderate to major, and would not affect energy requirements at adverse. Petrified Forest National Park. Energy conservation potential is limited under this alternative. Few energy conservation Energy Requirements and techniques could be implemented without Conservation Potential incurring significant costs. Long-term, minor, adverse impacts to energy conser- In this alternative, the Painted Desert vation potential would be expected. No headquarters complex would remain the cumulative impacts would be expected. base for most visitor support and other park operations. There would be no new con- struction or changes in operations that SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES would significantly affect energy requirements. Current management policies and impacts would continue under alternative 1. No Energy conservation potential is limited substantive changes to population, com- under this alternative. The buildings of the munity character, employee commutes, or park are old (built between the 1930s and housing would be expected. 1960s), and are not energy efficient due to a lack of insulation in walls, ceilings, and Current beneficial economic effects from windows. Few energy conservation tech- the park would be expected to continue. niques could be implemented in these PILT from the federal government to

152 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action)

Navajo and Apache Counties would activities and workers. The benefits will be continue. PILT is based on a government- minor and short term. wide formula that considers the number of acres withdrawn from county tax rolls when A construction project to install a leak park lands are acquired by the federal detection system along 13 miles of government. The potential impacts would waterline is being carried out. NEPA be long term, minor, and beneficial. compliance for this project is being covered separately. This project is expected to result Life cycle costs over the 15- to 20-year life in a temporary increase in opportunities for of this alternative, which include main- the local construction work force and a tenance, operations, and personnel costs (as modest increase in potential revenue for well as capital costs), are estimated at local businesses. Any benefits are likely to $40,000,000. Park expenditures and be minor and short term. spending by park employees would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact to Other foreseeable actions (including those the economy of Apache and Navajo proposed in the 1993 GMP) such as Counties. construction of new trails, turnouts, wayside exhibits, and comfort stations Eliminating petrified wood sales within the could encourage visitors to remain in the park would potentially have a long-term, park and/or local area longer. These actions major, adverse impact on the concessioner could result in a minimal increase in visitor and its suppliers. Shops selling petrified expenditures at the concession and wood outside the park would benefit from cooperator facilities, as well as locally in the new policy because visitors hoping to Holbrook and at nearby campgrounds. purchase petrified wood would probably These actions would result in a minor, long- patronize these businesses. The benefit term, cumulative, beneficial impact. would be moderate and long term. Overall, cumulative impacts to socio- Renovation of the Painted Desert Inn would economic resources would be minor, result in a temporary increase in opportuni- beneficial, and both short and long term. ties for the local construction work force and a modest increase in potential revenue Conclusion. Current beneficial economic for local businesses generated by con- effects from the park from PILT and from struction activities and workers. The park-related spending would be expected to benefits would be minor and temporary. continue. Impacts would be long term, The inn will be closed during the beneficial, and range from minor to renovation and this closure would produce moderate. Eliminating petrified wood sales a short-term, adverse, minor to moderate within the park would potentially have a impact on cooperating association sales. long-term, major, adverse impact on the concessioner and its suppliers and a long- Cumulative Impacts. The Long Logs / Jim term, moderate, beneficial impact on shops Camp Wash bridge project has resulted in a that sell petrified wood outside the park. temporary increase in opportunities for the Renovations to the Painted Desert Inn local construction work force and a modest would have minor, temporary, beneficial increase in potential revenue for local effects on employment opportunities and businesses generated by construction revenue for local businesses. Closure of the

153 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES inn during renovation would have a short- IRREVERSIBLE AND term, adverse, minor to moderate impact on IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF cooperating association sales. Cumulative RESOURCES impacts to socioeconomic resources would be minor, beneficial, and both short and Irreversible impacts are those effects that long term. cannot be changed over the long term or are permanent. An irretrievable commitment of UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS resources refers to the effects to resources that, once gone, cannot be replaced.

There would be unavoidable, moderate to Archeological resources, petrified wood, or major, adverse impacts on archeological other fossils that are stolen or vandalized resources under alternative 1. Despite the are irretrievably lost. Even moving or best efforts of resource protection staff, disturbing these resources constitutes an some visitors or vandals would still remove irreversible commitment of resources artifacts or associated resources from because information is lost if the context archeological sites, compromising the value (location and condition) of the resources is of the sites. These impacts would be changed, even inadvertently. Thus, there avoided only if human use were not would be some irreversible loss or commit- allowed in the park. Disturbance to ment of archeological resources, petrified archeological resources from wind and wood, and other fossils in alternative 1, as water erosion would also be unavoidable. discussed in the “Unavoidable Adverse Mitigation measures would be taken when Impacts” section above. possible to reduce these impacts.

In alternative 1, portions of the museum Moderate to major, adverse impacts on collections would remain stored in various certain natural resources would also be locations, some of which do not meet NPS unavoidable. Although the Petrified Forest standards for curation. Deterioration and staff has made great strides in stemming the loss of museum artifacts due to inadequate loss of petrified wood and other fossils recordkeeping and accountability and from the park, some people still steal or inadequate environmental controls would disturb these resources. Because the constitute an irretrievable commitment of National Park Service does not intend to resources. close the park to visitor use, such impacts would continue. The cumulative effect of Limited amounts of non-renewable continued loss and disturbance of petrified resources would be used for construction wood and other fossils would be an projects and park operations, including unavoidable, major, adverse impact. energy and materials. These resources

would be essentially irretrievable once they Long-term, major, adverse impacts on the were committed. concessioner and its suppliers would be unavoidable when petrified wood sales in park gift shops are discontinued, as required by NPS Management Policies. Businesses outside the park would benefit to the extent that visitors buy petrified wood there instead.

154 Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action)

RELATIONSHIP OF SHORT-TERM There would be no adverse effects on USES AND LONG-TERM biological, agricultural, or economic PRODUCTIVITY productivity associated with implementing alternative 1. This section discusses effects of the short- term use of resources on the long-term productivity of resources.

155

IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 2 (PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE)

ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES Other impacts would be the same as in alternative 1. New trails proposed under alternative 2 Cumulative Impacts. Development, park may allow more visitors to come into maintenance, vandalism, theft, traditional contact with sensitive sites near Route 66, visitor use, and natural processes all pose a Puerco River, and frontcountry trails (Route threat to resources. Past development has 66 and east of The Tepees). There would be resulted in disturbance to, and loss of, some potential for trampling of sites, moving of archeological resources. Vandalism and resources, vandalism, and theft in these theft of resources has occurred in the past, areas. Impacts would be long term, minor to both within and outside park boundaries. moderate, and site specific. Resources have been directly and indirectly

damaged through visitor use and natural Widening the Route 66 access road, processes. Reasonably foreseeable changes construction of several small informal to facilities and visitor use activities could turnouts adjacent to the main park road, and pose a threat to archeological resources. construction of the turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting Route 66 would In some areas, lithics are scattered among constitute a minor, localized, long-term petrified wood. Theft and displacement of impact on potential subsurface petrified wood can lead to theft and archeological resources. displacement of archeological resources.

Cattle trespass has damaged archeological Crystal Forest and Giant Logs are archeo- resources in the past and would continue to logically sensitive areas. Trail modifica- do so in the future unless park managers tions in these areas would benefit archeo- can find more effective ways of keeping logical sites because visitors would be livestock from crossing fences. encouraged to not enter the areas and come in contact with the sensitive resources The cumulative effect of alternative 2, in contained therein. The potential beneficial combination with other past, present, and impact would be long term, localized, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, minor. However, any new ground distur- would be long term, adverse, and range bance associated with trail modification from minor to major depending on the could have the potential for damage to scope, type, and location of the activity. archeological resources.

Mitigation. Archeological surveys would The new fire truck garage at Rainbow be conducted, as necessary, prior to any Forest and other facilities at the head- ground-disturbing activities on the Route 66 quarters complex would be built in roadbed, Giant Logs, Crystal Forest, Puerco previously disturbed areas with low River, or near the frontcountry trails. If archeological sensitivity. The potential archeological resources cannot be avoided, impacts from these projects would be the data they possess regarding prehistoric localized, long term, negligible, and and/or historical lifeways would be adverse. recorded and recovered. Recordation and

156 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) recovery would be performed in modifications at Crystal Forest and Giant consultation with the Arizona SHPO. Logs would benefit archeological sites; impacts would be long term, localized, and Potential impacts associated with minor. Impacts to archeological resources construction of the new museum collections from a new fire truck garage at Rainbow facility and other projects at the Painted Forest and other facilities at the head- Desert headquarters complex would be quarters complex would be localized, long mitigated as above. term, negligible, and adverse. Other impacts would be the same as in alternative Impacts from visitor use would be partially 1. The cumulative effect of alternative 2, in mitigated by locating new frontcountry combination with other past, present, and trails on old roadbeds. reasonably foreseeable future actions, would be long term and adverse and would Other mitigation measures would be the range from minor to major, depending on same as in alternative 1. the scope, type, and location of the activity.

Section 106 Summary. After applying the Although major, adverse impacts to Advisory Council on Historic Preser- archeological resources would be possible, vation’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR such impacts would not occur throughout 800.5), the National Park Service deter- the park. They would be confined instead to mined there is the potential for adverse individual sites. Most archeological effects to the Route 66, Puerco River, resources in the park would remain well Crystal Forest, Giant Logs, and the trail in protected. Thus, there would be no The Tepees area. At a minimum, impairment of archeological resources consultation would be required. from this alternative (see specific definition of impairment in the “Impairment of After applying the Advisory Council on National Park Resources” section above). Historic Preservation’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR 800.5), the National Park HISTORIC STRUCTURES Service determined that there would be an adverse effect at Rainbow Forest and the headquarters complex, and consultation and Proposed rehabilitation plans and associ- mitigation would be required. ated potential impacts for the Painted Desert Inn would be the same as in Conclusion. There would be increased alternative 1. Both residences near Painted potential for trampling of archeological Desert Inn would be rehabilitated and used sites, disturbance of resources, vandalism, for park staff housing or offices, resulting and theft in areas where new trails are in a long-term, site-specific, minor, proposed (near Route 66, Puerco River, east beneficial effect to these resources. of The Tepees). Impacts would be long term, minor to moderate, and site specific. Alternative 2 would require modifications Other actions related to changes to a portion to existing headquarters structures in order of old Route 66 and a new I-40 turnout to adaptively reuse space, plus the addition along the main park road would have of a few new structures to accommodate minor, localized, long-term impacts on current and future space needs. These types subsurface archeological resources. Trail of projects would further change character- defining features of the complex if not

157 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES properly designed, resulting in a long-term, reflect character-defining features of the site-specific, moderate to major, adverse buildings. Preliminary schematic designs effect. were developed during the planning process in concert with the SHPO. With proper Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts design, implementation of proposed to the inn would be the same as in additions and modifications, in conjunction alternative 1. with reversal of past modifications, would minimize potential adverse effects and Past modifications of buildings at the result in a site-specific, long-term, minor to Painted Desert headquarters complex over moderate, beneficial effect. the past 30 years have compromised the historic integrity of some of the buildings. Section 106 Summary. After applying the For example, a noticeable roof addition Advisory Council on Historic Preser- over the visitor center and modifications to vation’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR the concessions building façade have 800.5), the National Park Service altered the character of the plaza. The entry determined that there would be an adverse to the visitor center has been altered. Past effect at the headquarters complex; roofing projects have changed drainage therefore, consultation and mitigation patterns around buildings, which has would be required. exacerbated building movement and settling. Repair and maintenance projects Conclusion. Proposed rehabilitation plans have been insufficient to keep pace with and associated potential impacts for the deterioration caused by initial construction Painted Desert Inn would be the same as in on uncompacted soils. Addition of new alternative 1. Rehabilitation of residences structures and modifications to other near Painted Desert Inn would result in a structures for adaptive reuse would result in long-term, site-specific, minor, beneficial a long-term, site-specific, moderate to impact. Modifications to buildings at major, adverse impact. Other projects Painted Desert headquarters complex for would undo past modifications, restoring adaptive reuse, plus addition of a few new character-defining features. The potential structures to accommodate current and result would be long-term, site-specific, future space needs, would further change minor to moderate, beneficial effects. character-defining features of the complex if not properly designed, resulting in a long- In summary, the cumulative effect of term, site-specific, moderate to major, alternative 2 would include long-term, site- adverse impact. The cumulative effect of specific, moderate to major, adverse alternative 2 would include long-term, site- impacts, and long-term, site-specific, minor specific, moderate to major, adverse to moderate, beneficial effects. impacts, and long-term, site-specific, minor to moderate beneficial effects. Mitigation. Proposed actions at the Painted Desert headquarters complex would be Through compliance with section 106 of addressed through consultation with the the National Historic Preservation Act, Arizona SHPO and additional NEPA consultation with the Arizona SHPO, and compliance, as necessary. Proposed proper design and mitigation, the severity additions and modifications for adaptive of impacts can be reduced below the reuse would be designed to appropriately “major” threshold. There would be no

158 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) impairment of historic structures from this term, minor, beneficial effect. Cumula- alternative (see specific definition of tively, without proper design and impairment in the “Impairment of National mitigation, alternative 2 would potentially Park Resources” section above). have a long-term, minor to moderate, adverse effect on the cultural landscape.

CULTURAL LANDSCAPES At Crystal Forest, past and present high use of the area by visitors has resulted in a Under alternative 2, several changes are noticeable loss of petrified wood, rendering proposed at Rainbow Forest. Modifications the area near the parking lot almost barren. to the museum would be interior in scope The result has been a long-term, minor to and would not affect the cultural landscape. moderate, adverse impact. Past Reducing the scale of the concessions modifications to the trails and addition of a building would have a long-term, negligible sun shelter have also had a long-term, or minor, beneficial effect on the historic minor, adverse impact to the Crystal Forest landscape. The proposed parking and cultural landscape. The proposed trail walkway realignment would result in a reduction would have a long-term, minor, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse adverse impact to the character-defining impact to the historic landscape. The feature of the cultural landscape, while addition of new structures would result in a reducing impacts to visual quality from long-term, moderate, adverse impact. petrified wood removal. Cumulatively, the Reconfiguration of the Giant Logs Trail impact would remain long-term, minor to would have a long-term, minor, adverse moderate, and adverse due to past impacts impact. (removal of wood) to the site that cannot be reversed. Shortening and realigning the trail at Crystal Forest would eliminate part of the In summary, cumulative effects of original CCC trail system. Changing the alternative 2 would include long-term, character of the trail could result in a long- minor to moderate, adverse impacts on the term, minor, adverse impact to the cultural Rainbow Forest and Crystal Forest cultural landscape. landscapes.

Proposed new trails near Puerco Pueblo and Mitigation. Proposed actions at Rainbow The Tepees would have a long-term, minor Forest would be addressed in consultation to moderate, adverse impact due to changes with the Arizona SHPO, and under separate and the addition of modern features into a NEPA compliance, as necessary. The potential archeological cultural landscape. proposed additions and changes would be designed to appropriately reflect character- Cumulative Impacts. Past and present defining features of the landscape. Proper modifications to the roads, bridge, trails, design would reduce the intensity of the parking, and pedestrian circulation have potential adverse impact from moderate to had a moderate, long-term, adverse impact minor, and it would possibly restore the on the Rainbow Forest historic designed historic integrity and character of the landscape. Proposed changes and additions landscape (a beneficial effect). to the landscape would have a long-term, negligible to minor, adverse effect, while Prior to adding new trails near Puerco restoration of structures would have a long- River, on Old Route 66, and near The

159 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Tepees, landscapes would be evaluated to “Impairment of National Park Resources” determine if they are eligible for the NRHP. section above). If determined eligible, the actions would be addressed in consultation with the Arizona ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES SHPO to ensure that designed features conform to cultural landscape character and integrity. Mitigation would be designed to Alternative 2 would involve no changes to minimize the intensity of adverse effect. current management of ethnographic resources, and therefore, impacts would be Section 106 Summary. After applying the the same as those produced by alternative 1. Advisory Council on Historic Preserva- tion’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts 800.5), the National Park Service deter- from visitor use and park operations would mined there is the potential for adverse be the same as in alternative 1. effects to the Rainbow Forest, Puerco River, Crystal Forest, Giant Logs, and The Mitigation. Mitigation measures would be Teepees. At a minimum, consultation the same as in alternative 1. would be required. Section 106 Summary. Since no change to Conclusion. Changes at Rainbow Forest current management is being proposed, would have mixed impacts on the cultural criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR 800.5) landscape. Reducing the scale of the would not be applied. concessions building would have a long- term, negligible or minor, beneficial effect. Conclusion. Ethnographic resource Proposed parking and walkway realignment impacts related to visitor use would be long would have a long-term, minor to moderate, term, adverse, and minor to major, depend- adverse impact. Addition of new structures ing on the resource. Impacts from park would result in a long-term, moderate, operations would have long-term, minor, adverse impact, and reconfiguration of the localized, adverse impacts. Impacts from Giant Logs Trail would have a long-term, natural processes would be long term, minor, adverse impact. At Crystal Forest, adverse, and minor to major, depending on shortening and realigning the trail at Crystal the site. Cumulative impacts to ethno- Forest would have a long-term, minor, graphic resources would be long term and adverse impact to the cultural landscape. adverse and would range from minor to Proposed new trails near Puerco Pueblo and major, depending on the scope, type, and The Tepees would have long-term, minor to location of the activity. moderate, adverse impacts on a potential archeological cultural landscape. Cumula- Although major, adverse impacts to tive effects of alternative 2 would include ethnographic resources would be possible, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse such impacts would not occur throughout impacts on the Rainbow Forest and Crystal the park. They would be confined instead to Forest cultural landscapes. individual sites. Most ethnographic resources in the park would remain well There would be no impairment of cultural protected. Thus, there would be no landscapes from this alternative (see a impairment of ethnographic resources from specific definition of impairment in the this alternative (see a specific definition of

160 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) impairment in the “Impairment of National PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES Park Resources” section above).

Petrified Wood MUSEUM COLLECTIONS

According to recently approved NPS Under alternative 2, a new museum Management Policies (2001a), sales of collections facility would be constructed. petrified wood would be discontinued at This facility would potentially provide a gift shops in the park. The impact this long-term, major, beneficial impact because would have on petrified wood theft is it would have adequate storage and work unknown, but there is concern that it could space and would meet NPS standards for result in additional wood theft in the park. curation. Offsite collections would be stored only at facilities that meet NPS Long-term, negligible to moderate, adverse standards. This would provide the impacts from theft and displacement of collections with adequate protection and petrified wood would be expected to constitute a long-term, negligible to continue at Jasper Forest, Agate Bridge, moderate, beneficial effect, depending on and Blue Mesa. Visitors tend to concentrate the standards of the facilities in which the at these areas for the opportunity to see the collections are currently housed. special and/or extensive petrified wood deposits. Cumulative Impacts. No ongoing or reasonably foreseeable future actions by At Crystal Forest and Giant Logs, signs, others would be expected to combine with patrols, and trail barriers would continue to these actions and result in a cumulative be used to help prevent moving, damage to, impact on the museum collections under and removal of, petrified wood. Proposed alternative 2. modifications to the trails, such as shorten- ing them or making portions accessible Mitigation. Mitigation under alternative 2 only with a guide, would also help prevent would be the same as for alternative 1. visitors from moving, damaging, or remov- ing petrified wood. This would have a Conclusion. The new museum collections short-term, negligible to moderate, bene- facility would have a long-term, major, ficial effect on petrified wood in these beneficial impact. Offsite collections would areas. However, long-term, major, adverse be stored only at facilities that meet NPS impacts to petrified wood near the Crystal standards, a long-term, negligible to Forest parking area, which currently moderate, beneficial effect. No cumulative sustains the highest impacts, would impacts to museum collections would be probably continue. Long-term, negligible to expected. minor, adverse impacts would potentially occur over the rest of Crystal Forest and There would be no impairment of museum Giant Logs. collections from this alternative (see specific definition of impairment in the The proposed frontcountry trail near The “Impairment of National Park Resources” Tepees would be sited, designed, and section above). constructed to avoid impacts to the sensitive resources in this area. However,

161 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES providing visitor access to this site would petrified wood, so impacts would tend to be probably still result in increased less severe for these fossils. Fossil loss occurrences of moving, damaging, or tends to occur in areas where visitors are removing petrified wood. As a result of concentrated and leave their vehicles to increased visitation, long-term, minor, experience park resources first hand. For adverse impacts would be expected from most of these sites, long-term, minor, construction of the trail to The Tepees. adverse impacts result, with the exception of one known site (location undisclosed) In general, the backcountry experience at where impacts are major. It is expected that Petrified Forest National Park is not these minor to major impacts would advertised, meaning that visitors are not continue under alternative 2. particularly encouraged to use these areas and that petrified wood theft and vandalism Proposed frontcountry trails would have is probably fairly low. Under alternative 2, minor to moderate, adverse impacts to several small, informal (gravel) turnouts fossil resources from trail construction and would be provided as access points to the from unsupervised visitors moving or backcountry. A new frontcountry trail along stealing wood after leaving the trails. At the old Route 66 road trace would also one site, mitigation could reduce impacts to provide a potential new access point for non-petrified wood fossils to negligible or backcounty use. Backcountry opportunities minor. would be highlighted in a new pamphlet provided to visitors. Cumulative Impacts. Despite the best efforts of the park staff, theft of petrified Although backcountry visitation could wood continues to be a serious problem. increase as a result of providing additional The cumulative effect of past and ongoing access, it is not expected to greatly increase wood theft is obvious at Petrified Forest resource protection needs compared with National Park. Continued theft and alternative 1. Long-term, minor to movement of wood in the future would moderate, adverse impacts (depending on continue to decimate this resource at the site) would be expected to continue in Crystal Forest and in other park areas where the backcountry. It is very difficult to petrified wood is found near high visitor determine how many people do damage, use areas. As sources of petrified wood on steal, or relocate petrified wood in the private and public lands surrounding the backcountry, so impacts could be more or park are depleted, the potential for theft of less severe. Impacts to petrified wood this resource from backcountry areas may would probably decrease the farther one increase. Petrified wood harvesting for travels into the backcountry because fewer commercial purposes occurs legally on visitors reach the remote areas. private lands outside the park and is unregulated, further adding to the loss of this resource and cumulative effects. Other Fossils Cumulative effects on petrified wood would be localized, moderate to major, long term, Many of the same impacts discussed for and adverse. petrified wood would also result for other paleontological resources (fossils). Other paleontological resources are However, most visitors have a harder time damaged, moved, or taken within the park identifying plant and animal fossils than

162 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) and on private lands in the region, including effects on petrified wood, but long-term, some just outside of the park boundary. As major, adverse impacts to petrified wood a result of past, ongoing, and future taking near the Crystal Forest parking area would or moving of these resources, cumulative probably continue. Impacts would be long impacts on fossils would be similar to those term, negligible to minor, and adverse over discussed above for petrified wood. the rest of Crystal Forest and Giant Logs areas. Long-term, minor, adverse impacts As in alternative 1 (no action), the Long would be expected from construction of the Logs Road is being converted to a trail and roadbed trail near The Tepees. Long-term, the visitor experience directed toward minor to moderate, adverse impacts pedestrians, resulting in long-term, minor, (depending on the site) would be expected beneficial effects to paleontological to continue in the backcountry. Cumulative resources. Rehabilitation of restrooms at effects would be moderate to major Puerco Pueblo and Agate Bridge would (depending on the site), long-term, adverse result in long-term, negligible, adverse impacts. impacts to fossil resources. Although major, adverse impacts to The cumulative effect of alternative 2, in petrified wood would be possible, such combination with other past, present, and impacts would not be spread throughout the reasonably foreseeable future actions, park. They would be confined instead to would be moderate to major (depending on high visitor use areas located near specific the site), long-term, adverse impacts. concentrations of petrified wood. Most significant deposits of petrified wood in the Mitigation. Changes to the Long Logs park would remain well protected. Thus, Trail, trailhead, and parking area would there would be no impairment of petrified mitigate some impacts to paleontological wood or other fossils from this alternative resources within park boundaries. Mitiga- (see specific definition of impairment in the tion measures would include increased “Impairment of National Park Resources” interpretation and education, signs, barriers section above). along trails, ranger patrols, and trail modification. These measures would be VEGETATION used, particularly in areas such as the new backcountry access points, as well as the new trail near The Tepees. Prior to New trails proposed under alternative 2 activities such as trail construction, could affect vegetation resources of the paleontological resources would be park near Route 66, Puerco River, and identified and curated, as appropriate. frontcountry trails (Route 66 and east of The Tepees). The Route 66 road trace Conclusion. Long-term, negligible to currently used for administrative purposes moderate, adverse impacts from theft and would be widened and improved to allow displacement of petrified wood would be visitors to drive an intact portion of the expected to continue at Jasper Forest, Agate road. Widening of the Route 66 road trace Bridge, and Blue Mesa. Modifications to and construction of a parking area / turn trails and trail management at Crystal around at the end, would result in minor, Forest and Giant Logs would have short- local, adverse impacts to vegetation term, negligible to moderate, beneficial resources. Providing a backcountry trailhead at the end of the frontcountry trail

163 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES proposed on Route 66 may encourage more access to the proposed universally visitors to use the Painted Desert wilderness accessible trail. This trail would head east area. As there are no defined trails in the for about one mile along an old roadbed. backcountry, visitors would be hiking in Minor, local, long-term, adverse impacts to areas that were likely previously undis- vegetation resources would be anticipated turbed, trampling vegetation along the way. as a result of constructing the turnout. As a result of this access, negligible to minor, local, long-term, adverse impacts to Construction of several small informal vegetation resources could occur, depend- turnouts adjacent to the main park road for ing on how much visitor use increases in backcountry access, and construction of the the northern wilderness area. Impacts to turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting vegetation would continue in the wilderness Route 66 would constitute a negligible, area in the southern section of the park. localized, long-term, adverse impact on vegetation resources. A new pamphlet There are no defined trails here, so hikers would be provided describing the untrailed who use this wilderness area are trampling opportunities available from these back- vegetation with every step. Because use of country access points, which may encour- this area is limited, impacts to vegetation age increased visitor use in this back- resources are expected to be negligible to country area. As most of this area is minor, local, and adverse, depending on relatively undisturbed, hiking would result actual visitor use. in trampling of vegetation along the way. Negligible to minor, local, adverse effects Construction of a turnout with wayside on vegetation resources could occur, exhibits and an overlook to interpret depending on the increase in visitor use as a historic Route 66, just north of where the result of increased backcountry park road passes over I-40, could have opportunities. long-term, negligible, localized, adverse impacts on vegetation resources. Low impact, traditional activities such as guided hiking or backpacking tours would The proposed Puerco River overlook trail be appropriate under this alternative. Such would disturb a minimal amount of services would encourage visitors to vegetation in the park. This would result in experience the park’s backcountry, help negligible, localized, adverse impacts on them to understand and appreciate the vegetation resources. However, because park’s special resources, and ensure that much of this vegetation is likely dominated visitor use is compatible with protecting by the non-native, invasive species, vegetation resources. This could have a tamarisk, construction of the trail may negligible to moderate, long-term, bene- actually warrant removal of some of this ficial effect on vegetation resources, species. This could result in a negligible, depending on the proportion of visitors who short- or long-term, beneficial effect on partake in guided tours. vegetation resources of the Puerco River, depending on how long it takes for tamarisk Cumulative Impacts. Past and ongoing to become reestablished. trampling of vegetation in the backcountry of Petrified Forest National Park would A new turnout on the east side of the main result in long-term, minor, adverse impacts park road near The Tepees would provide to vegetation. Replacement of sewer system

164 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) lines at the Painted Desert headquarters Conclusion. Increased backcountry hiking complex and Rainbow Forest, as well as opportunities could result in increased removal of the Puerco sewage lagoons, are trampling of vegetation in the wilderness planned activities that would have short- areas of Petrified Forest National Park. term, local, negligible to minor, adverse Negligible to minor, localized, adverse impacts on vegetation resources of Petrified impacts would be anticipated. Construction Forest National Park. Current plans to of several small informal turnouts adjacent rehabilitate restroom facilities at Agate to the main park road for backcountry Bridge would have local, negligible, long- access and construction of the turnout and term, adverse effects. Removal of the wayside exhibit interpreting Route 66 parking trailheads in the vicinity of the would constitute a negligible, localized, Flattops would result in local, minor, long- long-term, adverse impact on vegetation term, beneficial impacts on vegetation resources. Improvements to the Route 66 resources, as these areas would be reverted road trace, construction of a Puerco River back to native landscapes. overlook trail, and construction of a parking area / universally accessible trail near The Combined with other past, present, and Tepees would result in negligible to minor, reasonably foreseeable future actions, the long-term, adverse impacts on vegetation cumulative impact would be long-term, resources at the park. negligible to minor, adverse effects on the vegetation resources of Petrified Forest Some beneficial effects could occur from National Park. construction of the Puerco River overlook trail (as a result of removing tamarisk, if Mitigation. All disturbed areas associated necessary) and from encouraging with construction activities for trails, concessioners to provide low-impact, parking areas, turnouts, and wayside guided hiking and backcountry experiences. exhibits would be sited to avoid impacts to The effects would be negligible to vegetation, if possible. Revegetation moderate, local, short and long term, and plantings would seek to reconstruct the beneficial. natural spacing, abundance, and diversity of native species. Otherwise, they would be Combined with other past, present, and restored to pre-construction conditions reasonably foreseeable future actions, the during and/or as soon as practicable cumulative impact would have long-term, following construction, to the extent negligible to minor, adverse effects on possible. The principal goal is to avoid vegetation resources of Petrified Forest interfering with natural processes. Efficient National Park. planting and staging, as well as careful machine work, would be emphasized. There would be no impairment of vegetation resources from this alternative New parking areas / turnouts for back- (see specific definition of impairment in the country access would be monitored and “Impairment of National Park Resources” changed (e.g., closed or locations changed) section above). as necessary on the basis of resource considerations.

