United States Department of Agriculture Maricopa Trail Segment 22 – Scottsdale City Limits to the Bronco Trailhead
Final Environmental Assessment
Forest Service Tonto National Forest Cave Creek Ranger District November 2016
For More Information Contact:
Tyna Yost, South Zone NEPA Coordinator Tonto National Forest 5140 East Ingram Street Mesa, Arizona 85205 Phone: 480-610-3311 Email: [email protected] Fax: 480-610-3346
Cover Photo: Representative photograph of the project area taken by John Rose, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department.
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Contents List of Tables ...... ii List of Figures ...... ii Introduction ...... 1 Project Location ...... 1 Need for the Proposal ...... 4 Existing Condition ...... 4 Desired Condition ...... 5 Purpose of and Need for Action ...... 5 Tribal Consultation and Public Involvement ...... 6 Proposed Action and Alternatives ...... 7 Proposed Action ...... 7 No Action Alternative ...... 11 Environmental Effects of the Proposed Action and No Action Alternatives ...... 11 Biological Resources ...... 11 Cultural Resources ...... 18 Soils ...... 21 Socioeconomic Conditions ...... 22 Recreation Resources ...... 23 Visitor Safety ...... 26 Water Resources ...... 27 Cumulative Impacts ...... 30 Finding of No Significant Impact ...... 31 Context ...... 31 Intensity ...... 32 References ...... 36
i
List of Tables
Table 1. Management Indicator Species and Habitats Evaluated for This Project...... 17
List of Figures
Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map ...... 1 Figure 2. Project Area Map, Northern Portion ...... 2 Figure 3. Project Area Map, Southern Portion ...... 3 Figure 4. Representative Photograph of the Project Area ...... 4 Figure 5. Representative Trail Sign for Maricopa Trail ...... 9
ii Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
Introduction The Maricopa Trail is an approximately 310-mile non-motorized loop around the Phoenix metropolitan area that would connect parks and recreational facilities throughout Maricopa County, Arizona (Figure 1, Figure 2, and Figure 3). It is designed to be a continuous loop that connects numerous regional parks, including the following: White Tank Mountain, Lake Pleasant, Cave Creek, Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, McDowell Mountain, Usery Mountain, San Tan Mountain, Estrella Mountain, and Buckeye Hills. The planning process began in 1999 and was granted $5 million by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in 2004. The concept gives the public free access to a varied outdoor experience, although the regional parks require a nominal fee for entrance.
Acquisition of land rights for the construction of the Maricopa Trail has been a lengthy process due to varying land ownership along the trail. In addition to private property acquisition, use agreements such as easements and permits have been obtained from the Arizona State Land Department, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, Tonto National Forest, Central Arizona Project, Maricopa County Flood Control District, Maricopa County Department of Transportation, and several municipalities. To date, over $3 million has been spent in land acquisition, construction, and maintenance of the trail, which is approximately 75 percent complete. Project Location The majority of the project would be located within the boundaries of the Tonto National Forest, with the exception of approximately 600 feet located along the south side of Bartlett Dam Road, which is within Maricopa County Department of Transportation right-of-way. The legal description of the location of the project is Township 7N, Range 5E, Sections 14, 15, 23, 26, 35, and 36 and Township 6N, Range 5E, Sections 1, 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 27, and 34.
The project area is situated at an elevation of 2,800 to 3,800 feet above mean sea level and is characterized by low desert surrounded by fault-block mountain ranges (Chronic 1983). The region has high temperatures and generally low precipitation. The project area is located within the foothills and mesas of the Arizona Uplands and the bajada surfaces of the lower desert environmental zones. Dominant vegetation observed along the proposed route for Segment 22 includes turpentine bush, catclaw acacia, agave, paloverde, mesquite, juniper, and several cacti, including cholla and saguaro. The largest drainage in the vicinity of the project area is Camp Creek, and seasonal seeps and springs are present. Topographic features surrounding the project area include Kentuck Mountain to the northeast and Apache Peak to the west.
1
Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map
1 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
Figure 2. Project Area Map, Northern Portion
2 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
Figure 3. Project Area Map, Southern Portion
3 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
(Source: Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department 2016)
Figure 4. Representative Photograph of the Project Area
Need for the Proposal Existing Condition The Maricopa Trail is not yet a complete loop due to a gap in the northeastern portion of the loop, between existing Segments 20 and 23. Segment 20 currently ends at the Bronco Trailhead near Seven Springs Road, and Segment 23 currently ends at the northern extent of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Scottsdale city limits, where it meets the boundary of the Tonto National Forest. Although an earlier version of the Maricopa County Regional Trail System Plan included Segment 21, it was eliminated following the adoption of the Forest Service trails into Segment 20. Several existing trails and unimproved roads are located in this portion of the Tonto National Forest; however, there is no formally designated or maintained route connecting Segments 20 and 23 of the Maricopa Trail. Many of these informal trails are heavily used by off-highway vehicles (OHVs).
The Maricopa Trail is an essential component of Maricopa County’s 2004 Maricopa County Regional Trail System Plan, and the approximately 16-mile Segment 22 is the last notable section to complete the 310-mile loop. By the end of the 2016 fiscal year, Segment 22, which would connect Forest Road (FR) 2047 at the Bronco Trailhead in the Cave Creek Ranger District on the Tonto National Forest to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in the city of Scottsdale, would be the
4 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest only incomplete segment of the Maricopa Trail loop. However, a few spur routes required to access some of the regional parks are slated for future development (Figure 1). Desired Condition In compliance with the Forest Service’s 1985 Tonto National Forest Plan (Forest Plan), as amended, and Maricopa County’s 2004 Maricopa County Regional Trail System Plan, the Cave Creek Ranger District has been working with the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department (Maricopa Parks) for several years to assist with the development of the portions of the Maricopa Trail located on the Tonto National Forest. Segment 20 (approximately 12.7 miles) of the Maricopa Trail is currently located within the Tonto National Forest, from the Maricopa Park’s Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to the Bronco Trailhead. This segment follows existing Forest Service Trails 48, 245, and 247, as authorized by the Cave Creek Ranger District. Development of Segment 22 would be consistent with directives identified in the Forest Plan, including the following Management Directions and Prescriptions:
Provide a transportation system to meet public access, land management, and resource protection needs (Page 30) Respond to requests for rights-of-way grants for roads and trails (Page 67) Forest-wide review of trail transportation planning to identify existing conditions and need for additional trails (Page 68) Construction or reconstruction of trails in either former or new locations to prevent resource degradation and/or promote public safety (Page 78) Identify alternative routes for new trails near urban centers and/or main travel routes (Page 85) Upgrade existing system of trails (Page 169) Purpose of and Need for Action A trail is needed to connect the Bronco Trailhead to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which would complete the portion of the Maricopa Trail on Tonto National Forest land, as well as complete the entire Maricopa Trail loop. There is a need to provide a safe route, as part of a county-wide trail system, that would allow non-motorized access to parks and recreational facilities throughout Maricopa County, as well as portions of the Tonto National Forest that are currently inaccessible by a formal authorized and maintained route. The purpose of the proposed project is to provide a continuous, non-motorized trail that would complete the Maricopa Trail loop. Combined with Segment 20, also located on the Tonto National Forest, this portion of the Maricopa Trail needs to connect Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to the City of Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Segment 23.
The Cave Creek Ranger District has prepared this environmental assessment (EA) in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other relevant federal and state laws, regulations, and policies to disclose the direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental impacts that would result from the proposed action and no action alternatives to determine whether implementation of the development and designation of Segment 22 may significantly affect the quality of the human environment.
5 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
Tribal Consultation and Public Involvement Tonto National Forest has consulted with the State Historic Preservation Office (Preservation Office), the Hopi Tribe, the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, the San Carlos Apache, the White Mountain Apache Tribe, the Yavapai-Prescott Tribe, and the Yavapai-Apache Nation regarding the adequacy of the survey reports and National Register determinations. Two responses were received from the contacted tribes; neither response raised concerns regarding the proposed action. As part of the Section 106 consultation process, the Preservation Office is currently reviewing the cultural resources survey report supporting the Tonto National Forest determination that the proposed action would have no adverse effect on cultural resources, as long as the mitigation measures identified below are followed.
