BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

AND

BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION

FOR THE

2015 JOE’S VALLEY BOULDERING PROJECT

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

MANTI-LA SAL NATIONAL FOREST FERRON/PRICE RANGER DISTRICT

EMERY COUNTY, UTAH

Prepared by: ______Date______Jeff Jewkes, Wildlife Biologist

Reviewed by: ______Date ______Kim Anderson, Forest Ecologist

______Date ______Pamela Manders, Forest Fisheries Biologist

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I. INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation (BA/BE) is to review the potential effects of the Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project on threatened, endangered, or proposed plant and animal species (TEP) and to determine whether consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is necessary. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (PL 93-205, as amended) requires federal agencies to ensure that any activities they authorize, fund, or carry out, do not jeopardize the continued existence of any wildlife species federally listed as Threatened or Endangered (Section 7). Consultation with the USFWS is required if threatened or endangered (T&E) species, or their critical habitat may be affected by proposed actions. This BA/BE is prepared in accordance with legal requirements set forth under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1536 (c)), and follows standards established in the Forest Service Manual (FSM 2671.2 and 2672.4).

The USDA, Forest Service has developed policy regarding the designation of sensitive plant and animal species (FSM 2670.32). A sensitive species is defined (FSM 2670.5) as those plant and animal species identified by the Regional Forester for which population viability is a concern as evidenced by: 1) significant current or predicted downward trends in population numbers or density or 2) significant current or predicted downward trends in habitat capability that would reduce a species' existing distribution. The Biological Evaluation is an analysis of which sensitive species may occur in the project area and whether any impacts on these species or their habitat are anticipated which will adversely affect their viability.

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSAL

A. Summary of the Proposed Action

The Ferron/Price Ranger District of the Manti-La Sal National Forest proposes to:

 Construct designated fire rings at dispersed campsites; dismantle and naturalize redundant user created fire rings. Approximately 12 fire rings would be installed.  Contain dispersed campsites and parking areas as needed to minimize vehicle impacts to soils/vegetation and nearby riparian areas. Native rocks and/or barrier posts/rails would be utilized.  Harden high use parking areas with road base to prevent soil erosion.  Install a vault toilet facility at the angler access parking area in Straight Canyon (Left Fork).  Install kiosks and signage promoting climbing ethics and “Leave No Trace” principles.  Construct rock retaining walls at boulders to level landing areas; focusing on boulders receiving heavy use and/or located on slopes greater than 10%. Approximately 90 boulders would receive treatment.

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 Develop a sustainable trail network by hardening trails to bouldering sites displaying obvious soil erosion with native rock; re-route access trails as needed to reduce grades; close and rehabilitate redundant trails. Approximately 2.5 miles of trail would receive treatment.  Mark trail beginning points and install reassurance markers as needed so that trails are easily identified and followed.

B. Purpose and Need

Bouldering and associated camping at Joe’s Valley have contributed to recreation resource impacts throughout the area. Multiple informal trails, soil erosion, bare soil, vegetation trampling, and numerous fire sites are commonly observed impacts.

Data for National Forest System (NFS) lands included in the Baseline Assessment documents the following:

 60.6% (114) of the bouldering sites inventoried are located on NFS lands.  41 of these boulders were rated as receiving heavy use.  70 of these boulders are located on slopes in excess of 10%.  5.0 miles of informal trails are located on NFS lands.  1.8 miles of these 5.0 miles display obvious soil erosion.  28 parking areas are located on NFS lands.

The purpose for this project is to mitigate current impacts to soils and vegetation in the Joe’s Valley Bouldering area while providing quality recreation opportunities and protecting resources.

The need for this project is guided by legal requirements specified in Forest Plan General and Management Unit Direction below. Specifically:

1) There is a need to develop sustainable, resource sensitive access trails to bouldering sites. 2) There is a need to develop sustainable landing zones around boulders. 3) There is a need to contain motorized use at dispersed campsites and parking areas to protect resources and provide for user safety.

C. Project Area Description/Affected Environment

The proposed Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project is located in east-central Utah, approximately 9 miles northwest of the town of Orangeville, in Emery County, Utah. The action area boundary or analysis area for this BA/BE is the Joe’s Valley Bouldering area. The Joe’s Valley Bouldering area generally describes the region receiving bouldering use. Bouldering areas can be generally categorized into three geographical regions: Left Fork of Straight Canyon, along Utah highway State Route (SR) 29,

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Right Fork (Cottonwood Canyon, along Forest System Road (FSR 50040), and New Joe’s (Grimes Wash near Utah Highway 57) (see maps below).

Topography is generally similar in all of the bouldering areas; characterized by rocky, rugged terrain in the vicinity of the roadway, with vertical cliff walls above the climbing areas. Elevation ranges from approximately 6,500 ft. – 8,200 ft.

The vegetation within the project area varies slightly with topography and elevation with nine different cover types; however, the majority of the bouldering sites (161 out of 192) are within the Colorado Plateau Pinyon Juniper Woodland according to SWReGAP data (USGS 2004). The Description for the Colorado Plateau Pinyon-Juniper Woodland vegetation cover type found is listed listed below. The description is derived from the SWReGAP definitions of each vegetation cover type (USGS 2004). This cover type has not been ground-truthed and may differ from actual vegetation within the project area.

Colorado Plateau Pinyon-Juniper Woodland This ecological system occurs in dry mountains and foothills of the Colorado Plateau region including the Western Slope of Colorado to the Wasatch Range, south to the Mogollon Rim of Arizona and east into the northwestern corner of New Mexico. It is typically found at lower elevations ranging from 4,900 to 8,000 ft. These woodlands occur on warm, dry sites on mountain slopes, mesas, plateaus, and ridges. Severe climatic events occurring during the growing season, such as frosts and drought, are thought to limit the distribution of pinyon- juniper woodlands to relatively narrow altitudinal belts on mountainsides. Soils supporting this system vary in texture ranging from stony, cobbly, gravelly sandy loams to clay loam or clay. Pinyon pine and/or Utah juniper dominate the tree canopy. In the southern portion of the Colorado Plateau in northern Arizona and northwestern New Mexico, one-seed juniper (Juniperus monosperma) and hybrids of juniper may dominate or codominate the tree canopy. Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) may codominate or replace Utah juniper at higher elevations. Understory layers are variable and may be dominated by shrubs, graminoids, or be absent. Associated species include greenleaf manzanita (Arctostaphylos patula), big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), littleleaf mountain mahogany, mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus), blackbrush, Stansbury cliffrose (Purshia stansburiana), antelope bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata), Gambel oak (Quercus gambelii), blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), James’ galleta (Pleuraphis jamesii), or muttongrass (Poa fendleriana). This system occurs at higher elevations than Great Basin Pinyon-Juniper Woodland and Colorado Plateau shrubland systems where sympatric.

