North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis Chapter 5
CHAPTER 5 --- KEY FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter contains the following four sections which summarize the key findings and recommendations of the Watershed Analysis Team.
KEY FINDINGS
This section provides a summary of the watershed's condition within each resource area: the changes and similarities between reference and current conditions, any trends, and what the implications are.
RECOMMENDATIONS
This table lists Objectives, placed into seven broad categories, for managing watershed resources and improving watershed health. This includes Actions to meet the Objectives (which were informally prioritized by the team), Locations (or "Areas of Concern"), Potential Benefits of the Action, the Next Logical Step to implement the Action, and the Relative Complexity of implementing the Action.
"AREAS OF CONCERN" MAPS
The key findings and recommendations for the human dimension, terrestrial, and aquatic resources were used to prepare maps which identify "Areas of Concern" for each resource area. "Areas of Concern" were identified as areas with important contributions to the analysis area, and/or areas where resource conditions did not meet management objectives, or current standards and guidelines, as defined by the MBS Forest Plan or ROD for the Northwest Forest Plan. Then the three "Areas of Concern" maps were combined into a "Composite Map" for identifying overlapping resource concern areas, which illustrates the potential for conflicting management objectives.
ACCESS AND TRAVEL MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW
The Access and Travel Management Plan was reviewed for those area of concerns identified in the "Composite" map (figures 5.2- 5.5). Road management direction was reviewed for how the proposed direction coincided with the management objectives and resource conditions within the specific areas of concern. A question raised during this review was: "Is the road management direction a trend towards meeting specific resource objectives, a trend away, or neutral?" Results are displayed in tabular form.
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5-1 KEY FINDINGS
HUMAN DIMENSION
American Indian Inhabitation and Use The Stillaguamish Tribe, the Tulalip Tribes, and the Sauk-Suiattle Tribe, are all federally recognized tribes with resource management interests in the analysis area. The Stillaguamish Tribe, population presently estimated at 200+, has acquired nearly 100 acres of land within the Stillaguamish basin. Tribes are increasingly active in pursuing traditional uses and materials provided by Treaty rights for historical use areas.
Implications Expectations are that tribes will continue to actively pursue traditional forest uses, and will want to be consulted and cooperate with us during planning and implementing projects within the analysis area.
An increased possibility of conflicts exists between the types of forest users. The number of people using the same areas for seeking special forest products is increasing. As demands and uses of special forest products increase, there is a potential for resource depletion or damage to occur.
Identified Heritage Resources A single prehistoric site, discovered during a recreational hike, has been identified within an upland area of the analysis area. This site is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Three Fingers Fire Lookout is also eligible. Prehistoric properties located in the upland areas of the Cascades tend to be lithic scatters, inhabited rock shelters, hearth or berry drying features, or rock quarries. Those located in the lowlands tend to exhibit features more commonly associated with long term settlement patterns. Forest Service survey efforts have been strictly project-driven, focusing mainly on areas that are low probability for heritage resources. It is highly conceivable that many upland areas were used for hunting, fishing, plant and berry gathering activities.
Implications As population and use of the watershed increases, chances are more heritage resource sites will be discovered by the public. Vandalism risk will also grow. If more heritage resource surveys are undertaken in the upland areas of the watershed, it is very possible that more prehistoric sites will be discovered. If more surveys are conducted in the lowland areas, it is conceivable that more heritage resources such as homestead cabin sites will be detected.
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5-2 LOCAL AND REGIONAL ECONOMIC STRUCTURE
Land Ownership and Zoning Private land holdings consist of 39% of the analysis area, most of which is outside the National Forest boundary. A large portion of these holdings are zoned for forestry and rural use.
Implications The harvest of second growth forests on State and private lands is expected to continue over the next 10-15 years, with conversion of some private land to development.
Local Communities and Population Growth Snohomish County is expected to have 250,000 more residents by 2012. About 1,200 people live in Darrington, with the population expected to more than double over the next 20 years. We can expect an increase in public use of the watershed (recreation, special forest products), but most of the increase will be from Puget Sound metropolitan area visitors. Darrington's urban growth boundary is expanding under the state's Growth Management Act. A light-industry industrial park near the airport is planned. New residential development is occurring and planned within Darrington and along the North Fork Stillaguamish. Continued population growth in the area fuels demands on resources in the watershed for both traditional resource extraction and more recreation-based activities.
As population of the area increases and Darrington's urban growth boundary expands, more development is expected which will convert more of the watershed's area to urban infrastructure: buildings, roads, septic systems. This will affect unique habitats on a local basis and can potentially affect stream flow rates and water quality.
Economy and Employment Opportunities Darrington developed as a community with an economy based on timber harvest, processing, and transport. While the local timber industry has declined in recent years, the Puget Sound economy has grown and diversified. More local residents are working in other professions, with some commuting to the metropolitan area. The city of Darrington has completed a 20-year vision plan which includes potential future economic opportunities. In addition to the 20-year vision plan, a sewer system study, comprehensive plan, economic development plan, airport improvements, proposed light industry, a 2,500 acre county park and many other projects are underway.
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5-3 The number and diversity of employment opportunities are increasing in the Darrington community. Darrington derives direct economic benefits from the diverse recreation user groups and growth in local population that have increased over the last decade.
Implications With the continued growth and diversification of the Puget Sound economy, and as Darrington diversifies its own economy, the town is becoming less reliant on timber dependent industries.
Infrastructure
Roads and Railroads Railroads in the watershed, which were used in the early 1900s to 1940s, have had portions of the grades converted to roads or trails, or are being considered for additions to the trail system.
Number of road miles in the analysis area is as follows (refer to Appendix E, E-2) for a complete listing of roads):
National Forest System Roads 162.8 mi. National Forest Non-System Routes 6.2 mi. State Roads 15.0 mi. County and Private Roads 153.4 mi.
Due to a declining road maintenance budget during the 1990s, the Forest is unable to maintain its existing road system, which increases risk of damage to roads and resources.
Due to road construction practices prior to 1970, a significant portion of the National Forest road system requires either additional maintenance, upgrading, closure or decommissioning to prevent environmental damage in certain locations.
Many State and private road systems in the area have been closed to the public due to dumping, theft, vandalism, and other illegal activity.
National Forest roads are extremely important for public access, especially to local residents.
Implications Some roads will have to be closed or removed according to careful analysis of roads' current and future use, while considering watershed, wildlife, or other resource impacts.
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5-4 Road management and access on the National Forest continues to be a major issue with people. Perspective of what road uses and needs are greatly varied. Public involvement will continue to be a consideration in the road management process.
Converting roads and/or old railroad grades to trails will provide more trail opportunities to the public.
As State and private landowners have limited or closed access to their roads, National Forest roads have become the sole source for public access. There will be increased pressure for access on National forest roads, along with a potential for increased illegal activity (dumping, etc.).