The Forest Service distributed a scoping letter dated April 13, 2015, initiating the NEPA process to authorize the designation and development of the proposed approximately 16-mile trail identified as Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail. Scoping letters were sent to over 200 individuals, property owners, businesses, and organizations, as well as federal, state, tribal, and local agencies. Recipients included the following:
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation The Hopi Tribe Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community San Carlos Apache Tribe Tonto Apache Tribe White Mountain Apache Tribe Yavapai-Apache Nation Yavapai-Prescott Tribe Arizona Department of Environmental Quality Arizona Department of Water Resources Arizona Game and Fish Department Arizona Wildlife Federation Center for Biological Diversity City of Scottsdale Maricopa County Department of Transportation Sierra Club Town of Cave Creek U.S. Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Four responses were received. The White Mountain Apache Tribe expressed they had no concerns with the project. The Fort McDowell-Yavapai Nation and the Maricopa Audubon Society expressed they had no comments. The Desert Mountain Community—a private golf, recreation, and residential community in north Scottsdale, west of the proposed trail alignment—had concerns about using the power line road as part of the trail.
6 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
The Desert Mountain Community was contacted by Tonto National Forest to discuss its concerns about mountain bike travel underneath the power lines, specifically electrostatic shock and visual constraints due to the close proximity of the power lines. Following discussions and a field visit to this portion of the trail, the representative for the Desert Mountain Community was pleased to see that the proposed route did not follow directly underneath the power lines and expressed satisfaction that the community’s initial concerns about mountain bike travel along the power line road were not an issue.
Proposed Action and Alternatives Federal agencies are required to rigorously explore and objectively evaluate all reasonable alternatives and to briefly discuss the reasons for eliminating any alternatives that were not developed in detail (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 1502.14). Public comments received in response to the proposed action alternative, as well as concerns raised by the project interdisciplinary team, were analyzed and considered to determine if there were any unresolved issued related to the proposed action that might warrant the development of additional alternatives. No unresolved issues were raised. The proposed action and a no action are the only alternatives considered in detail. Proposed Action Maricopa Parks and the Tonto National Forest Cave Creek Ranger District are proposing to provide a continuous, non-motorized trail to connect FR 2047 at the Bronco Trailhead in the Cave Creek Ranger District to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in the city of Scottsdale, Arizona. The proposed trail would be identified as Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail System (Segment 22).
Segment 22 would extend from the Bronco Trailhead near Seven Springs Road south to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve’s Dove Valley Trail, which would connect it with Segment 23 of the Maricopa Trail, located approximately a half mile east of Stagecoach Pass Road (Figure 2 and Figure 3). Segment 22 would cross Bartlett Dam Road, near the Cave Creek Ranger District Office, approximately five miles east-northeast of Carefree, Arizona.
The proposed action for the development of Segment 22 would consist of the formal designation and authorization of the design elements necessary to complete the approximately 16-mile trail, consistent with Forest Plan standards, guidelines, and objectives. Segment 22 would include nearly seven miles of existing unimproved roadways on the Tonto National Forest, approximately one mile of existing non-motorized trails, and construction of approximately eight miles of newly developed trail. The trail would provide recreational opportunities for a variety of non-motorized users, including hikers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians. The proposed trail is routed along existing roadways and trails, where practical, to minimize impacts on the forest and native landscape. Inclusion of approximately one mile of existing trails ensures that the trails would be properly designated and maintained by Maricopa Parks, as part of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail. The trail would be designed and constructed to Forest Service standards, which identify a maximum inclination grade of 13 percent. However, Maricopa Parks would design for grades not to exceed ten percent, to the greatest extent possible.
For the eight miles of new trail, construction of the four-foot-wide unpaved path would be completed by Maricopa Parks, with assistance from the Arizona Conservation Corps, a program aimed at connecting youth, young adults, and recent-era military veterans with conservation service work projects on public lands. The trail alignment would be excavated to remove rocks
7 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment and provide a smooth tread. Due to the multitude and size of the rocks in this area, the excavation would average four to fifteen inches deep. Construction of this new trail would not require importing or exporting soil, because any excess soil from excavation would be spread onto the tread. The trail has been routed around vegetation to the greatest extent possible, as well as around identified archaeological sites, and Maricopa Parks would replant disturbed cacti in the vicinity of the project area.
The specific route proposed for Segment 22 is depicted in Figure 2 and Figure 3. In addition to areas requiring construction of new trail, the proposed trail runs along or in proximity to the following unimproved roadways from north to south: FR 2047; a Western Area Power Administration power line road, which corresponds with FRs 1983, 1100, 2055, and 514; and nearly one mile of existing trail. Key crossings include Seven Springs Road near the Bronco Trailhead, a bridge crossing at Sycamore Canyon, FR 1058, the confluence of Camp Creek and Blue Wash, and Bartlett Dam Road. A spur designated as part of Segment 22 would provide access to the Cave Creek Ranger District Office. At the southern extent, Segment 22 ends at a step-over gate along the northern boundary of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, at the Dove Valley Trail. The area evaluated within this environmental assessment is defined as 25 feet on each side of the trail centerline, for a total width of 50 feet encompassing 95.58 acres.
The route from the Bronco Trailhead to Bartlett Dam Road has no current designated use for recreation, even though there are existing routes and trails on the ground. The area south of Bartlett Dam Road is currently heavily used by OHVs, with several routes designated with signs. The proposed Segment 22 trail would intersect OHV routes in this area but would be specifically designed to avoid overlap of these routes in order to reduce safety concerns for non-motorized trail users.
Segment 22 would include trail markers every mile and at intersections (Figure 5), as well as warning signs at the Seven Springs Road crossing and interpretive signs (to include maps and education components) at the Bronco Trailhead and the Cave Creek Ranger District Office. Subsurface disturbance for the trail markers would be minimized to nine to twelve inches below the soil surface. Pipe-rail barriers may be used at intersections with OHV routes to restrict motorized users from accessing the trail in order to ensure the safety of non-motorized trail users. These barriers would also be installed nine to twelve inches deep. In addition, bollards and warning signs would be installed along Bartlett Dam Road at the location of the trail crossing. Maricopa Parks would coordinate with the Maricopa County Department of Transportation regarding the location and installation of the bollards. Construction of Segment 22 would include replacement of the decking of the bridge over Sycamore Creek, which was damaged by fire. New bridge decking would be designed for non-motorized use.
8 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
(Source: Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department 2016; http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/)
Figure 5. Representative Trail Sign for Maricopa Trail
The proposed trail alignment was designed to avoid cultural resource sites, where feasible. To minimize effects to cultural resources in compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act, ground disturbing activities will be confined to the existing, previously disturbed roadbed, where feasible. Ground-disturbing activities associated with new trail construction in the vicinity of identified archeological sites will be subject to archaeological monitoring. If construction of the trail cannot be confined to the existing previously disturbed road at these sites, then that portion of the site within the project area will be subject to appropriate archaeological data recovery program. Signs that provide information about proper archaeological site etiquette and relevant federal laws prohibiting collection of artifacts and disturbance will be installed in locations approved by the Forest Archeologist. A long-term site monitoring program to assess site conditions and document any impacts resulting from the increased site visitation due to use of the trail will be implemented.
Best management practices (BMPs) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Core BMP Technical Guide (April 2012) that apply to the construction of trails include the following, to the greatest extent possible:
Locate trails, routes, and roads on natural benches, ridges, flat slopes near ridges or valley bottoms, and away from stream channels. Archaeological sites encountered will be protected. Trails should be located on well-drained and stable ground, avoiding seeps and other unstable areas.
9 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
Maximize efforts to reduce trail dimensions to that which would adequately fulfill anticipated needs. Minimize excavation with a balanced earthwork design. The area of cut slopes should be minimized in order to reduce erosion and slope instability Large cuts and fill slopes should be stabilized. Drainage features (water bars; designed ditches/channels, etc.) will be provided, as needed, to avoid wash-outs. Trail runoff should be minimized and diverted over stable vegetated areas or riprap. Trail development/maintenance along existing roadways will occur within the existing roadway prism. Minimize impacts on soil and water resources from all ground disturbing activities. Keep the trail open and flowing, and avoid excessive and poor transitions.
The trail has been routed around vegetation to the greatest extent possible. Saguaro cacti would be avoided during trail construction. However, if any saguaro cannot be avoided and must be removed during construction, Maricopa Parks would replace it with a new three-foot saguaro planted near the removal location.