165 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

SOILS soils with slight erosion hazard. Therefore, long-term, negligible, site-specific, adverse New trails proposed under alternative 2 impacts on soils would be anticipated. could affect the soils of the park near Route 66, Puerco River, and at new frontcountry Construction and use of the proposed trails (Route 66 and east of The Tepees). Puerco River overlook trail would disturb The Route 66 road trace currently used for soils that have slight erosion hazards, administrative purposes would be widened except for the Sheppard loamy sand in this and improved to allow visitors to drive an area, which has a high wind erosion hazard intact portion of the road. Soils along this and a slight water erosion hazard. There- stretch of the Route 66 road trace range in fore, negligible to moderate, localized, erosion hazard from slight to very high. adverse impact on soils would be antici- Therefore, widening of the Route 66 road pated from construction and use of this trace and construction of a parking area / trail. turn-around at the end, would result in negligible to moderate, site-specific, A new turnout on the east side of the main adverse impacts to soils. Providing a park road near The Tepees would provide backcountry trailhead at the end of the access to the proposed universally accessi- frontcountry trail proposed on Route 66 ble trail. This trail would head east along an may encourage more visitors to use the old roadbed for about one mile. Soils along Painted Desert wilderness area. As there are this roadbed have been previously dis- no defined trails in the backcountry, visitors turbed; however, they are badland soils that would be hiking in areas that were never have a high erosion hazard. As this would heavily used, disturbing soils with slight to be an elevated “boardwalk” style trail, only high erosion hazard. As a result of this those areas needed for support structures access, negligible to minor, local, long- would be affected for the long term. There- term, adverse impacts to soils could occur, fore, moderate, site-specific, long-term, depending on the amount of visitor use adverse impacts to soils would be antici- increase in the northern wilderness area. pated as a result of construction of the turnout and trail. Short-term, site-specific, Impacts to vegetation would continue in the negligible to minor, adverse impacts would backcountry in the southern part of the park result from construction workers and the as described in the no-action alternative. use/storage of equipment that would disturb There are no defined trails and hikers who soils, potentially including cryptobiotic use the backcountry cause soil disturbance, soils. potentially including cryptobiotic soils. Because use of this area is limited, the Construction of several small informal impacts to soils are expected to be turnouts adjacent to the main park road for negligible to minor, local, and adverse, backcountry access would constitute a depending on erosion hazard and actual negligible to moderate, site-specific, long- visitor use. term, adverse impact on soils, depending on the erosion hazard of the soil. A new Construction of a turnout with wayside pamphlet would be provided describing the exhibits and an overlook to interpret untrailed opportunities available from these historic Route 66, just north of where the backcountry access points, which may park road passes over I-40, would affect encourage increased visitor use. This

166 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) pamphlet could provide pictures of the Puerco sewage lagoons, are planned cryptobiotic soils so that visitors have an activities that would have short-term, site- idea of their appearance and importance, specific, negligible to minor, adverse and could avoid these sensitive soils. Even impacts on soils of Petrified Forest National with the educational opportunity, negli- Park. Current plans to rehabilitate restroom gible, local, adverse effects on cryptobiotic facilities at Agate Bridge would have negli- soils could occur, depending on the increase gible, site-specific, long-term, adverse in visitor use as a result of increased effects. Removal of the parking trailheads backcountry opportunities. in the vicinity of the Flattops would result in site-specific, minor, long-term, beneficial Low impact, traditional activities such as impacts on soils, as these areas would be guided hiking or backpacking tours would returned to native landscapes. be appropriate under this alternative. Such services would encourage visitors to Combined with other past, present, and experience the backcountry, help them reasonably foreseeable future actions, the understand and appreciate the special cumulative impact would be long-term, resources, and ensure that visitor use is negligible to moderate, adverse effects on compatible with protecting soils, especially the soils of Petrified Forest National Park. cryptobiotic and highly erosive soils. This could have a negligible to moderate, site- Mitigation. All disturbed areas associated specific, long-term, beneficial effect on with construction activities for trails, soils, depending on the proportion of parking areas, turnouts, and wayside visitors who partake in guided tours. exhibits would be located to avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and highly erosive soils, to All construction activities would seek to the extent possible. Otherwise, they would avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and highly be restored during and/or as soon as erosive soils. However, it is expected that practicable following construction. The some negligible to moderate, site-specific, principal goal is to avoid interfering with short-term, adverse impacts to these soil natural processes. Efficient planning and types would result from construction staging, as well as careful machine work, workers and the use/storage of equipment. would be emphasized.

Cumulative Impacts. The erosive action of New parking areas/turnouts for backcountry wind and water are readily apparent access would be monitored and changed throughout Petrified Forest National Park. (e.g., closed or locations changed) as These natural processes have long-term, necessary on the basis of resource moderate, adverse impacts on soils, considerations. including cryptobiotic soils. Past and ongoing soil disturbances from off-trail Conclusion. Increased backcountry hiking hiking in the backcountry of Petrified opportunities could increase soil disturb- Forest National Park would result in long- ances in the wilderness areas of Petrified term, negligible to moderate, adverse Forest National Park. Negligible to minor, impacts to soils, including cryptobiotic localized, adverse impacts would be soils. Replacement of sewer system lines at anticipated. Construction of several small the Painted Desert headquarters complex informal turnouts adjacent to the main park and Rainbow Forest, as well as removal of road for backcountry access, and

167 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES construction of the turnout and wayside VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND exhibit interpreting Route 66 would APPRECIATION constitute negligible, site-specific, long- term, adverse impacts on soils. Improve- Visitor vehicle access to a portion of the ments to the Route 66 road trace, Route 66 roadbed and a new turnout and construction of a Puerco River overlook wayside interpreting Route 66 would trail, and construction of a parking area / benefit visitors who want to learn about and universally accessible trail near The Tepees view this historic resource. The impact on would result in negligible to moderate, visitor experience and appreciation would short- and long-term, local and site-specific, be long term and minor. adverse impacts on soils at the park. New turnouts and new trails at Route 66, Some beneficial effects to cryptobiotic soils The Tepees, and Puerco River would allow could occur from the production of an visitors to experience the park in new educational pamphlet. However, it would ways—a long-term, moderate, beneficial be expected that negligible, local, adverse impact. On the other hand, the new trails impacts to these soils would continue as a and turnouts would potentially have a long- result of off-trail hiking. Beneficial impacts term, minor, adverse impact on those would be anticipated for cryptobiotic and looking for unmarred views of the Painted highly erosive soils as a result of guided Desert and a remote backcountry hikes and backcountry trips compatible experience. with this alternative. This could have negli- gible to moderate, site-specific, beneficial Renovations at Rainbow Forest and Painted effects on these and other soils, depending Desert complex, trail changes at Crystal on the proportion of visitors who take Forest, and a new universally accessible advantage of guided tour opportunities. trail to The Tepees would improve accessi- bility for those with limited mobility. As a All construction activities would seek to result, such visitors would have more avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and highly opportunities to see and explore the park. erosive soils. However, it is expected that The impact would be moderate, long term, some negligible to moderate, site-specific, and beneficial. short-term, adverse impacts to these soil types would result from construction Parking and walkway improvements at workers and the use/storage of equipment. Rainbow Forest would reduce potential for vehicle-pedestrian conflicts and confusion Combined with other past, present, and in the Rainbow Forest area. These improve- reasonably foreseeable future actions, the ments would have a long-term, minor to cumulative impact would have long-term, moderate, beneficial impact. negligible to minor, adverse effects on soils of Petrified Forest National Park. Renovations at Painted Desert headquarters complex and Rainbow Forest Museum There would be no impairment of soils from would provide space for improved exhibits this alternative (see specific definition of and media. The result would be a moderate, impairment in the “Impairment of National long-term, beneficial impact on visitor Park Resources” section above). experience and appreciation.

168 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative)

Extended hours in the northern portion of improvements at Rainbow Forest, and new the park would allow for longer periods of turnouts, trails, and vehicle access to a visitor access and the opportunity to view portion of old Route 66 would have long- sunsets and sunrises over the Painted term, minor to moderate impacts. However, Desert. Potential expanded visitor services certain new trails and turnouts could have a (trading post, food service) at the Painted long-term, minor, adverse impact on Desert Inn would benefit visitors by visitors desiring unmarred views of the providing more services near popular park Painted Desert and a remote backcountry attractions. These changes would be experience. Extended hours and the expected to have a long-term, minor to potential for expanded visitor services at moderate, beneficial impact on visitor the Painted Desert Inn would have long- experience and appreciation. term, minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on visitor experience and appreciation. The development of an information Development of an information pamphlet to pamphlet to inform visitors about off-trail inform visitors about off-trail hiking hiking options would also improve visitor options would have a long-term, beneficial, experience and appreciation. The impact minor impact. Cumulative effects of would be long term and minor. alternative 2 would include long-term, minor to moderate, adverse, and beneficial Cumulative Impacts. Impacts associated impacts and short-term, minor, beneficial with conversion of the Long Logs access impacts on visitor experience and road to a hiking trail would remain the appreciation. same as in alternative 1: long term, moderate, and adverse or beneficial, NATIONAL PARK OPERATIONS depending on the visitors being affected. Impacts from I-40 interchange improve- ments would also be the same as in General Operations alternative 1: minor and adverse in the short term, and minor and beneficial over the At Giant Logs and Crystal Forest, some long term. portions of the trail may be accessible only

with a guide. Additional staff would be In summary, cumulative effects of needed if these changes were implemented. alternative 2 would include long-term, Additional staff would also be needed for minor to moderate, adverse, and beneficial increased interpretation at Rainbow Forest impacts and short-term, minor, beneficial and Painted Desert headquarters complex. impacts. New trails represent an increased park

maintenance burden, resulting in long-term, Mitigation. Mitigation measures would be minor, adverse impacts to park operations. the same as for alternative 1. Some trails and grounds are in poor

condition due to erosion, and pose a safety Conclusion. Various accessibility concern for visitors, park employees, and improvements and additional space at others. These concerns represent moderate, Painted Desert headquarters complex and long-term, adverse impacts to park Rainbow Forest Museum for improved operations. exhibits would have long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts. Parking and walkway

169 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

A new museum collections building that age. This maintenance would require funds, meets NPS standards would be constructed. staff time, and equipment on an ongoing This building would improve administrative basis to preserve the structures’ integrity. access to and curation of the collections. Park operations would sustain long-term, Construction of a new museum collections minor to moderate, adverse impacts facility would also free up space for other regardless of other improvements that functions in the Painted Desert headquarters would enhance operational efficiency in complex. Removing deteriorated structures this complex (e.g., the new museum at the complex would reduce the overall collections facility). maintenance load at the park. Other poten- tial improvements at the complex would Mitigation. Trail reductions in this alterna- result in improved work space conditions, tive would involve an archeologist and increases in available space, and improved paleontologist to ensure that archeological operational efficiency for employees, and paleontological sites are not damaged. visitors, and researchers and scientists. A landscape architect, engineer, or other These actions would have long-term, design professional would help to rectify moderate, beneficial effects on park erosion problems at Blue Mesa Trail. operations. Careful design and planning would allow Several residential structures would be adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Related improved. Employee morale, ability to operations would be moved closer to each recruit and retain employees and other, if possible. Improvements would be volunteers, and health and safety would made to accessibility and fire suppression / improve as a result. Flexible housing alarm systems would be installed. Asbestos opportunities for visiting researchers and and lead-based paint inspections would be scientists would also be provided under this conducted prior to remodeling existing alternative. These actions would have long- structures. Remediation would be carried term, moderate, beneficial impacts to park out, as necessary, to eliminate potential operations. health hazards.

Hours of operation and services provided at Any new facilities (e.g., the museum Painted Desert Inn would be expanded collections facility) would be built to NPS under this alternative. The north part of the standards and fire and safety codes, and park would also be open longer each day. would be accessible to persons with limited Additional interpretation and protection mobility. staff would probably be needed as a result. Longer hours would have long-term, minor Conclusion. Long-term, moderate, adverse to moderate, adverse impacts on park impacts to park operations would be operations. expected from trail modifications at Giant Logs and Crystal Forest and from expanded Cumulative Impacts. Structures in the interpretation at Rainbow Forest and the Painted Desert headquarters complex would Painted Desert headquarters complex. be rehabilitated and stabilized as needed Long-term, moderate, beneficial effects on under alternative 2. Even so, these park operations would be expected from structures would require more maintenance improved work space conditions, removing than is typical for most structures of this deteriorated structures, increasing available

170 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) space, and improving operational efficiency Cumulative Impacts. No cumulative for employees, visitors, and researchers and impacts to energy requirements and conser- scientists. Expanded services at the Painted vation potential at the park would be Desert Inn and extended park hours in the anticipated. north would have long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on park opera- Mitigation. Mitigating measures would be tions. The cumulative effect of alternative 2 implemented to reduce the energy require- on park operations would be long-term, ments of Petrified Forest National Park. minor to moderate, adverse impacts. Most of these are related to energy efficiency. Where incandescent light bulbs Energy Requirements and are in use, they should be replaced by Conservation Potential regular and compact fluorescent lighting (fluorescent bulbs use 75% less electricity than incandescent bulbs). Lighting, ventila- In alternative 2, some changes in energy tion, and other devices or systems can be requirements and conservation potential controlled by sensors that reduce electricity would occur at the Painted Desert head- consumption and, therefore, energy quarters complex. Energy requirements requirements. would likely increase as a result of building a new museum collections facility with By recycling materials from existing sophisticated lighting, ventilation, humid- facilities, building the minimum to satisfy ity, and temperature control systems. functional requirements, and having However, removing and/or replacing a few facilities serve multiple functions, the other structures could result in some energy embodied energy of new building materials savings. In all, long-term, negligible, and the energy of transporting them would adverse impacts to energy requirements at be minimized. In addition, electrical and the park would continue. thermal energy can be saved through facility design that incorporates day lighting There is potential to implement energy and other passive-energy strategies appro- conservation measures in the new museum priate to the climate at the park and collections facility. If the facility were function of the facility. constructed using sustainable development technologies, negligible, long-term, Using environmentally sensitive building beneficial effects would result for the materials can also reduce energy require- potential to conserve energy. ments and enhance conservation potential. Natural materials are less energy-intensive Energy would be required to produce new and polluting to produce. Using local materials and transport new and old build- materials reduces energy needs. Using ing materials during new construction at the durable materials can save on energy costs headquarters complex. Energy would also for maintenance as well as for production be consumed in the removal of any unused and installation of replacement materials. materials. This consumption would have a Mitigation measures described in alterna- short-term, negligible, adverse impact on tive 1 could be expanded and implemented energy requirements at Petrified Forest in this alternative. Such measures could National Park, but only for the duration of include the use of hidden photovoltaic the project. systems to heat water and provide power.

171 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Conclusion. Long-term, negligible, this happens, the impact would be minor, adverse impacts to energy requirements at long term, and beneficial to local business- the park would continue. Incorporation of es, the concessioner, and cooperators, sustainable development technologies in a because some visitors would likely spend few new structures would have negligible, more time at the park and in the region. long-term, beneficial effects on the Extended park hours and expanded inter- potential to conserve energy. No cumula- pretive programs could benefit local or tive impacts to energy requirements and regional businesses if some visitors spend conservation potential at the park would be more time at the park and in the area. This anticipated. would have a minor, long-term, beneficial impact on the local economy. The new museum collections facility would have a SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES negligible, long-term, beneficial impact on local businesses, park concessioners, and Current beneficial economic effects from cooperators if researchers remain in the the park would be expected to continue. local area longer to work with collections. Life cycle costs over the 15- to 20-year life of the plan, which includes maintenance, Other impacts would be the same as in operations, and personnel costs (as well as alternative 1. capital costs), are estimated at $65,700,000. These costs would continue to have a long- Cumulative Impacts. Other foreseeable term, moderate, beneficial impact to the actions (including those proposed in the economy of Apache and Navajo Counties 1993 GMP), such as construction of new from park expenditures and personal trails, turnouts, wayside exhibits, and spending by employees. The impact would comfort stations could encourage visitors to be greater than that expected from alterna- stay in the park and/or local area longer. tive 1. Longer stays could result in a minimal increase in visitor expenditures at the park, Elimination of petrified wood sales within as well as locally in Holbrook and at nearby the park would have a long-term, major, campgrounds. The cumulative effect of adverse impact on the concessioner and its alternative 2 on socioeconomic resources suppliers, but local businesses would would be a minor, long-term, beneficial realize a moderate, long-term, benefit. impact.

Limited new construction and improve- Conclusion. Beneficial effects from park- ments to existing facilities would result in a related spending would increase; benefits temporary increase in opportunities for the would be greater than for the no-action local construction work force and a modest alternative, but still long term, beneficial, increase in potential revenue for local and moderate. Elimination of petrified businesses generated by construction wood sales within the park would have a activities and workers. The potential long-term, major, adverse impact on the benefits would be short term, beneficial, concessioner and its suppliers, but local and minor in intensity. businesses would realize a moderate, long- term, benefit. Potential benefits from new With encouragement from park staff, construction and improvements to existing nearby cooperators or neighbors may facilities would be short term, beneficial, choose to develop more campgrounds. If

172 Impacts of Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative) and minor in intensity. Negligible to minor, disturbing these resources constitutes an long-term, beneficial impacts would result irreversible commitment of resources if proposed actions result in visitors spend- because information is lost if the context ing more time at the park and in the local (location and condition) of the resources is area. The cumulative effect of alternative 2 changed, even inadvertently. Thus, there on socioeconomic resources would be a would be some irreversible loss or commit- minor, long-term, beneficial impact. ment of archeological resources, petrified wood, and other fossils in alternative 2, as discussed in the “Unavoidable Adverse UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS Impacts” section above.

There would be unavoidable, moderate to Removal of even a few Painted Desert major, adverse impacts on archeological headquarters complex structures would resources, petrified wood, and other fossils constitute an irreversible loss. These under alternative 2. These impacts could be buildings are potentially eligible for the slightly greater than those resulting from NRHP even though they are less than 50 current management, even though trails years old. A detailed record of the buildings proposed in alternative 2 were located in could be created via the Historic American areas that tend not to have concentrations of Buildings Survey or Historic American these resources. Impacts could be avoided Engineering Record, but the buildings only if human use were not allowed in the themselves would be irretrievably lost. park. Disturbance to archeological resources from wind and water erosion Limited amounts of nonrenewable would also be unavoidable. Mitigation resources would be used for construction measures would be taken, when possible, to projects and park operations, including reduce these impacts. energy and materials. These resources would be essentially irretrievable once they Long-term, major, adverse impacts on the were committed. concessioner and its suppliers would be unavoidable when petrified wood sales in park gift shops are discontinued, as required RELATIONSHIP OF SHORT-TERM by NPS Management Policies. Businesses USES AND LONG-TERM outside the park would benefit, however, to PRODUCTIVITY the extent that visitors buy petrified wood there instead. This section discusses the effects of the short-term use of resources on the long- term productivity of resources. IRREVERSIBLE AND

IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF There would be no adverse effects on RESOURCES biological, agricultural, or economic productivity associated with implementing Archeological resources, petrified wood, or alternative 2. other fossils that are stolen or vandalized are irreversibly lost. Even moving or

173

IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 3

ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES processes. Reasonably foreseeable changes to facilities and visitor use activities could

pose a threat to archeological resources. Under alternative 3, fewer visitors would come into contact with sensitive archeo- In some areas, lithics are scattered among logical resources in the special protection petrified wood. Theft and displacement of zone because those who travel into the area petrified wood can lead to theft and would either be accompanied by a guide or, displacement of archeological resources. as part of the permitting process, would be Cattle trespass has impacted archeological informed of proper protocol when traveling resources in the past and would continue to in a special protection zone. This action do so in the future unless park managers would potentially lead to less trampling, can find more effective ways of keeping moving, vandalism, and theft of resources. livestock from crossing fences. However, overall impacts from visitor use would remain long term, adverse, and The cumulative effect of alternative 3, in minor to major, depending on the site. combination with other past, present, and

reasonably foreseeable future actions, Crystal Forest and Giant Logs are archeo- would be long term and adverse and would logically sensitive areas. Trail reductions in range from minor to major depending on these areas would benefit archeological the scope, type, and location of the activity. sites because visitors would be encouraged not to enter the areas and come in contact with the sensitive resources contained Mitigation. Except for potential negligible therein. The potential beneficial impact impacts associated with construction of the would be long term, localized, and minor. new museum collections facility, there would be no new adverse impacts to The new museum collections facility at archeological resources in this alternative. headquarters would be built in a previously Mitigation measures would be the same as disturbed area with low archeological in alternative 1. sensitivity. The potential impacts from this Section 106 Summary. After applying the project would be localized, long term, Advisory Council on Historic Preserva- negligible, and adverse. Other impacts tion’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR would be the same as in alternative 1. 800.5), the National Park Service

determined there would be no adverse Cumulative Impacts. Development, park effects to archeological resources. maintenance, vandalism, theft, traditional visitor use, and natural processes all pose a threat to resources. Past development has Conclusion. Implementation of the special resulted in disturbance to, and loss of, some protection zone could lead to less tramp- archeological resources. Vandalism and ling, moving, vandalism, and theft of theft of resources has occurred in the past, archeological resources. However, overall both within and outside park boundaries. impacts from visitor use would remain long Resources have been directly and indirectly term, adverse, and minor to major, depend- damaged through visitor use and natural ing on the site. Trail reductions at Crystal Forest and Giant Logs would have long-

174 Impacts of Alternative 3 term, localized, and minor, beneficial Modifications of buildings in the Painted impacts. Potential impacts from construc- Desert headquarters complex over the past tion of a new museum collections facility 30 years have compromised the historic would be localized, long term, negligible, integrity of some of the buildings. For and adverse. Other impacts would be the example, a noticeable roof addition over the same as for alternative 1. Cumulative visitor center and modifications to the impacts would be long term, adverse, and concessions building façade have altered range from minor to major, depending on the character of the plaza. The entry to the the scope, type, and location of the activity. visitor center has been altered. Past roofing projects have changed drainage patterns Although major, adverse impacts to around buildings, which has exacerbated archeological resources would be possible, building movement and settling. Repair and such impacts would not occur throughout maintenance projects have been insufficient the park. They would be confined instead to to keep pace with the deterioration caused individual sites. Most archeological by initial construction on uncompacted resources in the park would remain well soils. The addition of new structures and protected. Thus, there would be no impair- modifications to existing structures to ment of archeological resources from this adaptively reuse space would result in a alternative (see specific definition of long-term, site-specific, moderate to major, impairment in the “Impairment of National adverse impact. Efforts to reverse Park Resources” section above). modifications, restoring character-defining features, would result in potential long- term, site-specific, minor to moderate, HISTORIC STRUCTURES beneficial effects.

Proposed rehabilitation plans and In summary, the cumulative effect of associated potential impacts for the Painted alternative 2 would include long-term, site- Desert Inn would be the same as in specific, moderate to major, adverse alternative 1. Both residences would be impacts, and long-term, site-specific, minor rehabilitated and used for housing, resulting to moderate, beneficial effects. in a long-term, site-specific, minor, beneficial effect to these resources. Mitigation. Proposed actions at head- quarters would be addressed through Alternative 3 would involve modifications consultation with the Arizona SHPO and to existing headquarters structures in order additional NEPA compliance, as necessary. to adaptively reuse space, plus addition of Proposed additions and modifications for some new structures to meet current and adaptive reuse would be designed to future space needs. These projects would appropriately reflect character-defining further change character-defining features features of the buildings. Preliminary plans of the complex if not properly designed, were developed with the involvement of the resulting in a long-term, site-specific, SHPO. Through proper design, implemen- moderate to major, adverse effect. tation of the proposed additions and modifications, plus undoing past modifi- Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts cations, would minimize potential adverse to Painted Desert Inn would be the same as effects, possibly resulting in a site-specific, in alternative 1.

175 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial Forest cultural landscape. Proposed changes effect. to the Rainbow Forest Museum are to the building’s interior, and would not affect the Section 106 Summary. After applying the cultural landscape. Reducing the scale of Advisory Council on Historic Preserva- the concessions building would have a tion’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR long-term, negligible or minor, beneficial 800.5), the National Park Service deter- effect to the historic landscape. Other mined that there would be an adverse effect proposed construction projects would be at the Painted Desert headquarters complex, small in scale (new comfort station) or sited and consultation and mitigation would be out of the central portion of the landscape required. (new fire station). These changes would result in a long-term, minor to moderate, Conclusion. Potential impacts to the adverse impact to the historic landscape. Painted Desert Inn would be the same as in The proposed parking realignment would alternative 1. Improvements to the resi- result in a long-term, minor to moderate, dences near Painted Desert Inn would have adverse impact to the historic landscape. a long-term, site-specific, minor, beneficial effect. Modifications to existing Painted Proposed actions for Crystal Forest to Desert headquarters complex structures to shorten and realign the trail would adaptively reuse space, plus addition of eliminate part of the original CCC trail some new structures, would further change system, changing the character of the trail, character-defining features of the complex which could result in a long-term, minor, if not properly designed, resulting in a long- adverse impact to the cultural landscape. term, site-specific, moderate to major, adverse effect. Cumulative effects of Impacts associated with the Puerco River alternative 3 would include long-term, site- and Painted Desert Inn would be the same specific, moderate to major, adverse as for alternative 1. impacts, and long-term, site-specific, minor to moderate beneficial effects. Cumulative Impacts. Past and present modifications to the roads, bridge, trails, Through compliance with section 106 of parking, and pedestrian circulation have the National Historic Preservation Act, had a moderate, long-term, adverse impact consultation with the Arizona SHPO, and to Rainbow Forest. Proposed changes and proper design and mitigation, the severity additions to the landscape would have a of impacts can be reduced below the long-term, minor to moderate, adverse “major” threshold. There would be no effect, while restoration of structures would impairment of historic structures from this have a long-term, minor, beneficial effect. alternative (see the specific definition of Cumulatively, with proper design and impairment in the “Impairment of National mitigation, alternative 3 would potentially Park Resources” section above). have a long-term, negligible to minor, adverse effect on the cultural landscape. At Crystal Forest, past and present high use CULTURAL LANDSCAPES of the area by visitors has resulted in a noticeable loss of petrified wood, rendering Under alternative 3, reconfiguration of the area near the parking lot almost barren, Giant Logs Trail would have a long-term, constituting a long-term, minor to mod- minor, adverse impact on the Rainbow

176 Impacts of Alternative 3 erate, adverse impact. Past projects landscapes. Reducing the scale of the involving modifications to trails and concessions building would have a long- addition of a sun shelter have also had a term, negligible or minor, beneficial effect long-term, minor, adverse impact to the to the historic landscape. Other new facil- cultural landscape. The proposed trail ities at Rainbow Forest have long-term, reduction would have a long-term, minor, minor to moderate, adverse impacts to the adverse impact to the character-defining historic landscape. The proposed parking feature of the cultural landscape, while realignment would have a long-term, minor reducing visual quality impacts from to moderate, adverse impact to the historic petrified wood removal. Cumulatively, the landscape. Impacts associated with the impact would remain long term, minor to Puerco River and Painted Desert Inn would moderate, and adverse due to past impacts be the same as for alternative 1. Cumulative (removal of wood) that cannot be reversed. impacts to the Rainbow Forest cultural landscape would be long term, negligible to In summary, cumulative impacts to the minor, and adverse, and cumulative impacts Rainbow Forest cultural landscape would to the Crystal Forest cultural landscape be long term, negligible to minor, and would be long term, minor to moderate, and adverse, and cumulative impacts to the adverse. Crystal Forest cultural landscape would be long term, minor to moderate, and adverse. Through compliance with section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, Mitigation. Proposed actions at Rainbow consultation with the Arizona SHPO, and Forest would be addressed in consultation proper design and mitigation, the severity with the Arizona SHPO, and under separate of impacts can be reduced below the NEPA compliance, as necessary. The “major” threshold. There would be no proposed additions and changes would be impairment of cultural landscapes from this designed to appropriately reflect character- alternative (see the specific definition of defining features of the landscape. Proper impairment in the “Impairment of National design would reduce the intensity of the Park Resources” section above). potential adverse impact from moderate to minor, and it would possibly restore the ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES historic integrity and character of the landscape resulting in a beneficial effect. Under alternative 3, fewer visitors would Section 106 Summary. After applying the come into contact with sensitive ethno- Advisory Council on Historic Preserva- graphic resources in the special protection tion’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR zone because those who travel into the area 800.5), the National Park Service deter- would be accompanied by a knowledgeable mined that there may be an adverse effect guide or, as part of the permitting process, to the Giant Logs, Rainbow Forest, and informed of proper protocol when traveling Crystal Forest cultural landscapes. At a in the special protection zone. This would minimum, consultation would be required. lead to less trampling, moving, vandalism, and theft of resources. However, overall Conclusion. Reconfiguration of Giant impacts from visitor use would remain long Logs and Crystal Forest Trails would have term, adverse, and minor to major, depend- long-term, minor, adverse impacts on ing on the resource. Rainbow Forest and Crystal Forest cultural

177 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Otherwise impacts would be the same as for MUSEUM COLLECTIONS alternative 1. Under this alternative, a new museum Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts collections facility would be constructed at would be the same as for alternative 1: long Painted Desert headquarters complex. This term and adverse, and they would range building would potentially provide a long- from minor to major, depending on the term, major, beneficial impact because the scope, type, and location of the activity. new facility would have adequate storage space and would meet NPS standards for Mitigation. Mitigation measures would be curation. Items stored offsite would be the same as for alternative 1. returned to the park, where all items would be accessible to park staff and researchers Section 106 Summary. After applying the in one location for study and protection. Advisory Council on Historic Preserva- The benefit would be long term, moderate, tion’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR and beneficial. With the collections consoli- 800.5), the National Park Service dated, there would be better recordkeeping determined there would be no adverse and accountability. This impact would be effects to ethnographic resources. long term and minor to moderate and beneficial, depending on whether a full- Conclusion. Fewer visitors would come time curator is hired. Some researchers into contact with sensitive ethnographic could be inconvenienced by having to resources in the special protection zone, travel to the relatively remote park to access which would lead to less trampling, the park museum collection, but wherever moving, vandalism, and theft of resources. the collections are housed, some re- Impacts from visitor use would remain searchers would have to travel to get there. minor to major, however, depending on the This would potentially be a long-term, resource. Impacts from park operations minor, adverse impact. would be long term, minor, localized, and adverse. Impacts from natural processes Cumulative Impacts. No ongoing or would be long term, adverse, and minor to reasonably foreseeable future actions by major, depending on the site. Cumulative others would be expected to combine with impacts would be long term, adverse, and these actions and result in a cumulative range from minor to major, depending on impact on the museum collections under the scope, type, and location of the activity. alternative 3.