Trails A total of 22.3 miles of trail are located in the analysis area: 15.8 miles are within the Boulder River Wilderness Area, 6.0 miles are non-wilderness trails, and 0.5 miles are on State land (Mt. Higgins.) Many of the trails in the analysis area were originally constructed to provide access for fire suppression activities or were built by those who wanted to access the area. Because of this, the trails were not originally designed for the heavy hiking traffic they are experiencing today. Many of the original trail designs allowed for steep grades and inadequate drainage structures.
Implications Compaction, denuded areas, and surface erosion are present due to heavy use and poor trail design. There is a lack of maintenance dollars to direct to these resource concerns. Trail statistics (management objectives, estimated use, resource concerns and future plans) are included in Appendix E (E-3).
Commodity Use
Timber Harvest Timber harvest in the post World War II period to the early 1980s was the greatest increase in harvest and road construction in the watershed. Present management strategies and standards and guidelines for the LSRs allow thinning only in stands under eighty years old when the thinning furthers attainment of LSR objectives. Many overstocked stands exist within the analysis area that are candidates for commercially thinning to improve stand health and increase tree growth. Off-forest, commercial forestry continues to be a dominant use of lands within the analysis area, with rotation age expected to be 35-60 years of stand age. There are many densely stocked, young forest stands within the analysis area that would benefit from thinning to enhance the resiliency of the stands to insect, disease and windthrow and increase growth. Thinning could also reduce the time for stands to obtain structural characteristics to favor certain old growth associated wildlife.
North Fork Stillaguamish Watarshed Analysis 0310912000 5-5 Special Forest Products The demand for special forest products has increased. Mosses, Christmas trees, conifer boughs, cones, mushrooms, berries, transplants, firewood, posts and poles are just a few of the materials available for personal and commercial use from the National Forest. We expect demand to at least continue, if not increase, for these products.
Mining Old mining claims on National Forest land within the analysis area are inactive at this time but do have the potential for future activity. A number of gravel pits exist on public and private land within the analysis area. Rock hounding on a hobby basis will continue. Timber harvest on several patented mining claims along Squire Creek, within the National Forest, could lead to significant resource damage to anadromous fish habitat downstream.
Other Uses State and private lands within the analysis area will continue to be intensively managed for commercial forestry and agriculture, along with gradually increasing urban uses (commercial, industrial and residential development).
Implications National Forest lands in the analysis area will provide far less commodity extraction today than in years past, and will be subject to increasing environmental constraints and demands for both biological reserves and recreation.
State and private lands utilization have the potential to affect National Forest lands and the overall health of the watershed.
Special Management Considerations
Recreation Demand The general pattern of recreation in the North Fork Stillaguamish River watershed is based upon the watershed's landscape characteristics and where it is located. Factors influencing recreational demand include proximity to the growing population of Everett and other Puget Sound communities, low elevation, scenic topography, river access, roaded access, trail access and management direction in the Forest Plan. The SCORP report (1991) describes increasing recreation use and impact patterns in the analysis area, which are expected to continue. SCORP found that the public has an increasing desire for recreation facilities in settings including water access. The study also found that the most popular and growing outdoor activities are those which utilize trails, especially trails for water access, wildlife viewing, and scenic views. SCORP describes an overused, understaffed, and undersized State Park system, and that Federal lands have been absorbing displaced use and are needed to provide the land base to meet demand for primitive and semi-primitive opportunities.
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5-6 Implications The analysis area's easy access, low elevation areas, and close proximity to a growing Puget Sound population causing its roaded areas, backcountry and wilderness areas, especially vulnerable to overuse. Some users who are displaced from the State Park system will seek out recreation on Federal lands.
Declining budgets, limited facilities and staff will make it increasingly difficult to meet user demands and prevent resource damage.
We can expect increased use and associated impacts at dispersed camp sites along backcountry and wilderness trails, lakes, and streams.
Dispersed Recreation Numerous dispersed camping sites are located at old log landings at the end of, or adjacent to forest roads. French Creek and Twin Bridges are large, heavily used dispersed campsites. Some of these dispersed sites are used by hunters, target shooters, and homeless people. Use of roaded dispersed campsites on National Forests has been steadily increasing. Dispersed campsites, especially near water, often experience soil and vegetation damage, firewood gathering in undesignated areas, garbage dumping, and vandalism (the French Creek shelter burned in 1997). State and Private lands have frequently closed areas to public access for dispersed recreation due to problems with dumping, and vandalism.
Implications Recreationists who camp at these roaded dispersed sites are expected to continue their access to these areas. Due to limited access to State and private lands, we can expect increasing pressure on the National Forest for this experience. We also expect a need for extended law enforcement coverage in these areas where vandalism and deviant behavior is prevalent.
Developed Recreation Squire Creek campground (Snohomish County) has 34 sites. The campground is booked to capacity during the peak summer season. The Rodeo grounds and Bluegrass Festival grounds are within the watershed on private land. These grounds hold several major events throughout the summer months which attract many people. No National Forest campground exists within this watershed. French Creek campground closed in 1984 from lack of maintenance funds. Camp Cherith was acquired by the Forest Service in 1998. Darrington is seeking partnership with Snohomish County to establish a county park on the outskirts of town.
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5-7 Implications Presently, developed camping facilities in the watershed are very limited. With population growth in the Puget Sound area and Snohomish County, recreational camping can be expected to increase. Major events scheduled at the Rodeo and Bluegrass grounds are attracting even more overnight visitors. Heavy use at Squire Creek campground appears to indicate that more developed campsites in the watershed could be provided and would be utilized.
Winter Recreation Winter recreation in this watershed includes cross country skiing, snowshoeing, dayhiking, snowmobiling, snow play, and Christmas tree cutting. The majority of snowmobiling occurs on the Road 18 system up Segelson Ridge. Road 18 is a designated groomed snowmobile route with a state Sno-park.
Implications Further reviews to determine winter recreation opportunities, demand and use impacts are needed. There is an opportunity to create groomed loop trails in high elevation areas. Hunting, Trapping, and Fishing The State regulates fishing, trapping and hunting with seasons, limits on take of species and licenses for the take. Hunting and fishing have been facilitated by the access provided by the road system within the analysis area. There is some concern that access may have contributed to the exploitation of some species of wildlife and fish.
Implications Issues dealing with the fishing, hunting and trapping need the cooperation of the State of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, which has regulatory control over the State game species. Controlling access is one of the tools for managing hunting, fishing, and trapping pressures.
Special Management Considerations
Wilderness Use and Sites Five backcountry sites are located within the Boulder River Wilderness: Goat Flats, Saddle Lake, Boulder Falls, Boulder Ford, and Squire Creek Pass. These sites have had considerable human influences due to close proximity to the Puget Sound metro area and the relative ease of access. Impacts at backcountry wilderness sites include human feces, garbage, vegetation loss, and erosion. Evidence of moderate impacts appears at Squire Creek Pass, Boulder Falls, Boulder Ford, and Goat Flats, while Saddle Lake has low impact. We expect that the Boulder River trail, Goat Flats, and Squire Creek Pass will continue to be heavily used, with associated impacts.