To prevent the introduction of invasive species seeds, all earth-moving and earth-hauling equipment would be washed at the contractor’s storage facility before entering the construction site. To prevent invasive species seeds from leaving the site, the contractor would inspect all construction equipment and remove all attached plant/vegetation and soil/mud debris before leaving the construction site.
A survey for Sonoran desert tortoise burrows would be conducted within the route prism prior to commencement of any ground-disturbing activities. The survey would be conducted by a qualified biologist and would occur no more than six months prior to the start of ground- disturbing activities in any given area. If burrows are found, the final trail alignment would be routed to avoid impacts to the burrows. If any Sonoran desert tortoises are encountered during construction, the contractor would adhere to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Guidelines for Handling Sonoran Desert Tortoises Encountered on Development Projects (revised October 23, 2007).
The contractor would not remove any shrubs, cacti, trees, or large tree limbs between February 1 and August 31 unless a biologist has conducted a bird nest survey of the vegetation to be removed and has determined that no active bird nests are present. Vegetation may be removed if it has been surveyed within ten days before removal as long as only inactive bird nests, if any, are present. Between September 1 and January 31, vegetation removal is not subject to restriction.
Maricopa Parks would comply with all terms and conditions of the Section 404 Nationwide Permit Number 14, as established by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Appendix D). Maricopa Parks would also ensure that a stormwater pollution prevention plan is prepared to meet the requirements of the Arizona Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Construction General Permit. Notices of intent and termination (upon achieving final stabilization) for the project would be prepared and submitted to ADEQ by Maricopa Parks.
10 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
No Action Alternative Under the no action alternative, the designation and development of the approximately 16-mile trail identified as Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail would not occur. There would be no connection of the Bronco Trailhead to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve on Tonto National Forest land. Existing trails and roads in this area would continue to be used; however, existing trails would not be designated or maintained as part of the Maricopa Trail System. The no action alternative would require Maricopa Parks to instead pursue a connecting trail route off Forest.
Environmental Effects of the Proposed Action and No Action Alternatives This section provides the existing or baseline conditions occurring within and around the project area and analyzes the potential impacts associated with the proposed action and no action alternatives. Potential impacts are described in terms of duration, intensity, type (beneficial, neutral, or adverse), and context (site-specific, local, or regional). For the purpose of this analysis, duration of the impact is defined as follows:
Short term: impact that would be less than five years in duration. Long term: impact that would be five years or more in duration.
For the purpose of this analysis, intensity or severity of the impact is defined as follows:
Negligible: impact is barely perceptible or not measurable and is confined to a small area. Minor: impact is perceptible or measurable and is localized. Moderate: impact is clearly detectable or measurable and could have an appreciable effect on the resource or discipline. Major: Impact would have a substantial, highly noticeable influence on the resource or discipline.
Direct and indirect impacts are discussed for each alternative within each resource, as defined below, and cumulative impacts are discussed collectively in the Cumulative Impacts section:
Direct: An effect that is caused by an action and occurs at the same time and at the same place (i.e., construction/establishment of the trail). Indirect: An effect that is caused by an action, but the effect occurs later in time or farther removed in distance and is still reasonably foreseeable (i.e., use of the trail and/or use of alternative trails in the absence of Segment 22). Biological Resources This section describes biological resources that may be affected by implementation of the proposed action alternative. It discusses biological communities; vegetation; noxious, invasive, and non-native plant species; wildlife, habitat, and fisheries; special-status species; management indicator species; and migratory birds. The following biological reports were prepared for the Tonto National Forest as part of this project: Small Project Biological Evaluation Form, Migratory Bird Analysis Form, and Management Indicator Species Analysis.
11 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
Biological Communities
Affected Environment The project area is located within the Sonoran Desert Ecoregion (Marshall et al. 2000), which consists of desert basins and uplands, with scattered low mountain ranges. Topography is mostly hilly, ranging from gentle slopes to steeper hills throughout the project area, with the southern end being fairly flat. Elevation within the project area ranges from 2,800 feet to 3,800 feet, generally increasing from south to north along the proposed trail. Four plant community types are present in the project area: the majority of the proposed trail would wind through Desert communities (12.3 miles), while smaller portions would be located in Semi-Desert Grassland (1.9 miles) and Pinyon-Juniper Chaparral (1.5 miles), and a much smaller portion would be in Pinyon-Juniper Grassland (0.2 miles). Numerous drainages bisect the proposed trail, including Camp Creek, Blue Wash, and many unnamed washes.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative Continued use of the project area is anticipated to continue at its present rate. These effects are reflected in the existing condition. No direct or indirect effects on ecosystems and biological communities are anticipated from the no action alternative, because these resources would remain in their present condition.
Proposed Action Minor, short-term direct and indirect effects on ecosystems and biological communities are anticipated from the proposed action, occurring as site-specific impacts that would result from trail construction (i.e., vegetation removal, soil compaction, and sedimentation1) and increased non-motorized activity (i.e., human use of the trails).
Vegetation
Affected Environment Species vary within the four plant communities in the project area, as the elevation changes along the proposed trail. Dominant vegetation observed along the proposed project includes turpentine bush, catclaw acacia, agave, foothill paloverde, velvet mesquite, buckhorn cholla, saguaro, and juniper.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct effects on vegetation are anticipated from the no action alternative, because vegetation would remain in its present state.
An indirect effect associated with the no action alternative may result from the lack of a formalized trail connecting the Bronco Trailhead to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The lack of this route may encourage the creation of informal trails by users seeking to establish a connection. Forest users walking, biking or riding a horse through habitat could crush vegetation or disturb disbursed seeds on the soil surface. The lack of a designated trail can increase the potential areas
1 More information can be found in the Vegetation and Soils sections.
12 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest this disturbance may occur. Indirect effects on vegetation of the no action alternative are expected to be local, minor, adverse, and short term.
Proposed Action Direct effects associated with the proposed action include minor, short-term adverse disturbance to vegetation. Disturbance to vegetation resulting from trail construction would be limited to the four-foot-wide trail corridor and areas immediately adjacent for the approximately eight miles of new trail. The removal of trees, shrubs, and/or herbaceous species, where needed for the construction of new trail, is not expected to contribute significantly to changes in vegetation in the project area. Vegetation disturbance would be site-specific, minor, adverse, and short term.
A beneficial indirect effect on vegetation may be anticipated from the proposed action, because users would not be as likely to establish informal trails between the Bronco Trailhead and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Reducing the amount of vegetation disturbed as a result of trailblazing is a beneficial indirect effect on vegetation.
Noxious, Invasive, and Non-Native Plant Species
Affected Environment Invasive species have been documented in the vicinity of the project area along Camp Creek in the iMapInvasives database (NatureServe 2016). Invasive species documented within a half mile of the project area include largeleaf periwinkle, great brome, Jerusalem thorn, firethorn, common oleander, buffelgrass, English ivy, sweetclover, and giant reed.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct or indirect effects on noxious, invasive, and non-native plant species are anticipated from the no action alternative, because vegetation would remain in its current state.
Proposed Action To prevent the introduction of invasive species seeds, all earth-moving and earth-hauling equipment would be washed at the contractor’s storage facility before entering the construction site. To prevent invasive species seeds from leaving the site, the contractor would inspect all construction equipment and remove all attached plant/vegetation and soil/mud debris before leaving the construction site.
Direct effects associated with the proposed action include minor, short-term disturbance to vegetation, which may include noxious, invasive, and non-native plant species. The removal of noxious, invasive, and non-native plant species, where needed for the construction of new trail, is not expected to contribute significantly to changes in the overall vegetation of the project area. Direct effects on noxious, invasive, and non-native plant species would be site-specific, minor, beneficial, and short term.
The indirect effects associated with the proposed action include potential increases in people recreating in the project area and introducing new, or contributing to existing populations of, invasive species. However, approximately half of the proposed trail has been routed on existing trail alignments, which are already used for recreational purposes. The potential for introducing or spreading invasive species in the project area may slightly increase due to the increased traffic
13 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment and travel through the project area. However, The Tonto National Forest completed an Environmental Assessment for Integrated Treatment of Noxious or Invasive Plants, and a decision was signed in August 2012. This decision allows the Tonto National Forest to use the full range of tools to manage invasive weed infestations, including manual, mechanical, prescribed fire, biological control, and herbicides. Therefore, if noxious weed populations were to increase, they could be treated with an appropriate and approved method incorporating Best Management Practices. Indirect effects from the project are anticipated to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and long term.
Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat
Affected Environment Game species that occur in the project vicinity include desert mule deer, Coue’s white-tail deer, mountain lion, black bear, javelina, coyote, gray fox, bobcat, raccoon, Gambel’s quail, and dove. Other wildlife species in the project vicinity include mammals such as rock squirrel, antelope ground squirrel, black-tailed jackrabbit, desert cottontail, and white-throated woodrat; birds such as verdin, house finch, black-tailed gnatcatcher, Abert’s towhee, phainopepla, red-tailed hawk, and Cooper’s hawk; and reptiles such as western diamondback, and desert spiny lizard (Brennan, 2008).
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct effects on wildlife, habitat, and fisheries are anticipated from the no action alternative, because conditions would remain in their current state.
An indirect effect associated with the no action alternative may result from the lack of a formalized trail. The lack of this route may encourage the creation of informal trails by users seeking to establish a connection. Forest users walking, biking or riding a horse through habitat could create a temporary disturbance for fish or wildlife, or their prey. The lack of a designated trail can increase the potential areas this temporary disturbance may occur. The indirect effects of the no action alternative are expected to be local, minor, adverse, and short term.
Proposed Action The direct effects associated with the proposed action include temporary disturbance to wildlife foraging and breeding habitat from construction activities associated with building new sections of trail. Disturbance to wildlife habitat resulting from trail construction would be limited to the four-foot-wide trail corridor and areas immediately adjacent. Burrows of fossorial species (those that have limbs and feet adapted for digging), such as the desert tortoise, could be impacted by trail construction activities if present in the project area. The removal of trees, shrubs, or herbaceous species, where needed for the construction of approximately eight miles of new trail, is not expected to contribute substantially to changes in habitat structure or composition in the project area. Habitat disturbances would be site-specific, minor, adverse, and short term.
Potential indirect effects on wildlife, habitat, and fisheries from the proposed action include potential runoff and increased sedimentation for aquatic species present in Camp Creek downslope from construction activities2. While trails are already present in portions of the project
2 More information can be found in the Soils section.
14 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest area, new trails could result in increased human traffic through wildlife habitat once construction is complete. However, a designated trail through this area could result in a positive impact on wildlife and habitat by reducing the establishment of user-created routes and thereby reducing the amount of habitat that may be disturbed over time.
Special-Status Species
Affected Environment The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Information, Planning, and Conservation online decision support system was accessed to obtain an official species list for the project area (Consultation Tracking Number 02EAAZ00-2016-SLI-0464)3. The species list was reviewed to determine whether any of these special-status species have the potential to occur in the project area. In addition, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD) On-Line Environmental Review Tool was accessed to determine whether any special-status species have been documented within three miles of the project area. No critical habitat within five miles of the project area has been designated or proposed under the Endangered Species Act.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service list, special-status species with the potential to occur in the project area include California least tern, yellow-billed cuckoo, Gila topminnow, roundtail chub, Arizona cliffrose, and lesser long-nosed bat. However, no further evaluation was conducted for these species due to the lack of suitable habitat within the project vicinity.
No suitable habitat for federally threatened, endangered, proposed, and candidate species is present in the project area. Suitable habitat for the Sonoran desert tortoise, a candidate conservation agreement species and Forest Service sensitive species, is present in the project limits and surrounding project area, and this species has been documented within three miles of the project vicinity. Although suitable habitat for the lowland leopard frog is present downslope of the project limits in Camp Creek, no suitable habitat is present for this species within the project limits.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct effects on threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive species are anticipated from the no action alternative, because conditions would remain in their current state.
An indirect effect associated with the no action alternative may result from the lack of a formalized trail. The lack of this route may encourage the creation of informal trails by users seeking to establish a connection, which could result in indirect effects on threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive species. The indirect effects of the no action alternative are expected to be local, minor, adverse, and short term.
Proposed Action The direct effects associated with the proposed action include potential impacts on the Sonoran desert tortoise. Sonoran desert tortoises could be present in the project area during construction. A survey for Sonoran desert tortoise burrows would be conducted within the route prism prior to commencement of any ground-disturbing activities. The survey would be conducted by a qualified biologist and would occur no more than six months prior to the start of ground-
3 More information can be found in the Biological Evaluation in the project record.
15 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment disturbing activities in any given area. If burrows are found, the final trail alignment would be routed to avoid impacts to the burrows. If any Sonoran desert tortoises are encountered during construction, the contractor would adhere to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Guidelines for Handling Sonoran Desert Tortoises Encountered on Development Projects (revised October 23, 2007).
Because any tortoise that might be present during construction will be safely relocated by the contractor according to the aforementioned guidelines, adverse impacts on desert tortoises are not anticipated. However, desert tortoise burrows may be present in the project area and could be impacted during construction activities. While trails are already present in portions of the project area, new trails could result in increased human traffic through Sonoran desert tortoise habitat once construction is complete. However, a designated trail through this area could result in a positive impact to these species and their habitat by reducing the establishment of user-created routes.
The Arizona Interagency Desert Tortoise Team’s Candidate Conservation Agreement for the Sonoran Desert Tortoise in Arizona, which was finalized in May 2015, provides conservation measures for the main Sonoran desert tortoise stressors by forest. In the Tonto National Forest, related conservation measures involve controlling invasive plant species. Mitigation measures to prevent the spread of invasive species are included in this proposed action. Therefore, impacts on the Sonoran desert tortoise from the proposed project are expected to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and short term.
No suitable habitat is present for the lowland leopard frog within the project limits. However, suitable habitat for the lowland leopard frog is present downslope of the project limits in Camp Creek. Potential indirect effects from the proposed action include potential runoff and increased sedimentation to Camp Creek, where there is suitable habitat for the lowland leopard frog downslope from construction activities. Runoff and increased sedimentation may have a temporary minor effect on this habitat, but is not anticipated to impact this species. No impacts are expected to lowland leopard frog from general use of the proposed trail over current conditions. Therefore, impacts to lowland leopard frog from the proposed action are anticipated to be negligible, adverse, and short-term.
Management Indicator Species
Affected Environment The Forest Plan identifies 29 individual species, as well as aquatic macroinvertebrates, as forest- wide management indicator species. These management indicator species were selected to help monitor the effects of implementing the Forest Plan and subsequent actions on wildlife habitat and species diversity. These indicator species reflect general habitat conditions or habitat components that are of value to these and other species with similar habitat needs. Only species found within indicator habitat (vegetation) types present in the project area and affected by project actions were analyzed4. Site-specific occurrence records are not available for most of the identified management indicator species, but each species’ occurrence in its respective habitat is generally assumed.
4 More information can be found in the Management Indicator Species Analysis in the project record.
16 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
Management indicator species habitats evaluated for this project are included in Table 1.
Table 1. Management Indicator Species and Habitats Evaluated for This Project Habitat Type/MIS Indicator of: Spotted towhee Shrub density Chaparral Black-chinned sparrow Shrub diversity Savannah sparrow Grass species diversity Desert Grassland Horned lark Vegetation aspect Black-throated sparrow Shrub diversity Desertscrub Canyon towhee Ground cover
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct or indirect effects on management indicator species are anticipated from the no action alternative, because conditions would remain in their current state.
Proposed Action The direct effects associated with the construction activities in the proposed action include disturbance of up to one acre of chaparral habitat for spotted towhee and black-chinned sparrow, up to one acre of desert grassland habitat for savannah sparrow and horned lark, and up to six acres of desertscrub habitat for black-throated sparrow and canyon towhee. Impacts on management indicator species from the proposed action are expected to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and long term.
No indirect effects on management indicator species are anticipated from the proposed action, because impacts would be limited to construction activities.
Migratory Birds
Affected Environment Specific birds are given special provisions under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. In addition, Executive Order 13186 (Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds) imposes the following procedural requirements on project-level analyses for migratory birds:
An evaluation of the effects of agency actions and plans on migratory birds, with an emphasis on species of concern.
Identification of conditions where unintentional take reasonably attributable to agency action is having, or is likely to have, a measurable negative effect on migratory bird populations.