Although major, adverse impacts to Mitigation. Mitigation under alternative 3 ethnographic resources would be possible, would be the same as under alternative 1, such impacts would not occur throughout with the exception of offsite storage. the park. They would be confined instead to individual sites. Most ethnographic Conclusion. Construction of a new resources in the park would remain well museum collections facility would have a protected. Thus, there would be no long-term, major, beneficial impact. impairment of ethnographic resources from Consolidating collections at the park would this alternative (see specific definition of make all items accessible in one location impairment in “Impairment of National for study and protection, a long-term, Park Resources Section” above). moderate, and beneficial impact. Better

178 Impacts of Alternative 3 recordkeeping and accountability associated through “virtual experience” such as with consolidated collections would have a videos. These changes would result in long- long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial term, moderate, beneficial effects to Petri- impact, depending on whether a full-time fied wood. curator is hired. Some researchers could be inconvenienced by having to travel to the This alternative includes better delineation relatively remote park to access the park of the trail from Kachina Point to Litho- museum collection. This would potentially dendron Wash to encourage users to stay on be a long-term, minor, adverse impact. No the trail. The intent is for visitors to cumulative impacts to museum collections experience the Painted Desert badlands would be expected. without fear of becoming lost and in a manner that better protects the fossils and There would be no impairment of museum other resources near the trail. Although collections from this alternative (see the beneficial effects would probably result specific definition of impairment in the from maintaining this trail and limiting “Impairment of National Park Resources” impacts nearby, long-term, negligible, section above). adverse impacts would probably continue.

Visitor use of unmaintained trails and road PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES traces does not particularly discourage visitors from stepping off the trail, so long- Petrified Wood term, negligible, adverse impacts from visitors moving or stealing petrified wood

would probably continue. As in the no-action alternative, sales of petrified wood (and other fossils) will be The Crystal Forest Trail would be short- discontinued at all gift shops in the park. ened and realigned to better protect The impact of this action on petrified wood remaining petrified wood in this area. theft is unknown, but there is concern that it Signs, benches, barriers, and the like would could result in additional wood theft in the be installed to further encourage people to park. stay on the trail and off of the resource.

These actions would have a short-term, Zoning most of the park as a special moderate, beneficial effect on the petrified protection zone would result in enhanced wood in this area. However, as a high-use protection for paleontological resources. site, continued loss of petrified wood at Visitors would access special protection Crystal Forest would result in long-term, zone areas, which include the wilderness minor (moderate near the parking lot, which areas at Petrified Forest National Park, only sustains the highest use), adverse impacts. by obtaining a permit or as part of a guided tour. The permitting process would provide The western section of the trail at Giant another opportunity for park staff to Logs is not visible from the Rainbow Forest educate visitors about protecting sensitive Museum, making it difficult to monitor resources within the park. Visitors may also petrified wood theft. Access to this portion be directed away from certain areas for of the trail would be guided and a schedule resource protection reasons, and they would of guided tours would be established. Long- be encouraged to learn about and appreciate term, moderate, beneficial effects would these areas from offsite, or remotely result. Long-term, moderate, beneficial

179 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES effects would also be expected at Blue Cumulative Impacts. Despite the best Mesa, where the interpretive loop trail efforts of the park staff, petrified wood theft would be closed and rehabilitated to continues to be a serious problem. The prevent additional loss of fossils and cumulative effect of past and ongoing wood petrified wood. Barriers would be placed, theft is obvious. Continued theft and as necessary, to reduce social trails created movement of wood in the future would by visitors who wander from Blue Mesa continue to reduce this resource at Crystal overlooks. Some displacement of impacts Forest and in other areas where petrified could occur if visitors move to other areas wood is found near high visitor use areas. of the park instead. As sources of petrified wood on private and public lands surrounding the park are depleted, the potential for theft of this Other Fossils resource from backcountry areas may increase. Petrified wood harvesting for Many of the impacts discussed for petrified commercial purposes occurs legally on wood under this alternative would result for private lands outside the park and is unreg- other paleontological resources (fossils). ulated, further adding to the loss and cumu- However, most visitors have a harder time lative effects. Cumulative effects on identifying plant and animal fossils other petrified wood would be localized, moder- than petrified wood, so impacts would tend ate to major, long term, and adverse. to be fewer for these fossils. Closing the Blue Mesa Trail would result in long-term, Other paleontological resources are beneficial effects for fossils. Smaller trails damaged, moved, or taken within the park at Crystal Forest and new operations at and on private lands in the region, including Giant Logs would likely have no impact on some just outside the park boundary. As a paleontological resources other than result of past, ongoing, and future stealing petrified wood. and disturbance of these resources, similar cumulative impacts as for petrified wood The special protection zone proposed under would occur. this alternative calls for increased visitor- use management (e.g., visitor education, As in the no-action alternative, Long Logs permits, and guided hikes) to protect Road is being converted to a trail, and the paleontological resources throughout the visitor experience is being redirected park. Such visitor management would result towards pedestrians and hiking. This will in negligible to moderate, long-term, have long-term, minor, beneficial effects on beneficial impacts to fossils. However, the park’s petrified wood. long-term, negligible, adverse impacts from visitors moving or stealing fossils in The cumulative effect of alternative 3, in unsupervised situations would probably combination with other past, present, and continue. foreseeable future actions, would be localized, moderate to major, long term, As discussed for petrified wood, long-term, and adverse. beneficial effects to other fossil resources would result from changes to trail manage- Mitigation. Proposed changes to Long Logs ment. In the case of paleontological and closing the Blue Mesa loop trail would resources other than petrified wood, these help to mitigate impacts to paleontological benefits would be minor. resources within park boundaries. Other

180 Impacts of Alternative 3 mitigation measures would include use and backcountry access would be increased interpretation to communicate the carefully managed with permits and/or significance of these resources to visitors, other methods (e.g., access by guided tours signs, trail barriers, ranger patrols, and only) to protect sensitive resources. Visitors guided tours. would gain in-depth understanding of the significance of park resources through Conclusion. Despite benefits from additional tours and programs, multiple rezoning most of the park as a special media, and interactions with researchers. protection zone, long-term, negligible, They also may be directed away from adverse impacts would be likely to certain resource areas. Despite these efforts, continue. Better delineating the trail from it is anticipated that negligible, local, long- Kachina Point to Lithodendron Wash, and term, adverse impacts to vegetation shortening and realigning the trail at Crystal resources would continue as a result of off- Forest would result in short-term, negligible trail hiking. to moderate, beneficial effects. Changes in management of Blue Mesa Trail (which In this alternative, the trail from Kachina would be closed), and Giant Logs Trail Point to Lithodendron Wash would be would have long-term, minor to moderate, better delineated to encourage users to stay beneficial impacts on petrified wood and on the trail, which could better protect other fossils. The cumulative effect of vegetation resources by reducing off-trail alternative 3, in combination with other hiking. However, better definition of the past, present, and foreseeable future trail could result in increased visitor use, actions, would be localized, moderate to which could result in increased off-trail major, long term, and adverse. hiking. Park staff would seek to educate visitors about sensitive vegetation during Although major, adverse impacts to the permitting process, or hikes would be petrified wood would be possible, such guided. Therefore, it is anticipated that impacts would not be spread throughout the long-term, local, negligible to minor, park. They would be confined instead to beneficial effects to vegetation would result high visitor use areas located near concen- from closing the Blue Mesa Trail and trations of petrified wood. Most significant reducing the footprint of the trail at Crystal deposits of petrified wood in the park Forest. would remain well protected. Thus, there would be no impairment of petrified wood Impacts to vegetation resources in the or other fossils from this alternative (see southern wilderness area of the park would specific definition of impairment in the be expected to continue as in the no-action “Impairment of National Park Resources” alternative. There are no defined trails here, section above). so hikers who use this wilderness area could trample vegetation with every step. VEGETATION Because current use of this area is limited and is not anticipated to increase greatly, the impacts to vegetation resources are Trampling of vegetation that results from expected to be negligible, local, and off-trail hiking in the wilderness areas of adverse, as in alternative 1. Petrified Forest National Park would be expected to continue. However, some sensitive areas would be closed to visitor

181 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Construction of a turnout with wayside tion, to the extent possible. The principal exhibits and an overlook to interpret goal is to avoid interfering with natural historic Route 66, just north of where the processes. Efficient planting and staging, as park road passes over I-40, could have well as careful machine work, would be long-term, negligible, localized, adverse emphasized. impacts on vegetation resources. Conclusion. Efforts to reduce trampling of Cumulative Impacts. Past and ongoing vegetation in the backcountry of Petrified trampling of vegetation in the backcountry Forest National Park could include closing of Petrified Forest National Park would specific areas to visitor use, carefully result in long-term, minor, adverse impacts managing backcountry use with permits or to vegetation. Replacement of sewer system guided tours, and clearly defining the trail lines at the Painted Desert headquarters from Kachina Point to Lithodendron Wash. complex and Rainbow Forest, as well as Despite these efforts, it is anticipated that removal of the Puerco sewage lagoons, are negligible, local, long-term, adverse planned activities that would have short- impacts to vegetation resources would term, local, negligible to minor, adverse continue as a result of off-trail hiking. impacts on vegetation resources of Petrified Negligible to minor, long-term, beneficial Forest National Park. Current plans to effects to vegetation resources would be replace restroom facilities at Jasper Forest anticipated in the northern wilderness area and Agate Bridge would have local, as a result. Negligible, long-term, site- negligible, long-term, adverse impacts. specific, beneficial effects to vegetation Removal of the parking trailheads in the would also result from closing the Blue vicinity of the Flattops would result in Mesa Trail and reducing the footprint of the local, minor, long-term, beneficial impacts trail at Crystal Forest. on vegetation resources, as these areas would be reverted back to native Construction of the turnout and wayside landscapes. exhibit interpreting Route 66 would constitute a negligible, localized, long-term, Combined with other past, present, and adverse impact on vegetation resources. reasonably foreseeable future actions, the cumulative impact would be long-term, Combined with other past, present, and negligible to minor, adverse effects on the reasonably foreseeable future actions, the vegetation resources of Petrified Forest cumulative impact would have long-term, National Park. negligible to minor, adverse effects on vegetation resources of Petrified Forest Mitigation. All disturbed areas associated National Park. with construction activities for trails, park- ing areas, turnouts, and wayside exhibits There would be no impairment of vegeta- would be sited to avoid impacts to vege- tion resources from this alternative (see tation, if possible. Revegetation plantings specific definition of impairment in the would seek to reconstruct the natural “Impairment of National Park Resources” spacing, abundance, and diversity of native section above). species. Otherwise, they would be restored to pre-construction conditions during and/or as soon as practicable following construc-

182 Impacts of Alternative 3

SOILS historic Route 66, just north of where the park road passes over I-40, would affect Disturbance of soils that results from off- soils with slight erosion hazard. Therefore, trail hiking in the wilderness areas of long-term, negligible, site-specific, adverse Petrified Forest National Park would be impacts on soils would be anticipated. expected to continue. The impacts would be the same as discussed in the no-action Although cryptobiotic soils exist at alternative. However, some sensitive areas Petrified Forest National Park, resource could be closed to visitor use. Backcountry staff do not manage for these soils and their access would be carefully managed with exact locations are generally unknown. permits and/or other methods (e.g., access These soils do not respond well to human by guided tours only) to protect sensitive disturbances such as compaction associated resources. Should the park manage crypto- with off-trail hiking. Therefore, it would be biotic soils, areas with high concentrations anticipated that some negligible to minor, of such soils could be closed. Visitors localized, adverse, impacts to cryptobiotic would gain in-depth understanding about soils would occur due to off-trail hiking in the significance of park resources through the wilderness areas of the park; however, more tours and programs, multiple media, the extent of impact is probably unknown. and interactions with researchers. They may also be directed away from certain resource All construction activities would seek to areas, possibly, areas of cryptobiotic and/or avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and highly highly erosive soils. This could have minor, erosive soils. However, it is expected that site-specific, long-term, beneficial effects some negligible, site-specific, short-term, on these sensitive soil types. Negligible, adverse impacts to these soil types would long-term, site-specific, beneficial effects to result from construction workers and the soils would also result from closing Blue use/storage of equipment. Mesa Trail and reducing the footprint of the trail at Crystal Forest. Cumulative Impacts. The erosive action of wind and water are readily apparent In this alternative, the trail from Kachina throughout Petrified Forest National Park. Point to Lithodendron Wash would be These natural processes have long-term, better delineated to encourage users to stay moderate, adverse impacts on soils, on the trail, which would better protect soils including cryptobiotic soils. Past and by reducing off-trail hiking. However, ongoing soil disturbances from off-trail better defining the trail could result in hiking in the backcountry of Petrified increased visitor use. Because the soils Forest National Park would result in long- between Kachina Point and Lithodendron term, negligible, adverse impacts to soils, Wash have moderate to high erosion including cryptobiotic soils. Replacement hazard, it is anticipated that minor, long- of sewer system lines at the Painted Desert term, local, adverse effects to soils, complex and Rainbow Forest, as well as including cryptobiotic soils, would result, removal of the Puerco sewage lagoons, are depending on how much visitor use planned activities that would have short- increases. term, site-specific, negligible to minor, adverse impacts on soils of Petrified Forest Construction of a turnout with wayside National Park. Current plans to replace exhibits and an overlook to interpret restroom facilities at Jasper Forest and

183 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Agate Bridge would have negligible, site- Because the soils between Kachina Point specific, long-term, adverse impacts. and Lithodendron Wash have a moderate to Removal of the parking trailheads in the high erosion hazard, it is anticipated that vicinity of the Flattops would result in site- minor to moderate, long-term, local, specific, minor, long-term, beneficial adverse effects to soils, including crypto- impacts on soils, as these areas would be biotic soils, would result, even with efforts returned to native landscapes. to better delineate the trail.

Combined with other past, present, and Construction of a turnout with wayside reasonably foreseeable future actions, the exhibits and an overlook to interpret cumulative impact would be long-term, historic Route 66, just north of where the negligible, adverse effects on the soils of park road passes over I-40, would affect Petrified Forest National Park. soils with a slight erosion hazard. There- fore, long-term, negligible, site-specific, Mitigation. All disturbed areas associated adverse impacts on soils would be with construction activities for trails, anticipated. parking areas, turnouts, and wayside exhibits would be sited to avoid impacts to It would be anticipated that some negligible cryptobiotic and highly erosive soils, to the to minor, localized, adverse impacts to extent possible. Otherwise, they would be cryptobiotic soils would occur due to off- restored during and/or as soon as practi- trail hiking in the wilderness areas of the cable following construction. The principal park; however, the extent of impact is goal is to avoid interfering with natural unknown. processes and to minimize erosion caused by construction-related activities. Efficient All construction activities would seek to planning and staging, as well as careful avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and highly machine work, would be emphasized. erosive soils. However, it is expected that some negligible to moderate, site-specific, Conclusion. Impacts to soils in the back- short-term, adverse impacts to these soil country would be expected to continue as a types would result from construction result of off-trail hiking in the wilderness workers and the use/storage of equipment. areas of the park. These impacts would be the same as those discussed in the no-action Combined with other past, present, and alternative. However, minor, site-specific, reasonably foreseeable future actions, the long-term, beneficial effects on cryptobiotic cumulative impact would have long-term, and highly erosive soils could occur from negligible to minor, adverse effects on soils careful management of the backcountry, of Petrified Forest National Park. including closing certain areas, providing guided tours, and/or directing visitors away There would be no impairment of soils from from such soils. Negligible, long-term, site- this alternative (see specific definition of specific, beneficial effects to soils would impairment in the “Impairment of National also result from closing Blue Mesa Trail Park Resources” section above). and reducing the footprint of the trail at Crystal Forest.

184 Impacts of Alternative 3

VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND long-term, benefit to visitors—those who APPRECIATION enter the special protection zone with a guide would see more and learn more about Parking and walkway improvements at special park resources. Obtaining a permit Rainbow Forest would reduce the potential to enter the special protection zone would for vehicle-pedestrian conflicts and con- be a long-term, minor, adverse, impact fusion in the Rainbow Forest area. This because some visitors would perceive this would be a long-term, minor to moderate, requirement as an inconvenience. beneficial impact. Expanded interpretation at the Painted Changes at Giant Logs Trail, Rainbow Desert visitor center would benefit visitors Forest Museum, and Painted Desert head- because there would be more opportunities quarters complex would mean more areas to improve visitor appreciation of the park, would be universally accessible. Increased its resources, and values. The effect would accessibility would be a minor to moderate, be moderate and long term. long-term, beneficial impact, depending on the extent to which historic buildings could Discontinuation of petrified wood sales be made accessible during renovations. would adversely impact visitors wishing to Expanded exhibit space and updated purchase this type of souvenir in the park. exhibits and media at Rainbow Forest This impact would be long term and minor Museum and the Painted Desert head- because petrified wood would be available quarters complex would constitute a major, for purchase outside the park for the long-term, beneficial impact. Increased foreseeable future. contact with researchers would provide another minor, long-term, beneficial Park staff would encourage interested impact. parties to provide new campgrounds in the local area outside the park. If these efforts Closure of Blue Mesa Trail and trail were successful, additional campground reductions at Giant Logs and Crystal Forest choices would become available—a long- would make some notable resource areas term, minor, beneficial impact on visitor less accessible to visitors. Addition of a experience and appreciation. turnout and wayside exhibit overlooking and interpreting the old Route 66 road trace Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts would benefit visitors who want to learn associated with conversion of Long Logs about and view the old road. Improvements access road to a hiking trail and I-40 to Lithodendron Wash Trail would enhance interchange improvements would be the visitor access to the Painted Desert. The net same as in alternative 1: long-term, minor impact of these actions on visitor experi- to moderate, adverse effects, and minor, ence and appreciation would be minor, beneficial effects. adverse, and long term. Mitigation. Park staff would offer The lack of in-depth park experiences for expanded interpretive programs and most park visitors would remain the same “virtual tours” to visitors who are unable to as in alternative 1, except for the potential access areas of the park designated as for guided trips into the backcountry. special protection zones. Other mitigation Addition of this service would be a minor,

185 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES measures would be the same as for protection zone would also require alternative 1. additional staff to administer and monitor permits and enforce permit or guide Conclusion. Visitors would experience provisions. Impacts on park operations minor, long-term, adverse impacts from would be long term, adverse, and moderate. trail closures and reductions, and the permit requirement for independent entrance into Improvements to park housing would be the special protection zone. Minor, long- made under this alternative. Some term, beneficial impacts would result from structures would be removed completely the availability of guided trips into the (e.g., three employee residences that are in special protection zone, the Route 66 turn- poor condition), and two residences at the out and wayside exhibit, and the oppor- Painted Desert Inn would be repaired and tunity to interact with researchers. Parking used for housing and/or offices. Employee and walkway improvements at Rainbow morale and the ability to recruit and retain Forest would be a long-term, minor to employees would improve. Flexible hous- moderate, beneficial impact. Universal ing opportunities for visiting researchers accessibility improvements at Giant Logs and scientists would also be provided under Trail, Rainbow Forest Museum, and this alternative. These actions would have Painted Desert headquarters complex would long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts to have a minor to moderate, beneficial park operations. impact. Expansion of interpretive programs would have a moderate, long-term, bene- Removal of the Holbrook housing from ficial impact. Creation of more space for NPS ownership would benefit operations better exhibits and media at Rainbow Forest because maintenance staff would not have Museum and Painted Desert headquarters to drive 25 miles each way to repair and/or complex would constitute a long-term, care for the structures. Less time would be beneficial, major impact. Cumulative spent in travel, wear and tear on vehicles impacts on visitor experience and apprecia- would be reduced, and more maintenance tion would include long-term, minor to employees would be available for in-park moderate, adverse effects, and minor projects. These changes would have minor, beneficial effects. long-term, beneficial impacts to park operations.

NATIONAL PARK OPERATIONS A new museum collections building that meets NPS standards would be constructed General Operations in this alternative. This building would improve administrative access to museum

collections. It would have offices, a At Giant Logs, the rear trail section would laboratory and work space for visiting be accessible only with a park guide. This researchers and scientists, and work space restriction would require staff to be availa- for a curator. Construction of a new ble to lead these guided hikes. Additional museum collections facility would also free staff would also be needed for increased up space for other functions in this part of interpretation activities in Rainbow Forest the Painted Desert headquarters complex. and Painted Desert areas. Additional This extra space would result in long-term, maintenance would be required for upkeep moderate, beneficial effects on park of new equipment and trails. The special

186 Impacts of Alternative 3 operations due to improved work space Park maintenance staff would have to main- conditions, increases in available space, and tain the new trail from Rainbow Forest to improved operational efficiency for Long Logs. This additional burden would employees, visitors, and researchers and have a long-term, minor, adverse impact on scientists. park operations.

Major renovations and stabilization of The cumulative effect of alternative 3 on structures at Painted Desert headquarters park operations would be long term, minor complex would be completed. Renovations to moderate, and adverse. and removing deteriorated structures would reduce the need for constant repairs and Mitigation. Trail reductions in this alterna- allow the maintenance budget to be more tive would involve an archeologist and effectively prioritized throughout the park. paleontologist to ensure that archeological These renovations would have a long-term, and paleontological sites are not damaged. moderate, beneficial effect on park A landscape architect, engineer, or other operations. design professional would be involved at Blue Mesa to prevent erosion problems that Closing Blue Mesa Trail, as recommended could result from removing the trail. in this alternative, would eliminate potential safety hazards associated with eroding trail Careful design and planning would allow conditions. This trail closure would also adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Related eliminate associated maintenance require- operations would be moved closer to each ments. In all, minor, long-term, beneficial other, if possible. Improvements would be impacts to park operations are expected. made to accessibility and fire suppression / alarm systems installed. Asbestos and lead- Health and safety concerns would be based paint inspections would be conducted alleviated at the residences near the Painted prior to remodeling existing structures. Desert Inn as a result of bringing the units Remediation would be carried out, as back into use. These improvements would necessary, to eliminate potential health result in long-term, minor, beneficial effects hazards. on park operations. Any new facilities (e.g., the museum Cumulative Impacts. On-going repairs to collections facility) would be built to NPS the Painted Desert headquarters complex standards and fire and safety codes, and would require funding, staff time, and would be accessible to persons with limited equipment to preserve the integrity of these mobility. potentially historic structures. Because the structures would be stabilized in this Conclusion. Long-term, moderate, adverse alternative, the amount of maintenance impacts to park operations would result would be reduced from alternative 1 and from providing only guided access to the result in long-term, minor to moderate, western portion of Giant Logs, increased adverse impacts to park operations. The interpretation throughout the park, main- remaining buildings would probably still tenance associated with new interpretive require more maintenance than new technologies and monitoring systems, buildings. maintaining the Kachina Point to Lithoden- dron Wash Trail, and administering and

187 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES monitoring an expanded permit program. Under this alternative, the potential exists These adverse impacts would be due to for energy conservation in the new museum increases in staff to accommodate new collections facility. If the facility were con- interpretive programs, maintenance, and structed using sustainable development monitoring, as well as new maintenance technologies, negligible, long-term, bene- responsibilities. ficial effects would result from the potential to conserve energy. Beneficial effects of implementing alternative 3 would result from increased Cumulative Impacts. No cumulative accessibility to facilities, better housing and impacts to energy requirements and conser- working conditions; proper storage of vation potential at the park are anticipated. museum collections, removal of deterior- ating structures that require ongoing Mitigation. Through recycling materials maintenance, more efficient maintenance from existing facilities, building the operations, and closing Blue Mesa Trail. minimum to satisfy functional require- Morale would be enhanced as a result of ments, and having facilities serve multiple better housing and working conditions. functions, the embodied energy of new Less maintenance would be required for building materials and the energy of trans- inadequate structures such as residences. porting them would be minimized. In Renovating and reusing structures would addition, electrical and thermal energy can alleviate some health and safety concerns. be saved through facility design that Long-term, beneficial impacts would range incorporates day lighting and other passive- from minor to moderate in intensity. energy strategies appropriate to the climate at the park and function of the facility. The cumulative effect of alternative 3 on park operations would be long term, minor Using environmentally sensitive building to moderate, and adverse. materials can also reduce energy require- ments and enhance conservation potential. Natural materials are less energy-intensive Energy Requirements and and polluting to produce. The use of local Conservation Potential materials (if possible) has a reduced level of energy cost. Using durable materials can Some changes in energy requirements and save on energy costs for maintenance as conservation potential would occur at well as for production and installation of Painted Desert headquarters complex, as a replacement materials. Mitigation measures new museum collections facility would be described in alternative 1 could be built and a few other structures possibly expanded and implemented in this alterna- removed and/or replaced. Energy require- tive. Such measures could include the use ments would likely increase as a result of of hidden photovoltaic systems to heat the new museum collections facility. The water and, in general, to provide power. facility would require sophisticated light- ing, ventilation, humidity, and temperature Conclusion. Energy Requirements and control systems. However, removing and/or Conservation Potential: Long-term, negli- replacing a few other structures could result gible, adverse impacts to energy require- in some energy savings. In all, long-term, ments at the park would continue. Incor- negligible, adverse impacts to energy poration of sustainable development requirements at the park would continue. technologies in a few new structures would

188 Impacts of Alternative 3 have negligible, long-term, beneficial Expanded interpretive programs at the effects on the potential to conserve energy. headquarters complex, in conjunction with No cumulative impacts to energy require- the establishment of the special protection ments and conservation potential are zone that would focus visitation in the anticipated. developed area, would probably benefit the concessioner and the Petrified Forest Museum Association. Many visitors may SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES spend more time in the developed area where gift shops, snack bar, and café are Current beneficial economic effects from located, resulting in minor and long-term, the park would be expected to continue. beneficial impacts. Life cycle costs over the 15- to 20-year life of the plan, which include maintenance, With encouragement from park staff, operations, and personnel costs (as well as nearby cooperators and neighbors may capital costs), are estimated at $62,000,000 choose to develop more campgrounds. If to $69,000,000. this happens, the impact would be minor, long term, and beneficial to local busi- These costs would continue to be a long- nesses, the concessioner, and cooperators term, moderate, beneficial impact to the because some visitors would likely spend economy of Apache and Navajo Counties more time at the park and in the region. The from park expenditures and personal availability of more accommodations for spending by park employees. The impact researchers would constitute a negligible, would be greater than that expected from long-term, beneficial impact on local busi- alternative 1. nesses, park concessioners, and cooperators because more researchers may remain in Elimination of petrified wood sales within the local area for longer periods. the park would have a long-term, major, adverse impact on the concessioner and its Construction of a new museum collections suppliers, and local businesses would facility and renovation of the Rainbow realize a moderate, long-term, benefit. Forest area would result in a temporary increase in opportunities for the local Under alternative 3, there would be changes construction work force and a modest to community character, employee increase in potential revenue for local commutes, and housing. The presence of businesses generated by construction NPS employees in Holbrook would activities and workers. The potential decrease when the park divests itself of benefits would be minor to moderate and Holbrook housing. This change in temporary. ownership would have a long-term, negligible to moderate, adverse or Other impacts would be the same as for beneficial impact on local businesses and alternative 1. nearby residents, depending on the ultimate disposal of the residences. With the Cumulative Impacts. Other foreseeable elimination of Holbrook housing, some actions (including those proposed in the employees’ commutes to work would be 1993 GMP) such as construction of new drastically reduced, but commutes to town trails, turnouts, wayside exhibits, and for groceries and other necessities would comfort stations could encourage visitors to increase in number.