North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis 03/09i2000 5-8 Implications Issues dealing with the human use within Wilderness areas include the need to preserve the values for which Wilderness has been designated. Current and expected use of the Boulder River trail, Goat Flats, and Squire Creek Pass may not be consistent with wilderness standards and guidelines.
Forest Service Law Enforcement Current law enforcement staffing includes two Law Enforcement Officials (LEO): a USFS full-time employee and a Snohomish County Deputy who is under contract to the Forest Service for eight months of the year. Law enforcement coverage is a continual issue within the analysis area. French Creek, Round Mountain and North Mountain are high use areas. Illegal activities of vandalism, cedar, transplants, and firewood theft along with trash dumping, vehicle abandonment, indiscriminate shooting, and marijuana gardens are apparent in these areas.
Increased population growth in the region is expected to increase the potential incidents requiring additional law enforcement on the National Forest. At the present time the Forest Service unable to manage law enforcement problems in the area.
Implications LEOs are often called upon to deal with higher crime areas along the South Fork Stillaguamish and Mountain Loop Highway. In turn, illegal incidents in the less patrolled areas are expected to spread. This will tax law enforcement resources even further.
Special Uses Special Uses on the National Forest include a waterline on Swede Creek, road use permits, a cellular communications site on Segelson Ridge, power and telephone line easements, a radio site on North Mountain, and a research study permit with USGS. A special use summary is located in Appendix E (E-4). Implications These special use permits are review ed and re-authorize on a case-by-case basis. New requests for special uses will continue.
TERRESTRIAL SYSTEM
Vegetation Patterns and the Role of Human Disturbance The modern distribution of vegetation zones is essentially the same as it was prior to European settlement, but changes in vegetation patterns have been extensive since that time. The major changes have been due to human factors such as fire suppression in the past 80 years, extensive timber harvest, and development of the central corridor (along the North Fork Stillaguamish River and Washington State Highway 530) from forested areas to non-forested areas occupied by roads, housing, and agriculture.
The proportional amount of the various seral stages has changed as a result of human influence in the watershed. Current overall proportions in the analysis area as a whole are about 25% early seral, 25% late seral, 40% mid seral, and 10% non-forested. Virtually all of the late seral stands that remain are located on National Forest lands. On
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5-9 non-National Forest lands, the proportions are 60% early seral and 40% mid seral. The key findings regarding seral stage are:
• Within the western hemlock zone, there is less late seral forest today than there has been for the past 500 years. • Within the silver fir zone and the mountain hemlock zone, there is more acreage of late seral stands today than there has been for the last several centuries.
Implications Human activities have resulted in a shift from forested to non-forested areas, primarily in the east/west corridor occupied by Highway 530. From an ecological standpoint, there is a shortage of late seral forest within the western hemlock zone. The array of organisms associated with this forest type are consequently not well supported in the analysis area, especially those that require north/south travel corridors. Conservation or restoration of late seral forest within the western hemlock zone will require an increased level of public/private partnership since the loss of this habitat is increasing with the urbanization of the Puget Sound area, and most of the western hemlock zone is on non-federal land. Forested acreage on federal lands provide the largest blocks of old-growth and will play a major role in providing habitat for old-growth associated species in the future.
Disturbance-Insects, Disease, Fire and Wind Insects and disease occur at low levels causing tree mortality in small patches generally less than an acre in size within the analysis area. Old growth stands within the analysis area may susceptible to looper which typically kills larger hemlock trees.
Precommercial and commercial thinning can increase the resiliency of forest stands to insect and disease attack. Thinning can decrease a forest stand's susceptibility to windthrow. Overstocked stands are more susceptible to tree mortality from insects, disease and wind.
The implementation of fuels management activities such as underburning forest stands to reduce intensities of wildfires and fuels reduction on future silviculture projects (e.g., underburning thinned stands, piling and burning logging slash) can assist in reducing wildfire caused resource damage. In the event of a fire, severe damage would only occur under conditions of extreme weather, topography, and heavy fuel.
Typically, between the years 1926 and 1962, blowdown that occurred in larger patches were followed by salvage logging of the down trees. Smaller patches of blowdown (generally a few trees) are typical of the analysis area.
Implications Insects, disease, fire, and wind are natural processes that continue to have a role as agents of disturbance across the landscape. Small and large-scale disturbances will continue to contribute to the structure and diversity of the forest.
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5-10 The increasing importance of National Forest as old forest habitat also increase the desire to minimize large scale losses of forested habitat from disturbance factors such as fire and insects and disease. Dense stands will continue to be susceptible to mortality from disturbance factors. Thinning can be an important tool in working toward resiliency to insect and disease infestations in these stands.
Plant Communities of Special Interest Only 1% of the watershed is in the subalpine parkland zone and less than one percent is in the true Alpine Zone.
Three Plant Association Groups (PAGs) have relatively low representation within the analysis area. PAGs comprising less than 1110th of 1% of the watershed include Mesic Non-Forest PAG (69 acres), Cold Non-Forest PAG (33 acres), and Mountain Hemlock Moist Alaska Huckleberry PAG (16 acres)
Exceptionally old stands ("climax" forest) occur in upper Deer Creek and on the back side of Mt. Higgins, Segelson Pass, and Myrtle Lake. (Terrestrial Area of Concern map figure 5.3).
High quality wetlands are indicated on the Terrestrial Area of Concern map (figure 5.2). Recreation demands are causing degradation to high elevation wetlands (i.e., lakes.)
Implications These old forests are especially valued for their contribution to age diversity in the landscape.
Rare Plants Of the plants on the Regional Forester's Sensitive Species List, there is one known population of pigmy saxifrage (Saxifraga rivularis) and one known population of lance leaved grapefern (Botrychium lanceolatum).
Implications The pigmy saxifrage is quite rare on the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and any known sites should be protected in order to ensure species viability. The lance-leaved grapefern is more common so there may be more flexibility in management of this species. Most of the watershed has not been surveyed for rare plants.
Survey and Manage Plants Of the plants known as "Survey and Manage" species listed in category 1 or 2 on Table C-3 ofthe NW Forest Plan, there is one known site of Oiplophy/lum albicans (a liverwort), two known sites of Lobaria linita (a lichen), and seven known sites of Hypogymnia duplicata (a lichen.)
Implications If a project is proposed on federal lands within the vicinity of a known rare plant site, the USFS is required to follow management recommendations for that species, as issued from the Regional Ecosystem Office in Portland.
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5-11 Noxious Weeds Plant species listed as "noxious" under Washington State Weed Law have infested the watershed in several locations and are spreading rapidly. The most serious problem known at the moment is an infestation of Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) along the main stem of the North Fork Stillaguamish River.
Implications Because of the rate of spread and difficulty of control, the implications of delayed treatment are grave in terms of riparian habitat, future stand development, and economic impacts related to treatment costs.
WILDLIFE HABITAT AND SPECIES DIVERSITY
Habitat conditions today have been primarily influenced by ecological succession, climatic change, and human influences on the environment. Key findings of this analysis related to wildlife populations and habitat are:
Non-federal Forested Habitat Lands committed to producing forested habitat have and are expected to continue to decline on non-federal lands as they are developed for rural and residential uses.