The Joe’s Valley Bouldering area is home to a variety of wildlife species including: elk, deer, bear, mountain lion, raptors, small mammals, and a variety of songbirds. The escarpment above the climbing areas is ideal nesting habitat for golden eagles and peregrine falcons.

The following Management Unit Direction also applies:

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GWR (General Big-Game Winter Range) in Straight Canyon and in the Grimes Wash Area.  Manage recreational activities so they do not conflict with wildlife use of habitat (page III-62).

RPN (Riparian) in both Straight and Cottonwood Canyons  Semi primitive non-motorized, semi primitive motorized, roaded natural and rural recreation opportunities may be provided (page III-70).

MMA (Leasable Minerals Development) in the Grimes Wash Area  Manage dispersed recreation opportunities on existing MMA units to avoid conflicts with mineral activities and provide for public safety (page III-81).

UC (Utility Corridor) in Cottonwood Canyon  Manage dispersed recreation opportunities to avoid conflicts with the permitted uses of the unit (page III-96).

Map 1 – Straight Canyon Bouldering Sites

Map 2 – Cottonwood Canyon Bouldering Sites

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Map 3 – New Joe’s Bouldering Sites Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project Biological Assessment and Biological Evaluation Page 6

III. EVALUATED SPECIES INFORMATION

A. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed and Candidate Species

Table 1 displays all plant and animal species designated as threatened, endangered, or candidate by the USFWS that could occur within Emery County, Utah. The 2015 County list (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2015) was used in this BA/BE. The table also describes habitats occupied by the threatened and endangered plants and animals, and the general distribution of their habitats. T&E species that do not occur or have suitable habitat in or near the proposed project area are identified in Table 1 and will not be considered further in this BA/BE.

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Table 1 Listed and candidate plant, wildlife, and fish species that could occur on National Forest System land in Emery County, Utah, their potential occurrence in the Joe’s Valley Bouldering project area, and consideration in this BA/BE. SPECIES SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES STATUS CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

Plant Species

Barneby Reed-Mustard Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Schoenocrambe Schoenocrambe barnebyi barnebyi is endemic to south-central Utah where it is known from Keesle Country, in the San Rafael Swell, and in Capitol Reef National Park, Emery and Wayne counties. It grows where vegetation is sparse on steep north to northeast facing slopes (Franklin 2005) in mixed shadscale, eriogonum, and ephedra communities on the Chinle Formation at elevations from 5,600 ft. – 6,500 ft. in Emery County, Utah (Welsh et al. 2003). This species occurs at low elevations off National Forest System Lands.

Jones Cycladenia Threatened Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Cycladenia Cycladenia humilis var. humilis var. jonesii is restricted to the canyon-lands of jonesii the Colorado Plateau in Emery, Grand, Garfield and Kane counties, as well as in immediately adjacent Arizona, Coconino County. Occurs in eriogonum- ephedra, mixed desert shrub, and juniper communities at elevations ranging from 4400 ft. – 6000 ft. in Central Emery County, Utah (off-Forest) (Welsh et al. 2003). Often on steep slopes in gypsiferous soils derived from the Summerville, Cutler, and Chinle formations (Franklin 2005, Welsh et al. 2003). This species is not found on the north zone of the Manti -La Sal N.F.

Last Chance Townsendia Threatened Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Townsendia Townsendia aprica aprica is a central Utah endemic in Sevier, Emery and Wayne counties. It occurs from the base of the Wasatch escarpment near Emery south to the vicinity of Fremont Junction and continuing south onto the east slopes of Thousand Lake and Miners mountains. It inhabits salt desert shrub and pinyon-juniper communities from 6,100 - 8,000 ft. In clay, clay-silt, or gravelly clay soils derived from the Mancos Shale; these soils are often densely covered with biological soil crust from 6100 ft.– 8000 ft. in southeastern Emery County (off MLNF managed land) (Franklin 2005, Welsh et al. 2003). This species is not found on the Manti -La Sal N.F.

San Rafael Cactus Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Pediocactus Pediocactus despainii despainii is a central Utah endemic, predominantly in Emery County but just over the line into Wayne

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SPECIES SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES STATUS CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

County. It is known from the east base of Cedar Mountain, southwest to The Wedge and The Red Ledges and as far south as Cathedral Valley. Away from this broken band of distribution down the west side of the San Rafael Swell, it is found in its southern interior (Franklin 2005). Found in desert-shrub- grasslands and open pinyon-juniper communities on limestone gravels and on shales, clays and silty substrates on the Mancos, Morrison, Carmel and Moenkopi Formations from 6,000 – 6,700 ft. (Welsh et al. 2003). This species is not found on the Manti -La Sal N.F.

Winkler’s Cactus Threatened Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Pediocactus Pediocactus winkleri winkleri is a central Utah endemic in Emery and Wayne counties. It is known from the vicinity of Ferron south to the northeast slopes of the San Rafael Swell, and again south to locations east of Water pocket Fold as far as the vicinity of Notom (Franklin 2005). Plants solitary or sometimes colonal. The plant grows in salt desert shrub communities from 4,800 – 5,220ft., in fine textured and poor quality saline substrates (Welsh et al. 2003). This species is not found on the Manti -La Sal N.F.

Wright’s Fishhook Cactus Threatened Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Sclerocactus Sclerocactus wrightiae wrightiae is a central Utah endemic occurring “in the low elevation desert trough around the south end of the San Rafael Swell” in Emery, Sevier and Wayne counties. It inhabits salt desert shrub and widely scattered pinyon-juniper communities from 4,800- 6,200 ft. Soils can range from clays to sandy silts to fine sands derived from numerous geologic formations, and is typically in areas with well- developed biological soil crusts (Franklin 2005). This species is not found on the Manti -La Sal N.F.