189 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES stay in the park and/or local area longer. Long-term, major, adverse impacts on the This construction could result in a minimal concessioner and its suppliers would be increase in visitor expenditures in the park unavoidable when petrified wood sales in at the concessioner and cooperators park gift shops are discontinued, as required facilities, and in Holbrook and at nearby by NPS Management Policies. Businesses campgrounds. These actions would result in outside the park would benefit, however, to a minor, long-term, cumulatively beneficial the extent that visitors buy petrified wood impact. there instead.

Conclusion. Beneficial effects from park- IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEV- related spending would increase; benefits ABLE COMMITMENTS OF would be greater than for the no-action RESOURCES alternative, but still long term, beneficial, and moderate. Elimination of petrified Archeological resources, petrified wood, or wood sales within the park would have a other fossils that are stolen or vandalized long-term, major, adverse impact on the are irreversibly lost. Even moving or concessioner and its suppliers, but local disturbing these resources constitutes an businesses would realize a moderate, long- irreversible commitment of resources term, benefit. Potential benefits from new because information is lost if the context construction and improvements to existing (location and condition) of the resources is facilities would be short term, beneficial, changed, even inadvertently. Thus, there and minor in intensity. The cumulative would be some irreversible loss or commit- effect of alternative 2 on socioeconomic ment of archeological resources, petrified resources would be a minor, long-term, wood, and other fossils in alternative 3, as beneficial impact. discussed in the “Unavoidable Adverse Impacts” section above. UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS Limited amounts of non-renewable There would be unavoidable, moderate to resources would be used for construction major, adverse impacts on archeological projects and park operations, including resources, petrified wood, and other fossils energy and materials. These resources under alternative 3. Implementation of the would be essentially irretrievable once they special protection zone and changes to park were committed. trail systems would provide better protec- RELATIONSHIP OF SHORT-TERM tion of these resources compared to current USES AND LONG-TERM conditions, but instances of vandalism, PRODUCTIVITY theft, and inadvertent disturbance would still be likely to occur. These impacts This section discusses the effects of the would be avoided only if human use were short-term use of resources on the long- not allowed in the park. Disturbance to term productivity of resources. archeological resources from wind and water erosion would also be unavoidable. There would be no adverse effects on Mitigation measures would be taken, when biological, agricultural, or economic possible, to reduce these impacts. productivity associated with implementing alternative 3.

190

IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 4

ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES performed in consultation with the Arizona SHPO.

New trails proposed under alternative 4 Impacts from visitor use would be miti- may allow more visitors to come into gated through careful placement of new contact with sensitive sites near Route 66, trails away from undisturbed or sensitive the Puerco River, and new designated archeological sites. Other mitigation backcountry corridor routes. There would measures would be the same as in be potential for more trampling of sites, alternative 1. moving of resources, vandalism, and theft in these areas. Impacts would be long term, minor to major, and site specific. Section 106 Summary. After applying the Advisory Council on Historic Preser- The reconstructed Painted Desert head- vation’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR quarters complex would be built in a 800.5), the National Park Service deter- previously disturbed area with low mined there is the potential for adverse archeological sensitivity. The potential effects to the Route 66, Puerco River, and impacts from this project would be the new trail in The Tepees area. At a localized, long term, negligible, and minimum, consultation would be required. adverse. Conclusion. Alternative 4 would allow for Widening the Route 66 access road would increased impacts near Route 66, the constitute a minor, localized impact on Puerco River, and new backcountry subsurface historical archeological corridor trails. Parkwide, there would be resources contained within the road minimal change (from alternative 1) in corridor. Other impacts would be the same impacts from trampling, moving, vandal- as in alternative 1. ism, and theft of resources. Potential impacts from reconstruction of the Painted Desert headquarters complex would be Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts localized, long term, negligible, and from visitor use and park operations would adverse. Cumulative impacts would be long remain the same as in alternative 1: long term and adverse, and they would range term, adverse, and range from minor to from minor to major depending on the major depending on the scope, type, and scope, type, and location of the activity. location of the activity.

Although major, adverse impacts to Mitigation. Archeological surveys would be conducted, as necessary, prior to any archeological resources would be possible, ground-disturbing activities on the Route 66 such impacts would not occur throughout roadbed, Puerco River, or new backcountry the park. They would be confined instead to corridor trails. If archeological resources individual sites. Most archeological cannot be avoided, the data they possess resources in the park would remain well regarding prehistoric and/or historic protected. Thus, there would be no lifeways would be recorded and recovered. impairment of archeological resources Recordation and recovery would be from this alternative (see specific definition

191 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES of impairment in the “Impairment of Section 106 Summary. After applying the National Park Resources” section above). Advisory Council on Historic Preserva- tion’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR 800.5), the National Park Service deter- HISTORIC STRUCTURES mined there would be an adverse effect to the headquarters. Consultation and mitiga- Proposed plans and associated potential tion would be required. impacts for the Painted Desert Inn are the same as for alternative 1. Conclusion. Impacts to the inn would be the same as for alternative 1. Demolishing Demolishing and rebuilding the Painted and rebuilding the Painted Desert head- Desert headquarters complex would result quarters complex would result in a regional, in a regional, long-term, major, adverse long-term, major, adverse impact to the impact to the resource, one of the few resource. Cumulative impacts would be the remaining examples of Neutra’s NPS same as for alternative 1, except that there projects and of National Park Service would be no additional cumulative impacts “Mission 66” program architecture. to the Painted Desert headquarters complex once it is destroyed. Cumulative Impacts. Impacts to the Painted Desert Inn (minor, long term, and Major, adverse impacts to historic beneficial) would be the same as for structures (complete loss of the Painted alternative 1. There would be no additional Desert headquarters complex) would be cumulative impacts to the headquarters possible under this alternative. Conser- complex once it is destroyed. vation of the complex is not (1) necessary to fulfill specific park purposes identified in Mitigation. Mitigation to the inn associated the establishing legislation or proclamation with alternative 4 would be the same as of the park, or (2) key to the natural or alternative 1. cultural integrity of the park or to oppor- tunities for enjoyment of the park. Preser- Alternative 4 would destroy the Painted vation of cultural resources has been Desert headquarters complex, a cultural identified as a mission goal in this GMP resource that is potentially eligible for Revision. However, impairment of historic listing on the NRHP. Data recovery would structures could result from this alternative most likely be chosen for mitigation. (see specific definition of impairment in the Generally, it is suggested that Historic “Impairment of National Park Resources” American Buildings Survey or Historic section above). American Engineering Record documen- tation be prepared prior to implementation of any activity that could affect the char- CULTURAL LANDSCAPES acter or integrity of the resource. Alterna- tive 4 would require consultation and Several changes are proposed at Rainbow negotiation between the Arizona SHPO and Forest. Modifications to the museum would the National Park Service to determine be interior in scope and would not affect the appropriate mitigation measures and the cultural landscape. Reducing the scale of acceptable level of documentation. the concessions building would have a long-term, negligible or minor, beneficial effect on the historic landscape. The

192 Impacts of Alternative 4 proposed parking and walkway realignment moderate to major, adverse effect on the would result in a long-term, minor to Rainbow Forest cultural landscape. moderate, adverse impact to the historic landscape. Proposed construction of a new At Crystal Forest, past and present high use building on the north side of the parking lot of the area by visitors has resulted in a at Rainbow Forest, without proper design noticeable loss of petrified wood (a and siting, would change the intent and component of the visual quality of the integrity of the cultural landscape resulting landscape), rendering the area nearest the in a long-term, moderate, adverse impact. parking lot almost barren of petrified wood. Past projects involving modifications to New trails near Puerco Pueblo would have trails and addition of a sun shelter have also a long-term, minor to moderate, adverse had a minor, adverse impact to the cultural impact due to changes and the addition of landscape. Continued high use of the area modern features into a potential archeo- would result in further loss of wood and logical cultural landscape. degradation of the visual quality, resulting in a long-term, minor, adverse impact to the Proposed actions to Painted Desert Inn landscape (primarily around the parking would have a long-term, negligible to lot). minor, adverse impact due to the addition of modern trails into the viewshed of a Cumulative impacts associated with past, potential historic landscape. present, and proposed actions for Crystal Forest would be the same as for alternative At Crystal Forest, current management 1: long term, minor, and adverse. practices would continue, including using signs, minor trail realignments, patrols, and Mitigation. Proposed actions at Rainbow trail barriers to prevent moving, damage, Forest would be addressed through consul- and removal of petrified wood. Continued tation with the Arizona SHPO and addi- high use of this site would potentially result tional NEPA compliance, as necessary. in the loss of petrified wood and degra- Preliminary plans were developed during dation of the visual quality of this cultural the planning process with the involvement landscape, resulting in a site-specific, long- of the SHPO. With proper design, the pro- term, minor, adverse impact. posed changes, in conjunction with revers- ing past modifications, would potentially Cumulative Impacts. Past and present minimize adverse effects, resulting in a site- modifications to the roads, bridge, parking, specific, long-term, minor, adverse effect. and pedestrian circulation have resulted in a moderate, long-term, adverse impact to Prior to implementation of proposed actions Rainbow Forest. Proposed changes and near Puerco River, Old Route 66, and trails adding new buildings to the landscape in the Painted Desert, these three land- would have a long-term, minor to moderate, scapes would be evaluated to determine if adverse effect, while restoration of they are eligible for the NRHP. If deter- structures would have a long-term, minor, mined eligible, the actions would be beneficial effect. Cumulatively, without addressed in consultation with the Arizona proper design and mitigation, alternative 4 SHPO to ensure that design features would potentially have a long-term, conform to the cultural landscape character

193 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES and integrity. Mitigation would be designed at Rainbow Forest, and long term, minor, to minimize the intensity of adverse effects. and adverse at Crystal Forest.

Section 106 Summary. After applying the Through compliance with section 106 of Advisory Council on Historic Preser- the National Historic Preservation Act, vation’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR consultation with the Arizona SHPO, and 800.5), the National Park Service deter- proper design and mitigation, the severity mined there is the potential for adverse of impacts can be reduced below the effects to the Rainbow Forest, Puerco “major” threshold. There would be no Pueblo, and Painted Desert Inn. At a impairment of cultural landscapes from this minimum, consultation would be required. alternative (see specific definition of impairment in the “Impairment of National After applying the Advisory Council on Park Resources” section above). Historic Preservation’s criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR 800.5), the National Park ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES Service determined that there would be an adverse effect at Rainbow Forest and the headquarters complex, consultation and Alternative 4 proposes no changes to mitigation would be required. current management of ethnographic resources and impacts would, therefore, be Conclusion. Changes at Rainbow Forest the same as for alternative 1. Any new trail would have mixed impacts on the cultural construction would be planned in consul- landscape. Reducing the scale of the tation with interested American Indian Rainbow Forest concessions building tribes to determine issues and concerns and would have a long-term, negligible or long-term impacts to ethnographic minor, beneficial effect. Proposed parking resources would be avoided. and walkway realignment would have a long-term, minor to moderate, adverse Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts impact. Adding a new structure on the north from visitor use and park operations would side of the parking lot at Rainbow Forest remain the same as for alternative 1. could have a long-term, moderate, adverse impact. Proposed new trails near Puerco Mitigation. Mitigation measures would be Pueblo and The Tepees would have long- the same as for alternative 1. term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on a potential archeological cultural Section 106 Summary. Since no change to landscape. Proposed trail changes below current management is being proposed, Painted Desert Inn would have a long-term, criteria of adverse effect (36 CFR 800.5) negligible to minor, adverse impact if would not be applied. determined to be a cultural landscape. Impacts associated with proposed actions Conclusion. Ethnographic resource for Crystal Forest would be the same as for impacts related to visitor use would be long alternative 1: site-specific, long-term, term, adverse, and minor to major, depend- minor, adverse impact to this landscape. ing on the resource. Impacts from park Cumulative impacts of alternative 4 on operations would have long-term, minor, cultural landscapes would potentially be localized, adverse impacts. Impacts from long term, moderate to major, and adverse natural processes would be long term, adverse, and minor to major, depending on

194 Impacts of Alternative 4 the site. Cumulative impacts to ethno- these actions and result in a cumulative graphic resources would be long term and impact on the museum collections under adverse and would range from minor to alternative 4. major, depending on the scope, type, and location of the activity. Mitigation. Since the collections would be stored at offsite facilities that meet NPS Although major, adverse impacts to ethno- standards for curation, mitigation measures graphic resources would be possible, such at the facilities would be at least as impacts would not occur throughout the extensive as those discussed under park. They would be confined instead to alternative 1. individual sites. Most ethnographic resources in the park would remain well A park representative would travel to the protected. Thus, there would be no impair- offsite facilities on an annual basis to ment of ethnographic resources from this ensure that the objects are stored and alternative (see specific definition of accounted for in accordance with NPS impairment in the “Impairment of National standards. Park Resources” section above). Conclusion. Benefits from moving museum collections to facilities where they MUSEUM COLLECTIONS would receive better protection would be long term, moderate, and beneficial. Offsite Proposed relocation of museum collections researchers would be able to access certain to offsite locations that meet NPS standards parts of collections more easily and gain for curation, plus consolidation of similar information from the items, a long-term, items, would constitute a moderate bene- minor, beneficial impact. Better record- ficial impact to the museum collections due keeping and accountability have a long- to protection in adequate storage facilities. term, minor, beneficial impact. Offsite This would also allow offsite researchers to storage at more than one location could gain easier access to specific classes of have a minor, long-term, adverse impact on items. This would likely be a minor, bene- the park staff’s ability to gain a complete ficial impact to the collections from infor- picture of the collections. No cumulative mation gained from the items. Otherwise, impacts would be expected. impacts associated with researchers would be the same as alternative 3. Better record- There would be no impairment of museum keeping and accountability, under NPS collections from this alternative (see standards for curation, constitute a minor, specific definition of impairment in the beneficial impact to the museum collections “Impairment of National Park Resources” because fewer items would be lost or section above). inaccurately catalogued. With items stored offsite, it may be difficult to obtain an overall picture of the nature of the park’s PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES collections, resulting in a potential long- term, minor, adverse impact. Petrified Wood

Cumulative Impacts. No ongoing or reasonably foreseeable future actions by As in the other alternatives, sales of others would be expected to combine with petrified wood and other fossils will be

195 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES discontinued at gift shops in the park. The development of trails would probably impact this would have on petrified wood locally increase visitation. Some visitors theft is unknown, but there is concern that it would undoubtedly leave the trail, then could result in additional wood theft in the disturb or steal petrified wood. All things park. considered, long-term, moderate impacts would be expected. Impacts would be Most of Petrified Forest National Park moderate because paleontological resources would be zoned preservation emphasis, in this area are thus far relatively including all wilderness lands within the undisturbed. park. This zoning would mean essentially no change from the way these lands are Over the long term, minor to major, adverse currently managed, except for areas in the impacts would probably continue in front- Painted Desert near where new backcountry country areas of concentrated resources, as corridor trails are proposed (see below). they are attractive sites where visitor use is encouraged (such as Blue Mesa and Crystal New backcountry corridor routes would be Forest). The new frontcountry trail pro- opened to the public, including a trail posed near the badland formation known as network in the south end of the park on The Tepees would be sited, designed, and unpaved administrative road segments. constructed to avoid impacts to the sensi- Minor, adverse impacts would result from tive resources in this area. However, adding these trails to Petrified Forest providing visitor access to this site would National Park’s trail network. With a few probably result in more incidences of exceptions, these trails would not cross petrified wood theft and removal, a long- sensitive petrified wood areas and could term, minor, adverse impact. potentially divert a small proportion of visitors from areas of higher resource Other Fossils concentration. This would result in long- term, negligible, beneficial effects to paleontological resources located in other Many of the same impacts discussed for areas of the park. petrified wood under this alternative would result for other paleontological resources New backcountry corridor routes in the (fossils). However, most visitors typically Painted Desert area would have long-term, have a harder time identifying plant and moderate, adverse impacts to petrified animal fossils than petrified wood, and wood in this part of the park. The proposed therefore, the impacts would tend to be loop trail that starts and ends at Kachina fewer for these fossils. Point and the Onyx Bridge spur trail would be constructed primarily on undisturbed New backcountry and frontcountry trails lands, resulting in a long-term, negligible, proposed under this alternative would have adverse impact to petrified wood disturbed moderate, adverse impacts to fossil during trail construction. Creation of a trail resources disturbed by trail construction to Onyx Bridge may have a beneficial and from theft or removal of fossils by impact in leading visitors directly to the unsupervised visitors leaving the trails. At site, so visitors would avoid the futile one site, mitigation could reduce the searches (and associated petrified wood impacts on paleontological resources other disturbance and theft) that occur under the than petrified wood to negligible or minor. current situation. On the other hand,

196 Impacts of Alternative 4

As in the no-action alternative, minor to term, minor, beneficial effects for the moderate, beneficial effects would result park’s paleontological resources. from educating the public about the importance of leaving paleontological The cumulative effect of alternative 4, in resources where they are found. combination with other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, Cumulative Impacts. Despite the best would be localized, moderate to major, efforts of the park staff, petrified wood theft adverse impacts on petrified wood and continues to be a serious problem. The other fossils. cumulative effect of past and ongoing wood theft is obvious at Petrified Forest National Mitigation. Mitigation measures would Park. Continued theft and movement of include increased interpretation to com- wood in the future would continue to municate the significance of paleonto- decimate this resource at Crystal Forest and logical resources, signs, trail barriers, and in other park areas where petrified wood is ranger patrols. These measures would be found near high visitor use areas. As especially used at new backcountry trails sources of petrified wood on private and and trailhead areas, as well as the new public lands surrounding the park are frontcountry near The Tepees. Petrified depleted, the potential for theft of this Forest National Park staff should monitor resource from backcountry areas may fossil sites annually and collect specimens increase. Petrified wood harvesting for as they are exposed. During activities such commercial purposes occurs legally on as trail construction, fossil areas should be private lands outside the park and is cleared similar to the way in which an unregulated, further adding to the loss of archeological area would be. this resource and cumulative effects. Cumu- lative effects on petrified wood would be Conclusion. Impacts to high use front- localized, moderate to major, long term, country areas like Giant Logs, Blue Mesa, and adverse. Crystal Forest, Jasper Forest, Agate Bridge, and Long Logs would be the same as for Other paleontological resources are alternative 1. Impacts from building a new damaged, moved, or taken within the park frontcountry trail near The Tepees would and on private lands in the region, including have a long-term, minor, adverse impact. some just outside the park boundary. As a New backcountry corridor routes in the result of the past, ongoing, and future Painted Desert area would have long-term, taking, moving, or damaging of these moderate, adverse impacts to petrified resources, the same cumulative impacts to wood in this part of the park. Cumulative petrified wood would occur for certain impacts would be localized, moderate to other fossils, too. major, and adverse.

Installation of vault toilets at Agate Bridge / Although major, adverse impacts to Jasper Forest and Puerco Pueblo would be petrified wood would be possible, such carried forward and would result in long- impacts would not be spread throughout the term, negligible, adverse impacts. Long park. They would be confined instead to Logs Road would be converted to a trail high visitor use areas located near and the visitor experience directed toward concentrations of petrified wood. Most pedestrians and hiking, resulting in long- significant deposits of petrified wood in the

197 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES park would remain well protected. Thus, term, negligible to minor, adverse effects there would be no impairment of petrified would be expected to continue from wood or other fossils from this alternative trampling of vegetation. (see specific definition of impairment in the “Impairment of National Park Resources” Impacts to vegetation also occur in the section above). wilderness area in the southern part of the park. There are no defined trails here, so VEGETATION hikers who use this wilderness area are trampling vegetation with every step. Because use of this area is limited, the In the southern portion of Petrified Forest impacts to vegetation resources are National Park, several unpaved road seg- expected to be negligible, local, and ments, occasionally used for administrative adverse. purposes, would be zoned backcountry corridor. Several small trailhead parking The Route 66 road trace currently used for areas, located adjacent to the main park administrative purposes would be widened road, would be provided for access to these and improved to allow visitors to drive an backcountry corridors. The construction of intact portion of the road. Widening of the the small trailhead parking areas would Route 66 road trace and construction of a have long-term, localized, negligible, parking area/turn around at the end, would adverse impacts on vegetation resources. result in minor, local, adverse impacts to Using the administrative roads as back- vegetation resources. country corridors, although on previously disturbed roadbeds, would provide new Construction of a new turnout on the west opportunities for visitors to access side of the main park road near The Tepees previously undisturbed areas. Off-trail would provide access to the proposed hiking in these areas could have long-term, universally accessible trail. Negligible to local, negligible to minor, adverse impacts minor, local, long-term, adverse impacts to on vegetation resources, depending on how vegetation resources would be anticipated much visitor use occurs in this area. as a result of constructing the turnout and trail. Construction of several new trails (e.g., a loop trail to and from Kachina Point, the The proposed Puerco River overlook trail spur trail to Onyx Bridge, the Route 66 would disturb a minimal amount of vege- trail, and the wilderness access trail) in the tation in the park. This would result in northern part of the park would be expected negligible, localized, adverse impacts on to have long-term, localized, negligible to vegetation resources. However, as much of minor, adverse effects on vegetation this vegetation is likely dominated by the resources in this part of the park. Defined non-native invasive species, tamarisk, trail opportunities for visitors in the back- construction of the trail may actually country could have a beneficial effect on warrant removal of some of this species. vegetation resources by discouraging the This could result in a negligible, short-term random trampling of the desert that occurs or long-term, beneficial effect on vegetation now. However, if an increase in visitor use resources of the Puerco River, depending of the backcountry occurs, it could result in on how long it takes for tamarisk to become a higher level of off-trail hiking in previ- reestablished. ously undisturbed areas. Therefore, long-

198 Impacts of Alternative 4

The proposed CCC work camp trail near vegetation, if possible. Revegetation Puerco Pueblo would be sited in an old road plantings would seek to reconstruct the trace that has been allowed to revert to natural spacing, abundance, and diversity of native vegetation. Therefore, long-term, native species. Otherwise, they would be localized, negligible, adverse effects on restored to pre-construction conditions vegetation resources would be anticipated. during and/or as soon as practicable following construction, to the extent Construction of a turnout with wayside possible. The principal goal is to avoid exhibits and an overlook to interpret interfering with natural processes and to historic Route 66, just north of where the minimize erosion caused by construction park road passes over I-40, could have related activities. Efficient planting and long-term, negligible, localized, adverse staging, as well as careful machine work, impacts on vegetation resources. would be emphasized.

Cumulative Impacts. Past and ongoing Conclusion. Construction of small trail- trampling of vegetation in the backcountry head parking areas and several new back- of Petrified Forest National Park would country trails would have long-term, result in long-term, minor, adverse impacts localized, negligible to minor, adverse to vegetation. Replacement of sewer system impacts on vegetation resources. Off-trail lines at the Painted Desert headquarters hiking in these areas could have long-term, complex and Rainbow Forest, as well as local, negligible to minor, adverse impacts removal of the Puerco sewage lagoons, are on vegetation resources. Construction of the planned activities that would have short- turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting term, local, negligible to minor, adverse Route 66 would constitute a negligible, impacts on vegetation resources of Petrified localized, long-term, adverse impact on Forest National Park. Current plans to vegetation resources. Improvements to the replace restroom facilities at Jasper Forest Route 66 road trace, construction of a and Agate Bridge would have local, negli- Puerco River overlook trail, construction of gible, long-term, adverse impacts. Removal a CCC work camp trail, and construction of of the parking trailheads in the vicinity of a parking area / universally accessible trail the Flattops would result in local, minor, near The Tepees would result in negligible long-term, beneficial impacts on vegetation to minor, long-term, adverse impacts on resources, as these areas would be reverted vegetation resources at the park. back to native landscapes. Some beneficial effects could occur from Combined with other past, present, and construction of the Puerco River overlook reasonably foreseeable future actions, the trail (as a result of removing tamarisk, if cumulative impacts would be long-term, necessary), and from encouraging conces- negligible to minor, adverse effects on the sioners to provide low-impact, guided vegetation resources of Petrified Forest hiking and backcountry experiences. These National Park. would be negligible to moderate, local, short- and long-term, beneficial impacts. Mitigation. All disturbed areas associated with construction activities for trails, Combined with other past, present, and parking areas, turnouts, and wayside reasonably foreseeable future actions, the exhibits would be sited to avoid impacts to cumulative impact would have long-term,

199 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES negligible to minor, adverse effects on erosion hazard. Defined trail opportunities vegetation resources of Petrified Forest for visitors in the backcountry could have a National Park. beneficial effect on soils by discouraging the random trampling of desert soils. How- There would be no impairment of vege- ever, if an increase in visitor use of the tation resources from this alternative (see backcountry occurs, it could result in a specific definition of impairment in the higher level of off-trail hiking in previously “Impairment of National Park Resources” undisturbed areas. Therefore, long-term, section above). negligible to moderate, adverse effects would be expected to continue from distur- bance of soils with slight to very high SOILS erosion hazard.

In the southern portion of Petrified Forest The Route 66 road trace currently used for National Park, several unpaved road seg- administrative purposes would be widened ments, occasionally used for administrative and improved to allow visitors to drive an purposes, would be zoned backcountry intact portion of the road. Soils along this corridor. Several small trailhead parking stretch of the Route 66 road trace range in areas, located adjacent to the main park erosion hazard from slight to very high. road, would be provided for access to these Therefore, widening of the Route 66 road backcountry corridors. The construction of trace, and construction of a parking area / the small trailhead parking areas would turn around at the end, would result in have long-term, localized, minor, adverse negligible to minor, localized, adverse impacts, as the soils in the proposed impacts to soils. locations have moderate erosion hazards. Using the administrative roads as back- Continued impacts to soils would also country corridors, although on previously occur in the wilderness area in the southern disturbed roadbeds, would provide new part of the park. There are no defined trails opportunities for visitors to access previ- and hikers who use this wilderness area ously undisturbed areas. Off-trail hiking in could be disturbing soils, potentially these areas could have long-term, some- including cryptobiotic soils, with every what local, negligible to minor, adverse step. Because use of this area is limited, the impacts on soils, potentially including impacts to soils are expected to be negli- cryptobiotic soils, as they have moderate to gible to minor, local, and adverse, depend- very high erosion hazards. The intensity of ing on erosion hazard and actual visitor use. the impacts would also depend on the level of visitor use in this area. A new turnout on the west side of the main park road near The Tepees would provide Construction and use of several new trails access to the proposed universally accessi- (e.g., a loop trail to and from Kachina ble trail. Soils in this area have slight to Point, the spur trail to Onyx Bridge, the high erosion hazards. As this would be an Route 66 trail, and the wilderness access elevated “boardwalk” style trail, only those trail) in the northern part of the park would areas needed for support structures would be expected to have long-term, somewhat be affected for the long term. Therefore, localized, negligible to moderate, adverse negligible to minor, site-specific, long-term, effects on soils. This is because the soils in adverse impacts to soils would be this part of the park have slight to very high

200 Impacts of Alternative 4 anticipated as a result of construction of the hiking in the backcountry of Petrified turnout and trail. Forest National Park would result in long- term, negligible to minor, adverse impacts A proposed turnout with wayside exhibits to soils, including cryptobiotic soils. and an overlook to interpret historic Route Replacement of sewer system lines at the 66, just north of where the park road passes Painted Desert headquarters complex and over I-40, would affect soils with slight Rainbow Forest, as well as removal of the erosion hazard. Therefore, long-term, negli- Puerco sewage lagoons, are planned activi- gible, site-specific, adverse impacts on soils ties that would have short-term, site- would be anticipated. specific, negligible to minor, adverse impacts on soils of Petrified Forest National Construction and use of the proposed Park. Current plans to replace restroom Puerco River overlook trail would disturb facilities at Jasper Forest and Agate Bridge soils that have slight erosion hazards, would have negligible to moderate, site- except for the Sheppard loamy sand in this specific, long-term, adverse impacts. area, which has a high wind erosion hazard Removal of the parking trailheads in the and a slight water erosion hazard. There- vicinity of the Flattops would result in site- fore, negligible to minor, localized, adverse specific, minor, long-term, beneficial impacts on soils would be anticipated from impacts on soils, as these areas would be construction and use of this trail. reverted back to native landscapes.