Implications Potential habitat for forest dwelling species will continue to decline as forest lands are converted to other uses. Habitat for species associated with rural and residential environments will increase, including non-native species, and species which predate or are parasitic to other species (i.e. brown headed cowbirds, stellar jays, corvids, domestic pets, etc.). Increasing human populations will increase demands on forest resources (recreation, forest products, human visitation), potentially conflicting with wildlife needs for food, shelter, cover, and space.
Non-federal Late Seral Habitat There is little available late seral forest on non-federal lands within the analysis area, thereby restricting the distribution of these habitats to federal lands. These habitat types are likely to remain scarce on non-federal lands over time. Lack of this habitat type contributes to the wildlife species dispersal barrier in the main stem of the NF Stillaguamish River.
DNR management of State lands adjoining the National Forest will contribute to mature forest habitat from Oso to Darrington.
Implications Conservation of species associated with late seral and snag habitats will be dependent on federal lands and to a lesser extent, State managed lands. Mature and old growth habitat distribution in low elevations will persist in being discontinuous, thereby limiting dispersal and immigration of resident populations, and potentially making them more susceptible to stochastic events and loss.
North Forl( Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis 03/09/2000 5-12 Total Late Seral and Snag Habitat The total (federal and non-federaf) amount of late seral and snag habitat currently is and will likely continue to be below historical levels. Limited habitat is associated with wildlife populations at lower levels and with restricted distributions.
Implications Mature and old growth riparian habitat will persist in being discontinuous and highly fragmented, impacting habitat capability, dispersal of some wildlife species, and the distribution of resident populations. Non-federal lands will favor common species associated with open structural habitats (natural openings, open seedling, sapling, pole, and immature forest) and generalist species. Treating stands to promote large diameter in the future will be considered for habitat restoration.
Federal Late-Seral and Snag Habitat Late seral and snag habitats on federal lands have been reduced, but are within reference levels. Late seral habitat is moderately to highly fragmented in the mid portion of the upper NF Stillaguamish River drainage.
Implications Interior habitat (away from edges) is found in four blocks: Boulder River Wilderness, Squire Creek, Higgins/upper Deer Creek, and the upper branches of the NF Stillaguamish River. Lack of interior habitat reduces habitat capability and increases potential predation or nest parasitism on species of concern. Low elevation, mature and old growth habitat is unevenly distributed across the landscape. This results in some populations being reduced below reference levels and concentrated in fewer locations rather than being widely distributed. Less mobile species are a concern.
Habitat in Residual Areas Due to differences of harvesting from stand-replacing fires, harvested areas have fewer snags, down wood and patches of residual older trees. Snag and down log habitat on federal lands has been reduced below Forest plan levels. In areas with Stand Year of Origin 1950-1980, Segelson Creek to Upper North Fork Stillaguamish River.
Implications Habitat for species associated with these habitat components has been reduced or eliminated on a substantial portion of the landscape. Habitat is discontinuous and has reduced dispersal and increased population isolation.
Remaining snag and down log habitat is important for maintenance of viable populations, particularly source areas, or concentrations of high quality habitat.
North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis 03109/2000 5-13 Riparian Habitat The riparian habitat of the main stem of the NF Stillaguamish River and low gradient streams are areas which have been subject to intensive harvest and residential development, with impacts to fish and foraging bald eagles.
Implications Impacts to fish rearing habitat and reductions in fish populations result in a lack of the primary forage item for wintering bald eagles. Loss of riparian trees results in a loss of safe perch sites for eagle foraging and a loss of primary constituent elements of healthy steam systems. Maintenance of these riparian habitats will contribute to a continuing use of the NF Stillaguamish River as a key wintering area for the bald eagle, a federally listed threatened species. Riparian habitat maintenance will also contribute to habitat for amphibian and mollusk species of concern, and provide potential dispersal corridors between blocks of federally managed lands.
Suitable Habitat for Species of Concern The analysis area provides suitable habitat for listed species including the marbled murrelet and northern spotted owl.
Implications Maintenance of late seral habitat, core habitat areas, and reduction in fragmentation are important considerations within and adjacent to the ROD buffer zones around nesting sites. Important considerations are applying prescriptions which will result in recruitment of late seral habitat and dispersal habitat conditions within core habitats and dispersal corridors. There is good east-west connectivity between the northern and southern blocks of old growth (Higgins/Deer Creek to the upper branches of the NF Stillaguamish River, and between Boulder River and Squire Creek). There is a lack of connecting habitat north to- south between the old-growth areas to the north of the main stem of the NF Stillaguamish River and blocks of old-growth on the south side of the river. Maintenance of riparian habitats would contribute to better wildlife habitat dispersal opportunities along the valley floor of the NF Stillaguamish River.
Wildlife and Human Use Conflicts Conflicts between wildlife and human use of the environment are likely to increase with increasing trends in recreation and other uses of federal lands. The current Access and Travel Management Strategy maintains high open road densities (greater than 1 mile/sq. mile) which does not provide for adequate security habitat for wildlife.
Implications Access management strategies on non-federal lands which restrict general access are beneficial to wildlife populations and will increase in importance over time.
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5-14 High human accessibility results in habitat conditions of lower quality than reference levels, and in some cases habitat suitability is rated as low due to disturbance, vulnerability, and needs for space. Current infrastructure and associated developments in the riparian reserve will likely be retained and continue to impact wildlife movement and use of the riparian area. Security habitat has been reduced and is below levels needed for some species. Maintenance or enhancement of security habitat availability will be important for long term maintenance of some wildlife populations. Maintenance or enhancement of security habitat in the Boulder River Wilderness is important for grizzly bear management and for high elevation species such as the wolverine. The Finney Block portion of the analysis area will continue to have security habitat limited by road density and surrounding state and private land management. Potentials for adverse human-bear conflicts along the NF Stillaguamish will increase. Humans can reduce potential conflict by minimizing garbage, pet foods, livestock feed, etc. along this corridor.
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5-15
AQUA TIC SYSTEM
Mass Wasting Mass wasting is the dominant erosion process within the analysis area. Landslide inventories within the watershed have documented a consistent relationship between management activities (i.e. road building and clearcut timber harvest) and an accelerated rate of mass wasting.
• The highest landslide frequency has occurred within the Lower NF Stillaguamish and Segelson Creek. • The majority of sediment delivery has occurred within the Upper NF Stillaguamish (in the 1980's), Higgins Ridge (in the 1960's), and Boulder River (in the 1940's). • Management activities appear to be a factor in 75% of slope failures that were inventoried within the Stillaguamish basin. • Primary instability problems are associated with inner gorge areas and glacially deposited lakebed sediments. • According to the MBS Slope Stability Model, approximately 89% of the Upper NF Stillaguamish is considered to have a high to moderate risk of naturally-occurring mass wasting. Swede and Furland Creek subwatersheds have the highest concentration of potentially unstable acreage within the Middle NF Stillaguamish watershed.