Terrestrial Wildlife Species

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SPECIES SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES STATUS CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

California Condor Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). The analysis Gymnogyps californianus area is not within the designated experimental (Experimental population area, where all released condors and their Population) progeny are expected to remain (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1996). The analysis area is too far north and most likely would not even see transient condors. Therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the California condor or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Greater Sage Grouse Candidate Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Sage grouse are Centrocercus urophasianus generally found where there are large tracts of sagebrush habitat with a diverse and substantial understory of native grasses and forbs or in areas where there is a mosaic of sagebrush, grasslands, and aspen. Wet meadows, springs, seeps, or other green areas within sagebrush shrublands are generally needed for the early brood-rearing period (Connelly et al. 2004). There are no leks within or near the analysis area and there is no priority or occupied habitat within the analysis area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the greater sage grouse or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Mexican Spotted Owl Threatened Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). In Utah, the Strix occidentalis lucida Mexican spotted owl nests in steep-walled, complex rock canyons at relatively low elevations (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2004). The analysis area does not contain any Protected or Restricted Areas as described in the Recovery Plan (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2012) or canyon habitat that matches the primary constituent elements (physical and biological features necessary for the species’ survival) as described in the Final Designation of Critical Habitat (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2004). The analysis area is more than 45 miles from designated critical habitat and approximately 120 miles from the nearest designated MSO PAC; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the Mexican spotted owl or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

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SPECIES SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES STATUS CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

Southwestern Willow Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). The Flycatcher southwestern willow flycatcher is a riparian obligate, Empidonax traillii extimus nesting in areas with high shrub densities interspersed with openings or meadows; they nest in cottonwood/willow habitats and structurally similar riparian vegetation such as alder and aspen (Sedgwick 2000). There is no critical habitat habitat within the analysis area. The nearest critical habitat is located approximately 140 miles from the proposed analysis area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the Southwestern willow flycatcher or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Yellow-billed Cuckoo Threatened Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). In Utah, nesting Coccyzus americanus habitats are found at elevations between 2,500 to 6,000 feet. They appear to require large tracts (100 to 200 acres) of contiguous riparian nesting habitat (Parrish et al. 2002). There is no critical habitat for this species within the analysis area. There are no large contiguous tracts of riparian habitat in the vicinity of the analysis area. The nearest critical habitat is located approximately 80 miles from the proposed project; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the yellow-billed cuckoo or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis. Aquatic Wildlife Species

Bonytail Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Historically, the Gila elegans bonytail existed in warm water reaches of larger rivers in the Colorado River Basin; it is considered to be adapted to pools and eddies of mainstream rivers. It has been extirpated from most of its historic range. Currently, a small number of wild adults exist in Lake Mohave in the Lower Colorado River Basin, and there are small numbers of wild individuals in the Green River and in sub basins of the Upper Colorado River Basin (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2002). The bonytail has not been located on the Forest and the proposed project will not affect any streams that could cause any downstream effects to the bonytail; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the bonytail or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

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SPECIES SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES STATUS CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

Colorado Pikeminnow Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). The Colorado Ptychocheilus lucius pikeminnow is endemic to the Colorado River Basin, and it historically extended from the Green River in Wyoming, to the Gulf of California; it was widespread and abundant in warm-water rivers and tributaries. It is a long-distance migrator (hundreds of kilometers to and from spawning areas). Adults require deep pool and eddie habitats in streams that have high spring flows. Currently, in Utah this species occurs in the Green River from Lodore Canyon to the confluence of the Colorado River (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2002a). The Colorado pikeminnow has not been located on the Forest and the proposed project will not affect any streams that could cause any downstream effects to this species; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the Colorado pikeminnow or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Humpback Chub Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). The humpback Gila cypha chub is restricted to deep, swift mainstream and large tributaries in relatively inaccessible canyons of the Colorado River Basin. Adults require eddies and sheltered shorelines in streams that maintain high spring flows that flush sediments from spawning areas and form gravel deposits used for spawning. Young require low-velocity shoreline habitats. Currently, there are six known extant populations, which are located in the Upper Colorado River, Yampa River and Little Colorado River (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2002b). The humpback chub has not been located on the Forest and the proposed project will not affect any streams that could cause any downstream effects to this species; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the humpback chub or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

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SPECIES SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES STATUS CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

Razorback Sucker Endangered Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Historically the Xyrauchen texanus razorback sucker was widely distributed in warm- water reaches of the Colorado River and its tributaries from Wyoming to Mexico. Adults require deep pools, eddies and backwaters in spring; shallow water associated with sandbars in summer; and low velocity pools and eddies in winter. Young require quiet, warm, shallow water found at tributary mouths, and in coves or shorelines in reservoirs. Currently, within the Upper Colorado River Basin this species is only found in small numbers in the middle Green River, between the confluence of the Duchesne and Yampa rivers, and in the lower reaches of those two tributaries (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2002c). The razorback sucker has not been located on the Forest and the proposed project will not affect any streams that could cause any downstream effects to this species; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Effect on the razorback sucker or its habitat and it will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Sensitive Plant, Wildlife and Fish Species

Table 2 lists the Intermountain Regional Forester’s list of sensitive plant, wildlife, and fish species that could occur on the Manti Division of the Manti-La Sal National Forest (MLNF) and the proposed project’s potential effect on these species. Sensitive plant, wildlife, and fish species that do not occur or have suitable habitat in the project area are identified in Table 2 and will not be considered further in this BA/BE.

Table 2 Sensitive plant, wildlife and fish species that could occur on Manti Division of the MLNF, and the proposed project’s potential impact on these species. SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

Plant Species

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Arizona Willow Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Salix arizonica occurs Salix arizonica in wet meadows along perennial streams and occurs only in the Muddy Creek drainage on the MLNF (NatureServe 2015, UNPS 2015, and USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service 2015). There is no suitable habitat and there are no known occurrences of this species within the analysis area (USDA, Forest Service 2002); therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Arizona willow or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Canyon Sweetvetch Considered (Known to Occur) Hedysarum occidentale var. Hedysarum occidentale var. canone canone is usually found on sites that have a high water table, near springs or stream beds; riparian sites within the Pinyon/Juniper vegetation type at 5,500 to 7,000 ft. elevation (Welsh et al. 2003). River birch and squaw brush are the most commonly associated species. It is endemic to Duchesne, and Carbon Counties (NatureServe 2015, UNPS 2015, and USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service 2015). This species was found within the analysis area during pre-project surveys (Anderson 2015).