The proposed CCC work camp trail near Combined with other past, present, and Puerco Pueblo would be sited in an old road reasonably foreseeable future actions, the trace that has been allowed to revert to a cumulative impact would be long-term, native landscape. Soils in this area have negligible to minor, adverse effects on the slight to moderate erosion hazards. There- soils of Petrified Forest National Park. fore, long-term, localized, negligible to minor, adverse effects on soils, potentially Mitigation. All disturbed areas associated including cryptobiotic soils, would be with construction activities for trails, park- anticipated. ing areas, turnouts, and wayside exhibits would be sited to avoid impacts to crypto- All construction activities would seek to biotic and highly erosive soils, to the extent avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and highly possible. Otherwise, they would be restored erosive soils. However, it is expected that during and/or as soon as practicable follow- some negligible to minor, site-specific, ing construction. The principal goal is to short-term, adverse impacts to these soil avoid interfering with natural processes. types would result from construction Efficient planning and staging, as well as workers and the use/storage of equipment. careful machine work, would be emphasized. Cumulative Impacts. The erosive action of wind and water are readily apparent Conclusion. Construction of small throughout Petrified Forest National Park. trailhead parking areas would have long- These natural processes have long-term, term, site-specific, negligible, adverse moderate, adverse impacts on soils, impacts on soils. Off-trail hiking in these including cryptobiotic soils. Past and areas could have long-term, somewhat ongoing soil disturbances from off-trail localized, negligible to minor, adverse

201 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES impacts on soils. Construction of the vations at Rainbow Forest, trail changes at turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting Crystal Forest, and a new accessible trail to Route 66 would constitute a negligible, site- The Tepees would also improve accessi- specific, long-term, adverse impact on soils. bility. Visitors with limited mobility would Improvements to the Route 66 road trace, be freer to explore the park, and the construction of a Puerco River overlook National Park Service would be able to trail, construction of a CCC work camp hire, accommodate, and retain staff with trail, and construction of a parking area / physical disabilities. The net impact would universally accessible trail near The Tepees be major, long term, and beneficial. would result in negligible to minor, long- term, local or site-specific, adverse impacts Reconstruction of the Painted Desert on soils at the park. headquarters complex and renovations at other facilities would provide more space All construction activities would seek to for better exhibits and media. This would avoid impacts to cryptobiotic and highly have a major, long-term, beneficial impact erosive soils. However, it is expected that on visitor experience and appreciation. some negligible to moderate, site-specific, short-term, adverse impacts to these soil New trails at Kachina Point, Onyx Bridge, types would result from construction Route 66, the CCC work camp (near The workers and the use/storage of equipment. Tepees), and Puerco River; more back- country access; and additional turnouts Combined with other past, present, and would allow visitors to experience new reasonably foreseeable future actions, the areas and the park in different ways. These cumulative impact would have long-term, new trails and turnouts would potentially negligible to minor, adverse effects on soils have a long-term, minor to moderate, of Petrified Forest National Park. beneficial impact on visitor experience and appreciation. New trails and turnouts would There would be no impairment of soils from also have a long-term, minor, adverse this alternative (see specific definition of impact on views of natural scenery (Painted impairment in the “Impairment of National Desert) and on visitors seeking remote Park Resources” section above). backcountry experiences.

VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND Visitor vehicle access to a portion of the APPRECIATION Route 66 roadbed and a new turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting Route 66 would benefit visitors who want to learn Parking lot and walkway improvements at about and view this historic resource. The Rainbow Forest would reduce the potential impact on visitor experience and apprecia- for vehicle-pedestrian conflicts and con- tion would be long term and minor. fusion. The impact would be the same as in alternative 3. Extended hours in the northern portion of the park would allow for longer periods of Reconstruction of the Painted Desert head- visitor access and the opportunity to view quarters complex would mean that the sunsets and sunrises over the Painted entire complex would be universally Desert. Expanded visitor services (trading accessible for visitors, park staff, and others post, food service) at the Painted Desert Inn wishing to conduct business there. Reno-

202 Impacts of Alternative 4 would benefit visitors by providing more Conclusion. New trails and turnouts would services near popular park attractions. have a long-term, minor, adverse impact on Together, these changes have a long-term, views of natural scenery (Painted Desert) moderate, beneficial impact on visitor and on visitors seeking remote backcountry experience and appreciation. experiences. Minor, long-term, beneficial impacts would result from the new Route Park staff would encourage interested 66 turnout and wayside exhibit and from parties to provide new campgrounds in the new vehicle access to a portion of Route 66. local area. If these efforts were successful, Moderate, long-term, beneficial impacts additional campground choices would would result from extended park hours in become available, and they would have a the northern portion of the park, more minor, beneficial impact on visitor visitor services at the Painted Desert Inn, experience and appreciation. new trails, more backcountry access, and more turnouts. Major, long-term, beneficial The discontinuation of petrified wood sales impacts would also be expected from would adversely impact visitors wishing to improved accessibility. Cumulative impacts purchase this type of souvenir within the would be moderate and beneficial overall. park. This impact would be minor because petrified wood would be available for NATIONAL PARK OPERATIONS purchase outside the park for the fore- seeable future, minimizing the effect the new policy would have on visitor General Operations experience.

In alternative 4, operations would become Cumulative Impacts. Impacts associated more complex and intensive, requiring with conversion of the Long Logs access more resources, equipment, and time. road to a hiking trail would be the same as for alternative 1. Impacts from the I-40 In this alternative, several new trails would interchange improvements and the refur- be zoned as backcountry corridors. Some bishment and/or replacement of toilets at trails would result from conversion of Chinde Point, Puerco Pueblo, and Agate several unpaved road segments that are Bridge / Jasper Forest would be the same as currently used for administrative purposes for alternative 1. in the south part of the park. Several new

trailhead parking areas, located adjacent to The cumulative effect of the no-action the main park road, would be provided for alternative, in combination with other past, access to the trails. Several new trails present, and foreseeable future actions, would facilitate access to more remote would be long-term, moderate, beneficial areas of the park. However, these new trails impacts on visitor experience and and trailhead parking areas would result in appreciation. increased maintenance, interpretation, and

protection requirements. New trails would Mitigation. There would be no new adverse have long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts to visitor experience and apprecia- impacts to park operations. tion in this alternative. Mitigation measures would be the same as for alternative 1. Services and hours of operation at Painted

Desert Inn would be expanded under this

203 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES alternative. Longer hours would require that complex, as certain functions would be more interpretive, maintenance, and pro- temporarily relocated and interrupted. tection staff and services be available to serve the inn and its vicinity. Additional Long-term, minor, beneficial effects would protection staff would be required to patrol be expected for park operations as recon- the park during its expanded hours. New struction of the complex would eliminate trails and the improved segment of Route several health and safety concerns. Inade- 66 would require more interpretation and quacies related to fire suppression and protection. The need for additional alarm systems would be eliminated as the personnel would result in long-term, minor old buildings are demolished and new to moderate, adverse impacts on park buildings are built. Potential health hazards operations because additional interpretive posed by asbestos and lead-based paint programs would have to be developed, would also be eliminated as old buildings operational hours in the north part of the are demolished and new ones built. park would be extended, and staff numbers would probably have to be increased. Payments associated with housing the museum collections at offsite facilities In alternative 4, the Painted Desert head- would come from the park’s operating quarters complex would be demolished and budget, which would have a long-term, reconstructed in a phased approach. This adverse, minor impact. On the other hand, rehabilitation would improve the amount park maintenance staff would have the and type of work space available and burden of maintaining the new trail from improve functional relationships between Rainbow Forest to Long Logs. This would divisions. These improvements would have have a long-term, minor, adverse impact on a long-term, major, beneficial effect on park operations. park operations. Some maintenance of existing structures would continue during Cumulative Impacts. No cumulative phased demolition and reconstruction of the impacts to general operations would be headquarters complex. Costs associated expected from alternative 4. with this alternative would force other maintenance projects to be delayed or Mitigation. Several mitigating measures forgone, and would result in short-term, would be implemented to reduce impacts minor, adverse impacts. However, main- that alternative 4 would have on park tenance costs would be reduced over the operations. New park facilities would be long term. New residences would result in designed to accommodate current and long-term, major, beneficial effects from anticipated future needs for space, as improved living conditions, heightened determined by a 2001 study (e2M 2001) or employee morale, better recruitment and more current information, as appropriate. retention of park employees, and more New facilities would be built to current flexible housing opportunities for visiting NPS standards and fire and safety codes, researchers and scientists. The new labor- and they would be universally accessible. atory and work space for researchers These new facilities would help curtail provided in this alternative would also be problems the park currently experiences beneficial. However, short-term, minor, related to operations. Demolition and adverse impacts would be expected to occur construction would be phased and tempo- during demolition and reconstruction of the rary buildings would be used as needed to

204 Impacts of Alternative 4 ensure that park operations were disrupted Energy Requirements and as little as possible during this project. Conservation Potential Rehabilitation of the two residences near the Painted Desert Inn for staff offices Alternative 4 has the greatest potential to would help in this respect. affect the energy requirements and conser- vation potential of the park. The entire Structures that are in immediate need of Painted Desert headquarters complex would rehabilitation and stabilization for safety be demolished and reconstructed using a reasons would receive routine maintenance phased approach. The new buildings would during the phased reconstruction of the eliminate energy inefficiencies. Using headquarters complex. This would reduce sustainable development technologies the cost of ongoing maintenance and its during reconstruction would minimize impacts on park operations. energy required to operate new structures after their completion. The buildings would Conclusion. Operations would become result in long-term, moderate, beneficial more complex and intensive, requiring effects on energy requirements of the park. more resources, equipment, and time. New trails and trailheads would require addi- Energy would be required to produce new tional maintenance, and expand needs for materials and transport new and old build- resource protection, resulting in long-term, ing materials during reconstruction of the moderate to major, adverse impacts on park headquarters complex. Energy would also operations. Expanded hours and expanded be consumed in removal of any unused interpretation and concession services at the materials. This energy consumption would Painted Desert Inn would have long-term, have a short-term, negligible, adverse major, adverse impacts to park operations. impact on energy requirements at Petrified Long-term, minor to major, beneficial Forest National Park, but only for the effects would be expected from phased duration of the project. Additionally, if the demolition and reconstruction of the new headquarters complex is somewhat Painted Desert headquarters complex. larger than the old complex, as proposed, Employee housing and work space would negligible, short-term, adverse impacts to be sufficient and appropriate. Museum energy requirements may result from collection storage facilities would be operating the slightly larger facility. Energy appropriate, meet applicable standards, and savings from sustainable technologies be more accessible to park staff and would offset this impact in the long term, researchers. Health and safety concerns that however. impact park operations would be alleviated by demolishing existing buildings and Building new structures in the headquarters replacing them with buildings that meet complex would provide the opportunity to standards. Short-term, minor, adverse implement sustainable technologies at the impacts would be expected to occur during park. These technologies would be consid- demolition and reconstruction, as certain ered throughout the planning process, from functions would be temporarily relocated site selection for individual buildings to and interrupted. No cumulative impacts to building design and construction, to general operations would be expected from material selection. Responsible energy use alternative 4. is fundamental to sustainable development. It requires energy awareness, conservation,

205 CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES and efficiency, coupled with the use of reduced by using local materials (if primary resources (materials found in possible). Durable materials can save on nature such as stone, earth, flora [hemp, energy costs for maintenance, as well as for jute, and reed], cotton, and wood), avoiding the production and installation of replace- nonrenewable resources to the extent ment materials. The new headquarters possible. Incorporation of sustainable structures would be built to allow for future technologies and materials would provide expansion and/or adaptive uses with a long-term, moderate, beneficial effects for minimum of demolition and waste. energy conservation potential at Petrified Materials and components for recon- Forest National Park. struction of the complex should be chosen to maximize potential reuse and/or Cumulative Impacts. No cumulative recycling (to reduce energy associated with impacts are anticipated as a result of producing and transporting new materials) impacts to energy requirements and if and when the time comes. conservation potential at the park. More information on sustainable develop- Mitigation. Passive energy technologies ment technologies that reduce energy (e.g., wind-scoops, cross-ventilation, and requirements and enhance conservation passive thermal chimneys) can reduce or potential can be found in NPS Guiding eliminate the need for energy-intensive Principles of Sustainable Design (1994b), systems such as air conditioning. Consider- National Park Service Management ation of onsite energy production and Policies (2001), and Director’s Order–13: storage (e.g., photovoltaic systems and Environmental Leadership. wind generators for remote applications and small power demands such as pumping Conclusion. Demolishing and recon- water) in the early planning can eliminate structing the Painted Desert headquarters otherwise necessary energy requirements. complex would eliminate energy inefficien- cies and allow incorporation of sustainable By recycling building materials, building technologies that reduce energy require- the minimum necessary to satisfy functional ments. The new buildings would result in requirements, and by having facilities serve long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial multiple functions, the embodied energy of effects for energy requirements at the park. new building materials and the energy of As some new materials would have to be transporting them is minimized. The energy consumed, energy required to produce and required to operate these new structures is transport these materials would increase, a also minimized. In addition, considerable short-term, negligible, adverse impact to electrical and thermal energy can be saved energy requirements. Short-term, negli- through facility design that incorporates day gible, adverse impacts would also result lighting and other passive energy-saving from building a somewhat larger complex strategies appropriate to the climate at the than exists presently; these impacts would park and function of the facility. be mitigated in the long term by the benefits of sustainable technologies. As Using environmentally sensitive building energy conservation would be considered materials reduces energy requirements and during siting, design, construction, and enhances conservation potential. Natural furnishing, long-term, minor to moderate, materials are less energy intensive and beneficial effects would result for polluting to produce. Energy costs are also

206 Impacts of Alternative 4 conservation potential. No cumulative collections would benefit from potential impacts would be expected. NPS payments for storage and businesses would benefit from the presence of more researchers. The impacts would be negli- SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES gible to minor and long term.

Beneficial impacts from the park would be With encouragement from park staff, expected to continue. Life cycle costs over nearby cooperators and neighbors may the 15- to 20-year life of the plan, which choose to develop more campgrounds. Park include maintenance, operations, and hours of operation would be extended in the personnel costs (as well as capital costs), north. Some visitors would probably spend are estimated at $64,300,000. This would more time at the park and in the local area continue to be a long-term, moderate, as a result. The likely benefits would be beneficial impact to the economy of long term and minor to moderate. Apache and Navajo Counties from park expenditures and personal spending by Otherwise impacts would be the same as employees. The impact would be greater alternative 1. than that expected from alternative 1. Cumulative Impacts. Other foreseeable Elimination of petrified wood sales within actions (including those proposed in the the park would have a long-term, major, 1993 GMP) such as the construction of new adverse impact on the concessioner and its trails, turnouts, wayside exhibits, and com- suppliers, but local businesses would fort stations could encourage visitors to stay realize a moderate, long-term benefit. in the park and/or local area longer, result- ing in a minimal increase in visitor expendi- There would be construction projects tures in the park at the concessioner and associated with alternative 4, specifically cooperators facilities, as well as locally in the renovation of the Rainbow Forest area Holbrook and at nearby campgrounds. and demolition and rebuilding of the These actions would result in a minor, long- Painted Desert headquarters complex. New term, cumulatively beneficial impact. trails and turnouts would also be estab- lished. Construction projects would result Conclusion. Beneficial effects from park- in a long-term increase in opportunities for related spending would increase; benefits the construction work force and an increase would be greater than for the no-action in potential revenue for local businesses alternative, but still long term, beneficial, generated by construction activities and and moderate. Elimination of petrified workers. The benefits would be moderate wood sales within the park would have a and long term. long-term, major, adverse impact on the concessioner and its suppliers, but local About two or three researchers travel to the businesses would realize a moderate, long- park each year solely to use the museum term benefit. Potential benefits from new collections. Therefore, the foreseeable construction and improvements would be impact of the removal of the museum long term, beneficial, and moderate. Minor collections from the park would be adverse, to moderate impacts would result if pro- yet negligible, to local businesses, cooper- posed actions result in visitors spending ators, and concessioners. The facilities and more time in the park and in the local area. communities that would hold the

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Cumulative effects would be minor, long (location and condition) of the resources is term, and beneficial. changed, even inadvertently. Thus, there would be some irreversible loss or commit- ment of archeological resources, petrified UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS wood, and other fossils in alternative 4, as discussed in the “Unavoidable Adverse There would be unavoidable, moderate to Impacts” section above. major, adverse impacts on archeological resources, petrified wood, and other fossils Demolition and removal of the Painted under alternative 4. These impacts could be Desert headquarters buildings as the greater than those resulting from current headquarters complex is reconstructed conditions, even though new proposed trails would result in an irreversible loss. These were carefully sited to minimize impacts to buildings are potentially eligible for the such resources. Impacts could be avoided NRHP. It is possible that a detailed record altogether only if human use were not of the buildings would be created via the allowed in the park. Disturbance to Historic American Buildings Survey or archeological resources from wind and Historic American Engineering Record, but water erosion would also be unavoidable. the buildings themselves would be irretriev- Mitigation measures would be taken, when ably lost. possible, to reduce these impacts. Limited amounts of non-renewable Long-term, major, adverse impacts on the resources would be used for construction concessioner and its suppliers would be projects and park operations, including unavoidable when petrified wood sales in energy and materials. These resources park gift shops are discontinued, as required would be essentially irretrievable once they by NPS Management Policies. Businesses were committed. outside the park would benefit, however, to the extent that visitors would buy petrified wood there instead. RELATIONSHIP OF SHORT-TERM USES AND LONG-TERM PRODUCTIVITY IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEV-

ABLE COMMITMENTS OF This section discusses the effects of the RESOURCES short-term use of resources on the long- term productivity of resources. Archeological resources, petrified wood, or other fossils that are stolen or vandalized There would be no adverse effects on are irreversibly lost. Even moving or biological, agricultural, or economic disturbing these resources constitutes an productivity associated with implementing irreversible commitment of resources alternative 4. because information is lost if the context

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CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

resources and provide for different visitor SUMMARY OF PUBLIC experiences in different areas of the park. INVOLVEMENT The newsletter asked the public to comment on the alternative concepts, management In December 2000, the public was notified zones, and natural and cultural resources of the Petrified Forest GMP Revision effort management in particular. Five comments by way of Newsletter 1. Part of the frame- were received in response to Newsletter 2. work for the GMP Revision (and the first task for the planning team) was to reaffirm In August 2001, a public meeting was held the purpose, significance, and mission of in Holbrook, Arizona, to solicit comments the park. In Newsletter 1, the public was on possible ways to manage the park. A asked to review the park’s purpose and press release was issued and the media significance statements and to comment on covered the meeting and progress on the a list of preliminary topics and issues to be planning effort. Nine people attended the addressed in the plan. Newsletter 1 also Holbrook meeting, but no additional introduced the public to a separate, but comments were submitted. related Petrified Forest planning effort—the Petrified Forest National Park Wilderness Using input from the public and consider- Management Plan. ing the probable environmental consequences and costs of the alternatives, In January 2001, a press release about the the planning team developed a preferred planning efforts was issued by the park and alternative. A Draft General Management announcements were made in the media. Plan Revision and Environmental Impact Statement was produced and distributed for About 20 written comments were received public review. In April 2003, a second in response to Newsletter 1. Additional public meeting was held in Holbrook to verbal comments were received from collect public comments on the Draft visitors at the park. Members of the park General Management Plan Revision / staff who were not on the planning team Environmental Impact Statement. Fourteen were introduced to the planning process in a people attended, but none submitted written staff meeting and their comments were comments at the meeting. solicited. Newsletters and draft documents were also Newsletter 2, issued in June 2001, provided available online. information on several topics. It provided a draft park mission statement and mission goals, and it summarized public response to CONSULTATION the first newsletter. It presented draft “decision points,” which are key questions The National Park Service initiated the GMP Revision needs to answer. It consultation with the Arizona SHPO in introduced several preliminary alternative January 2001. The SHPO acknowledged concepts for managing the park. It also this contact and also participated in the presented management zones, which Petrified Forest Space Charette in late represent a range of ways to protect February – early March 2001. The Arizona

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SHPO, upon review of the Draft General NPS staff consulted with and sought the Management Plan Revision / Environ- view of several associated American Indian mental Impact Statement, expressed some groups. The Navajo Nation and six Navajo concerns about the possibility of removal of chapters associated with the park have three employee residences and the provided no comments related to the GMP imprecise characterization of the Rainbow Revision thus far. In June 2001, park staff Forest Historic District. Through further met with Hopi tribal representatives. The consultation, these issues were resolved and Hopi stated during the meeting that they the Arizona SHPO concurs with the Final wish to remain informed about the GMP General Management Plan Revision / planning process. White Mountain Apache Environmental Impact Statement (see said there is no need for further consultation Appendix E: Consultation Letters). on the plan unless new evidence of Apache occupation or use within the park comes to In January 2001, the National Park Service light. The Zuni have provided no comments initiated informal consultation with the U.S. to date. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine the NPS staff met in April 2002, with repre- presence of federally listed threatened, sentatives of the National Trust for Historic endangered, and candidate species in Preservation (Denver and San Francisco Petrified Forest National Park. The U.S. regional offices), the Arizona SHPO, and Fish and Wildlife Service responded on the Secretary of Interior to review the 14 February 2001 with a list of species. An history and condition of the Painted Desert update was provided by the U.S. Fish and complex, to discuss GMP Revision Wildlife Service on April 9, 2004. Also in alternatives for the complex, and to discuss that letter, which provided review the potential for partnerships that might comments on the Draft General Manage- help support the preservation of the ment Plan Revision / Environmental Impact complex. The findings and preliminary Statement, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife recommendations resulting from the Service concurred with the statement in the meeting include the following: “Affected Environment” section concerning The complex may be nationally threatened and endangered species within significant and is certainly signifi- the action area (see Appendix E: cant to the state of Arizona, as it is a Consultation Letters). major monument to Modernism in Arizona. The National Park Service also contacted The complex should be nominated the Arizona Department of Game and Fish to the NRHP as soon as possible. in January 2001, regarding state-listed The nomination should be based on species known or potentially occurring in the complex’s national significance, the park. The Arizona Department of Fish if possible. and Game responded regarding the Draft A Historic Structures Report for the General Management Plan Revision / complex is needed. Environmental Impact Statement with some If the complex is found to be concerns, but provided no comments eligible for the NRHP based on specifically related to threatened and national significance, a long-term endangered species. vision could be to seek National Historic Landmark status, after

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critical work on the project is The complex might best be viewed completed. as a “campus,” which could pull Public awareness of the complex together several of these themes. and its significance should be Potential stakeholders in the heightened through a variety of complex include the research methods. community, universities, elderhostel The complex has ties to several groups, and others. interpretive themes, including transportation, Route 66, paleon- The participants also identified several tology, puebloan architecture, and follow-up tasks related to fundraising and sustainability. other support for the complex.

TABLE 16. COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 106 OF THE NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT

Action Section 106 Compliance

This action would not have an adverse effect on a Renovation of the Rainbow Forest Museum (interior historic property and, therefore, would not require only). consultation with the Arizona SHPO. Rehabilitation of the Painted Desert Inn and two residences.

Modifications to existing Painted Desert headquarters complex structures in order to adaptively reuse space, plus the addition of new structures for current and future space needs.

Reduction of the scale of the Rainbow Forest These actions have the potential to adversely affect concessions building. an eligible historic property and, therefore, would

require consultation with the Arizona SHPO. Realignment of the Rainbow Forest parking lot.

Realignment of the Rainbow Forest Giant Logs Trail.

Long Logs Trail project.

Realignment of the Crystal Forest Trail.

New trails within the Painted Desert Inn viewshed. New trails at Puerco Pueblo.

New trails on Old Route 66.

New trail in the Painted Desert and within the These actions have the potential to adversely affect viewshed of the Painted Desert Inn. a potentially eligible historic property and, therefore, would require consultation with the Arizona SHPO. If Widening the Route 66 access road, the the evaluation of these properties determines that construction of several small informal turnouts the resource is not eligible, then consultation would adjacent to the main park road, and the construction not be required for that resource. of the turnout and wayside exhibit interpreting Route 66.

Trail modifications at Giant Logs. ______Note: The park will pursue a determination of eligibility and NRHP nomination for the Rainbow Historic District. The park currently manages the Rainbow Forest area as a historic district and will continue to do so in the future. Any rehabilitation, remodeling, or any new construction will be done in consultation with the Arizona SHPO.

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LIST OF AGENCIES AND Ed Pastor ORGANIZATIONS CONTACTED FOR Rick Renzi INFORMATION OR RECEIVING A John Shadegg COPY OF THE PLAN Bob Stump

State Agencies Federal Agencies Arizona Department of Environmental Advisory Council on Historic Quality Preservation Arizona Department of Game and Fish Bureau of Indian Affairs Arizona Department of Public Safety Bureau of Land Management Arizona Department of Water Federal Highways Administration Resources U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Arizona Office of Tourism U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Arizona State Lands Department U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Arizona State Parks–State Historic U.S. Forest Service Preservation Office U.S. Geological Survey

U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service Other Agencies and Organizations Xanterra Parks and Resorts Tribes Apache County, Arizona Burlington Northern–Santa Fe Railroad Hopi Tribe City of Holbrook, Arizona Navajo Nation Grand Canyon Trust White Mountain Apache Tribe Museum of Northern Arizona Zuni Pueblo Museum of Paleontology; University

of California, Berkeley U.S. Senate / House of National Parks and Conservation Representatives Association John Kyle Navajo County, Arizona John McCain Navajo Country Historical Society Jeff Flake Petrified Forest Museum Association J.D. Hayworth The Nature Conservancy Jim Kolbe White Mountain Audubon Society

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PUBLIC REVIEW OF THE DRAFT GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN REVISION / ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

This section includes comments received The State of Arizona Game and Fish after the Draft General Management Plan Department does not agree with the 1993 Revision / Environmental Impact Statement GMP regarding its proposal to expand the for Petrified Forest National Park was park boundary. This agency commented published in February 2003 (Federal that the 2003 environmental impact state- Register Volume 68, No. 50, p 12366 – ment does not adequately evaluate impacts 12368). Approximately 300 copies were of the 1993 boundary expansion proposal. sent to individuals, organizations, agencies, The agency is concerned about impacts of and tribes. The draft document was also the boundary expansion on wildlife popu- posted on the National Park Service Web lations, wildlife habitat (livestock/wildlife site. waters), hunting, and loss of access between the existing east boundary of the park and the Navajo Reservation. The SUMMARY OF WRITTEN Game and Fish Department believes such COMMENTS impacts should be evaluated in the environmental impact statement. A total of nine written comments were received—one from an associated Three comment letters from individuals American Indian tribe, one from a federal expressed preference for or opposition to a agency, two from state agencies, and five particular general management plan from individuals. alternative or for particular actions within alternatives. A fourth individual letter The Hopi Tribe supports alternative 3 expressed interest in cooperating with the because it would provide the most pro- National Park Service in the areas of tection for cultural and natural resources, geology and paleontology. A fifth letter services would be expanded to increase expressed concern that a petrified wood understanding of park resources, and park vendor would be forced out of business if collections would be reunited in a new petrified wood sales are discontinued within facility. A follow-up consultation was held the park. (The petrified wood in park gift with the Hopi Tribe in May 2003, to shops comes from outside the park.) address their comments.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency WRITTEN COMMENTS gave the document a rating of “Lack of Objections,” which indicates that the In accordance with Council on Environ- agency considers the document adequate mental Quality regulations implementing overall. This agency recommended that the the National Environmental Policy Act, all environmental impact statement provide letters from federal, state, or local agencies more specific information on measures to and American Indian tribes, as well as all ensure protection of water quality and substantive public comments, must be wetlands/riparian areas in the park. reprinted in the Final Environmental Impact Statement. Responses must be provided to

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substantive comments. Comments are In other words, comments are substantive if substantive if they: they raise, debate, or question a point of fact or a point of policy from an alternative. question, with reasonable basis, the Comments in favor or against the proposed accuracy of information in the action or alternatives, or comments that environmental impact statement only agree or disagree with NPS policy, are question, with reasonable basis, the not considered substantive. adequacy of the environmental analysis Letters and Web responses to the Petrified suggest different viable alternatives Forest National Park Draft General cause changes or revisions in the Management Plan Revision / Environ- proposal mental Impact Statement are reprinted here, along with responses to substantive comments.

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Response 1: The National Park Service preferred alternative remains alternative 2. Alternative 2 has been modified, however, to state that the National Park Service will regularly monitor resources in backcountry and frontcountry areas, with special emphasis on areas where new visitor facilities such as trails and waysides are proposed. (Such facilities have been proposed in areas where the likelihood of resource damage is considered relatively low. Nonetheless, if resource monitoring indicates that unacceptable levels of resource impacts could occur, the National Park Service would take management measures to avert such impacts.)

Regarding interpretation, alternative 2 (preferred alternative) includes expansion of interpretation at several park areas, including the visitor center, Rainbow Forest Museum, and Painted Desert Inn (see alternative 2, “Historic Preservation / Adaptive Use Zone”).

Regarding park collections, passages in alternative 2 have been modified to retain flexibility to accommodate a regional NPS strategy decision for collections. Alternative 2 text pertaining to collections in the section titled “Concept and General Management Strategies” now reads as follows: “Park archives (including photos), most paleontological resources, natural history specimens, and historic furnishings would be stored in a new collections facility. This facility could be located at park headquarters, in Holbrook on NPS land, or in a nearby regional facility for NPS collections. Archeological collections would continue to be stored at the Western Archeological and Conservation Center in Tucson and the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. Some paleontological and other artifacts have historically been stored at other locations (e.g., universities and museums). These artifacts would remain at their traditional locations provided the 1 facilities meet NPS collections standards or unless the storage price becomes prohibitive for the National Park Service; in either case, the artifacts would be returned to the park’s collection facility.” Alternative 2 text pertaining to collections in the section titled “Historic Preservation / Adaptive Use Zone” now reads as 2 follows, “Thus, new construction could include a museum collections facility, maintenance facility, staff offices and workspace, and residences, all within the “footprint” of the existing headquarters complex. . .”

Response 2: Visitation to the park has actually steadily declined over the past several years (see visitation figures below). However, this trend may or may not continue. 1997: 823,386 2000: 605,312 1998: 645,751 2001: 584,024 1999: 667,098 2002: 571,705 Compared to the no-action alternative, the preferred alternative emphasizes resource monitoring and adapting to new information. As park managers learned more about specific threats to resources, they would make adjustments to protect resources (see “Preservation Emphasis Zone” section). Text has also been added to the preferred alternative that commits the National Park Service to establish baseline conditions and monitor resources in areas where new facilities, such as trails and wayside exhibits, are proposed. If monitoring suggests that unacceptable levels of resource impacts could occur, the National Park Service would take timely action to avert such impacts (see “Frontcountry Zone” section).