Implications Sediment delivery to streams will be increased from background levels. Aquatic habitat and water quality will be degraded within some reaches.
Peak Flows According to the NF Stillaguamish River streamgage near Arlington, annual peak flows have increased during the period of record (between 1930 and 1996).
Implications Increased channel scour and erosion Increased frequency of landslides within the inner gorge area of stream channels threatens infrastructure and adjoining property. Treatments to reduce the impact on infrastructure and adjoining property frequently reduces or eliminates riparian vegetation.
Stream Channel Morphology and Condition Stream channel morphology and condition have been altered over time. A large number of higher gradient stream channels (particularly within the Upper North
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5-16 Fork) have been scoured as a'result of an accelerated rate of debris torrents. The mainstem channel below Squire Creek has been confined and disconnected from portions of the floodplain. Sediment waves have filled and widened reaches of the mainstem river over the years, most notably between Rollins Creek and Boulder River. Lower Squire Creek has also experienced recent widening. As the "wave" moves down river from a particular reach, that reach will generally narrow over time.
Implications Aquatic habitat has been degraded. Loss of property along reaches of the river that are adjusting in response to the increased sediment load will continue. Increased frequency of flooding will continue. Treatments that attempt to "control" the river are very expensive.
Riparian Vegetation Riparian vegetation has been altered. Timber harvest and land clearing have modified extensive riparian areas along the mainstem of the North Fork particularly between Squire Creek and the Middle Branch, Lower Squire, Lower French Creek, Rollins Creek, Montague Creek, and Brooks Creek. Debris torrents have resulted in vegetation being removed from the lower slopes of inner gorges. Bank erosion has also eliminated some riparian vegetation.
Implications Loss of shade increases water temperature which influences the productivity of aquatic habitat. Loss of large wood reduces stream complexity and alters stream energy which both result in degraded aquatic habitat. Noxious weeds are changing the composition of understory vegetation in riparian areas.
Water Quality Water quality has been degraded over the last century. Degradation has resulted from removal of riparian forests (most extensively and repeatedly along the NF Stillaguamish mainstem and lower reaches of tributaries). Degradation has also resulted from increased sediment loading from landsliding, bank erosion, and channel modification.
North Forl< Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis 03/09/2000 5-1 7 Implications Increased water temperature and sediment loading have degraded aquatic habitat.
Squire Creek Stream Flows Historic stream flow records for Squire Creek show relatively uniform mean monthly flows, much more uniform throughout the year than other streams in the analysis area and across the Forest.
Implications • Less "flashy" flows and reduced stress on aquatic species, stream banks, and riparian vegetation.
• Sustained subsurface flows that maintain more constant, and cooler, stream temperatures.
Hydrologic Maturity Forest harvest has resulted in a reduction of hydrologic maturity. Forest canopy disturbance alters hydrologic response of watersheds to rain-on-snow storm events. Subwatersheds on Federal lands with greater than 20 percent disturbance are: Lower Reach: Lower North Fork Stillaguamish River Middle Reach: Middle North Fork Stillaguamish River, Segelson Creek, Moose Creek Upper Reach: North Fork Stillaguamish River above Squire Creek, Cascade Creek, South Branch, Crevice Creek, Middle Branch, North Fork Stillaguamish river above Middle Branch, Alder Creek On non-Federal land forest management has reduced hydrologic maturity in some areas, but this is not quantified.
Implications Increased peak flows from changed conditions during rain-on-snow storms.
Increased stream channel scour, inner gorge instability.
Potential increase in culvert failures due to increased flow exceeding culvert capacity.
Fish Stocks Fish stocks have declined (especially chinook and coho Stillaguamish stocks are insufficient to maintain fisheries for commercial, cultural, and non-consumptive uses; the Stillaguamish Tribe has been unable to commercially harvest chinook since 1982, and the Tulalip Tribes have been unable to fish for chinook in Port Susan a since 1984. Sedimentation has decreased the quality and quantity of both spawning and rearing habitat.
North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis 03/0912000 5-18 Channel widening in portions of the mainstem and Squire Creek has resulted in water temperature increases and reductions in summer low flows. Bull trout rearing may be limited by sedimentation of pools, low flows, and high temperatures. lnstream habitat conditions (pools, wood) are generally poor; Squire Creek drainage provides refuge habitat.
Implications Continued declines in fish stocks may contribute to Federal listings under the ESA. Recovery of impacted species may be prolonged or prevented through continued decline in habitat condition. Habitat restoration within the analysis area alone will not be sufficient to restore stocks. Spiritual, social, and economic impacts have occurred due to salmon decline and will continue until depressed stocks are not limiting commercial harvest by the Stillaguamish and Tulalip Tribes.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The Team made recommendations for improving watershed health, based on their findings. Recommendations were arranged into seven broad categories and prioritized: • Maintain and Enhance Riparian Areas • Provide and Manage Recreation Opportunities • Maintain and Enhance Late Successional Habitat • Implement Effectiveness Monitoring and Inventory • Maintain and Enhance lnstream Habitat • Manage the Transportation System • Contribute to Local Economy Of the recommendations under the seven categories, the Team identified five Objectives or Actions as being the most critical for improving watershed health: • Work with local governments and communities more actively. • Restore riparian areas through a variety of activities. • Maintain and enhance snags, large trees, and large downed wood. • Implement a variety of road treatments. • Develop a plan for dispersed and developed recreation.
North Fork Stillaguamish Water.shed Analysis 0:J.10912000
5-19 Opportunities for future management Stand management to promote late-successional forest characteristics particularly on LSR edges and in areas that would connect blocks of suitable habitat to assist successful dispersal. There is a large amount of area that has been harvested and is in age classes which are responsive to thinning treatments. There is an opportunity to consider the utilization of new and developing information on spotted owl and marbled murrelet habitat. There is an opportunity to review management proposals which would relax the LSR status, contingent on careful analysis and consistency with the Endangered Species Act and the ROD. There is an opportunity to adjust road density to provide additional security acres for wildlife. Refer to Table 5.1 for team recommendations. "Areas of Concern Maps" (Figures 5.2- 5.5) are a graphic representation of the Findings for each of the Human, Terrestrial, and Aquatic domains, as well as a composite map. Also refer to Table 5.2 which summarizes the Access and Travel Management review for the watershed's road system. This table displays access needs and recommendations for maintaining, upgrading, converting (to trails) or decommissioning roads.