Carrington Daisy Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Erigeron carringtoniae Erigeron carringtoniae occurs in limestone outcrops and escarpments in subalpine vegetation type on wind blown ridge tops and snowdrift sites at high elevations of the Wasatch Plateau (9,000 to 11,000 feet) (Welsh et al. 2003,UNPS 2015, USU 2015, and USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service 2015). This species does not occur within the analysis area (USDA, Forest Service 2002); therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Carrington daisy or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Creutzfeldt-flower Cryptantha Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Cryptantha creutzfeldtii Cryptantha creutzfeldtii occurs in shallow, rocky, heavy clay soils; open Mancos shale slopes. It is endemic to central Utah in Carbon and Emery Counties at 5,000 to 6,500 ft. elevation (Welsh et al. 2003, NatureServe 2015, UNPS 2015, USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service 2015, and USU 2015). This species is not known to occur within the analysis area (USDA, Forest Service 2002); therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Creutzfeldt- flower cryptantha or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

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Link Trail Columbine Considered (May Occur). Aquilegia flavescens rubicunda Aquilegia flavescens rubicunda occurs near spring seeps and perennial wetland sites on the east side of the Wasatch Plateau (Welsh et al. 2003, NatureServe 2015, UNPS 2015, and USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service 2015). There are no known occurrences of this species within the analysis area (USDA, Forest Service 2002); however, because of the site conditions and elevation range, it is likely that this plant could occur within the analysis area. Surveys will be conducted in the spring.

Maguire Campion Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Silene petersonii occurs Silene petersonii at high elevations (10,000 to 11,800 ft.) on open calcareous and igneous soils derived from Flagstaff Limestone (Welsh et al. 2003, (NatureServe 2015, UNPS 2015, USU 2015, and USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service 2015). There are no known occurrences of this species within the analysis area (USDA, Forest Service 2002); therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Maguire campion or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Musinea Groundsel Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Senecio musiniensis Senecio musiniensis occurs on limestone barrens and talus slopes of the southern Wasatch Plateau (Welsh et al. 2003, NatureServe 2015, UNPS 2015, and USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service 2015). There are no known occurrences of this species within the project area (USDA, Forest Service 2002); therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Musinea groudsel or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Terrestrial Wildlife Species

Bald Eagle Considered (Known to Occur). Bald eagle nests are Haliaeetus leucocephalus typically located in multi-storied (uneven-aged) coniferous forest stands that contain elements of old growth structure, and are located near bodies of water that support prey species. Nest trees are generally one of the largest trees in the stand, which provides a good view of the surrounding area (Spahr et al. 1991). There is suitable winter habitat within the analysis area.

Flammulated Owl Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Flammulated owls are Otis flammeollus associated with mature pine or mixed conifer forests with a ponderosa pine and/or Douglas-fir component. The habitat for flammulated owls within the proposed project area is marginal due to the limited ponderosa pine stands; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No

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Impact on the flammulated owl or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Greater Sage Grouse Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Sage grouse are Centrocercus urophasianus generally found where there are large tracts of sagebrush habitat with a diverse and substantial understory of native grasses and forbs or in areas where there is a mosaic of sagebrush, grasslands, aspen. Wet meadows, springs, seeps, or other green areas within sagebrush shrublands are generally needed for the early brood-rearing period (Connelly et al. 2004). There is no priority habitat within the proposed project area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the greater sage grouse or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Northern Goshawk Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). In Utah, most nests Accipiter gentilis can be found in mid-elevation sites occupied by quaking aspen or coniferous forest (Graham et al. 1999). There is no suitable nesting and foraging habitat within the proposed analysis area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the northern goshawk or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Peregrine Falcon Considered (Known to Occur). Peregrine falcons most Falco peregrinus commonly occupy habitats which contain cliffs for nesting and more open country for foraging. There is no preference to certain vegetation types (White et al. 2002). There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat within the project area.

Spotted Bat Considered (May Occur). In Utah, the spotted bat is likely Euderma maculatum found throughout the state. It is known to use a variety of vegetation types from approximately 2,500 to 9,500 feet, including riparian, desert shrub, spruce-fir, ponderosa pine, montane forests and meadows (Oliver 2000). Spotted bats roost alone in rock crevices high up on steep cliff faces. There is roosting and foraging habitat within the analysis area.

Three-toed woodpecker Not Considered. Three-toed woodpeckers use forests Picoides tridactylus containing spruce, grand fir, ponderosa pine, tamarack, and lodge-pole pine. There is no suitable habitat for three-toed woodpeckers within the proposed analysis area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the three-toed woodpecker or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

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Townsend’s Big-eared Bat Considered (May Occur). Townsend’s big-eared bats use Plecotus townsendii pallescens buildings, caves, and mines as day roosts, night roosts, and maternity roosts. In Utah, wintering habitats of this species is better known than any other bat species, where it is well known as a hibernator in Utah utilizing caves and mines as hibernaculum (Oliver 2000). This species uses a variety of habitat in Utah including: desert scrub, pinyon/juniper, sagebrush, mountain brush, mixed forest, and ponderosa pine. The elevational range in Utah from (Oliver 2000) is 3300 ft. to 8851 ft. There is suitable roosting and foraging habitat within the analysis area.

Aquatic Wildlife Species

Bonneville Cutthroat Trout Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Bonneville cutthroat Oncorhynchus clarki utah trout (BVCT) range from high-elevation streams with coniferous and deciduous riparian trees to low-elevation streams in sage-steppe grasslands containing herbaceous riparian zones to lakes. BVCT primarily occur in small headwater streams and slow, deep water with vegetated stream banks which provide shade, and bank stability (NatureServe 2015). BVCT are not found in the analysis area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Bonneville cutthroat trout or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Colorado River Cutthroat Trout Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Colorado River Oncorhynchus clarki pleuriticus cutthroat trout (CRCT) require cool, clear water with well vegetated stream banks which provide cover, shade, and bank stability. CRCT tend to occupy headwater stream areas, especially when other trout species are present (NatureServe 2015). CRCT are not found within the analysis area (USDA, Forest Service 2007); therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Colorado cutthroat trout or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Columbia River Spotted Frog Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Spotted frogs are most Rana luteiuentris commonly found in cold, still, permanent water in such habitats as marshy edges of ponds or lakes, in algae-grown overflow pools of streams, and near flat-water springs with emergent vegetation. The spotted frog may move considerable distances from water after breeding, often frequenting mixed conifer and sub alpine forests, grasslands, and brush lands of sage and rabbit brush. No spotted frogs have been found on the Manti – La Sal National Forest, and they are not known or thought to occur on the Forest

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SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND SPECIES CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