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Response: More specific information on measures to protect water quality and wetlands/riparian areas has been added to the “Mitigation Measures” section of Chapter 2.

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Response: The State of Arizona Game and Fish Department commented on a draft of the 1993 GMP and did not bring up concerns about the boundary expansion proposal at that time. It did not bring up this issue during scoping for this GMP Revision, nor did it mention the issue in response to Newsletters #1 or #2. This GMP Revision does not address the boundary expansion issue because the National Park Service had no reason to reconsider the 1993 GMP decision. The boundary expansion proposal is now within the legislative arena, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department is encouraged to be involved in that process. The process includes onsite field trips and discussions, which are underway at the time of this writing.

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220 Consultation and Coordination

Response: According to the “Backcountry Corridor” description in the section titled, “Management Zones” (Chapter 2), backcountry corridors are for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding; bicycles are not permitted. More generally, bicycles are permitted in the park only on paved surfaces where visitor vehicles are allowed. Bicycles are not permitted on dirt roads or trails, by means of the Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR).

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No substantive comments per foregoing definition.

222 Consultation and Coordination

No substantive comments per foregoing definition.

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Response 1: Passages in the document that discuss adverse economic impacts 1 from discontinuing petrified wood sales in the park have been revised to include impacts to the concessioner and its suppliers.

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Response 2: There is a discussion of the issue of petrified wood sales in the park in the section titled, “Issues Not Addressed in the GMP Revision” (Chapter 1). The 2 possibility of increased petrified wood theft is also discussed in the environmental impact statement. The proposal to end petrified wood sales in the park is included in all alternatives because revised NPS Management Policies (2001) prohibit the sale of original paleontological objects.

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No substantive comments per foregoing definition.

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Response 1: In Chapter 2, “Alternatives, Including the Preferred Alternative,” the intent of the preferred alternative for historic buildings is:

“In general, historic buildings would be adaptively reused for park-related purposes. Maintaining the historic integrity of the Painted Desert headquarters complex would be a priority.”

The preferred alternative continues to explain the details of this intent: 1 “Additional maintenance and construction projects would be planned and implemented to correct structural problems, stabilize buildings, improve accessibility, and address code deficiencies…”

“A comprehensive design plan for the headquarters complex would decide the details and phasing for headquarters improvements, including building stabilization, new construction, and other improvements. In any case, modifications to existing structures and new buildings would be planned, sited, designed, and constructed to maintain the historic integrity of the complex.”

The preferred alternative does not conclude that three residences will be torn down, but that they may be torn down. NPS historic architects and the Arizona SHPO explored these options during the February and March 2001 Space Utilization Charette and determined that some structures may need to be or could be removed, and the overall historic integrity of the complex would be retained.

The GMP Revision / EIS states that a comprehensive design would determine the final details of the plan for the complex, and in Chapter 5, states that separate section 108 compliance would be required and the Arizona SHPO will be consulted on all such actions. For emphasis, the following passage (referring to structures that may be removed), has been added to the preferred alternative in the Final GMP Revision / EIS: “These actions would be taken only in consultation with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office.”

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Response 2: The NPS has continued to manage the Rainbow Forest District as a 2 significant historic property and continues to consult with the Arizona SHPO on undertakings that may impact the resources. The GMP Revision / EIS states:

“Proposed actions at Rainbow Forest would be addressed in consultation with the Arizona SHPO, and under separate NEPA compliance, as necessary. The proposed additions and changes would be designed to appropriately reflect character-defining features of the landscape. Proper design would reduce the intensity of the potential impact from moderate to minor, and it would possibly restore the historic integrity and character of the landscape (a beneficial effect).”

Chapter 5 of the GMP Revision / EIS states that separate section 106 compliance and consultation would be required with the Arizona SHPO on proposed and specific undertakings at Rainbow Forest. The following text has been added to Chapter 5 of the Final GMP Revision / EIS: “The park will pursue a determination of eligibility and National Register nomination for the Rainbow Forest Historic District. The park currently manages the Rainbow Forest area as a historic district and will continue to do so in the future. Any rehabilitation, remodeling, or any new construction will be done in consultation with the Arizona SHPO.”

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

Arizona Department of Commerce 2001 “Payments in Lieu of Taxes.” 2003a August 2003. Apache County Profile. (October 2001). . Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and National 2003b August 2003. Navajo County Park Service (NPS) Profile. 1999 An Introduction to Biological . (25 March 2003c August 2003. Holbrook 1999). Community Profile. . 1990 Archeological investigations at Puerco Ruin, Petrified Forest Arizona Natural Heritage Program National Park, Arizona. 2002 Species in the Arizona Heritage Western Archeological and Data Management System, Conservation Center Listed Alphabetically by Publications in Anthropology Names. Last updated January 1, 54, Nation Park Service, 2002. Tucson. (24 1998 “Congressional Research June 2002). Service Report for Congress: 98-574: PILT (Payments in Arizona State Parks, State Historic Lieu of Taxes) Somewhat Preservation Officer Simplified.” 1996 Letter dated August 8. Painted . Painted Desert Inn. Phoenix, AZ. Delost, Jeremy and Martha E. Lee 2001 Petrified Forest National Park Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Visitor Study. Preliminary 1988 Phoenix Resource Management Report (October 2001) prepared Plan and Final Environmental for Petrified Forest National Impact Statement. Bureau of Park by Northern Arizona Land Management. University.

229 BIBLIOGRAPHY

engineering-environmental Management, Statement. Petrified Forest Inc. (e2M) National Park, AZ. 2001 Space Utilization Charette, Petrified Forest National Park, 1997b September. The Painted Desert Volume II. Prepared for the Community. Petrified Forest National Park Service. National Park, AZ.

Lubick, George M. 1997c Cultural Resource Management 1996 Petrified Forest National Park: Guideline. A Wilderness Bound in Time. The University of Arizona 1998a Paleontological Resource Press. Tucson, AZ. Management. Extracted from the Natural Resource National Historic Route 66 Federation. Management Guidelines, 1995 History of Route 66: Route 66 revised January 14. is Rapidly Disappearing. . 66hstry.html>. 1998b Draft Resource Management National Park Service, U.S. Department of Plan: Petrified Forest National the Interior (NPS) Park. Karen A. Beppler. On file at Petrified Forest National 1993 General Management Plan / Park, AZ. Environmental Impact Statement for the Petrified 1999a Petrified Forest National Park, Forest National Park, AZ. 2000 Visitor Survey Card Data Report. Report prepared for 1994a Assessing Petrified Wood Petrified Forest National Park Change in Petrified Forest by University of Idaho National Park. Submitted to Cooperative Park Studies Unit. Petrified Forest National Park by Nicholas S. Monkevich, 1999b Intermountain Housing Needs Timothy G. Gregoire, and Certification Summary. Joseph W. Roggenbuck. December 1994. 1999c Cultural Landscapes Inventory Rainbow Forest. Petrified 1994b Guiding Principles of Forest National Park, AZ. Sustainable Design. 1999d Letter dated September 19. 1996 Statement for Management. On Historical Landscape Architect. file at Petrified Forest National NPS Santa Fe Support Office. Park, AZ. Transmittal of Cultural Landscape Inventory for 1997a February. Draft Painted Desert Rainbow Forest. Community Significance

230 Bibliography

2000a Mission 66 Visitor Centers: The Forest National Park Rainbow History of a Building Type. Forest Area. Navajo County, Sara Allaback, PhD. AZ.

2000b Cultural Landscapes Inventory 2002a Preliminary vegetation Puerco River CCC Camp. classification prepared by Petrified Forest National Park, Thomas, Hansen, and Seger for AZ. the National Park Service. Available at Petrified Forest 2000c Strategic Plan for Petrified National Park. Forest National Park, AZ. 2002b Telephone conversation with 2000d Cultural Landscapes Inventory Jill Cowley. Historical Crystal Forest. Petrified Forest Landscape Architect. NPS National Park, AZ. Santa Fe Support Office. June 2002. 2000e Letter dated August 7. Historical Landscape Architect. Roggenbuck, Joseph W., Carolyn J. NPS Santa Fe Support Office. Widner, and Dennis W. Stratton Transmittal of Cultural 1997 “Reducing Theft of Petrified Landscape Inventories for Wood at Petrified Forest Puerco and Crystal Forest. National Park.” Report prepared for Petrified Forest 2000 Petrified Forest National Park: National Park under contract. Information, and Regulations. 1999 – 2000 Edition. Sellars, Richard W. 1997 Preserving Nature in the 2001a National Park Service National Parks: A History. Management Policies. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press. 2001b Condition Assessment and Preservation Plan for Historic Sitgreaves, Captain L. Structures, Petrified Forest 1853 “Report of an Expedition Down National Park (October 2001 the Zuni and Colorado Rivers.” Draft). By Mark Mortier, A report prepared at the request Historical Architect, National of the United States Congress, Park Service Intermountain Senate. Washington, DC: Region, Intermountain Support Robert Armstrong, Public Office, Santa Fe, Architectural Printer. Conservation Projects Program. Stewart, Yvonne G. 2001c Environmental Assessment/ 1980 “An Archeological Overview of Assessment of Effect for Petrified Forest National Park.” Replacement of Jim Camp Publications in Anthropology Wash Bridge and Associated No. 10. Western Archeological Site Improvements. Petrified Center. Tucson, AZ.

231 BIBLIOGRAPHY

United States Department of Agriculture 100 Percent Data. Downloaded from (USDA), Soil Conservation Service (SCS) . 1975 Soil Survey of Apache County, Arizona, Central Part. Prepared United States Department of Commerce, by the USDA, SCS (recently Census Bureau. July 2001. Census renamed the Natural Resources 2000 - Profiles of General Conservation Service), in Demographic Characteristics. cooperation with the Arizona Downloaded from Agricultural Experiment . Station. Issued April 1975. United States Department of the Interior, United States Department of Commerce, National Park Service, Petrified Bureau of Economic Analysis Forest National Park 2003a August 2003. Regional Superintendent’s Annual Reports, Economic Information System, various years, on file in the Petrified Full- and Part-Time Forest National Park Library. Employment By Industry. United States Department of the Interior, United States Department of Commerce, National Park Service, Petrified Bureau of Economic Analysis Forest National Park. Petrified 2003b August 2003. Regional Forest National Park Employee Economic Information System, Roster and Residency Pattern Personal Income by Major Information. Source and Earnings by Major Industry. United States Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture United States Department of Commerce, 2001. Beale Wagon Road Historic Census Bureau. Various years. Trail, , Census of Agriculture – County AZ. Data for Arizona. Wells, Susan J. United States Department of Commerce, 1988 “Petrified Forest National Park Census Bureau. Census of Boundary Survey, 1988: The Population and Housing, 1970, Final Season.” Publications in 1980, 1990, and 2000. Downloaded Anthropology No. 51. Western from . Archeological and Conserva- tion Center. Tucson, AZ. United States Department of Commerce, Census Bureau. November 2000. Whealan, A., J. Reber, M. Flora, and K. County Estimates for People of All Beppler-Dorn Ages In Poverty, By County, 1997. 2003 Petrified Forest National Park Downloaded from Water Resources Scoping . Report. August 2003. NPS Technical Report Series United States Department of Commerce, NPS/NRWRD/NRTR. National Census Bureau. July 2001. Census 2000 - Summary Tape File 1 (SF1)

232 Bibliography

Park Service Water Resources Latitude, From the Mississippi Division. Fort Collins, CO. River to the Pacific Ocean. A report prepared at the request of Whipple, Lieutenant A.W. the United States Congress, 1856 Report of Explorations for a House of Representatives. Railway Route, Near the Washington, DC. A.O.P. Thirty-Fifth Parallel of North Nicholson, Printer.

233 BIBLIOGRAPHY

234

PREPARERS AND CONSULTANTS

Preparers Miki Stuebe, Landscape Architect/ Planner Petrified Forest National Park Lee Baiza, Superintendent Others Barbara Bean, Administrative Officer David Hesker, Visual Information Karen Beppler-Dorn, Chief, Resource Specialist Management Greg Caffey, Supervisory Park Ranger Consultants Bill Grether, former Cultural Resource Management Specialist National Park Service Intermountain Michele Hellickson, former Region Superintendent Greg Cody, Cultural Resource Bill Parker, Paleontologist Compliance Specialist Pat Quinn, Former Chief of Operations Jill Cowley, Cultural Landscape Susan Roe, Fee Collection Supervisor Architect Tessy Shirakawa, former Chief of Laurie Domler, Natural Resource Interpretation Compliance Specialist Michael Stuckey, Education Specialist Wayne Gardner, Chief of Planning and Pat Thompson, Park Ranger (Museum Environmental Quality Collections) Sayre Hutchison, Historical Architect Mike Snyder, Associate Regional National Park Service Intermountain Director Region Rodd Wheaton, Associate Regional Suzy Stutzman, Landscape Architect/ Director Planner Karen Wade, Director Attila Bality, Outdoor Recreation engineering-environmental Management, Planner Inc. Jayne Aaron, Project Manager/Cultural Western Archeological Conservation Resources Specialist Center, National Park Service Chris Baker, Environmental Planner Pat Baird, Archeological Technician Wanda Gray Lafferty, Technical Anne Trinkle Jones, Supervisory Publications Specialist Archeologist Dan Niosi, Natural Resources Specialist Dr. Sidney Ash, Paleobotanist, Albuquerque, NM

235 PREPARERS AND CONSULTANTS

236

APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION

237 APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION

238 Appendix A: Legislation

239 APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION

240 Appendix A: Legislation

241 APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION

242 Appendix A: Legislation

243 APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION

244 Appendix A: Legislation

245 APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION

246

APPENDIX B: LAWS AND EXECUTIVE ORDERS

LEGAL CITATIONS National Parks and Recreation Act, November 10, 1978, P.L. 95-625, National Park Service Enabling 92 Stat. 3467; 16 USC § 1 et seq. Legislation Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980, P.L. 96- Act of June 30, 1864, 13 Stat. 325, 487, 94 Stat. 2371, 16 USC § 3161 16 USC § 48 et seq. Act of March 1, 1872, 17 Stat. 32, NPS resources, improve ability to 16 USC § 21 et seq. manage, P.L. 101-337, 16 USC § Lacey Act of 1900, as amended by 19jj P.L. 97-79, 18 USC §§ 42-44, Title National Parks Omnibus 50 CFR Management Act of 1998, P.L. 105- Act of August 25, 1916 (National 391, Title IV, National Park Service Park Service Organic Act), P.L 64- Concessions Management 235, 16 USC § 1 et seq. as amended Improvement Act of 1998 Act of June 5, 1920, 41 Stat. 917, 16 USC § 6 OTHER LAWS AFFECTING Act of February 21, 1925, 43 Stat. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE 958, (temporary act, not classified) Act of May 26, 1930, 16 USC § 17- Accessibility 17j Act of March 3, 1933, 47 Stat. 1517 Americans with Disabilities Act, Parks, Parkways, and Recreational P.L. 101-336, 104 Stat. 327, 42 Programs Act, June 23, 1936, 49 USC § 12101 Stat. 1894, 16 USC §§ 17k-n Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, Act of August 8, 1953, 16 USC § P.L. 90-480, 82 Stat. 718, 42 USC § 1b-1c 4151 et seq. Act to Improve the Administration Rehabilitation Act of 1973, P.L. 93- of the national park system, August 112, 87 Stat. 357, 29 USC § 701 et 18, 1970; P.L. 91-383, 84 Stat. 825, seq. as amended by the as amended by P.L. 94-458, P.L. 95- Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 250, and P.L. 95-625; 16 USC § 1a1 1974, 88 Stat. 1617 et seq. General Authorities Act, October 7, Cultural Resources 1976, P.L. 94-458, 90 Stat. 1939, 16 USC § 1a-1 et seq. Abandoned Shipwreck Act of 1987, Act amending the Act of October 2, P.L. 100-298, 102 Stat. 432, 42 1968 (commonly called Redwoods USC § 2101-6 Act), March 27, 1978, P.L. 95-250, American Folklife Preservation Act 92 Stat. 163, 16 USC §§ 1a-1, 79a-q of 1976, P.L. 94-201, 89 Stat. 1130, 20 USC §§ 2101-2107

247 APPENDIX B: LAWS AND EXECUTIVE ORDERS

American Indian Religious Freedom American Tribal Governments,” 59 Act, P.L. 95-341, 92 Stat. 469, 42 FR 85 USC § 1996 Protection of Historic and Cultural Antiquities Act of 1906, P.L. 59- Properties, E.O. 11593: 36 CFR 60, 209, 34 Stat. 225, 16 USC § 432 and 61, 63, 800; 44 FR 6068 43 CFR 3 Public Buildings Cooperative Use Archaeological and Historic Act of 1976, P.L. 94-541, 90 Stat. Preservation Act of 1974, P.L. 93- 2505, 42 USC § 4151-4156 291, 88 Stat. 174, 16 USC § 469 Reservoir Salvage Act of 1960, P.L. Archaeological Resources 86-523, 70 Stat. 220, 16 USC §§ Protection Act of 1979, P.L. 96-95, 469-469c 93 Stat. 712, 16 USC § 470aa et seq. Tax Reform Act of 1976, P.L. 94- and 43 CFR 7, subparts A and B, 36 455, 90 Stat. 1916 CFR 79 World Heritage Convention, 1980, Executive Order 11593: Protection P.L. 96-515, 94 Stat. 3000 and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment, 3 CFR 1971 Natural Resources Executive Order 13007: Indian Sacred Sites, May 24, 1996 Acid Precipitation Act of 1980, P.L. Historic Sites Act, P.L. 74-292, 49 96-294, 94 Stat. 770, 42 USC § Stat. 666, 16 USC §§ 461-467 and 8901 et seq. 36 CFR 65 Bald and Golden Eagles Protection Historic Preservation Certifications Act, as amended, P.L. Chapter 28, Pursuant to the Tax Reform Act of 54 Stat. 250, 16 USC §§ 668-668d 1976, the Revenue Act of 1978, the Clean Air Act, as amended, P.L. Tax Treatment Extension Act of Chapter 360, 69 Stat. 322, 42 USC § 1980, and the Economic Recovery 7401 et seq. Tax Act of 1981, 36 CFR 67 Coastal Barrier Resources Act of Management of Museum Properties 1982, P.L. 97-348, 96 Stat. 1653, 16 Act of 1955, P.L. 84-127, 69 Stat. USC § 3501 et seq. 242, 16 USC § 18f Coastal Zone Management Act of National Historic Preservation Act 1972, as amended, P.L. 92-583, 86 as amended, P.L. 89-665, 80 Stat. Stat. 1280, 16 USC § 1451 et seq. 915, 16 USC § 470 et seq. and 36 Comprehensive Environmental CFR 18, 60, 61, 63, 68, 79, 800 Response Compensation and National Trust Act of 1949, P.L. 81- Liability Act (commonly referred to 408, 63 Stat. 927, 16 USC §§ 468c- as CERCLA or Superfund), P.L. 96- e 510, 94 Stat. 2767, 42 USC § 9601 Native American Graves Protection et seq. and Repatriation Act, P.L. 101-601, Emergency Planning and 104 Stat. 3049, 25 USC §§ 3001- Community Right-to-Know Act, 3013 P.L. 99-499, 100 Stat. 1725, 42 Presidential Memorandum of USC § 1101 April 29, 1994 “Government-to- Endangered Species Act of 1973, as Government Relations with Native amended, P.L. 93-205, 87 Stat. 884, 16 USC § 1531 et seq.

248 Appendix B: Laws and Executive Orders

Endangered Species Conservation Marine Mammal Protection Act, Act of 1969 P.L. 92-552, 86 Stat. 1027, 16 USC Estuary Protection Act, P.L. 90-454, § 1361 et seq. 82 Stat. 625, 16 USC § 1221 Marine Protection, Research, and Executive Order 11988: Flood Plain Sanctuaries Act of 1972 (commonly Management, 42 FR 26951, 3 CFR known as Ocean Dumping Act), 121 (Supp 177) P.L. 92-532, 86 Stat. 1052, 16 USC Executive Order 11990: Protection § 1361 et seq. of Wetlands, 42 FR 26961, 3 CFR Migratory Bird Conservation Act, 121 (Supp 177) P.L. Chapter 257, 45 Stat. 1222, 16 Executive Order 11991: Protection USC § 715 et seq. and Enhancement of Environmental Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, Quality P.L. 186, 40 Stat. 755 Farmland Protection Policy Act of National Environmental Policy Act 1982, P.L. 97-98 of 1969, P.L. 91-190, 83 Stat. 852, Federal Cave Resources Protection 42 USC § 4321 et seq. Act of 1988, P.L. 94-377, 102 Stat. National Flood Insurance Act of 4546, 16 USC § 4301 1968, P.L. 90-448, 82 Stat.572, 42 Federal Advisory Committee Act of USC § 4001 et seq., as amended 1972, P.L. 92-463, 86 Stat. 770 National Park System Final Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Procedures for Implementing EO Rodenticide Act, P.L. 92-516, 86 11988 and 11990 (45 FR 35916 as Stat. 973, 7 USC § 136 et seq. revised by 47 FR 36718) Federal Water Pollution Control Act Protection and Enhancement of (commonly referred to as Clean Environmental Quality, E.O. 11514, Water Act), P.L. 92-500, 33 USC § as amended, 1970, E.O. 11991, 35 1251 et seq., as amended by the Federal Register 4247; 1977, 42 Clean Water Act, P.L. 95-217 Federal Register 26967) Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act Resource Conservation and of 1958, as amended, P.L. 85-624, Recovery Act, P.L. 94-580, 30 Stat. 72 Stat. 563, 16 USC § 661 et seq. 1148, 42 USC § 6901 et seq. Flood Disaster Protection Act of Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, 33 1973, P.L. 93-234, 87 Stat. 975, 12 USC Chapter 425, as amended by USC § 24, § 1709-1 P.L. 97-332, October 15, 1982 and Geothermal Steam Act of 1970, as P.L. 97-449, 33 USC §§ 401-403 amended, 84 Stat. 1566, 30 USC §§ Safe Drinking Water Act, P.L. 93- 1001-1027 523, 88 Stat. 1660, 42 USC § 300f Geothermal Steam Act et seq., 42 USC § 201 and 21 USC § Amendments, P.L. 100-443, 30 349 USC §§ 1001, 1105, 1026, 1027 Soil and Water Resources Manguson Fishery Conservation Conservation Act of 1977 and Management Act of 1976, P.L. Water Resources Planning Act of 94-625, 90 Stat. 331m 16 USC § 1965 (P.L. 89-80, 42 USC § 1962 et 1801 et seq. seq.) and Water Resource Council’s Principles and Standards, 44 FR 723977

249 APPENDIX B: LAWS AND EXECUTIVE ORDERS

Watershed Protection and Flood Federal Coal Leasing Amendments Prevention Act, P.L. 92-419, 68 Act of 1976, P.L. 94-377, 90 Stat. Stat. 666, 16 USC § 100186 1083, 30 USC § 201 Federal Land Policy and Other Management Act, P.L. 94-579, 90 Stat. 199, 43 USC § 1714 et seq. Administrative Procedures Act, 5 Federal Power Act of 1920, P.L. USC § 551-559, §§ 701-706 Chapter 285, 41 Stat. 106, 16 USC § Aircraft Overflights Study Act of 791a et seq. 1987, P.L. 101-91, 101 Stat. 674 Federal Water Power Act, P.L. Airport and Airway Development Chapter 285, 41 D 1063, 16 USC § Act of 1970, P.L. 91-258, 84 Stat. 823a, as amended, 16 USC § 797 226, 49 USC § 2208 Federal Water Project Recreation Airports in or Near National Parks Act, 79 Stat. 213, P.L. 89-72, 16 Act, 64 Stat. 27, 16 USC §§ 7a-e USC §§ 460/-12 to 460/-21 Arizona Desert Wilderness Act Forest and Rangeland Renewable (contains NPS boundary study Resources Planning Act, P.L. 95- provisions), P.L. 101-628, 16 USC 307, 92 Stat. 353, 16 USC § 1600 et §§ 1a-5, 460ddd, 460fff, and many seq. more Freedom of Information Act, P.L. Concessions Policy Act of 1965, 93-502, 5 USC § 552 et seq. P.L. 89-249, 79 Stat. 969, 16 USC § Interagency Consultation to Avoid 20 et seq. or Mitigate Adverse Effects on Department of Transportation Act Rivers in the Nationwide Inventory, of 1966, P.L. 89-670, 80 Stat. 931, 45 FR 59189, 08/15/80, ES 80-2 49 USC § 303 Intergovernmental Cooperation Act Disposal of Materials on Public of 1968, P.L. 90-577, 40 USC §§ Lands (Material Act of 1947), 30 531-535 and 31 USC §§ 6501-6508 USC §§ 601-604 Intergovernmental Coordination Act Energy Supply and Environmental of 1969, 42 USC §§ 4101, 4231, Coordination Act of 1974 4233 Executive Order 11987: Exotic Land and Water Conservation Fund Organisms, 42 FR 26407 Act of 1965, as amended, P.L. 88- Executive Order 11989: (42 FR 578, 78 Stat. 897, 16 USC §§ 460/-4 26959) and 11644: Offroad to 460/-11 Vehicles on Public Lands Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Executive Order 12003: Energy Lands of 1947, P.L. Chapter 681, 61 Policy and Conservation, 3 CFR Stat. 681, 30 USC § 351 et seq. 134 (Supp. 1977) 42 USC § 2601 Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, 30 Executive Order 12008: Federal USC § 181 et seq., as amended Compliance with Pollution Control Mineral Materials Disposal Act of Standards 1947, 30 USC § 601 et seq. Executive Order 12372: Mining Law of 1872, 30 USC § 22 Intergovernmental Review of et seq. Federal Programs, 47 FR 30959

250 Appendix B: Laws and Executive Orders

Mining Activity Within National repealed by FLPMA § 706(a) Park Service Areas, P.L. 94-429, 90 October 21, 1976 Stat. 1342, 16 USC § 1901 et seq. Surface Mining Control and Act, P.L. 90- Reclamation Act, P.L. 95-87, 91 543, 82 Stat. 919, 16 USC §§ 1241- Stat. 445, 30 USC § 1201 et seq. 1251 Surface Resources Use Act of 1955, System 30 USC § 601 et seq. Administration Act, P.L. 93-509, 88 Surface Transportation Assistance Stat. 1603, 16 USC § 668dd-ee Act of 1982, 96 Stat. 2097, 23 USC Noise Control Act of 1972, as §§ 101 and many others amended, P.L. 92-574, 42 USC § Toxic Substances Control Act, P.L. 4901 et seq. 94-469, 90 Stat. 2003, 15 USC § Outdoor Recreation Coordination 2601 Act of 1963, P.L. 88-29, 77 Stat. 49 Uniform Relocation Assistance and Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, Real Property Acquisition Policies P.L. Chapter 345, 67 Stat. 462, 43 Act of 1970, P.L. 91-646, 84 Stat. USC § 1331, et seq. and § 1801 et 1894, 42 USC § 4601 et seq. seq. Urban Park and Recreation Payment in Lieu of Taxes Act, P.L. Recovery Act of 1978, P.L. 95-625, 94-565, 90 Stat. 2662, 31 USC § 92 Stat. 3467, 16 USC § 2501 6901 et seq. et seq. Policies on Construction of Family Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, P.L. Housing for Government Personnel, 90-542, 82 Stat. 906, 16 USC §§ OMB A-18 1271-1287 Procedures for Interagency Wilderness Act, P.L. 88-577, 78 Consultation to Avoid or Mitigate Stat. 890, 16 USC §§ 1131-1136 Adverse Effects on Rivers in the Wildfire Disaster Recovery Act, Nationwide Inventory, E.S. 80-2, P.L. 101-286 08/15/80, 45 FR 59191 Wildlife Suppression Assistance Revised Statute 2477, Right-of-Way Act, P.L. 101-11, 42 USC § 1856m, Across Public Lands, Act of July 1856p 26, 1866, 43 USC § 932 (1976),

251 APPENDIX B: LAWS AND EXECUTIVE ORDERS

252

APPENDIX C: SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND POLICIES

The alternatives considered in this docu- control non-native species, protect archeo- ment incorporate and comply with the logical sites, provide for universal access, provisions of the following mandates and and conserve artifacts. These items and policies as funding and staffing allow. other similar issues are already laws, man- Conditions prescribed by servicewide dates, or policies. mandates and policies that are particularly important to this document are summarized RELATIONS WITH NATIONAL PARK below. These mandates and policies illus- NEIGHBORS trate that a general management plan is not needed to decide, for instance, that it is Current policy requires the following: appropriate to protect endangered species,

Relations with National Park Neighbors and Other Agencies Source Desired Condition

The national park is managed as part of a greater ecological, NPS Management Policies social, economic, and cultural system.

Because the national park is an integral part of a larger regional environment, the National Park Service works cooperatively with others to anticipate, avoid, and resolve potential conflicts; protect national park resources; and address mutual interests. Regional cooperation involves federal, state, and local agencies, Indian tribes, neighboring landowners, and all other concerned parties.