These requirements are fulfilled by (1) analyzing and disclosing the project’s effects on Tonto National Forest migratory bird species of concern; (2) identifying any Important Bird Areas or overwintering areas that exist within or near the project area, and analyzing and disclosing effects as appropriate; (3) identifying opportunities to restore or enhance migratory bird habitat or mitigate negative project effects, and including these activities in the project plan; and (4) retaining adequate levels of snags and dead and downed wood.
17 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
The Tonto National Forest has a list of migratory bird species of concern organized by vegetation type. Within Interior Chaparral, the list includes black-chinned sparrow. Within Sonoran Desertscrub, bird species listed include golden eagle, peregrine falcon, prairie falcon, gilded flicker, Costa’s hummingbird, purple martin, elf owl, phainopepla, Bendire’s thrasher, canyon towhee, and Gila woodpecker.
To evaluate the effects of the agency action on particular migratory bird species, species habitat was used as a basis for analysis. That is, migratory bird species of concern were analyzed if their habitat is within the action area. Corman and Wise-Gervais’s (2005) habitat classifications were used, and determined a species associated habitat by its most common occurrence in 1-4 habitat types. Because certain species were found in more than one type of habitat, many bird species were classified in multiple habitat types5.
No Important Bird Areas or overwintering areas are present within or near the project area. Few snags and downed logs are present in the project area. Those present are located in the northern portion of the project area, where vegetation has recently burned.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct or indirect effects on migratory birds are anticipated from the no action alternative, as conditions would remain in their current state.
Proposed Action The direct effects associated with the proposed trail construction include disturbance of up to one acre of chaparral habitat, up to one acre of desert grassland habitat, and up to six acres of desertscrub habitat. However, these acreages reflect only areas of new trail construction and therefore highly overestimate the actual disturbance because portions of the proposed trail follow existing trails and no vegetation removal would be required in these areas. Snags and dead and downed wood are considered an important habitat component for migratory birds within these habitat types. No measureable negative effects will occur to snags and dead & downed wood because the project will occur primarily within a shrub-dominated vegetation community where few snags or downed logs are present. Due to the sparseness of snags and downed logs, it is anticipated that very few, if any, would be impacted by the proposed action alternative. Impacts on migratory birds from the proposed action are expected to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and long term.
No indirect effects on migratory birds are anticipated from the proposed action, as impacts would be limited to construction activities. Cultural Resources Cultural resources consist of archaeological and historic sites and traditional cultural properties, including contemporary tribal uses of natural, archaeological, and historic resources. The Forest Plan specifies that “the preferred management of sites listed in, nominated to, eligible for, or potentially eligible for the National Register [of Historic Places] is avoidance and protection” (Forest Service 1985: Page 38-1). It further states that “Preservation of Heritage resources in place will become increasingly important under the following conditions [including] where the
5 More information can be found in the Migratory Bird Analysis Form in the project record.
18 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest cultural values derive primarily from the qualities other than research potential, and where those values are fully realized only when the cultural remains exist undisturbed in their original context(s)” (Forest Service 1985: Page 38-1).
According to Forest Service Manual Section 2364, “Protection and Stewardship” (Forest Service 2008: Page 50), the first three objectives for the protection and stewardship of cultural resources are as follows:
Protect cultural resources in a manner consistent with their National Register qualities and management allocations. Avoid or minimize the effects of Forest Service or Forest Service-authorized land use decisions and management activities on cultural resources. Safeguard cultural resources on National Forest System lands from unauthorized or improper uses and environmental degradation. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and NEPA require federal agencies to take into account the effects of their undertakings on historic properties and afford the State Historic Preservation Office (Preservation Office) and other interested parties opportunity to comment on such undertakings. To comply with these laws, an assessment of cultural resources was completed for this project. Regulations for Protection of Historic Properties (36 CFR Part 800) implement Section 106 of the NHPA. These regulations define a process for federal agencies to follow as federal projects are planned and implemented.
Historic properties include prehistoric and historic districts, sites, buildings, structures, or objects included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. Historic properties may be eligible for nomination to the National Register if they possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association and meet at least one of the following criteria:
Criterion A—be associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history Criterion B—be associated with the lives of persons significant in our past Criterion C—embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction; or represent the work of a master; or possess high artistic values; or represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction Criterion D—have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history
Affected Environment A cultural resources inventory of the entire project area was conducted in 2015, which resulted in the identification of 13 cultural resource sites, including eight sites that are eligible for inclusion in the National Register, four sites that are not eligible for inclusion in the National Register, and one site that is of indeterminate National Register eligibility (Bustoz 2016). Generally, the northern portion of the project vicinity has many Hohokam habitation sites, which include the Sycamore Canyon Ruin (Classic-period pueblo with 50 rooms) and the Sears-Kay Ruin (Sedentary-period ruin that is listed on the National Register). The southern lowland portion of the area has fewer long-term habitation sites and includes small and large artifact scatters consistent with the remains of seasonal resource locations (Bustoz 2016).
19 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
Establishment of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail has the potential to impact eight archaeological sites that have been recommended eligible for listing on the National Register under Criterion D for their potential to provide important information regarding prehistoric occupation of the area through archaeological research. Most of the sites have already been impacted by existing roads, OHV traffic, original construction of the electrical transmission line, and/or erosion. Some of the more prominent sites have also been previously looted.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative Impacts on cultural resources, especially archaeological sites, can be generally defined as anything that results in the removal of, displacement of, or damage to artifacts, features, or stratigraphic deposits of cultural material. In the case of cultural resources that are considered eligible for inclusion in the National Register, this can also include alterations of a property’s setting or context.
Direct effects on cultural resources from the no action alternative include the continued removal of, displacement of, or damage to artifacts, features, or stratigraphic deposits of cultural material by looters and OHV use as a result of continued unrestricted access. These direct impacts on cultural sites have been ongoing through use of existing roads and construction of utility infrastructure. Direct effects on cultural resources from the no action alternative are expected to be local, minor, adverse, and long term.
Indirect effects from the no action alternative include lack of site monitoring and lack of opportunities to educate the public on the culture history of the region and on archaeological site etiquette. Indirect effects on cultural resources from the no action alternative are expected to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and long term.
Proposed Action The proposed trail alignment was routed around identified cultural resources and, in some cases, was shifted to align with existing unimproved roadways to avoid impacts on archaeological sites. However, direct effects of the proposed action on cultural resources—including the potential removal of, displacement of, or damage to artifacts, features, or stratigraphic deposits of cultural material related to construction of approximately eight miles of new trail and increased site visitation due to use of the trail—are possible. Although there is the potential for direct effects on cultural resources, impacts on cultural resources from the proposed action are expected to be site- specific and long term but not adverse if identified mitigation measures are implemented.
Though the presence of a designated trail will not preclude forest users from continuing to walk off trail and potentially disturbing cultural resources, the proposed action would have the indirect benefit of increasing public awareness of the importance of archaeological sites through educational signs and promoting site stewardship through public vigilance and site monitoring programs. Indirect effects from the project are anticipated to be site-specific, minor, beneficial, and long term.
20 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
Soils
Affected Environment Soils within the project area are predominantly classified as Aridisols, Alfisols, and Inceptisols, with Mollisol and Entisol soils also present, primarily near drainage areas. Soils on the Tonto National Forest are generally formed in sedimentary rocks, including sandstone, limestone, and conglomerates. Soil texture is predominantly medium and fine textured. Soil depths are generally shallow but moderately deep in most upland areas and deeper in low-lying areas (Forest Service 2014).
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct effects on soils are anticipated from the no action alternative, because conditions would remain in their current state.
An indirect effect associated with the no action alternative may result from the lack of a formalized trail. The lack of this route may encourage the creation of informal trails by users seeking to establish a connection. Removal or degradation of vegetation during the establishment of unauthorized trails would impact soils and could lead to localized soil erosion downslope from the unauthorized trails. The indirect effects of the no action alternative are expected to be local, minor, adverse, and long term.
Proposed Action Due to the multitude and size of rocks in the project area, direct effects on soils from the proposed action include the excavation of approximately four inches to 15 inches of surface soil associated with the approximately eight miles of new trail construction. Soil disturbance associated with the construction of the new trail and use of Segment 22 may include the following soil-compaction effects: loss of soils; changes in microbial activity, which drives ecosystem process such as nutrient cycling and decomposition; root exposure; and soil erosion. No soil would be exported or imported for construction of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail because any excess material would be spread onto the tread of the new path. Following implementation of Best Management Practices, direct impacts on soils from the proposed action are expected to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and short term.