(Crockett et al. 2006); therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the Columbia River spotted frog or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Southern Leatherside Chub Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). Southern leatherside Leidomeda aliciae chubs inhabit desert streams of the Bonneville Basin. Southern leatherside chubs require flowing water and do not persist in lakes or reservoirs. Southern leatherside chub have been documented in three 4th level HUCs (Hydrologic Unit Code) in the Utah Lake drainage and six 4th level HUCs in the Sevier River Drainage (UDWR 2009). There are no populations of southern leatherside chubs present within in the analysis area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the southern leatherside chub or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Western Boreal Toad Not Considered (Unlikely to Occur). The western toad, Bufo boreas boreas (Bufo boreas boreas), inhabits western Canada and much of the western (especially northwestern) United States. It occurs throughout most of Utah, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including slow moving streams, wetlands, desert springs, ponds, lakes, meadows, and woodlands (UDNR 2015). There is no suitable habitat within the analysis area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed project will have No Impact on the western boreal toad or its habitat and this species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

B. Pre-field Review and Survey Information

A pre-field review of sensitive species was completed by reviewing Forest Service Region 4 Sensitive species list (USDA, Forest Service 2013); on-the-ground survey results from the District office, site- specific District data, literature reviews, and the MLNF-LRMP (USDA, Forest Service 1986). Surveys have been conducted, according to Forest Service protocol, within the project area and surveys will be conducted annually until project implementation.

The following surveys/monitoring were conducted within or near the project area:  Bat Surveys (UDWR 2008, 2012)  Golden eagle (annually)  Plant surveys (2015)

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IV. SPECIES DESCRIPTIONS AND ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS

This analysis of effects is based on the existing conditions within the analysis area. This analysis reviews the potential “direct and indirect effects” of the proposed project on threatened, endangered and sensitive (TES) species, and the expected “cumulative effects” that could potentially accrue to TES species if project activities add cumulatively to other past, present or reasonably foreseeable future actions to impact the species of concern.

A. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species

There are no federally listed species carried forward through analysis because there is no suitable habitat, no critical habitat, and no known occurrences of these species within the proposed project area.

B. Sensitive Plant, Wildlife, and Fish Species

Bald Eagle

Bald eagle nests are typically located in multi-storied (uneven-aged) coniferous forest stands that contain elements of old growth structure, and are located near bodies of water that support prey species. Nest trees are generally one of the largest trees in the stand, which provides a good view of the surrounding area (Spahr et al. 1991). Both males and females help construct large, conspicuous stick nests in which may be used year after year. Prey species commonly include fish, waterfowl, jackrabbits, and carrion.

Important perch sites generally have three fundamental elements: a direct view of potential food sources, located within 50 meters of water, and are located in areas isolated from human disturbance. Roost sites generally provide thermal cover or shielding from wind, and are isolated from human disturbance.

Bald eagles are found throughout Utah during the winter months and typically begin arriving in November with the highest numbers of bald eagles occurring in January and February. Most of these eagles begin returning north again in March. While bald eagles may winter near unfrozen, open water, carrion along rural roadways, typically consisting of road- and hunter-killed jackrabbits and mule deer, provides most of the food for eagles wintering in Utah (UDWR 2009a). In wintering areas, bald eagles often roost in large groups. These communal roosts are generally located in mature forest stands that provide protection from harsh weather. Utah hosts one of the largest wintering populations of bald eagles within the lower 48 states with more than 1,200 bald eagles having been counted in Utah during recent years (UDWR 2009a). Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 of the 13,000 bald eagles that winter in the lower 48 states occur west of the Rocky Mountains and twenty-five to thirty

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percent of these western eagles spend the winter in Utah, indicating the significance of Utah's winter habitat (UDWR 2009a).

Currently, eleven bald eagle pairs are known to nest in widely scattered locations throughout Utah (UDWR 2009a). The nearest known nest area is near the Hunter Power Plant, a distance of more than 12 miles from the analysis area (Smith Personal Communication 2015). This nest has not been active for several years. There are no breeding pairs known or suspected on the Ferron/Price District. Bald eagles in the analysis area are wintering populations or northern birds that are migrating through in the fall and spring. Numbers and distribution vary with the severity of the winter. Winter sightings of bald eagles are common along Straight Canyon, Cottonwood Canyon, and in the valleys within Emery County where there are cottonwood galleries but there are no known winter roosts or concentration areas near the analysis area.

Direct and Indirect Impacts: The analysis area is not known or expected to be used by nesting or wintering concentrations of bald eagles; however, individual eagles may periodically use the analysis area as foraging habitat along the cottonwood galleries. The foraging use is suspected to be low based on sightings and knowledge of the area. No direct or indirect impacts are anticipated from the proposed project. The proposed project is located along highway routes and no additional noise impacts are anticipated from the climbing activities.

Cumulative Effects: Since the proposed project would not have any direct or indirect impacts on the bald eagle, no cumulative effects would accrue to this species as a result of the Joe’s Valley Bouldering project.

Canyon Sweetvetch

The canyon sweetvetch is endemic to Carbon, Duchesne, and Emery Counties, Utah. It is found in pinyon/juniper, serviceberry, maple, mountain mahogany, and sagebrush communities between 6,400 ft. and 8,300 ft. elevations (UNPS 2015). Potential threats to this species are coal mining, road expansion, and recreation (NatureServe 2015).

Direct and Indirect Impacts: Pre-project plant surveys identified this plant within the analysis area. To mitigate impacts to individual plants it has been proposed, with concurrence from the BLM, that the Regional Botanist and the Manti-La Sal Forest Ecologist along with Forest Recreation Staff will conduct surveys of current routes and propose new routes to bouldering sites to avoid impacts to Hedysarum plants. This work will occur in the spring of 2016. No direct or indirect impacts are anticipated if trails are re-routed to the bouldering sites where this plant is currently identified and the climbers adhere to the designated trails.

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Cumulative Effects: Since the proposed project would not have any direct or indirect impacts on the canyon sweetvetch, no cumulative effects would accrue to this species as a result of the Joe’s Valley Bouldering project.

Link Trail Columbine

The Link Trail Columbine is known only from the mountains of central Utah in Emery and Sevier Counties; approximately six occurrences are known and believed extant. Based on known census numbers, it appears unlikely that the total population numbers more than 10,000 plants. The majority of occurrences are within the Manti-La Sal National Forest with 1-2 in an adjacent portion of the Fish Lake National Forest. A portion of one occurrence is privately owned, and that occurrence is currently threatened by coal mining. This plant's preferred rock substrate appears to be consistently near or adjacent to coal measures. Threats to the other occurrences, if any, are unknown.

The vicinity of one of these occurrences (Bear Canyon) has been surveyed recently in association with a mining permit; the surveys found at least four distinct sites for the plant in the area. It is unclear whether the sites found by this survey would all be part of the known occurrence in the area, or whether they might be mapped as one or more additional occurrences.