The National Park Service will take the landowners and communities following kinds of actions to meet legal and affected by national park visitors policy requirements related to national park and management actions. The neighbors: National Park Service will work closely with local, state, and federal Continue to establish and foster agencies and tribal governments partnerships with public and private whose programs affect or are organizations to achieve the affected by activities in the national mission and purposes of the park. National park staff will national park. Partnerships will be continue their regular consultations sought for resource protection, with such entities as: the Arizona research, education, and visitor State Historic Preservation Office; enjoyment. the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality; American National park staff will keep Indian tribes; Apache and Navajo landowners, land managers, local Counties, Arizona; the U.S. Fish governments, and the general and Wildlife Service; the city of public informed about national park Holbrook; Arizona Department of management activities. Periodic Public Safety; and the Department consultations will occur with of Defense.

253 APPENDIX C: SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND POLICIES

AIR QUALITY the following conditions be achieved in the national park: The national park is a Class I air quality area. Current laws and policies require that

Air Quality Desired Condition Source Air quality in the national park meets national ambient air quality Clean Air Act standards for specified pollutants. NPS Management Policies

Activities in the national park do not contribute to deterioration in Clean Air Act air quality. NPS Management Policies

The National Park Service has little control Participate in regional air pollution over air quality in the southwestern United control plans and regulations. States. Therefore, the national park must Conduct national park operations in cooperate with other government agencies compliance with federal, state, and and the Environmental Protection Agency local air quality regulations. to monitor and protect air quality. The National Park Service will take the WATER RESOURCES following kinds of actions to meet the legal and policy requirements related to air Current laws and policies require that the quality in Petrified Forest National Park. following conditions are achieved in the national park: Conduct air quality monitoring in conjunction with other government agencies.

Water Resources Desired Condition Source

Surface waters and groundwater are protected and water quality Clean Water Act meets all applicable water quality standards. Executive Order 11514 NPS Management Policies

NPS programs and facilities are maintained and operated to Clean Water Act avoid pollution of surface waters and groundwater. Executive Order 12088 NPS Management Policies

Natural floodplain values are preserved. Clean Water Act Executive Order 11988 Rivers and Harbors Act NPS Management Policies

The natural and beneficial values of wetlands are preserved and Clean Water Act enhanced. Executive Order 11990 Rivers and Harbors Act NPS Management Policies

254 Appendix C: Servicewide Mandates and Policies

As with air quality, the National Park Promote greater public Service must cooperate with other understanding of water resource government agencies to protect water issues at Petrified Forest National quality. The National Park Service will take Park and encourage public support the following kinds of actions to meet legal for and participation in protecting and policy requirements related to water the park watershed. resources: Continue NPS monitoring program and participation in watershed Apply best management practices to councils. all pollution-generating activities and facilities in the national park, GEOLOGIC RESOURCES such as operating maintenance and storage facilities and parking areas. Current laws and policies require that the Minimize the use of pesticides and following conditions be achieved in the other chemicals and manage them in national park: conformance with NPS policy and federal regulations.

Geologic Resources Desired Condition Source

Natural soil resources and processes function in as natural a NPS Management Policies condition as possible, except where special considerations are allowable under policy.

Soil resources in some portions of the Apply effective best management national park are adversely affected by practices to problem soil erosion accelerated erosion, compaction, and and compaction areas in a manner deposition caused by human activities. The that stops or minimizes erosion, National Park Service will take the follow- restores soil productivity, and re- ing kinds of actions to comply with the establishes or sustains a self- legal and policy requirements related to perpetuating vegetative cover. geologic resources:

Survey areas of the national park PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES with soil resource problems and take actions appropriate to the manage- Current laws and policies require that the ment prescription to prevent further following conditions be achieved in the artificial erosion, compaction, or national park: deposition.

255 APPENDIX C: SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND POLICIES

Paleontological Resources Desired Condition Source

Paleontological resources, including both organic and National Parks Omnibus Management Act mineralized remains in body or trace form, are protected and of 1998, NPS Management Policies preserved.

Paleontological research by the academic community is encouraged and facilitated when the project cannot be conducted outside the park, involves more than simple collection of additional specimens of types already collected, and will answer an important question about the resource.

Management actions are taken to prevent illegal collecting and may be taken to prevent damage from natural processes such as erosion. Protection may include construction of shelters over specimens, stabilization in the field, or collection, preparation, and placement of specimens in museum collections. The localities and geologic settings of specimens are documented when specimens are collected.

Paleontological resources are a primary Appropriate action will be taken to reason for the establishment of the national prevent damage to, and unauthor- park. Much of the park has been surveyed ized collection of, paleontological or inventoried for paleontological resources. resources. The National Park Service will The park will exchange fossil take the following kinds of actions to meet specimens only with other qualified legal and policy requirements related to museums and public institutions paleontological resources: dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of natural heritage. Survey, inventory, and monitor for newly exposed paleontological resources. SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN Scientifically significant paleon- tological resources will be recorded Current laws and policies require that the and, if necessary, protected by following conditions be achieved in the collection or onsite stabilization. national park: Species of Special Concern Desired Condition Source Federal- and state-listed threatened and endangered species and Endangered Species Act and equivalent their habitats are protected and sustained. state protective legislation NPS Management Policies

Populations of native plant and animal species function in as NPS Management Policies natural condition as possible, except where special consider- ations are warranted.

Native species populations that have been severely reduced in or NPS Management Policies extirpated from the national park are restored where feasible and sustainable.

The management of populations of non-native plant and animal NPS Management Policies species, up to and including eradication, will be undertaken wherever such species threaten national park resources or public health and when control is prudent and feasible.

256 Appendix C: Servicewide Mandates and Policies

Development and activities in the national Manage exclusively for native plant park affect native species habitat. For species in special protection and instance, structures, roads, and trails needed preservation emphasis. In other for visitor use and national park mainten- management zones, limit planting of ance influence both native and non-native non-native species to noninvasive species distribution. Roads also dissect the plants that are justified by the natural areas of the national park and may historic scene or operational needs. create barriers or hazards for some animals Control or eliminate non-native such as invertebrates, snakes, and small plants and animals, exotic diseases, mammals. and pest species where there is a reasonable expectation of success In the case of species that are rare and and sustainability. Base control subject to collection for American Indian efforts on: cultural reasons, surveys and monitoring – the potential threat to legally programs will be undertaken to ensure that protected or uncommon stable populations of these species are native species and habitats maintained. – the potential threat to visitor health or safety The National Park Service will take the – the potential threat to scenic following kinds of actions to comply with and aesthetic quality legal and policy requirements related to – the potential threat to native species: common native species and habitat Inventory plants and animals in the national park. Use the inventory as a Manage exotic diseases and pest baseline against which to regularly species based on similar priorities. monitor the distribution and condi- Provide interpretive and educational tion of selected species, including programs on the preservation of indicators of ecosystem condition native species for visitors. and diversity, rare or protected species, and invasive non-natives. FIRE MANAGEMENT Modify management plans to be more effective, based on the results Current laws and policies require that the of monitoring. following condition be achieved in the Support research that contributes to national park: management knowledge of native species.

257 APPENDIX C: SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND POLICIES

Fire Management Desired Condition Source

Park fire management programs will be designed to meet NPS Management Policies resource management objectives for various areas of the park and to ensure that the safety of firefighters and the public are not compromised. Until a fire management plan is approved, all wildfires will be suppressed, taking into account the resources to be protected, safety of firefighters and the public, and the cost.

The National Park Service will take the park with the Bureau of Land following kinds of actions to comply with Management and U.S. Forest this policy: Service.

Until a fire management plan is LIGHTSCAPES approved, suppress all wildfires. Develop a park fire management Views of the national park night skies are plan. features that contribute to the visitor Maintain a cooperative agreement experience. for fire suppression in the national

Night Sky Desired Condition Source

The National Park Service cooperates with national park NPS Management Policies neighbors to help minimize the intrusion of artificial light into the night sky in the national park. In natural areas, artificial outdoor lighting is limited to basic safety requirements and is shielded when possible.

The National Park Service will take the types, or eliminating unnecessary following kinds of actions to comply with light sources. this policy: NATURAL SOUNDSCAPES National park staff will work with neighbors to encourage protection An important part of the NPS mission is to of the views of the night sky. preserve or restore the natural soundscapes National park staff will evaluate associated with national park system units. impacts on the night sky caused by The sounds of nature are among the intrin- facilities in the national park. If light sic elements that form the environment of sources in the national park are our national park system units. Natural determined to be affecting views of sounds occur within and beyond the range the night skies, national park staff of sounds that humans can perceive and can will study alternatives such as be transmitted through air, water, or solid shielding lights, changing lamp materials. Natural sounds are slowly and inexorably disappearing from most national park system units.

258 Appendix C: Servicewide Mandates and Policies

Natural Soundscapes Desired Condition Source

The National Park Service preserves the natural ambient NPS Management Policies soundscapes, restores degraded soundscapes to the natural ambient condition wherever possible, and protects natural soundscapes from degradation due to human-caused noise. The National Park Service manages disruptions from recreational uses to provide a high-quality visitor experience, striving to preserve or restore natural quiet and natural sounds.

The National Park Service will take the lots to a few minutes before following kinds of actions to comply with passengers board. this policy: Noise generated by NPS manage- Activities causing excessive or ment activities will be minimized by unnecessary unnatural sounds in and strictly regulating administrative adjacent to the national park, functions such as motorized equip- including low-elevation aircraft ment. Noise will be a consideration overflights, will be monitored, and in the procurement and use of action will be taken to prevent or equipment by the national park minimize unnatural sounds that staff. adversely affect national park resources or values or visitors’ ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES enjoyment of them. The National Park Service will limit idling of Current laws and policies require that the passenger bus engines in parking following conditions be achieved in the national park:

Archeological Resources Desired Condition Source

Archeological sites are identified and inventoried, and their National Historic Preservation Act, Executive significance is determined and documented. Order 11593, Archeological and Historic Preservation Act, Archeological Resources Archeological sites are protected in an undisturbed condition Protection Act, Secretary of the Interior's unless it is determined through formal processes that disturbance Standards and Guidelines for Archeology or natural deterioration is unavoidable. and Historic Preservation (1992), Programmatic Memorandum of Agreement In those cases where disturbance or deterioration is unavoidable, among the National Park Service, Advisory the site is professionally documented and salvaged. Council on Historic Preservation, and National Council of State Historic Preservation Officers (1995), NPS Management Policies

About 35% of Petrified Forest National lacking, and impacts are difficult to Park has been systematically surveyed or measure. The National Park Service will inventoried for archeological sites. Precise take the following kinds of actions to meet information about the location, character- legal and policy requirements related to istics, significance, and condition of most archeological sites: archeological resources in the park is

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Survey and inventory archeological the Advisory Council on Historic resources and document their Preservation and the state historic significance. preservation officer in accordance Treat all archeological resources as with the National Historic eligible for listing on the NRHP, Preservation Act. pending the opinion of the Arizona SHPO and a formal determination HISTORIC PROPERTIES by the Keeper of the National Register as to their significance. Current laws and policies require that the Protect all archeological resources following conditions be achieved in the determined eligible for listing or national park for historic properties, such as listed on the NRHP. If disturbance buildings, structures, roads, trails, and to such resources is unavoidable, cultural landscapes: conduct formal consultation with

Historic Properties Desired Condition Source

Historic properties are inventoried and their significance and National Historic Preservation Act, Executive integrity are evaluated under National Register of Historic Places Order 11593, Archeological and Historic criteria. Preservation Act, Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archeology The qualities of historic properties that contribute to their actual and Historic Preservation (1992), listing or their eligibility for listing on the National Register of Programmatic Memorandum of Agreement Historic Places are protected in accordance with the Secretary of among the National Park Service, Advisory the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Council on Historic Preservation, and Historic Preservation, unless it is determined through a formal National Council of State Historic process that disturbance or natural deterioration is unavoidable. Preservation Officers (1995), NPS Management Policies

Petrified Forest National Park includes Submit the inventory and evaluation several listed National Register of Historic results to the Arizona SHPO and the Places sites and several others that are Keeper of the National Register considered eligible for listing. The condi- with recommendations for eligibility tion of these cultural resources ranges from to the NRHP. fair to good condition. The survey, Determine the appropriate level of inventory, and evaluation of cultural preservation for each historic resources has begun. property formally determined to be eligible for listing or actually listed The National Park Service will take the on the NRHP, subject to the following kinds of action to meet legal and Secretary of the Interior’s policy requirements related to historic Standards. properties: Implement and maintain the appropriate level of preservation for Complete a survey, inventory, and such properties. evaluation of historic properties Identify, inventory, and conserve under NRHP criteria. collections. Complete a survey, inventory, and evaluation of cultural landscapes.

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ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES its resource protection mandate affects this human use and cultural context of national Certain contemporary American Indian and park resources, the National Park Service other communities are permitted by law, plans and executes programs in ways that regulation, or policy to pursue customary safeguard cultural and natural resources religious and other cultural uses of national while reflecting informed concern for the park resources with which they are contemporary peoples and cultures traditionally associated. Recognizing that traditionally associated with them. Ethnographic Resources Desired Condition Source

Appropriate cultural anthropological research is conducted in NPS Management Policies cooperation with national park-associated groups.

The National Park Service accommodates access to and Executive Order 13007 on American Indian ceremonial use of American Indian sacred sites by Indian Sacred Sites religious practitioners and avoids adversely affecting the physical integrity of these sacred sites.

NPS general regulations on access to and use of natural and NPS Management Policies cultural resources in the national park are applied in an informed Executive Order 13007 on American Indian and balanced manner that is consistent with national park Sacred Sites purposes and does not unreasonably interfere with American Indian use of traditional areas or sacred sites and does not result in the degradation of national park resources.

Other federal agencies, state, and local governments, potentially National Historic Preservation Act, affected American Indian and other communities, interest groups, Programmatic Memorandum of Agreement the State Historic Preservation Office, the Tribal Historic among the National Park Service, Advisory Preservation Office, and the Advisory Council on Historic Council on Historic Preservation, and the Preservation are given opportunities to become informed about National Council of State Historic and comment on anticipated National Park Service actions at the Preservation Officers (1995), Executive Order earliest practicable time. 11593, American Indian Religious Freedom Act, Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, Executive Order 13007 on American Indian Sacred Sites, Presidential Memorandum of April 29, 1994 on Government-to-Government Relations with Tribal Governments, NPS Management Policies

The National Park Service consults with tribal governments American Indian Religious Freedom Act, before taking actions that affect federally recognized tribal Presidential Memorandum of April 29, 1994 of governments. These consultations are open and candid so that Government-to-Government Relations with all interested parties may evaluate for themselves the potential Tribal Governments, NPS Management impact of relevant proposals. National park staff regularly consult Policies with traditionally associated American Indians regarding planning, management, and operational decisions that affect sacred places or other ethnographic resources with which they are historically associated.

The identities of community consultants and information about NPS Management Policies sacred and other culturally sensitive places and practices are kept confidential.

American Indians and other individuals and groups linked by ties NPS Management Policies of kinship or culture to ethnically identifiable human remains are consulted when remains may be disturbed or are encountered on national park lands.

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To accomplish these goals, the National Conduct regular consultations with Park Service will do the following: affiliated tribes to continue to improve communications and Survey and inventory ethnographic resolve any problems or misunder- resources and document their standings that occur. significance. Make reasonable accommodations Treat all ethnographic resources as for access to and use of natural and eligible for listing on the National cultural resources in the national Register of Historic Places pending park as long as the activities are a formal determination by the consistent with national park National Park Service and the purposes. The National Park Service Arizona State Historic Preservation will not unreasonably interfere with Office as to their significance. American Indian use of traditional Protect all ethnographic resources areas or sacred sites. determined eligible for listing or listed on the National Register; if In addition, consultation with affiliated disturbance to such resources is Indian tribes was conducted throughout the unavoidable, conduct formal course of the planning process for this consultation with the Advisory document. Council on Historic Preservation and the State Historic Preservation COLLECTIONS Office in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act. Current laws and policies require that the following condition be achieved in Petrified Forest National Park:

Collections Desired Condition Source

All museum objects and manuscripts are identified and National Historic Preservation Act, American inventoried, and their significance is determined and Indian Religious Freedom Act, documented. Collections are protected in accordance with Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act, established standards. Archaeological Resources Protection Act, Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, NPS Management Policies

The Petrified Forest National Park museum and policy requirements related to collections are at risk. Improper storage and collections: lack of adequate security and fire protection at facilities where the collections are Inventory and catalogue all of the housed threaten their safety and integrity. national park’s museum collection Significant portions of the archeological in accordance with standards and historical collections are not cata- outlined in the NPS Museum logued. The National Park Service will take Handbook (NPS 1976). the following kinds of actions to meet legal Develop and implement a collection management program according to

262 Appendix C: Servicewide Mandates and Policies

NPS standards to guide protection, VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND USE conservation, and use of museum REQUIREMENTS objects. Current laws and policies require that the following conditions be achieved in Petrified Forest National Park:

Visitor Experience and Use Desired Condition Source

Visitor and employee safety and health are protected. NPS Management Policies, General Authorities Act

Visitors understand and appreciate national park values and NPS Organic Act resources and have the information necessary to adapt to the Petrified Forest National Park enabling national park environments. Visitors have opportunities to enjoy legislation the national park in ways that leave national park resources NPS Management Policies unimpaired for future generations.

Recreational uses in the national park are promoted and NPS Organic Act regulated. Basic visitor needs are met, in keeping with national Petrified Forest National Park enabling park purposes. legislation Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations NPS Management Policies

To the extent feasible, facilities, programs, and services in the The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968; the national park are accessible to and usable by all people, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and including those with disabilities. 28 CFR Part 36 (most current) on Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability by Public Accommodations and in Commercial Facilities (ADAAG – ADA) Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities: NPS Management Policies; the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards of 1984 (UFAS); the U.S. Access Board Draft Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas of 1999; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; Secretary of the Interior's regulation 43 CFR 17 – Enforcement on the Basis of Disability in the Interior Programs

Regulations governing visitor use and Provide opportunities for visitors to behavior in units of the national park understand, appreciate, and enjoy system are contained in 36 CFR. These the national park. regulations have the force of law and Ensure that all national park include a variety of use limitations, such as programs and facilities are limits on commercial activities. accessible to the extent feasible. Continue to enforce the regulations The National Park Service will take the in 36 CFR. following kinds of actions to meet legal and policy requirements related to visitor These laws, regulations, and policies leave experience and use at the national park: room for judgment regarding the best mix of types and levels of visitor-use activities,

263 APPENDIX C: SERVICEWIDE MANDATES AND POLICIES programs, and facilities. The alternatives media, and Web pages) will be presented and evaluated in this GMP evaluated to determine the degree to Revision represent different approaches to which they are currently accessible visitor experience and national park use. to and usable by people with disabilities, and to identify barriers The National Park Service will take the that limit access. Each national park following kinds of actions to meet legal and system unit will develop action policy requirements related to accessibility: plans to identify how those barriers will be removed. Action plan Architectural and Site Access. The elements and funding strategies National Park Service will develop should be included in annual and strategies to ensure that all new and strategic plans. renovated buildings and facilities, including those provided by National park-specific discussion concessioners, are designed and should include: the types of national constructed in conformance with park experiences offered and how a applicable rules, regulations, and representative range of experiences standards. Existing buildings and are offered to those with disabilities; facilities will be evaluated to any factors likely to limit access determine the degree to which they solutions or require alternative are currently accessible to and forms of access (steep grades, usable by people with disabilities, historic structures, special circum- and to identify barriers that limit stances, and restrictions on service access. Each national park system animals). Every attempt should be unit will develop action plans made to provide access to essential identifying how those barriers will national park experiences. be removed. Action plan elements and funding strategies should be SUSTAINABLE DESIGN / included within annual and strategic DEVELOPMENT (five-year) plans. Sustainability can be described as the result Programmatic Access. The National achieved by doing things in ways that do Park Service will develop strategies not compromise the environment or its to ensure that all services and capacity to provide for present and future programs, including those offered generations. Sustainable practices minimize by concessioners and interpreters, the short- and long-term environmental are designed and implemented in impacts of developments and other conformance with applicable rules, activities through resource conservation, regulations, and standards. Existing recycling, waste minimization, and the use programs and activities (including of energy efficient and ecologically interpretation, communication, responsible materials and techniques.

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Sustainable Design / Development Desired Condition Source

NPS visitor and management facilities are harmonious with NPS Management Policies national park resources, compatible with natural processes, aesthetically pleasing, functional, as accessible as possible to all segments of the population, energy efficient, and cost effective.

The NPS Guiding Principles of Sustainable incorporated into the decision-making Design (1994) directs NPS management process during the design and acquisition of philosophy. It provides a basis for achiev- buildings, facilities, and transportation ing sustainability in facility planning and systems emphasizing the use of renewable design, emphasizes the importance of energy sources. biodiversity, and encourages responsible decisions. The guidebook articulates In addition to following these principles, principles to be used in the design and the following will also be accomplished: management of tourist facilities that emphasize environmental sensitivity in National park staff will work with construction, use of nontoxic materials, appropriate experts to make the resource conservation, recycling, and national park facilities and programs integration of visitors with natural and sustainable. Value analysis and cultural settings. Sustainability principles value engineering, including life- have been developed and are followed for cycle cost analysis, will be per- interpretation, natural resources, cultural formed to examine the energy, resources, site design, building design, environmental, and economic energy management, water supply, waste implications of proposed national prevention, and facility maintenance and park developments. operations. The National Park Service also National park staff will support and reduces energy costs, eliminates waste, and encourage suppliers, permittees, and conserves energy resources by using contractors to follow sustainable energy-efficient and cost-effective practices. technology. Energy efficiency is

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APPENDIX D: DEVELOPMENT OF THE PLAN

Work on the Petrified Forest Draft General The next step was to identify a preferred Management Plan Revision / Environ- alternative. The three draft alternatives mental Impact Statement began in (including the no-action alternative) were November 2000. The planning team con- evaluated. The planning team used an sisted of Petrified Forest National Park evaluation process called “Choosing by staff, specialists from the NPS Inter- Advantages.” This process evaluates mountain Support Office, and from the different choices (in this case, the three consulting firm, engineering-environmental alternatives) by identifying and comparing Management, Inc. (e2M). Early in the the relative advantages of each according to planning process the park’s mission, a set of criteria. In this case, the criteria purpose, and significance were reaffirmed, were based on the park’s mission, purpose, legislative mandates and constraints were significance, laws, policies, and public considered, and issues to be addressed by concerns. the general management plan were identified. The criteria are listed below (not in priority order). The next major step was to develop a range of alternatives for managing the park. The protects/preserves the Painted planning team gathered and studied Desert headquarters complex information on park resources, visitor use, protects/preserves other cultural and planning issues. With this information, resources the team developed five preliminary protects/preserves natural resources alternative concepts (including a no-action and processes alternative) for managing natural and fosters and enhances scientific cultural resources and visitor use. These research related to the park concepts were presented to the public in a provides opportunities to under- newsletter and comments from the public stand, experience, and enjoy the were collected and reviewed. park and its resources preserves or enhances wilderness Based on public input and further values consideration, the planning team decided provides for efficient and sustain- that two of the alternative concepts were able operations not sufficiently distinct to allow a complete provides for visitor and staff safety alternative to be developed from them. provides other National Park Thus, two of the concepts were dropped Service advantages and ideas from them were incorporated into (community/partner relations, the remaining concepts. Three full draft socioeconomic benefits, etc.) alternatives were then developed from the remaining concepts. These draft alternatives The team identified the relative advantages were then presented at a public meeting, of each alternative for each of the nine and again comments were collected and criteria. Each advantage (not each factor) reviewed. was given a point value that reflected its importance. Then, by adding up the scores

267 APPENDIX D: DEVELOPMENT OF THE PLAN for each alternative the team was able to researchers. Alternative 1 scored lowest for determine how the alternatives compared this criterion. overall. Costs of implementing the alterna- tives were then compared to examine the Provides opportunities to understand, relationships between advantages and costs. experience, and enjoy the park and its resources— Alternative 4 would provide The relative advantages of the alternatives the best opportunities for understanding, for each criterion are summarized below: experiencing, and enjoying the park due primarily to new trail opportunities, Protects/preserves the Painted Desert expanded visitor services, renovated headquarters complex— Alternative 3 best facilities, and improved accessibility. met this criterion because most historic Alternative 3 scored slightly lower than structures in the complex would be pre- alternative 4, and alternative 1 scored served and adapted for park uses according lowest. to a comprehensive master plan. Alternative 1 was next best according to this criterion. Preserves or enhances wilderness values— It would maintain the historic structures The alternatives were not much different over the short term, but they would with respect to this criterion. Alternative 3 continue to deteriorate and their historic scored slightly higher than alternative 1, integrity would be compromised from and alternative 4 scored lowest. cumulative alterations over the years. Their protection and preservation would not be Provides for efficient and sustainable oper- ensured over the long term. ations— Alternative 4 would best provide for efficient and sustainable operations, Protects/preserves other cultural primarily because new structures at the resources— Alternative 3 would protect Painted Desert headquarters complex would other cultural resources slightly better than best meet functional and space require- alternative 4. Alternative 1 scored lowest ments, improve staff morale, and provide because ongoing threats to the park’s for more sustainable operations. Alternative museum collections, archeological 3 scored considerably lower than alternative resources, cultural landscapes, and historic 4, and alternative 1 scored lowest for this structures would not be averted. criterion.

Protects/preserves natural resources and Provides for visitor and staff safety— processes— Alternative 3 scored best Alternative 4 was rated slightly better than according to this criterion, primarily alternative 3 for providing visitor and staff because it would best protect petrified safety. Alternative 1 scored lowest. The wood and other fossils. Alternative 4 scored advantages of alternatives 3 and 4 over next highest, and alternative 1 scored alternative 1 were mostly attributable to lowest. safety and health improvements at the Painted Desert headquarters complex. Fosters and enhances scientific research related to the park— Alternatives 3 and 4 Provides other NPS advantages scored equally well with respect to this (community / partner relations, socio- criterion. Both would improve laboratory economic benefits, etc.)— Alternative 3 work space and temporary housing for scored best for this criterion. Alternative 4

268 Appendix D: Development of the Plan scored only slightly higher than alternative New construction of the Painted Desert 1, which was rated lowest. headquarters complex would include durable materials and systems, plus other DEVELOPMENT OF ALTERNATIVE 2 measures to reduce recurring maintenance (PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE) needs. It would be designed and constructed to address local soils conditions, and con- After studying the advantages of the draft struction would be closely monitored to alternatives according to the nine criteria in ensure quality control. The lack of these the foregoing discussion, the planning team considerations during construction of the developed a preferred alternative. A first existing headquarters complex have led to step was to decide how to manage the many of the existing problems. New Painted Desert headquarters complex. This construction would provide the greatest decision took priority because: (1) the advantage in operational efficiency and Choosing by Advantages process indicated sustainability, particularly providing that the most important differences between energy-efficient and healthful working the alternatives (relative to the nine criteria) environments. Newly constructed buildings were linked to management of the head- would still require maintenance, however, quarters complex, and (2) reevaluating how and the possibility of structural or func- to manage the complex was a main reason tional problems would not be entirely for undertaking a revision of the 1992 eliminated. General Management Plan. The least expensive option studied for the The Painted Desert Headquarters headquarters is no action or status quo Complex management. In this case, some $11 million

would be spent over the next 25 years with Based on a recent Petrified Forest building incomplete improvements to operations and condition assessment and “class C” cost safety, and the buildings would continue to estimates, the planning team assumed that decline. The next lowest life-cycle cost is adaptive re-use of the complex would $15 million for replacing the complex with include a comprehensive approach for new buildings. Life-cycle costs for adap- rehabilitation of the buildings to correcting tively re-using the complex range from 4% existing problems. This would result in to 50% higher than the cost of replacement, greatly improved workspaces and resi- depending on the amount of limited new dences. Comprehensive rehabilitation construction combined with adaptive re- would also greatly reduce short-term repair use. Within the adaptive re-use option, demands and provide significant improve- selectively providing more new construc- ments in operational efficiency and safety. tion and removing the most deteriorated Not all problems would be entirely elimin- structures (while keeping the integrity of ated, but the historic structures would be the historic complex) would provide the functional and stable. Although efficiency most advantages: greater operational and safety would be even better if the efficiency and safety while keeping costs historic complex were removed and similar to total reconstruction. replaced with new buildings, the complete, irreversible loss of the historic complex Given that the costs of adaptive re-use and would be contrary to historic preservation replacement are similar, it turned out that laws and NPS policies. money was not a major factor in deciding

269 APPENDIX D: DEVELOPMENT OF THE PLAN how to manage the headquarters complex headquarters complex was decided, the next over the life of this plan. The major con- step was to decide the main conceptual siderations were protection of the historic elements of alternative 2. These elements complex and the amount of improvement in are as follows: operational efficiency and safety. Although adaptive re-use would not be as effective as Merge the best resource protection new construction in improving operational aspects of alternative 3 with the efficiency and safety, it would provide opportunities for visitor experience significantly better conditions than today. and understanding from alternative Adaptively re-using the historic complex 4 that have least impacts. (rather than removing and rebuilding the Maximize options to adapt to future headquarters facility) was judged more changes, unknown conditions, and important than the improved operational new information. efficiency gained by new construction. Demonstrate fiscal responsibility and value. Thus, the planning team chose to zone Painted Desert headquarters complex as The planning team continued to build historic preservation / adaptive use in alternative 2. Using the conceptual alternative 2, which means that most elements listed above and information from historic structures in the complex would be the Choosing by Advantages process, kept and adapted for NPS-related purposes. management zones were applied to each This choice best represents the values of the area of the park to indicate the management National Park Service by balancing historic intent for each area. The team then dis- preservation, operational efficiency, visitor cussed what actions the National Park and staff safety, and value for taxpayer Service would be most likely to take over dollars. the next 15 to 20 years, given the preferred alternative’s concept, the management Other Elements of Alternative 2 zones, current conditions in the park, and environmental constraints. For additional Once the management zoning and details about the preferred alternative, see philosophy for the Painted Desert the “Alternative 2” section of chapter 2.