Signs would consist of trail markers every mile and at intersections, as well as interpretive signs at the Bronco Trailhead and the Cave Creek Ranger Station. The subsurface disturbance for the trail markers and signs would be minimized to approximately nine inches to 12 inches to ensure little or no impact. Pipe-rail barriers may also be installed at approximate depths of nine to 12 inches at intersections where OHV paths cross the Maricopa Trail. The pipe-rail barriers would be installed to ensure visitor safety and to keep motorized vehicles off the non-motorized trail. Direct effects associated with the excavation of soils for the installation of signs and pipe-rail barriers are expected to be minor and short term, because the Best Management Practices described below would be followed to the greatest extent possible and excavated soils would not be removed from the project area.
Indirect effects on soils from the proposed action include increased soil compaction from increased human traffic on the constructed trail. Soil erosion may be enhanced by trail usage, because compacted soils reduce soil porosity and lead to increased overland water flow.
21 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
According to the Maricopa County Regional Trail System Plan, “precipitous topography of this portion of the regional trail, especially in the section from the Spur Cross Boundary to Bartlett Dam Road, means the trail slopes will exceed the recommended slope limits as set forth in the plan’s design guidelines” (Maricopa Parks 2004: Page 39). However, Maricopa Parks would design for inclination grades not to exceed ten percent, to the greatest extent possible, and would incorporate Best Management Practices and sustainable trail development practices to minimize erosion. With the incorporation of the Best Management Practices described below, the direct and indirect impacts on soils are expected to be minimal. Indirect effects of the proposed action on soils are anticipated to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and long term. Socioeconomic Conditions
Affected Environment The majority of the project area is within the Cave Creek Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest. Although a few residences occur on out-parcels within the Tonto National Forest, the majority of the area is used for National Forest management and recreation-based purposes. Immediately southwest of the Tonto National Forest are the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree, as well as the city of Scottsdale farther to the south-southwest, which are all part of the larger Phoenix metropolitan area. The portion of the Tonto National Forest where the project area is located is within the Maricopa County boundary.
Maricopa County is home to one of the largest regional park systems (120,000 acres) in the United States, and the regional parks in the system were visited by over 2.1 million people in 2013 (Maricopa Parks 2016). The parks include hundreds of miles of scenic trails for non- motorized use only, as well as campgrounds, picnic areas, and nature centers. Fees associated with the regional parks include day-use fees, activity fees, camping fees, and annual passes, although no fees are required for the connector trails, including the Maricopa Trail, between the regional parks. All of the proceeds from pass sales are used to improve and enhance visitor recreation services (Maricopa Parks 2016). Maricopa Parks operates with a crew of nearly 80 full-time employees and relies on numerous park hosts and volunteers to keep operating costs low (Maricopa Parks 2016).
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative The direct effects associated with the no action alternative would include lost financial capital for Maricopa Parks because a great deal of time and resources have been spent on the construction and land acquisition associated with the entire Maricopa Trail, including coordination with the Cave Creek Ranger District. Existing trails and roads in this area would continue to be used; however, existing trails would not be designated or maintained as part of the Maricopa Trail. Maricopa Parks may abandon Forest Service Trails 48, 245 and 247 that currently connect the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to the Bronco Trailhead, because there would be no further connecting trails to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The responsibility for the maintenance of these trails would revert to the Tonto National Forest.
With the no action alternative, the completion of a continuous non-motorized loop trail around the Phoenix metropolitan area would be set back several years. If this alternative is chosen, Maricopa Parks would need to explore new alternative routes along existing roadways to make the connection from the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
22 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
This would require developing agreements with the Towns of Cave Creek and Carefree to use existing roadways to connect the Maricopa Trail segments, locating new routes, land surveying for the development of plats, preparing legal descriptions, conducting environmental investigations, and receiving approvals from town councils and the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. Direct effects on socioeconomics from the no action alternative are expected to be regional, moderate, adverse, and long term.
An indirect effect of the no action alternative may result from the lack of a formalized trail connecting the Bronco Trailhead to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The lack of this route may encourage users seeking a connection to create informal trails, which would be in conflict with the goals and policies of the Forest Plan and the Maricopa Regional Trail System Plan. Indirect effects on socioeconomics from the no action alternative are expected to be local, minor, adverse, and long term.
Proposed Action Direct effects associated with the proposed action consist of a reduction in the time and cost associated with the maintenance of the proposed trail by the Cave Creek Ranger District. According to the agreement between Maricopa Parks and the Tonto National Forest, the Cave Creek Ranger District is relieved of trail maintenance responsibility, because Maricopa Parks would maintain the entire extent of the Maricopa Trail located on the Tonto National Forest. Impacts on socioeconomics from the proposed action are expected to be local, minor, beneficial, and long term.
The indirect effects associated with the proposed action include potential increases in tourism for the Phoenix metropolitan area, because recreational opportunities in Maricopa County would be expanded with the construction of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail. Expansion of the trail as part of the proposed action would also provide Maricopa County residents with increased recreational opportunities on the Tonto National Forest. Interpretive and/or educational signs will be incorporated along the route to provide an enhanced visitor experience. Indirect effects from the project are anticipated to be regional, minor, beneficial, and long term. Recreation Resources
Affected Environment Tonto National Forest consists of 2,873,292 acres in central Arizona and is the largest of six national forests in Arizona. The Tonto National Forest is diverse in vegetation and geology, with elevations ranging from 1,400 feet in the Sonoran Desert to 7,400 feet in the ponderosa pine forests of the Mogollon Rim. As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most visited “urban” forests, with approximately 5.8 million visitors annually (Tonto National Forest 2016). The Tonto National Forest balances numerous competing land uses, including protecting watersheds and wilderness, preserving archaeological and historic sites, and managing recreation areas for numerous types of users. The project area is located in the Cave Creek Ranger District, which is the western most of the six districts.
The project area is not located within a specially designated management area, and land use within the project area is a combination of unimproved roads and trails, as well as undeveloped land. There are no inhabited structures within the project area. Nearly half of the proposed trail follows unimproved forest roads, as well as an unimproved road authorized by Tonto National Forest for Western Area Power Administration to access and maintain its transmission line,
23 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment structures, and utility corridor on Forest Service lands. Undeveloped land primarily consists of desert landscape.
The Maricopa Trail currently ends in the northern portion of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve at Scottsdale city limits where it meets the boundary of the Tonto National Forest. The Maricopa Trail also ends at the Bronco Trailhead, on the Tonto National Forest near Seven Springs Road. Seven Springs Road is a multiuse road for access to private property, range improvements, administrative sites, mining resources, and recreation sites; it is used by recreationists, hunters, Forest Service staff, private landowners and OHV users among others (Forest Service 2014: Page 74).
Within the southern portion of the project area, the proposed trail crosses North Pinnacle Peak Power Line Road multiple times, which is an unimproved and unpaved one-lane access road for the purpose of transmission line corridor access. North of FR 205 (Bartlett Dam Road), North Pinnacle Peak Power Line Road becomes North Flagstaff Power Line Road, and the proposed trail generally parallels this road for approximately 1.5 miles.
Recreational activities within Tonto National Forest consist of but are not limited to sightseeing, camping, hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, bicycling, backpacking, bird watching, climbing, OHV riding, photography, hunting, and fishing. Water-based recreational activities include fishing, boating, water skiing, swimming, and rafting.
There are numerous recreational opportunities and activities that attract visitors from throughout the region and beyond. According to the Outdoor Foundation (2014), “more Americans ages six and older are engaging in the following trail-related outdoor activities than they did in 2010: backpacking (an 8.6 percent increase), mountain biking or biking on an unpaved surface (a 19.0 percent increase), bird watching (a 6.0 percent increase), hiking (a 5.7 percent increase), recreational kayaking (a 34.8 percent increase), and trail running (a 32.2 percent increase)” (cited in Arizona State Parks 2015: Page 2).
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative The Tonto National Forest’s Cave Creek Ranger District would continue to be responsible for the maintenance of existing trails and forest roads, but a new connector trail between the Bronco Trailhead and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve would not be established.