This plant is generally associated with seeps at the base of the Mesa Verde Group sandstones; has been found in rock crevices as well as on soil. Sites tend to be near or adjacent to coal measures. Plant communities include ponderosa pine, spruce-fir, river birch (often with scattered ponderosa pine), and aspen. Other associated species include Douglas fir, rose, serviceberry, willow, squawbush, and rock spiraea (NatureServe 2015).

Direct and Indirect Impacts: Plant surveys will be conducted in the spring of 2016. If this species is found, similar protections will be implemented to those for the canyon sweetvetch. Site closures based on the occupancy of this plant would alleviate any direct or indirect impacts.

Cumulative Effects: Since the proposed project would not have any direct or indirect impacts on the Link Trail columbine, no cumulative effects would accrue to this species as a result of the Joe’s Valley Bouldering project.

Peregrine Falcon

The peregrine falcon occurs throughout much of North America from the sub-arctic boreal forests of Alaska and Canada south to Mexico. The peregrine falcon nests from central Alaska, central Yukon Territory, and northern Alberta and Saskatchewan, east to the Maritimes and south (excluding coastal areas north of the Columbia River in Washington and British Columbia) throughout western Canada and the United States to Baja California, Sonora, and the highlands of central Mexico.

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Preferred nesting habitat is on cliff faces with recesses or protected shelves, but they will occasionally use abandoned stick nests of other species. The nest is not built but a scrape or depression dug in gravel on a cliff ledge. Some peregrines have accepted manmade structures as breeding sites.

A wide variety of habitats are used for foraging, including riparian woodlands, open country near rivers and marshes, coniferous and deciduous forest edges, shrub lands, and prairies. They prey on a wide variety of birds including pigeons, shorebirds, waterfowl, grouse, and other small to mediums sized terrestrial birds. Peregrines may travel up to 18 miles from the nest site to hunt for food; however, a 10-mile radius around the nest is an average hunting area, with 80% of foraging occurring within a mile of the nest (Spahr et al. 1991). The cliff band or escarpment that is within the analysis area provides optimal nesting habitat for peregrine falcons. There is one eyrie within 1 mile of the bouldering sites in Straight Canyon and one eyrie within .5 mile of bouldering sites in Cottonwood Canyon.

Direct and Indirect Impacts: No direct or indirect impacts are anticipated from the proposed project. The project will not remove or disturb nesting or foraging habitat and since the bouldering sites are located adjacent to high use travel routes, they will not add substantially to the noise levels along these routes. The eyrie located in Cottonwood Canyon is near the top of a 1,500 ft. vertical cliff above the bouldering sites and camping area and would not be impacted by the bouldering activities.

Cumulative Effects: Since the proposed project would not have any direct or indirect impacts on the peregrine falcon, no cumulative effects would accrue to this species as a result of the Joe’s Valley Bouldering project.

Spotted Bat

Currently, the spotted bat is known to be distributed across large areas of western North America from southern British Columbia to the central Mexican state of Queretaro (Luce and Keinath 2007).

The spotted bat uses cracks, crevices, and caves as roost sites. These roost sites are usually high in fractured rock cliffs. Availability of suitable roost sites and human disturbance are the limiting factors to this species’ success (Spahr et al. 1991). It can be found at elevations ranging from approximately 2,800 – 9,000 ft.

Spotted bats have been found foraging in many different habitats including sub-alpine mountain meadows, forest openings, pinyon juniper woodlands, low upland slopes of juniper and sagebrush, along the rims of cliffs, riverine/riparian habitat along rivers, riparian habitat associated with small to mid-sized streams in narrow canyons, wetlands, meadows, and old agricultural fields (Luce and Keinath 2007). Foraging activities takes place near or over water which is a function of prey availability. The spatial relationship between roosting and foraging habitat is especially important for the spotted bat, whose distribution is limited by the occurrence of suitable roosting and foraging

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habitat within travel distance of each other (Luce and Keinath 2007). During summer, bats may travel from roosts in desert-scrub to forage in high elevation meadows, returning to roosts within an hour of dawn. Males and females are capable of long distance flight, thus foraging ranges can be large. Long foraging distances may be explained by a lack of suitable high-cliff roost sites near referred foraging sites (Luce and Keinath 2007). Spotted bats are strong fliers and forage primarily alone from 2 to 50 m above ground, often within 10 m. Spotted bats echolocate at a pitch audible to humans but not audible to prey until these bats are too close for prey to evade them. Spotted bats forage primarily on moths but have been found to consume beetles and do not appear to select particular moth species (Luce and Keinath 2007).

Spotted bats breed in late February or early April and give birth to one altricial young in May or June (Toone 1992). Spotted bats do not congregate in nursery colonies as do other bats, but remain solitary throughout the year.

The spotted bat drinks on the fly by skimming the surface of open water sources such as ponds, spring ponds, lakes, and tanks. This bat needs a short swoop zone in order to water on the fly and is one of several species that can use a water source such as a cattle stock tank (Luce and Keinath 2007).

Direct and Indirect Effects: No direct or indirect impacts are anticipated from the proposed project. No foraging habitat would be removed or disturbed from the proposed project. The cliff bands or escarpment within the analysis area provide quality roosting habitat for bats; however, these high cliff walls are well above the bouldering sites and would not be impacted by the bouldering activities.

Cumulative Effects: Since the proposed project would not have any direct or indirect impacts on the spotted bat, no cumulative effects would accrue to this species as a result of the Joe’s Valley Bouldering project.

Townsend’s Western Big-Eared Bat

The western or Townsend’s big-eared bat occurs throughout Utah and the western states in a variety of habitat types including pinyon/juniper, shrub grasslands, deciduous forest and mixed conifer forest where there is suitable cave/mine roosting habitat. The elevation range of confirmed sightings in Utah is 3300 to 8851 ft. (Oliver 2000). The species forages primarily for moths in open woodlands, often high in the forest canopy, along forest edges and over water. This bat roosts in cool places such as caves, rock fissures, abandoned mines, hollow trees, bridges, and buildings. Temperature is a critical factor in site selection. They hibernate colonially in mines and caves, and females gather in spring and summer maternity colonies. The availability of suitable mine/cave habitat for maternity colonies and hibernacula is the limiting factor for western big-eared bats. These bats are sensitive to human disturbance, and have been repeatedly observed to abandon their roosts when activities occur within the roosting structure (Oliver 2000). The main threats to roosts are abandoned mine

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reclamation, recreational caving, renewed mining in historic districts and natural subsidence of caves and mines.