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APPENDIX E: CONSULTATION LETTERS

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APPENDIX F: WILD AND SCENIC RIVER EVALUATION

303 APPENDIX F: WILD AND SCENIC RIVER EVALUATION

304

INTRODUCTION

This appendix presents the results of a Determine whether the eligible National Park Service (NPS) study of segments would make suitable potential wild and scenic rivers in Petrified additions to the National Wild and Forest National Park. Congress created the Scenic Rivers System. National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. In October of 1968, the freshly penned Wild Of the rivers and washes in Petrified Forest and Scenic Rivers Act pronounced: National Park, this study finds that the reach of the Puerco River within the current “…that certain selected rivers of park boundary is eligible and suitable for the Nation which, with their designation as a scenic river area, but not immediate environments, possess recommended for designation at this time. outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and ELIGIBILITY EVALUATION wildlife, historic, cultural or other similar values, shall be preserved To be eligible for inclusion in the national in free-flowing condition, and that Wild and Scenic Rivers System, a study they and their immediate environ- segment must be free flowing and the ments shall be protected for the stream corridor must exhibit at least one benefit and enjoyment of present outstandingly remarkable resource value. and future generations.” “Free flowing” means existing in a largely NPS Management Policies 2001 state that natural condition without major impound- the National Park Service will compile a ments, diversions, or other modifications of complete listing of all rivers and river the waterway. There are no specific require- segments in the national park system that it ments for minimum flow for eligible considers eligible for the national Wild and segments. Flows are considered sufficient Scenic Rivers System. The purpose of this for eligibility if they sustain or complement study was to determine whether any of the the outstandingly remarkable values for rivers or washes in Petrified Forest National which the segment would be designated. Park are eligible for inclusion in the Rivers with intermittent flows have been national Wild and Scenic Rivers System. included in the national park system.

The wild and scenic river study process, as Outstandingly Remarkable Values are described in the National Wild and Scenic scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and Rivers System: Final Revised Guidelines for wildlife, historic, cultural, or other similar Eligibility, Classification, and Management values that are professionally judged to be of River Areas (1982), is composed of three regionally significant—those that stand out steps: as among the best on a regional basis. All resources assessed should be directly river- Determine if rivers are eligible as related, or owe their location or existence to components of the National Wild the river. Features that are exemplary (out- and Scenic Rivers System. standing examples of common types), as Determine the appropriate well as those that are rare or unique, should classification of rivers. be considered.

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OUTSTANDINGLY REMARKABLE threatened, or endangered plant or animal VALUES species have been observed. No significant biological resources have been reported An assessment of potential outstandingly along Lithodendron Wash. remarkable values was made by NPS professionals for the major rivers and The Lithodendron possesses a fairly broad washes of the park: Lithodendron Wash, floodplain of Quaternary alluvial deposits Digger Wash, Wild Horse Wash, Puerco that could possess historical or archeologi- River, Dead Wash, Nine-Mile Wash, Dry cal sites. Two prehistoric archeological Wash, Jim Camp Wash, and Cottonwood sites are located within 200 meters of Wash. Resources evaluated include Lithodendron Wash. Two historical sites biological resources, paleontological include the original Zuni Well and the final resources, and cultural resources. Scenic Zuni Well, which were originally drilled as and recreation values were not considered prospective oil wells. The final site because these values would be similar for provided water to the Painted Desert Rim all segments, and would be similar to such for several years. These wells are no longer values throughout the park. They would not in use but the historical structures associ- be specifically river- or wash-related. ated with them still exist. The Quaternary alluvial sediments surrounding the river Lithodendron Wash could possess fossil vertebrates of this age. The wash also cuts through Triassic age The Lithodendron is a southwest flowing sediments, which are exposed at several wash that originates mainly within the places along its course. In and northeast of northeastern portion of the Painted Desert the Black Forest, fossil logs are exposed section of Petrified Forest National Park. It along the banks. These areas also have is the main drainage for this area, event- potential for containing Triassic vertebrate, ually draining into the Puerco River west of invertebrate, and leaf fossils. Historically the park. The north bank of Lithodendron the Lithodendron area was part of a major Wash within Petrified Forest National Park transportation corridor. This corridor still serves as the boundary of the Painted exists. Some of the first exposures of fossil Desert Wilderness Area. wood in the American Southwest were made in Lithodendron Wash by U.S. Army This stream flows intermittently, primarily exploration parties following the corridor. after storm events during the summer monsoon and winter seasons. Small, clayey National Park System areas are authorized areas along the banks and in shadow most by Congress because they have “nationally of the day tend to hold water for up to a significant resource values.” These values month after storm events. Limited biologi- in turn can be considered “Outstandingly cal resource surveys have been conducted Remarkable Values” in the terminology of along this wash. Most of the information the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, regarding species has come from casual a case might be made that all rivers in a observations by park staff and visitors. national park system unit meet the criteria Mule deer are known to frequent the area. for wild and scenic river status. It seems Tamarisk and Russian olive are non-native unlikely this was ever congressional intent. shrub species found along the wash banks, The resources in proximity to Lithodendron and they appear to be spreading. No rare, Wash are typical of those found throughout

306 Appendix F: Wild and Scenic River Evaluation the park, and do not owe their existence to Wildhorse Wash the presence of the wash. Therefore, the wash is not considered to meet eligibility Wildhorse Wash is a small, south flowing criteria. drainage which originates in the south- western section of the Painted Desert Digger Wash portion of the park, flowing into the Lithodendron just before it reaches the Digger Wash is an intermittent stream southwestern park boundary. It is an within the Painted Desert wilderness area. It intermittent stream within the Painted originates on the western slopes of Chinde Desert wilderness area. No formal Mesa, and flows southwestward through the biological surveys have been done along Painted Desert portion of the park to the this watercourse. No rare, threatened, or western boundary. Before its inclusion in endangered plant or animal species have the park, this area was used for livestock been reported along Wildhorse Wash. grazing. Historical reports mention live- stock tanks still being present in some In its southern reaches, Wildhorse Wash places along its course. No formal bio- has Quaternary overbank deposits, which logical surveys have been done along this could include archeological resources. In its watercourse. No rare, threatened, or northern extremity, the wash deeply cuts endangered plant or animal species have into Triassic Chinle Formation exposures been reported along Digger Wash. known to be fossiliferous. The wash has cut several of the sandstone units along its This area has not been surveyed for course into scenic areas of hoodoos and paleontological resources, but it is most sculptured rock, making the area one of the likely similar to the Lithodendron in this most scenic in the park. No archeological respect. No archeological sites have been sites have been documented within 200 documented within 200 meters of Digger meters of Wildhorse Wash. However, little Wash. However, little of the area of the area surrounding this wash has been surrounding this wash has been surveyed, surveyed, so very limited data is available. so very limited data is available. National park system areas are authorized National park system areas are authorized by Congress because they have “nationally by Congress because they have “nationally significant resource values.” These values significant resource values.” These values in turn can be considered “Outstandingly in turn can be considered “Outstandingly Remarkable Values” in the terminology of Remarkable Values” in the terminology of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, a case might be made that all rivers in a a case might be made that all rivers in a national park system unit meet the criteria national park system unit meet the criteria for wild and scenic river status. It seems for wild and scenic river status. It seems unlikely that this was congressional intent. unlikely that this was congressional intent. The resources in proximity to Wildhorse The resources in proximity to Digger Wash Wash are typical of those found throughout are typical of those found throughout the the park, and do not owe their existence to park, and do not owe their existence to the the presence of the wash. Therefore, the presence of the wash. Therefore, the wash wash is not considered to meet eligibility is not considered to meet eligibility criteria. criteria.

307 APPENDIX F: WILD AND SCENIC RIVER EVALUATION

Puerco River prehistoric sites, and one, Puerco Pueblo, was listed in the National Register of The Puerco River is a large, intermittent Historic Places on 12 July 1976. Puerco stream with an associated floodplain. Pueblo is the only park archeological site Surveys indicate that the Puerco River is listed in the National Register of Historic probably the most biologically rich and Places. The remaining prehistoric cultural diverse area in the park. This area currently resources are potentially eligible for listing supports cottonwood and willow popula- as contributing elements of archeological tions, which are being impacted by districts or multiple property nominations. populations of the non-native shrubs, The historic sites are judged potentially tamarisk and Russian olive. Fences cannot eligible as thematic elements of nomina- be maintained across the stream channel at tions for CCC or historic National Park the park boundaries, so cattle from neigh- Service properties at Petrified Forest. A boring ranches sometimes move through formal evaluation may result in some this area and impact the vegetation through individual sites being determined not grazing. Elk and mule deer are occasionally eligible for listing, but until the evaluation seen and are thought to be using the river as and consultation are completed, all sites are a migration corridor. Coyote are regularly potentially eligible. observed, and tracks have been reported. The shrub communities support Puerco Pueblo is the only archeological site breeding populations of birds and provide near a major drainage considered to have cover for a diverse assemblage of small “Outstandingly Remarkable Values.” The mammal, amphibian, and reptile species. site includes a single-story, 100-plus room Past park naturalist observations from the pueblo occupied by the Ancestral Pueblo 1950s reported willow flycatchers in the from Late Pueblo III to middle Pueblo IV area, but a 1998 targeted survey for the times (A.D. 1200 to 1380). It is located on a Southwestern willow flycatcher provided small mesa above the Puerco River. Petro- negative findings. An exotic lizard, the glyphs occur on the surrounding mesa New Mexican whiptail, was discovered in edges (Burton 1990). the Puerco River corridor within the park in 1998. No rare, threatened, or endangered These values have been determined to meet plant or animal species have been reported the outstandingly remarkable values along the Puerco River. criteria, making the Puerco River eligible for inclusion in the national Wild and The Puerco River is surrounded by Scenic Rivers System. Quaternary floodplain deposits, which may contain vertebrate fossils from that time Nine-Mile Wash period. In addition, there are rare outcrops of Chinle Formation along its banks that Nine-Mile Wash is an intermittent stream may possess Triassic fossil resources. One that is part of the Puerco River watershed area in particular on the south bank, west of within the park. Under the park’s current the park bridge, contains fossil leaves. boundaries, the west-flowing Nine-Mile Wash flows through the park for less than Four archeological sites have been one-quarter mile before its confluence with documented within 200 meters of Puerco the Puerco River. The banks of this wash River. One is a historic CCC camp, two are are infested with tamarisk in a number of

308 Appendix F: Wild and Scenic River Evaluation areas. This non-native shrub supports the trend of the main park road for several breeding populations of birds and provides miles, crisscrossing it several times. It is an cover for small mammals, amphibians, and intermittent stream, generally traversing reptiles. No rare, threatened, or endangered both grassland and badlands areas within plant or animal species have been reported the park. The banks of this stream are along Nine-Mile Wash. highly erodible and generally support only grass species. Pronghorn frequent the area The banks of the wash are mainly and make use of pools of water that remain Quarternary overbank sediments. However, in the wash after storm events. Migrating in the proposed park boundary expansion bear have been seen in the area. Coyote, area, Nine Mile Wash cuts through some badger, small mammal, reptile, and Triassic deposits as well. This area would amphibian species have been observed. No need to be surveyed for paleontological rare, threatened, or endangered plant or resources. No archeological sites have been animal species have been reported along documented within 200 meters of Nine- Dry Wash. Mile Wash. However, little of the area surrounding this wash has been surveyed, The wash has cut down into the Sonsela so very limited data is available. Sandstone horizon north of the Flattops, where it exposes fossil wood deposits. As it National park system areas are authorized moves northward, more exposures of the by Congress because they have “nationally Chinle Formation can be found along its significant resource values.” These values, banks, with fossil vertebrate and plant in turn, can be considered “Outstandingly exposures in a couple of areas. Generally, Remarkable Values” in the terminology of however, the river course is situated in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, Quaternary floodplain deposits; this is a case might be made that all rivers in a especially true to the west in the proposed national park system unit meet the criteria park expansion area. Cultural sites are for wild and scenic river status. It seems common along the banks. unlikely that this was congressional intent. The resources in proximity to Nine-Mile Nine archeological sites are located within Wash are typical of those found throughout 200 meters of Dry Wash. Eight of these the park and do not owe their existence to sites are prehistoric and one is historic. the presence of the wash. Therefore, the Four archeological sites are located within wash is not considered to meet eligibility 200 meters of the East Fork of Dry Wash. criteria. Three of these sites are prehistoric and one is historic. Dry Wash National Park System areas are authorized Dry Wash is a meandering system that by Congress because they have “nationally generally trends to the north and west. It significant resource values.” These values, originates in the Rainbow Forest wilderness in turn, can be considered “Outstandingly area, and meanders northwards between Remarkable Values” in the terminology of Crystal and Jasper Forests before turning the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, west, where it leaves the current park a case might be made that all rivers in a boundary and eventually flows into the national park system unit meet the criteria Puerco River. Dry Wash generally follows for wild and scenic river status. It seems

309 APPENDIX F: WILD AND SCENIC RIVER EVALUATION unlikely that this was congressional intent. National park system areas are authorized The resources in proximity to Dry Wash are by Congress because they have “nationally typical of those found throughout the park significant resource values.” These values, and do not owe their existence to the in turn, can be considered “Outstandingly presence of the wash. Therefore, the wash Remarkable Values” in the terminology of is not considered to meet eligibility criteria. the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, a case might be made that all rivers in a Jim Camp Wash national park system unit meet the criteria for wild and scenic river status. It seems Jim Camp Wash is a southwest-flowing unlikely that this was congressional intent. drainage originating in the Flattops area and The resources in proximity to Jim Camp passing through the Rainbow Forest area Wash are typical of those found throughout before joining Cottonwood Wash south of the park and do not owe their existence to the park. It is an intermittent stream that the presence of the wash. Therefore, the runs through badlands and grassland areas. wash is not considered to meet eligibility This wash also runs beside the Rainbow criteria. Forest developed area. The banks of Jim Camp Wash support grass, plus some shrub Cottonwood Wash and cactus species. Small infestations of tamarisk and Russian olive can be found. A Cottonwood Wash is another southwest- few cottonwood trees grow along its banks. flowing drainage in the Rainbow Forest Raptors frequently use the large trees as area. It originates in the Rainbow Forest perches. A number of songbird species nest wilderness area and flows south of Long in trees in the nearby developed area. Logs. It is an intermittent stream that runs Coyote, , porcupine, badgers, small through badlands and grassland areas. The mammals, reptiles, and amphibian species banks of Cottonwood Wash support grass have been observed. Pronghorn frequent the and some shrub and cactus species. Small wash to use water pools left by storms. No infestations of tamarisk and Russian olive rare, threatened, or endangered plant or can be found. A few cottonwood trees grow animal species have been reported along along the banks of this wash and are used Jim Camp Wash. by raptors as perches. Coyote, bobcats, porcupine, badgers, small mammal, rep- Since it is a short reach, this wash has not tiles, and amphibian species have been built up a thick floodplain of sediments observed. Pronghorn frequent the wash to along its banks, and in many places the old use pools of water left by storms. No rare, Triassic-age outcrops can be seen. In the threatened, or endangered plant or animal Flattops area and northeast of the visitor species have been reported along center, these exposures can be fossiliferous. Cottonwood Wash. South of the visitor center, Jim Camp Wash cuts into the fossil log-bearing Rainbow The headwaters are cut fairly deep into the Sandstone and fossil logs can be seen in Chinle Formation exposures and many of some places along the wash. Nine archeo- these outcrops are fossiliferous. As the logical sites are located within 200 meters drainage flows southeast and picks up of Jim Camp Wash. Eight of these sites are sediment, it deposits floodplain sediments prehistoric and one is historic. on the banks. This area could possess Quaternary fossils, and cultural sites are

310 Appendix F: Wild and Scenic River Evaluation more common here. Just before Cotton- boundaries, Dead Wash enters the park wood Wash crosses old Highway 180, it twice, running through a corner east of cuts into the fossil log-bearing Rainbow Chinde Mesa, and another portion just Sandstone and logs are exposed near the before its confluence with the Puerco (just northern bank (Long Logs). Seven archeo- before Puerco River bridge). The wash is logical sites are located within 200 meters surrounded by Quaternary deposits in these of Cottonwood Wash. Four of these sites areas, so the potential for Triassic fossils are historic, two are prehistoric, and one has along the banks is low. Future park expan- both prehistoric and historic components. sion may include a larger portion of this drainage, but this area has not been sur- National Park System areas are authorized veyed for paleontological resources. One by Congress because they have “nationally archeological site is located within 200 significant resource values.” These values, meters of Dead Wash. The extensive Dead in turn, can be considered “Outstandingly Wash petroglyph site is outside the current Remarkable Values” in the terminology of park boundary, but is included in the the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, authorized boundary expansion. a case might be made that all rivers in a national park system unit meet the criteria National Park System areas are authorized for wild and scenic river status. It seems by Congress because they have “nationally unlikely that this was congressional intent. significant resource values.” These values The resources in proximity to Cottonwood in turn can be considered “Outstandingly Wash are typical of those found throughout Remarkable Values” in the terminology of the park and do not owe their existence to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, the presence of the wash. Therefore, the a case might be made that all rivers in a wash is not considered to meet eligibility national park system unit meet the criteria criteria. for wild and scenic river status. It seems unlikely that this was congressional intent. Dead Wash The resources in proximity to Dead Wash are typical of those found throughout the Dead Wash flows southwest, entering the park and do not owe their existence to the park from that direction and draining into presence of the wash. Therefore, the wash the Puerco River. Within the current park is not considered to meet eligibility criteria.

311 APPENDIX F: WILD AND SCENIC RIVER EVALUATION

Archeological Sites Located Near Major Drainages at Petrified Forest National Park

State Site Number Wash Name Time Period

AZ Q:01:334(ASM) Cottonwood Both AZ Q:01:351(ASM) Cottonwood Historic AZ Q:01:352(ASM) Cottonwood Historic AZ Q:01:353(ASM) Cottonwood Historic AZ Q:01:387(ASM) Cottonwood Historic AZ Q:01:121(ASM) Cottonwood Prehistoric AZ Q:01:124(ASM) Cottonwood Prehistoric AZ Q:01:403(ASM) Dry Wash Historic AZ Q:01:035(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:036(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:038(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:364(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:379(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:380(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:402(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:404(ASM) Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:365(ASM) East Fork, Dry Wash Historic AZ Q:01:048(ASM) East Fork, Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:348(ASM) East Fork, Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:02:049(ASM) East Fork, Dry Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:100(ASM) Jim Camp Historic AZ Q:01:027(ASM) Jim Camp Prehistoric AZ Q:01:096(ASM) Jim Camp Prehistoric AZ Q:01:097(ASM) Jim Camp Prehistoric AZ Q:01:102(ASM) Jim Camp Prehistoric AZ Q:01:238(ASM) Jim Camp Prehistoric AZ Q:01:372(ASM) Jim Camp Prehistoric AZ Q:01:373(ASM) Jim Camp Prehistoric PF 186 Jim Camp Prehistoric AZ K:13:082(ASM) Lithodendron Wash Prehistoric AZ K:13:084(ASM) Lithodendron Wash Prehistoric AZ Q:01:271(ASM) Puerco River Historic AZ Q:01:022(ASM) Puerco River Prehistoric AZ Q:01:067(ASM) Puerco River Prehistoric AZ Q:01:101(ASM) Puerco River Prehistoric

312 Appendix F: Wild and Scenic River Evaluation

SUMMARY OF ELIGIBILITY SUITABILITY EVALUATION The suitability phase of the study evaluates Although the rivers and washes evaluated whether designation as a national wild and are all free flowing, only the reach of the scenic river would be the best way to Puerco River within the current park manage eligible rivers. Suitability consider- boundary contains outstandingly ations include the environmental and remarkable values, which make it eligible economic consequences of designation and for inclusion in the national Wild and the manageability of the river, if desig- Scenic Rivers System. It is further nated. evaluated for classification and suitability below. The Puerco River segment within Petrified Forest National Park is suitable for desig- CLASSIFICATION nation as a wild and scenic river because the National Park Service owns and Classification is based on development manages the land. The National Park conditions existing in the river corridor at Service does not recommend designation at the time of designation. The Wild and this time due to the minimal length (one Scenic Rivers Act provides three mile) of the segment within the park, and classifications defined as follows: because resources within the park are already well protected. Wild river areas free of impoundments and generally CONCLUSION inaccessible, except by trail, with watersheds or shorelines essentially The Puerco River within Petrified Forest primitive and waters unpolluted. National Park is free flowing and contains These represent the vestiges of outstandingly remarkable values that make primitive America. it eligible for inclusion in the national Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Its freedom from Scenic river areas are free of impoundments and relatively undeveloped impoundments, with shorelines character qualify it as a scenic river area. largely undeveloped, but accessible Although the river is managed by the in places by roads. National Park Service under a protection mandate, it is not considered suitable for Recreational river areas are readily designation because of its very short accessible by road or railroad, may length—about one mile—within current have some development along their park boundaries. shorelines, and may have undergone some impoundment or diversion in If Congress authorizes the proposed the past. boundary expansion and the National Park Service is successful in adding that land to The Puerco River is classified as a scenic the park, the National Park Service will river because it is free of impoundments evaluate new river segments in the park for with shorelines largely undeveloped, except wild and scenic river eligibility. This for the railroad. amounts to approximately 5.7 miles more.

313 APPENDIX F: WILD AND SCENIC RIVER EVALUATION

If the entire 6.7 miles is determined Management Plan, the National Park eligible, the length would be sufficient for a Service would decide whether to determination of suitability as well. recommend designation to Congress. Through an amendment to the General

314

INDEX

A F Adamana Road, 55, 63 Fee Demonstration Program, 103 Agate Bridge, 18, 34, 41, 47, 50, 55, 61, 63, 76, 92, 129, Flattops, 18, 147, 149, 165, 167, 182, 184, 199, 201, 309, 146-48, 161, 163, 165, 167, 182, 184, 197, 199, 201, 310 203 frontcountry, i, vi, 17, 28, 39-42, 49-53, 57-61, 70, 73- 76, 110, 112, 138, 156, 157, 161-63, 166, 196, 197, 217 B backcountry corridor, 28, 41, 50, 58, 61, 75, 76, 191, 196-98, 200, 203, 221 G Beale Camel Trail, 138 Giant Logs Trail, 34, 41, 50, 61, 74-76, 94, 95, 159, 60, Black Forest, 100, 101, 306 176, 181, 185, 86, 213 Blue Mesa, 41, 74, 76, 101-03, 110, 115, 145, 147, 161, guided tours, v, vii, 28, 29, 40, 41, 49, 50, 57, 69, 163, 180, 187, 196, 197 71-76, 164, 167, 179, 181-84 Blue Mesa spur road, 34, 41, 50, 61 Blue Mesa Trail, vi, vii, 34, 41, 50, 61, 70, 74, 76- H 77, 170, 180-85, 187, 188 hiking, 27-29, 34, 40-46, 54, 63, 76, 110, 147-49, 164-69, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), 3, 19, 22, 108, 180-85, 197-03, 221 110, 229 Historic Preservation/Adaptive Use Zone, 30, 40, 45, 50, 54, 58, 62, 63, 73, 217, 227 C historic structures, iii, iv, 3-6, 15-17, 30-31, 40, 46, 54, 57, 75, 81, 92-95, 98, 113-15, 128-32, 140- campgrounds, 33, 49, 57, 115, 150, 153, 172, 185, 189, 190, 203, 207 42, 151, 157-59, 175-76, 187, 192, 212, 231, 264, 268-70 camping, 27, 29, 35, 41, 49, 57, 58, 115, 150 Holbrook, 15, 33, 39, 49, 57, 74, 89, 112, 115, 118-24, 61, 76, 90, 92, Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), 153, 172, 186, 189, 190, 207, 211, 214, 217, 229, 94, 95, 97, 98, 159, 176, 199, 201, 202, 231, 308 253 Canyon Butte Ruin, 19 Homolovi State Park, 3 carrying capacity, 31, 32 horseback riding, 27-29, 111, 221 Chinde Point, 35, 42, 53, 61, 129, 203 Housing Needs Assessment, 21 Chinle Escarpment, 18 Chinle Formation, iii, 3, 8, 83, 100, 102, 109, 307-10 J Comprehensive Interpretive Plan, 145, 146, 150 Crystal Forest (area), 16, 18, 50, 61, 74-77, 95, 97, 100- Jasper Forest, 18, 34, 41, 50, 61, 76, 101, 102, 110, 129, 02, 110, 115, 141-47, 156-63, 169, 174, 176-80, 145-48, 161, 163, 182, 183, 197-99, 201, 203, 309 193, 194, 197 Jim Camp Wash bridge, 62, 94, 96, 129, 141, 150, 153, Crystal Forest Trail, 18, 34, 41, 61, 74-76, 97, 101, 156- 231 59, 161, 163, 168, 170, 174, 176-79, 181-85, 196, 202, 213 K cultural resources, i, iv-vi, 6, 9, 11, 14-18, 27, 29, 33, 67, 69-73, 87, 94, 112, 127, 130, 131, 141, Kachina Point, 50, 58, 74, 76, 77, 115, 147, 179, 181-84, 142, 192, 211, 235, 247, 260-68, 306, 308 187, 196, 198, 200, 202

D L Dead Wash Petroglyphs, 19 lightscapes, 28, 29, 86, 258 Developed Zone, 29, 40, 45, 50, 53, 58, 62 Lithodendron, 50, 76, 77, 84, 89, 147, 179, 181-87, 306, 307, 312

315 INDEX

Long Logs spur road, 18, 34, 54, 63, 94, 95, 129, 141, Puerco Pueblo, vi, viii, 34-35, 42, 47, 53, 55, 61, 63, 163, 169, 180, 185, 197, 203 74-75, 88, 97-98, 110, 115, 129, 142-46, 159- Long Logs Trail, 45, 54, 62, 63, 94-95, 100, 146, 63, 193-99, 201-03, 213, 308 150, 163, 180, 187, 197, 204, 213 Puerco River, iii, 3, 13 42, 55, 61, 63, 74-76, 81, 84, 85, 89, 97, 98, 105, 109, 142, 156-60, 163-68, 176-77, 191, 193, 198-02, 231, 305-09, 311-13 M Puerco Valley, 16 Mission 66, 15, 90, 93, 192, 231 Museum of Northern Arizona, 39, 99, 214, 217, 229 R Rainbow Forest Badlands, 18 N Rainbow Forest Museum, 34, 45, 50, 76, 100, 110-13, Neutra, Richard, 16, 90, 93, 192 124, 144, 149, 168, 169, 176, 179, 185, 186, 213, Newspaper Rock, 34, 42, 53, 61, 110 217 Route 66, vi, viii, 42, 50, 53, 58, 61, 73-76, 90-92, 97, 115, 138, 156-59, 162-69, 182-86, 191, O 193, 198-04, 213, 230 Onyx Bridge, 58, 74, 147, 196, 198, 200, 202 S P soundscapes, 9, 13, 27-29, 31, 85, 258, 259 Painted Desert headquarters complex, i–viii, 15, 16, Special Protection Zone, 29, 41, 45, 49, 53, 55, 58, 62, 26, 33, 39, 40, 46-48, 54-57, 62, 69-77, 90-93, 73-76, 174, 177-81, 185, 186, 189, 190 98-00, 110-18, 124, 129, 140-49, 151-52, 157, 158, 165-73, 175-78, 182-99, 199-08, 213, T 229, 267-70 Painted Desert Inn, i–viii, 15, 18, 26, 34, 40, 45, 46, The Teepees, 75, 160 50, 54, 58, 62, 63, 69-73, 75-77, 90-93, 98, 100, 111-18, 124, 129, 140-44, 149-53, 157, V 158, 169-71, 175-77, 186, 187, 192-94, 202- 05, 213, 217, 229 visitor center, 15–16, 22, 26, 30, 33, 34, 42, 46, 55, 62, Petrified Forest Museum Association, 11, 111-14, 74, 93, 95, 96, 100-01, 110-18, 124, 140, 144, 149, 124, 136, 150, 189, 214 158, 175, 185, 217, 231, 310 petrified wood sales, v–viii, 19, 40, 66, 76-77, 111, 150, 153, 154, 172-73, 185, 189, 190, 203, W 207, 208, 215, 224, 225 Wallace Tank Ruin, 19 petrified wood theft, 5, 18, 101, 110, 128, 145, 146, 161, 162, 179, 180, 196-97, 225 Western Archeological and Conservation Center, 18, 39, 99, 217, 227, 229, 231, 232, 235 Petroglyph Road, 95 Whipple Expedition, 89, 91, 100, 233 Preservation Emphasis Zone, 27, 40, 41, 50, 58, 73, 74, 217 wilderness management plan, iv, 6, 18, 21, 22, 32, 35, 41, 53, 211

316

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 historic 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.

United States Department of the Interior National Park Service