This would delay the completion of the 310-mile Maricopa Trail loop, because Maricopa Parks would need to explore new alternative routes along existing roadways to make the connection from the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This would require developing agreements with the Towns of Cave Creek and Carefree, field locating new routes, land surveying for the development of plats, preparing legal descriptions, conducting environmental investigations, and receiving approvals from town councils and the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. Maricopa Parks may abandon Forest Service Trails 48, 245 and 247 that currently connect the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to the Bronco Trailhead, because there would be no further connecting trails to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The responsibility for the maintenance of these trails would revert to the Tonto National Forest. The lack of a formalized trail connecting the Bronco Trailhead to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve may encourage the creation of informal trails by users seeking to establish a connection, which
24 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest would be in conflict with the goals and policies of the Forest Plan and the Maricopa Regional Trail System Plan.
Additional effects on transportation networks from the no action alternative include the potential expansion of the Maricopa Trail to existing roadways through the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree. If the Maricopa Trail were to follow existing roadways, the environment would be less safe, less healthy, and less enjoyable for users of the trail.
Effects would also include a continuing lack of designated non-motorized recreational opportunities in the project vicinity. It is unlikely that Tonto National Forest would be constructing new trails in the project vicinity in the near future due to budget constraints. The lack of connectivity to other recreational opportunities in regional parks and natural areas would continue with the no action alternative. If the no action alternative is selected, Maricopa Parks would seek to reroute the Maricopa Trail through the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree by using existing roadways, thereby eliminating connectivity to the Tonto National Forest by the Maricopa Trail. Direct and indirect effects of the no action alternative on recreation are expected to be regional, minor, adverse, and long term.
Proposed Action Direct and indirect effects on recreation from the proposed action include expanding recreational opportunities for a variety of non-motorized users within the project vicinity. Designation and development of Segment 22 in the proposed location would have the direct effect of improving connectivity to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and other regional parks located along the Maricopa Trail, providing users with greater access to natural areas. The proposed action complies with the Forest Plan’s Outdoor Recreation prescription to “maintain and enhance visual resource values by emphasizing recreation resource management which will increase opportunities for a variety of developed and dispersed experiences” (Forest Plan: Page 30). The proposed action would also meet the Forest Plan’s objectives to “provide those developed sites needed to meet most of the public demand and to support dispersed visitor use” (Forest Plan: Page 30).
At the north end of the project area, Seven Springs Road is already used for a multitude of purposes, and increases in traffic associated with the proposed action are expected to be minimal. At the southern end of the project area, the trail would connect to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve’s Dove Valley Trail (consistent with Segment 23 of the Maricopa Trail) where motorized travel is not allowed with the only exception being use by Western Area Power Administration, as needed to service the power line.
The proposed action is consistent with management prescriptions identified in the 1985 Forest Plan and with goals identified in the 2004 Maricopa County Regional Trail System Plan. Maricopa Parks would assist Tonto National Forest by providing maintenance and management of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail, which would complete the approximately 310-mile loop that has been the centerpiece of a comprehensive system of trails throughout Maricopa County for over a decade. Direct and indirect effects of the proposed action on recreation are expected to be regional, minor, beneficial, and long term.
The proposed action is consistent with the following public issues, management concerns, and management prescriptions identified in the Forest Plan:
25 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
Demand for developed recreation opportunity exceeds supply. Quality of dispersed recreation opportunities is declining (Page 16). The need for developed recreation sites will continue to increase as the Phoenix metropolitan area grows. Potential supply is adequate to meet developed recreation use (Page 26).
The proposed action is consistent with the following transportation and recreation goals identified in the Maricopa County Regional Trail System Plan in which Segment 22 was identified as Priority 1(Maricopa Parks 2004):
Provide an efficient, cost effective, integrated, accessible, environmentally sensitive, and safe County-wide multi-modal system that addresses existing and future roadway networks as well as promotes transit, bikeways, and pedestrian travel (Page 7). This route was chosen for the variety of recreational opportunities offered to Maricopa Trail users, as well as its connectivity (Page 39). Visitor Safety
Affected Environment The Cave Creek Ranger District provides numerous recreational opportunities for residents of the Phoenix metropolitan area, as well as regional and out-of-state visitors. At the northern portion of the project area, near the Bronco Trailhead, there currently exists a Forest Service facility that includes restrooms, a parking area, and horse corrals. This facility provides access to trails in this area of the Tonto National Forest, as well as amenities and staging areas to assist with public safety in the case of an emergency. The area south of Bartlett Dam Road is heavily used by OHVs, with several routes designated by signs.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative Direct and indirect effects of the no action alternative on visitor safety consist of the lack of a formally designated route for non-motorized use. Currently, hikers that seek to travel between McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Bronco Trailhead must travel along routes open to OHV users, putting them at risk of injury. In addition, if the no action alternative is selected, the Maricopa Trail connection between the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and McDowell Sonoran Preserve would be rerouted along existing roadways through the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree, which would increase safety concerns for trail users. Direct and indirect effects of the no action alternative on visitor safety are expected to be regional, minor, adverse, and long term.
Proposed Action Direct and indirect effects associated with the proposed action include the development of an engineered, safe route dedicated to non-motorized users of the Maricopa Trail. The Cave Creek Ranger Station is located approximately two-thirds of the way south from the Bronco Trailhead on the proposed Segment 22 route of the Maricopa Trail, or approximately one-third of the way north from the southern end of the trail. This provides a safe way for users to exit the trail, while also providing a connection to the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve trail system and the Cave Creek trail system. Signs would consist of trail markers every mile and at intersections, with the
26 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest addition of warning signs at the Seven Springs Road and Bartlett Road crossings and interpretive signs at the Bronco Trailhead and Cave Creek Ranger Station. Signs would help trail users know where they are while using the trail and would provide for a safer user experience. Interpretive signs would include mapping and educational components.
Segment 22 would be routed along the south side of Bartlett Dam Road, within Maricopa County Department of Transportation right-of-way, for approximately 600 feet to provide a safe crossing of Bartlett Dam Road. Bollards and warning signs would be installed along Bartlett Dam Road at the location of the pedestrian crossing, and pipe-rail barriers would be installed at intersections with OHV routes, as needed, to restrict motorized users from accessing the trail. The proposed trail route would cross the OHV routes south of Bartlett Dam Road but would not travel along these routes.
Maricopa Parks would design for inclination grades not to exceed ten percent, to the greatest extent possible, and trail markers would be included every mile and at intersections. The proposed action is consistent with the following statement from the Challenge Cost Share Agreement between Maricopa County, a Political Subdivision of the State of Arizona and the USDA, Forest Service, Tonto National Forest (Forest Service 2014: Page 1): “The Maricopa Trail will link and assist communities to become more livable and provide enhanced health, informed learning, increased recreational opportunities and an abundant natural environmental amenity.” Direct and indirect effects of the proposed action on visitor safety are expected to be regional, minor, beneficial, and long term.
The proposed action is consistent with the following public issues, management concerns, and management prescriptions identified in the Forest Plan (Forest Service 1985):
Construct or reconstruct trails in either former or new locations to promote public safety (Page 80). Trail reconstruction or maintenance will be performed to correct public safety deficiencies or overt resource damage (Page 215). Water Resources
Surface Water
Affected Environment Surface water includes water present above the soil surface such as rivers, streams, lakes, pools, and stormwater runoff. Sycamore Canyon, Camp Creek, and 17 unnamed washes cross the project area. These ephemeral washes are normally dry and flow only in response to precipitation events when they convey storm flows southeast to the Verde River. These washes are potential waters of the United States and jurisdictional under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Based on a review of ADEQ’s current 303(d) list of impaired waterbodies for Arizona (ADEQ 2016), no impaired or outstanding waterbodies exist with the project area.
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative Current use of the project area would continue. Current use has not resulted in waterbody impairment and is reflected in the existing condition. No direct or indirect effects on water
27 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment resources within the project area are anticipated from the no action alternative, because conditions would remain in their current state.
Proposed Action Construction of the proposed trail would involve work within potential jurisdictional waters of the United States, resulting in a minor, short-term impact. Waters of the United States are regulated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act; therefore, a Section 404 Permit would be required. The activities proposed for the project meet the conditions of Nationwide Permit Number 14 (Linear Transportation Projects). All construction activities would comply with the terms and conditions of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 Permit and would be conditionally certified under ADEQ’s Section 401 Water Quality Certification Program.