North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis 03/09/2000
5-20 Table 5-1: Recommendations North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis
Recommendations/Objectives Locations Potential Benefits Next Logical Step Relative Complexity 1. Maintain and Enhance Riparian Areas a. Work with the City of Darrington and Squire Creek drainage Bringing out awareness of Review Draft/Final planning Moderate; coordination Planning Council concerning their planned Stillaguamish basin importance of Squire Creek to the document and become involved with non-FS entities. urban growth expansion. Stillaguamish basin fish production in the process. and may help its protection. b. Maintain and enhance snags, large Segelson to Upper NF Meet cavity excavator needs, meet Identify stands most lacking in Moderate; inventory is downed wood components, and large trees. Sti llaguam ish, structural needs of wildlife species, snags, L WO, and large trees. time intensive, partnerships Riparian and wetlands meet LSR objectives, meet I00% Identify unique habitats. snag needs for woodpeckers, provide Coordinate with partners. perches for raptors (bald eagles, etc.), habitat for numerous wetland species c. (tie) Explore options to reconnect NF Stillaguamish Reduced peak flows, improved Discuss opportunities identified High; multi-ownership, mainstem channel to its historic floodplain riparian and wetland habitat, in earlier studies with appropriate sensitive subject. and improve riparian management. improved bank stability. agencies and tribes, and determine feasibility. Discuss with landowners. d. (tie) Investigate opportunities for Reduced accelerated rate oferosion Inventory failures and determine Moderate; inventory is rehabilitating Inner Gorge slope failures. and sedimentation. whether structural and/or time intensive. vegetative treatments would be beneficial. e. (tie) Remove Japanese knotweed and Highway 530 corridor Restores riparian plant community, Work with landowners and High; multiple parties orange hawkweed. and riparian areas. enhances wildlife habitat, improves County weed control board to involved, environmental slope stability. develop a plan for removal. sensitivity ofusing herbicides, multi-year project, extensive infestation across boundaries. f. Explore options for riparian forest Crevice Cr., Middle Improved long-term L WO Identify young stands which Moderate; current treatments designed to hasten development North Fork, Cascade recruitment which promotes better would respond to treatment. instability and access. oflarge conifers. Cr., N.Fork main stem. channel stability, improved aquatic habitat, shade, wildlife connectivity, and raptor perches. g. Verify that all inner gorges are included Reduces the potential for future slope Map Inner Gorge using aerial Low in delineated riparian reserves. failures and accelerated photos and digitize into GIS. sedimentation.
Page I 09/20/99 Table 5-I: Recommendations North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis
Recommendations/Objectives Locations Potential Benefits Next Logical Step Relative Complexity I. Maintain and Enhance Riparian Areas h. Determine interest in establishing a Riparian protection, resource . Gauge level of interest of various High; multiple landowners " Darrington to Delta" greenbelt along the enhancements, recreation groups, landowners, and agencies; and agencies, and public NF Stillaguamish, similar to the opportunities. develop a proposal with partners participation. "Mountains to Sound Greenway. and validate with public participation. i. Reintroduce beavers to riparian areas. Cascade Cr. (highest Provides pond areas for sediment Validate existing plan on potential High; need special licenses, priority), Brown Cr. storage and fish rearing, watering locations. Identify funds to cooperation with State Dept. (off-forest), Texas holes, restores habitat for wetland- transport and monitor beavers. of Wildlife, and cooperation Pond. dependent animal and plant species. with other land owners. j. Encourage/assist in obtaining NF Stillaguamish, Improves riparian and aquatic Identify projects and partnerships High; same as lh. conservation easements. lower Squire Creek. habitat. to do projects on private lands. 2. Provide and Manage Recreation Opportunities a. Inventory and develop a plan for French Cr., Twin Resource protection, provide Develop specific project proposals Moderate; public managing dispersed camping areas. Bridges. recreation opportunities, restore and begin public participation. participation. denuded areas (typically in riparian areas). b. Prepare feasibility study of constructing French Creek, Resource protection, provide a Identify funding source and Moderate; partnership a developed campground on District. Christian camp. developed recreation opportunity, potential partners. potential with restore denuded areas. concessionaire or university student. c. (tie) Increase FS presence and law Resource protection, increased public Discuss with law enforcement Low; budget dependent. enforcement in watershed safety, reduction in garbage dumping officers. and abandoned vehicles. d. (tie) Agency should work with local To meet future recreation demand District liaison with local High; multiple parties and government on future growth planning and protect resources. government on regular basis, list projects involved. and local projects. what we need to participate in. e. Increase special forest product sales. Improve local economies. Provide Develop a steady source of project High; no current reliable goods to the public through sales of funding. Determine best products funding, complexity of value added products. for sale and inventory them. I.D. market fluctuation, high current markets and develop public involvement. potential markets. Evaluate A TM effects on SFP program. Develop database for tracking.
Page 2 09/20/99 Table 5-1: Recommendations North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis
Recommendations/Objectives Locations Potential Benefits Next Logical Step Relative Complexity 2. Provide and Manage Recreation Opportunities f. Encourage proposal for "greenbelt" same as lh same as lh same as lh same as lh along NF Stillaguamish (see#I h). g. Trail reconstruction projects. Higgins Mtn, Boulder Resource protection, increased public Feasibility and design, develop High; other resource and River, Squire Cr., safety. Reduce compaction and funding sources through CIP, wildlife habitat concerns. Round Mtn, Three erosion problems. Trailpark, and watershed Fingers, Niderprum. restoration. h. Road to trail opportunities- snowmobile Various roads: 1865, Increased recreation opportunities in Propose specific projects and High; ATM process, other and mountain bike loop trails. Consider 1890, 2870, 2880, non-wilderness AMA: (hiking, determine their feasibility. resource and wildlife habitat additional roads for snow grooming 2882 (see ATM). mountain biking, snowmobiling, Identify potential partners. concerns. Segelsen and North etc.), which could divert some use Mtn. from wilderness areas i. Prepare an O&M and restoration plan for North Mtn Restoration ofhistoric structure, Develop purpose and need High; multiple partners and North Mtn Lookout. improved public safety. statement and begin feasibility. volunteers. Identify potential partners 3. Maintain and Enhance Late Successional Habitat a. Maintain/enhance snag and downed same as I b same as lb same as lb same as I b wood components (see # I b ). b. Maintain/enhance late seral stands to Provides suitable habitat for species Prioritize which stands will be High; need to meet concerns further develop late seral characteristics, ofconcern where habitat is now treated. Consider dispersal for species, AMA, LSR, (for marbled murelet, spotted owl, etc.). limited. corridors. public scrutiny. c. Maintain individual subwatersheds at at Reduced peak flows from upper Build this consideration into all Low. least 85% hydrologic maturity. watershed and promote inner gorge disturbance activities and AMA recovery. plan. d. (tie) Maintain/enhance "core areas" Boulder River, Squire Meet LSR objectives for species Validate ATM plan. Identify key High; public access (security habitat) by reducing open road Cr., Higgins/Upper sensitive to human disturbance. core areas. Identify road closures concerns, a sensitive density to I mile/square mile or less. Deer, Upper NF Meet agency responsibilities to which would reduce human use. subject. Coordination with Stillaguamish. grizzly bear recovery plan. ATM process. e. (tie). Precommercial thinnings in LSR, Same as 3f. Also, early thinning Same as 3f. Explore funding Moderate; less disturbance AMA, and Matrix. increases potential, i.e. options in the opportunities. Validate ATM as it to resources, coordinate future. can affect access for potential with SFP, high public thinning program. Possible involvement. funding with watershed restoration funds.