Direct and Indirect Effects: No direct or indirect impacts are anticipated from the proposed project. No foraging habitat would be removed or disturbed from the proposed project. The cliff bands or escarpment within the analysis area provide roosting habitat for this species even though this species prefers caves and abandoned mines away from human disturbance. The high cliff walls in these canyons are well above the bouldering sites and would not be impacted by the bouldering activities. Cumulative Effects: Since the proposed project would not have any direct or indirect impacts on the Townsend’s big-eared bat, no cumulative effects would accrue to this species as a result of the Joe’s Valley Bouldering project.

V. DETERMINATION OF EFFECTS

A. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species

PLANT SPECIES: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lists 6 plant species that could occur in or have suitable habitat in Emery County, Utah (USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2015). These plants are not known or expected to occur within the project area and there is no suitable habitat within the project area; therefore it is my determination that the proposed Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Effect on the Barneby Reed-Mustard, Jones Cycladenia, Last Chance Townsendia, San Rafael Cactus, Winkler’s Cactus, or Wright’s Fishhook Cactus.

AQUATIC WILDLIFE SPECIES: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lists 4 fish species that could occur in or have suitable habitat in Emery County, Utah. These four fish species do not occur on Forest System Lands but do occur within the Colorado River Basin. Tributaries within this proposed project do drain into the Colorado River Basin; however, this project will not impact stream quality or downstream water flows. Therefore, it is my determination that the proposed Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Effect on the following federally listed and candidate fish species: Bonytail, Colorado Pikeminnow, Humpback Chub, or Razorback Sucker.

TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE SPECIES: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lists 5 wildlife species that could occur in or have suitable habitat in Emery County, Utah. These five species do not occur within the analysis area and do not have critical habitat in or near the analysis area. Therefore, it is my determination that the proposed Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Effect on California Condor, Greater Sage Grouse, Mexican Spotted Owl, Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, or Yellow-Billed Cuckoo.

B. Sensitive Plant, Wildlife, and Fish Species

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PLANT SPECIES: The Intermountain Regional Forester lists 7 sensitive plant species that could occur on the Manti Division of the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The Arizona Willow, Carrington Daisy, Creutzfeldt-flower Cryptantha, Maguire Campion, and Musinea Groundsel do not have suitable habitat and are not known to occur in or near the analysis area. These species were not carried forward in this analysis. The determinations for Canyon Sweetvetch and Link Trail Columbine are as follows:

Canyon Sweetvetch

There would be no direct or indirect impacts to the canyon sweetvetch because locations of these species will be avoided through trail rerouting. The improvement of the trail system should minimize cross country travel from the climbers and keep them on specific routes. Therefore, it is my determination that the Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project “May Impact individuals but is not likely to cause a trend to federal listing or loss of viability”.

Link Trail Columbine

There would be no direct or indirect impacts to the Link Trail Columbine. The plant does not occur in actual bouldering areas but may occur near one of the sites in Cottonwood Canyon. Surveys will be conducted in the spring. Should this species if found in the analysis area, similar protections will be implemented like the canyon sweetvetch. Therefore, it is my determination that the Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Impact on the Link Trail Columbine or its habitat.

AQUATIC WILDLIFE SPECIES: The Intermountain Regional Forester lists five sensitive aquatic wildlife species that could occur on the Manti Division of the Manti-La Sal National Forest. These species do not occur within the analysis area and this project will not impact any suitable habitat; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Impact on the Bonneville Cutthroat Trout, Colorado River Cutthroat Trout, Columbia River Spotted Frog, Southern Leatherside Chub, or Western Boreal Toad.

TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE SPECIES: The Intermountain Regional Forester lists eight sensitive terrestrial wildlife species that could occur on the Manti Division of the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Flammulated Owl, Greater Sage Grouse, Northern Goshawk, and Three-toed Woodpecker do not have suitable habitat or have not been detected within the analysis area and were not carried forward in this analysis. The determinations for Bald Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Spotted Bat, and Townsend’s big-eared bat are as follows:

Bald Eagle

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There would be no direct or indirect impacts to bald eagle nesting or foraging habitat because the site improvements will not alter or remove nesting, or winter roosting habitat. The pinyon/juniper, Douglas Fir vegetation do not provide the summer breeding habitat that would attract nesting bald eagles. Individual bald eagles could potentially use the area but this would only be for short periods during the winter months when the bouldering does not occur. Therefore, it is my determination that the Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Impact on the bald eagle or its habitat. Peregrine Falcon

Although the area around the analysis area provides optimum nesting habitat for peregrine falcons, no direct or indirect impacts are anticipated because the project will not remove or disturb nesting or foraging habitat. The bouldering activitiy has been taking place in this area and has not impacted nesting peregrines. There is an approximate 1,500 ft. cliff band or escarpment above where the bouldering sites are located. This provides a sufficient buffer from the climbing activity. Therefore, it is my determination that the Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Impact on the peregrine falcon or its habitat.

Spotted Bat

There would be no direct or indirect impacts to the spotted bat because no roosting habitat would be disturbed or removed. The roosting habitat is located high on the cliffs above the climbing area. No foraging habitat would be removed or disturbed from improving the climbing sites; therefore, it is my determination that the Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Impact on the spotted bat or its habitat.

Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat

There would be no direct or indirect impacts to the Townsend’s big-eared bat because no roosting habitat would be disturbed or removed. The roosting habitat is located high on the cliffs above the climbing area, and preferred roosting is located in mines and caves. No foraging habitat would be removed or disturbed from improving the climbing sites; therefore, it is my determination that the Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project would have No Impact on the Townsend’s big-eared bat or its habitat. VI. FOREST PLAN CONSISTENCY, DISCUSSION OF EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUSTANCES, AND CONSIDERATION OF BEST AVAILABLE SCIENCE

Forest Plan Consistency – A Forest Plan checklist was evaluated for this project (USDA, Forest Service 2015). This project does comply with applicable Wildlife and Fish Resource Management, Forest-wide direction and standards and guidelines.