Page 3 09/20/99 Table 5-1: Recommendations North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis
Recommendations/Objectives Locations Potential Benefits Next Logical Step Relative Complexity 3. Maintain and Enhance Late Successional Habitat f. (tie) Texas Pond and other commercial Improve stand health by removing Develop support for thinning with High; many people thinning projects in LSR, AMA., and many ofthe poor form, slower other specialists, Line, and the involved. Change of Merged Land Allocations (Matrix) growing, diseased, etc. trees. public. Develop AMA plan philosophy needed. High Increase tree growth by reducing concurrent with projects. level of public involvement stocking levels. Increases crown and root development resulting in healthy trees and stands. Creates trees with nest characteristics and large woody debris size sooner than in unthinned stands. 4. Implement Inventory and Effectiveness Monitoring a. Implement watershed restoration Evaluates restoration measures and Develop an action plan, decide on High; coordination with effectiveness monitoring assures we are achieving objectives. appropriate techniques/measures. others. Verification ofmodel outputs used in analysis. b. Validate large blocks ofold growth to Boulder River, Squire Indicates ifAgency is moving in Develop a monitoring plan. Low. see how well or ifthey are being utilized Cr., Deer Cr., Higgins, right direction with the Northwest by old growth-dependent species. Upper NF Forest Plan. Stillaguamish c. Implement appropriate cultural and Identification and protection of Identify partners to conduct Moderate; potential for heritage surveys; consultation with tribes cultural resource sites, and establish general area surveys. partnerships to do cultural to be conducted prior to project proper mapping on GIS ofcultural surveys. implementation and where prehistoric sites. sites. d. Establish Representative reaches in Boulder River; Squire Provides means of monitoring Select location of Reaches; find High; partnerships. subwatersheds and main stem. Cr., Upper N.Fork, NF change occurring in watershed from partners; find funding; use Don's Stillaguamish. natural recovery and restoration Tool Box to find format for activities; provides a link between FS proposal. and other concerned parties; could be a Masters project over time.
Page 4 09/20/99 Table 5-1: Recommendations North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis
Recommendations/Objectives Locations Potential Benefits Next Logical Step Relative Complexity 5. lnstream Habitat Maintenance and Enhancement a. Road treatments (decommission, Provides sediment control; prevent Develop specific proposals and Moderate; ID Team/NEPA seasonal access/closures, upgrading) damage to instream habitat from begin public participation. process, ground verify, flood/rain-on-snow events. public participation. b. Identify and rectify fish passage barriers High cost/benefit ratio to fish; long Inventory and propose for funding. Moderate; partnerships. at culverts. lasting and immediate benefits c. Explore opportunities for inchannel Short-terrn restoration of aquatic Inventory potential sites; support High; L WD management enhancement while upslope and riparian condition; increased returns to FS completion of Forest L WD plan involves multiple processes are being restored (e.g., place habitat. management plan; propose sites resource areas and little LWD in mainstem and tributaries. Also for funding; look for opportunities funding; off-Forest support off-Forest opportunitief.. to cooperate with partners. partnerships. d. Develop a water quality restoration plan. Meet CWA requirements; improve Meet with Dept. of Ecology and High; other agencies and stream temperature, sediment Stillaguamish and Tulalip Tribes to tribes involved; data regimes and aquatic habitats. discuss plan needs. intensity; other land owners e. Work with the City of Darrington and same as la same as la same as la same as la Planning Council concerning their planned urban growth expansion. 6. Transportation Management a. Road maintenance and treatments. Maintain safe public access and same as 5a. Moderate; ID team/NEPA; provide a variety of recreation public participation and opportunities. partnerships. b. Road treatments (decommission, Reduce potential for future road Prioritize roads for appropriate Low. restoration, upgrading) related failures (habitat, water treatments. Consider completing quality). the matrix on Level 2 and 3 roads. Conduct road inventories. c. Manage the road system to maintain and Boulder River to Less chance ofspecies islands and Identify key connecting habitat and Moderate; public access enhance connective and dispersal wildlife Higgins, major encourage movement of species for where open road densities can be concerns. habitat. riparian areas in N.F. improved viability; improves reduced in areas of concern; Stilly, Brown's Cr. dispersal ofyoung. enhance riparian reserves.
Page 5 09/20/99 Table 5-1: Recommendations North Fork Stillaguamish Watershed Analysis
Recommendations/Objectives 7. Economic Contributions a. Agency should work with local same as 2d same as 2d same as 2d governments in future growth planning and local projects. b. (tie) Texas Pond and other commercial same as 3f; also supports local same as 3f same as 3f thinning projects in LSR, AMA, and economy by providing jobs. Merged Land Allocations (Matrix) High; no current reliable c. (tie) Increase special forest product Improve local economy/provide jobs. Develop a steady source ofproject funding, complexity of sales. Provide goods to the public through funding. Determine best products sales of value added products. for sale. Inventory specific market fluctuation, high products. Identify current markets public involvement. and develop potential markets. Evaluate A TM effects on SFP program. Develop database for tracking. Moderate; partnership d. Prepare feasibility study ofconstructing French Creek, Same as 2b; also supports local Identify funding source and potential with a developed campground on District. Christian camp. economy and tourism. potential partners. concessionaire or university student. same as lh e. Encourage proposal for "greenbelt" same as lh same as I h; also supports tourism. same as lh along NF Stillaguamish (see #lh).
Page 6 09/20/99 North Fork Stillaguamish WSA Road Inventory and Access & Travel Management Road No. Road Name Begin MP Length Current Future District A TM Comments Summary of Level Level Public ATM Comments 173 IOOO ALDER PASS 0 6.4 2 2 Fire access. •Tum road into bike/hiker trail. • Upgrade for all vehicles. 1731011 PASS 0 0.3 I 0 Potential for decommissing. • One group agreed with objective. 173101 3 34 12 C 0 0.2 I I Not on map. 1731017 34 12 G 0 0.3 I 0 Decommissioning potential. 1731018 3412 H 0 0.7 I 0 Decommissioning potential. 1731019 341 2 J 0 0.1 I 0 Decommissioning potential. -t 1731020 3412 Z 0 0.1 I 0 Decommissioning potential. II) tT 1732000 WIGGLES 0 4.5 2 2 Dispersed recreation access. •Tum road into a trail. i" • Upgrade for all vehicles. en N 1732013 NO NAME 0 .2 I 0 Decommissioning potential. • One group agreed with objective. )> 1732014 RED PIT 0 . I 2 2 Accesses top ofrock quarry . 0 Dispersed recreational access, snowmobile 0 1800000 SEGELSEN 0 12 3 3 CD use, loop road with Mt. Baker Ranger 0 0 District. II) :::, 18000 14 CASCADE 0 I. I I I Fire access. a. CUTOFF -t ii] 1800017 GOBBLER 0 0.6 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. < 1800020 SOUTH 0 1.8 I I Fire access. ~ BRANCH i: Al 1850000 CONEY PASS 0 1.78 2 2 Dispersed recreational use. • Decommission the road. ':I RD 3403 •Make driveable for all vehicles. ~ CD 1855000 SEGELSEN 0 3.7 2 2 Snowmobile use, SUP with Seattle City 3 RIDGE Light. CD :::, 1855012 185501 2 0 0.4 I I Fire access. - 1855013 1855013 0 I. I I 1 Seattle City Light has installed gate. They will maintain road. 1860000 UPPERS 0 1.4 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. BRANCH 1870000 SEGEL 0 2.2 1 1 Access to mining claim. (Permittee can maintain.) 1870011 SEAGULL 0 1.2 I I Fire access. 1870012 18700 12 0 0.2 I 1 Fire access. 1880000 BOLT CAMP 0 4.5 2 2 Administrative and dispersed use. •Tum road into a trail. 1880011 EAST 0 0.2 I I Level I to O12 spur approx . .4 miles.
Page 1 North Fork Stillaguamish WSA Road Inventory and Access & Travel Management Road No. Road Name Begin MP Length Current Future District AT M Comments Summary of Level Level Public ATM Comments 188001 1 EAST 0.2 0.4 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 188001 2 1880012 0 0. 15 2 I Rock pit access. 188001 3 188001 3 0 0.7 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. (This was wanted as a level I by RDMA at one time but got shown as decom. potential to public.) 1890000 ROUND MTN 0 4.36 2 2 Administrative and dispersed recreational •Turn road into a loop trail. use. 1890011 LOWER 0 0.3 I I Rock pit access, leave gate. Fu ll year SWEDE CR wildlife closure. 189001 I LOWER 0.3 I I 0 Potential for decommissioning. SWEDE CR 1890012 MENESHA 0 0.2 I I Access to private land. 18900 13 SWEDE 0 1.7 I I Fire access. CREEK 18900 17 189001 7 0 0.2 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 1890 130 1890 130 0 0.64 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 1891000 VALLEY 0 4.19 2 I Opportunity for comm ercial thinning. After VIEW road is closed gate can be moved to another location. Full year wi ldlife closu re. 189 1011 189 1011 0 0.36 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 20 10000 FRENCH CR 0 3.66 3 3 Access to private homes and Boulder River • One group agreed with objective. Trail. 2010000 FRENCH CR 3.66 8.34 I 1 Fire access and administrative use. •Turn into a hiking/biking trail. 201001 1 FRENCH CR 0 1.2 3 3 French Creek Campground. CG 20 100 18 BOULDER CR. 0 0.1 3 3 Boulder River Trailhead. • Reduce objective level to a I. TRAIL HEAD 20 10022 MIDDLE 0 0.5 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. FRENCH 2020000 LITTLE 0 1.49 2 2 Gated, also state access to land, timber uses. FRENCH CR 2030000 MOOSE CR 0 2 2 3 Access to Niederprum trail. Road should have warning signs. 2040000 SQU IR E CR 0 4.2 3 3 Access to Squire Creek Trail, viewpoints, •Decommission the road. • 3 groups & 3 fi sh projects. people wanted road changed to trail.
Page 2 North Fork Stillaguamish WSA Road Inventory and Access & Travel Management Road No. Road Name Begin MP Length Current Future District A TM Comments Summary of Level Level Public ATM Comments 2800000 NORTH FORK 0 21.4 3 3 Dispersed recreation, administrative access. •One person agreed with objective. STILLY •One group wanted road to trail from junction with 2840. 2800000 NORTH FORK 21.4 1.5 3 2 Dispersed recreation, administrative access. STILLY Level 2 starts at jct. with 2890. 2800000 NORTH FORK 22.9 0.5 3 0 Potential for decommissioning. STILLY 2800017 ECHO 0 0.9 I I Silviculture projects. 2800018 DOG 0 I. I I I Silviculture projects. 2800019 LEAVE 0 0.7 I 0 Potential for decommission. CREVICE 2800020 ABLE SPUR 0 0.5 I 0 Potential for decommission. 2810000 NORTH MTN 0 13.5 3 3 Access to North Mtn. lookout. 2811000 TEXAS POND 0 2.7 3 3 Dispersed recreation, tie through between roads 29 and 2810. (Needs improvement.) 2815000 LOOKOUT 0 2.11 2 0 Potential for decommissioning. •Turn into a trail & connect with 2940. 2820000 N FK 0 0.8 2 2 Access to Twin Bridges. STILLAGUAM 2830000 SUNBURST 0 1.2 2 I Silviculture projects. 2832000 2832 0 0.3 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2840000 CREVICE 0 7.2 3 2 Dispersed recreation, administrative use. •One group & one person wanted road to CREEK trail. If left as a road the person wanted it drivable for all vehicles. 2840011 2840011 0 1.2 I I Silviculture projects. (Watershed concerns.) 2840016 LOW MIDDLE 0 I I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2840018 6300 RD 0 0.4 2 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2840022 2840022 0 0.2 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2840023 2840023 0 0.8 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2841000 BRAVO 0 1.9 2 I Silviculture projects, fire access. 2841013 2841013 0 0.56 I I Silviculture projects. 2849000 2849 0 1.6 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2850000 E CREVICE 0 2.5 2 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2851000 LOWER EAST 0 I I 0 Potential for decommissioning. CREVICE 2860000 SOUTH 0 1.5 I 0 Potential for decommissioning.
Page 3 North Fork Stillaguamish WSA Road Inventory and Access & Travel Management Road No. Road Name Begin MP Length Current Future District A TM Comments Summary of Level Level Public ATM Comments 2870000 POWWOW 0 2 2 2 Dispersed recreation, views, silviculture • Tum into a loop trail with 2880. projects. 2871000 287 1000 0 0.5 1 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2872000 2872000 0 0.3 2 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2880000 N BRANCH 0 2 2 0 Potential for decommissioni ng. •Turn into a trail and/or connect with 2880 OFN FORK for a loop trail. 2881000 LOST 0 3 2 2 Dispersed recreation. •One group wanted to decommission. 2882000 STILLY PASS 0 1.5 2 I Rock pit at MP 1.0, silviculture projects. •One group wanted road to trail. 2885000 2885 0 2. 1 2 2 Dispersed recreation, forest products. •One group wanted to decommission. 2886000 2886 0 0.4 2 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2890000 NORTH 0 2.3 2 0 Potential for decommissioning. MIDDLE 2900000 RINKER 0.7 8 2 2 Dispersed recreation, administrative access. RIDGE 2900020 TEXAS POND 0 0.1 3 3 Parking for Texas Pond. PARKING 2940000 BRYSON 0 2.7 I I Potential ORV. 2950000 PONDER 0 1.5 2 I Timber stands. 29500 11 OLD TRAIL 0 0.2 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 29500 14 LOWER 0 0.5 I I Timber stands. PONDER 2956000 2956000 0 0.5 I 0 Potential for decommissioning. 2960000 AFTERMATH 0 2.5 I I Fire access. 4160000 BANDANA 0 I 2 3 Level 3 to Saddle Lakes Trail. 4160000 BANDANA I .4 2 0 Potential for decommissioning.
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