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Consideration of Best Available Science - The analysis in this Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation considers the best available science. The analysis focuses on species present in the project area, which was determined through site visits, site-specific inventories/surveys and knowledge of the life history requirements of each species and occupancy of similar habitat types on the Forest. Habitat suitability was determined through site visits and review of life histories and habitat requirements as outlined in Federal Register listings and/or species Recovery Plans. The analysis includes a summary of the credible scientific evidence which is relevant to evaluating reasonably foreseeable impacts. When appropriate, the conclusions are based on scientific analysis that shows a thorough review of relevant scientific information, a consideration of responsible opposing views, and the acknowledgment of incomplete or unavailable information, scientific uncertainty, and risk. The relevant science considered for this analysis consists of several key elements. For wildlife, fisheries and botany resources, the elements of science used are:

• Site specific data from inventory and monitoring, field reviews. • Forest vegetation layers (USDA, Forest Service). • Scientific literature - Refer to References section. • Wildlife Suitability Models GIS • MIS Suitability/Capability Analysis (USDA, Forest Service 2007b)

VII. LITERATURE CITED

Bartos, D.L., and Campbell, R.B., 1998. Decline of Quaking Aspen in the Interior West-Examples from Utah.

Connelly, J.W., S.T. Knick, M.A. Schroeder, and S.J. Stiver. 2004. Conservation Assessment of Greater Sage-Grouse and Sagebrush Habitats. Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Pages 4-1 – 4-19.

Crockett, C.P., M.D. Mills, P. Thompson, P.A. Weber. 2006. Draft Columbia Spotted Frog Monitoring Summary; Central and Northern Regions.

Franklin, B. 2005. Department of Natural Resources; Division of Wildlife Resources; Utah Natural Heritage Program. Plant Information Compiled by the Utah Natural Heritage Program. Publication Number 05-40. Pages 175-176. Species: Barneby reed-mustard, Carrington Daisy, Creutzfeldt-flower Cryptantha, Heliotrope milkvetch, Jones cycladenia, last chance townsendia, Maguire’s daisy, San Rafael Cactus, Winkler’s cactus, and Wright’s fishhook cactus.

Graham, R.T., R.L. Rodriguez, K.M. Paulin, R.L. Player, A.P. Heap. and R. Williams. 1999. The northern Goshawk in Utah: Habitat Assessment and Management Recommendations. Gen.

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Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-22. Ogden, Utah: U.S.D.A. Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 48p.

Luce, R.J. and D. Keinath. (2007, October 31). Spotted Bat (Euderma maculatum): a technical conservation assessment. [Online]. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. Available: http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/projects/scp/assessments/spottedbat.pdf [February 2011].

NatureServe. 2015. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: August 2015. Species reports accessed: Bonneville Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchys clarki utah), Colorado River cutthroat trout, (Oncorhynchus clarki pleuriticus), Arizona Willow (Salix arizonica), Canyon Sweetvetch (Hedysarum occidentale var. canone), Creutzfeldt-flower Cryptantha (Cryptantha creutzfeldtii), Link Trail Columbine (Aquilegia flavescens var rubicunda), Maguire Campion (Silene petersonii), and Musinea Groundsel (Senecio musiniensis).

Oliver, G.V. 2000. The bats of Utah: A Literature Review. Publ. No. 00-14, Utah Div. Wildl. Res. Salt Lake City. 140pp.

Parrish, J.R., F.P. Howe, R.E. Norvell. 2002. Utah Partners in Flight Avian Conservation Strategy Version 2.0. Utah Partners in Flight Program, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, 1594 West North Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah 84116, UDWR Publication Number 02-27.

Sedgwick, J.A. 2000. Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology; Retrieved from the Birds of North America Online: http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/533.

Spahr, R. L. Armstrong, D. Atwood, and M. Rath. 1991. Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species of the Intermountain Region. USDA Forest Service, Ogden, Utah.

UDNR, Utah Conservation Data Center. 2015. Utah Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife Resources. Utah Conservation Data Center (UCDC). Western Boreal Toad; Online: http://dwrcdc.nr.utah.gov/ucdc/default.asp.

UDWR, 2012; 2008. Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Bat Surveys.

UDWR, 2009. Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Conservation Agreement and Strategy for Southern Leatherside Chub (Lepidomeda aliciae,) in the state of Utah.

UDWR, 2009a. Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Wildlife Notebook Series No. 3, Bald Eagle.

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UNPS, 2015. Utah Rare Plant Guide. http://www.utahrareplants.org/rpg_species.html (Accessed August 2015) Species reports accessed: Arizona willow, canyon sweet-vetch, Carrington daisy, Creutzfeldt-flower, Link Trail columbine, Maguire campion, and Musinea groundsel.

USDA, Forest Service. 2015. Manti-La Sal National Forest Plant Surveys.

USDA, Forest Service. 2013. Intermountian Region Sensitive Species List.

USDA, Forest Service. 2007a. Manti-La Sal National Forest. Colorado River Cutthroat Trout GIS Data.

USDA, Forest Service. 2007b. Manti-La Sal National Forest Capability/Suitability Analysis.

USDA, Forest Service. 2002. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service; Manti-La Sal National Forest TES Plant GIS Data.

USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service. 2015. Plants Database. http://plants.usda.gov/ (Accessed April 2014) Species accounts accessed: Aquilegia flavescens var. rubicunda, Cryptantha creutzfeldtii, Erigeron carringtoniae, Hedysarum occidentale var. canone, Salix arizonica, Senecio musiniensis, and Silene petersonii.

USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2015. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Federally listed and proposed, endangered, threatened, experimental, and candidate species in Emery County, Utah.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2012. Final Recovery Plan for the Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida), First Revision. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. 413 pp.

USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final designation of critical habitat for the Mexican spotted owl. Federal Register. 22 (69): 53182- 53230.

USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002. Bonytail (Gila elegans) Recovery Goals: Amendment and Supplement to the Bonytail Chub Recovery Plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain- Prairie Region (6), Denver, Colorado.

USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002a. Colorado Pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius) Recovery Goals: Amendment and Supplement to the Colorado Squawfish Recovery Plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain-Prairie Region (6), Denver, Colorado.

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USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002b.Humpback Chub (Gila cypha) Recovery Goals: Amendment and Supplement to the Humpback Chub Recovery Plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain-Prairie Region (6), Denver, Colorado.

USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002c. Razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus) Recovery Goals: Amendment and Supplement to the Razorback Sucker Recovery Plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain-Prairie Region (6), Denver, Colorado.

USDI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1996. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: Establishment of a nonessential experimental population of California Condors in Northern Arizona; Final Rule. Federal Register. 201(61): 54044-54060.

USU, 2015. Digital Atlas of the Vascular Plants of Utah. http://earth.gis.usu.edu/plants/.

Welsh, S.L., N.D. Atwood, S. Goodrich, and L.C. Higgins. 2003. A Utah Flora, Third Edition, revised.

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