Because more than one acre of land would be disturbed, an Arizona Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Construction General Permit would be required. To comply with the terms and conditions of the permit, discharges of dredged or fill material (including all earthwork activities, such as clearing, grading, filling, and excavating) into watercourses would be minimized or avoided to the maximum extent practicable and would not involve the use of unsuitable material or toxic pollutants in toxic amounts. In addition, no excess concrete, curing agents, formwork, loose embankment materials, or fuel would be disposed of within the project area. As part of the Arizona Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Construction General Permit, a stormwater pollution prevention plan would be prepared and implemented, which would minimize the transport of sediment by requiring the contractor to use stormwater and erosion control Best Management Practices. Direct and indirect effects of the proposed action on surface water are expected to be site-specific, minor, adverse, and short term.
Groundwater
Affected Environment Groundwater is water that flows below the soil surface that can be collected by underground wells or other water-collection facilities. The Safe Drinking Water Act was established to protect the quality of drinking water in the United States. This applies to all waters potentially designed for drinking, including aboveground and underground sources.
Maricopa Trail Segment 22 is located within the Phoenix Active Management Area, which collectively includes most of the state’s largest urbanized areas (Arizona Department of Water Resources 2010). The active management areas are composed of five groundwater basins which are located in the central and south central parts of the state. The Phoenix Active Management Area, which is the largest active management area basin at approximately 5,646 square miles, contains the Salt and Verde watersheds. Most of the Phoenix Active Management Area is located in the Basin and Range physiographic province, which is characterized by broad, gently sloping alluvial basins separated by north to northwest trending fault-block mountains (Arizona Department of Water Resources 2010). Depth to groundwater ranges from below ground surface to more than 800 feet below ground surface. The project area is not located in an area designated as a sole source aquifer (an area afforded additional protection).
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Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct or indirect effects on groundwater within the project area are anticipated from the no action alternative, because conditions would remain in their current state.
Proposed Action No direct or indirect effects on groundwater within the project area are anticipated from the proposed action. The proposed action would not alter the recharge ability for any groundwater basin located within the project area.
Wetlands/Riparian Areas/Floodplains
Affected Environment The Clean Water Act identifies conditions under which a permit is required for construction projects that result in the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States. Furthermore, Executive Order 11990 (Protection of Wetlands) requires that federal agencies consider alternatives which limit potential damage if effects on wetlands cannot be avoided. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 is intended to protect national wild and scenic rivers and requires consideration when planning water resources projects. Based on a site visit and a review of current aerial photographs, there are no potential wetlands within the project area. In addition, a review of the online National Wetlands Inventory maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2016) indicates that there are no wetlands within the project limits. There are no wild and scenic rivers or surface bodies of water within or near the project vicinity.
Executive Order 11988 (Floodplain Management) requires federal agencies to avoid, to the extent possible, the long- and short-term adverse impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of floodplains and to avoid direct and indirect support of floodplain development wherever there is a practicable alternative.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Flood Map Service Center, the project area is located within panel numbers 04013C0525L, 04013C0910L, 04013C0902L, and 04013C0904L—all of which have an effective date of October 16, 2013. Panel 04013C0525L is not printed and is therefore given a Zone D designation. Panels 04013C0525L and 04013C0910L show the project area being within Zone D. The Zone D designation is used for areas where there are possible but undetermined flood hazards, because no analysis of flood hazard has been conducted.
Approximately a half mile southeast of the Cave Creek Ranger District office the project area crosses a Camp Creek tributary and is identified on Panel 04013C0902L as Zone A, an area with a one percent chance of annual flood, also known as a 100-year floodplain. Since the area is categorized as Zone A, no base flood elevations have been determined. The southern portion of the project area is covered in Panel 04013C0904L and is located within an area with a 0.2 percent chance of an annual flood, also known as a 500-year floodplain.
29 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
Direct and Indirect Effects
No Action Alternative No direct or indirect effects on wetlands, riparian areas, and floodplains within the project area are anticipated from the no action alternative, because conditions would remain in the present state.
Proposed Action No direct effects on wetlands or riparian areas within the project area are anticipated from the proposed action. The proposed action is not expected to result in increased development within the floodplain. The project elements proposed within the 100-year floodplain would be limited to minor ground disturbance to establish the trail. This improvement would potentially result in a short-term, minor disruption to the floodplain, where construction activities would be within the 100-year floodplain. No long-term effects on flood flows or flood elevations are anticipated as a result of the proposed action, because the project would not permanently impede or redirect flows. Overall, construction of the proposed action would result in site-specific, short-term, minor adverse impacts on the 100- and 500-year floodplains, which would cease upon completion of construction.
No indirect effects on wetlands, riparian areas, and 100- or 500-year floodplains within the project area are anticipated from the proposed action, because impacts would be limited to construction activities.
Cumulative Impacts The Council on Environmental Quality’s NEPA regulations state that cumulative impacts on the environment are those which result “from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions regardless of what agency (Federal or non-Federal) or person undertakes such actions” (40 CFR 1508.7). Because the existing conditions of the environment reflect the aggregate impact of all prior human actions and natural events that have affected the environment, this analysis relies on current environmental conditions as a proxy for the impact of past actions. This is consistent with a Council on Environmental Quality interpretive memorandum from June 24, 2005, which states that “agencies can conduct an adequate cumulative effects analysis by focusing on the current aggregate effects of past actions without delving into the historical details of individual past actions” (Council on Environmental Quality 2005: Page 2).
Present actions within the project area are described in the Recreation section of this environmental assessment.
Future actions in the project vicinity include the construction of a new housing development (Wildcat Hill subdivision) with approximately 122 new homes, bordering the Tonto National Forest to the south of Bartlett Dam Road and west of the project area. The proposed action to build Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail could have a beneficial impact on the housing community since it would provide more outdoor recreation options and connections to other trails in the Cave Creek Ranger District and McDowell Sonoran Preserve. West of the project area, the City of Scottsdale plans to establish the Desert Foothills Scenic Drive for approximately 12 miles along Scottsdale Road between Happy Valley Road and Carefree Highway. The main viewing area to
30 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest the east of the scenic drive would be Pinnacle Peak. It is highly unlikely that motorists using the future Desert Foothills Scenic Drive would be able to see trail users. Therefore, cumulative effects on visual quality in the project area are not anticipated.
Within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the Fraesfield and Granite Mountain Trailheads are two of 11 trailheads that provide public access to the preserve. The City of Scottsdale has begun working on preparing master plans for permanent improvements at the trailheads. In 2013, preliminary improvements were completed at each site, including access control gates, gravel surfacing for dust control, and pipe-rail fencing to prevent motor vehicles from leaving designated parking areas. These improvements are also recreational in nature and illustrate that similar types of trail improvements are being completed in the project vicinity. Since the effects on soils, recreation, and visitor safety would be mitigated through the design of those projects, as would effects on these resources in the Segment 22 project area, no cumulative effects are expected from the proposed action.
Existing trails proposed for use with the action described in this environmental assessment were not identified in the Travel Management on the Tonto National Forest: Draft Record of Decision (Forest Service 2016) as trails to be decommissioned or set for a conversion of a specific use or restriction. The portion of the proposed Segment 22 route that would overlap with the motorized routes considered in the Tonto National Forest’s Travel Management Project is proposed to be designated for administrative use only. Since this project concerns only non-motorized recreation, the effects of the proposed action would therefore not overlap or cumulatively affect those in the Draft Record of Decision.
Finding of No Significant Impact The Cave Creek District Ranger—the responsible official for authorizing the development of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail on the Tonto National Forest—is responsible for evaluating the effects of the project relative to the definition of significance established by the Council on Environmental Quality’s National Environmental Policy Act regulations (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR]1508.13). This environmental assessment (EA) for the designation and development of the approximately 16-mile Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail, including the incorporated reports and project record, have been reviewed and considered by the responsible official in determining that the proposed action will not have a significant effect on the quality of the human environment. As a result, no environmental impact statement will be prepared. The rationale for this finding is as follows, organized by subsection of the Council on Environmental Quality’s definition of significance cited above. Context For the proposed action and the no action alternative, the context of the environmental effects is based on the environmental analysis in this EA. In terms of scale and scope of the authorization for the development of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail, the proposed trail is approximately 16 miles long, with an evaluation of 25 feet on each side of the trail centerline, for a total width of 50 feet encompassing 95.58 acres. For context, this represents approximately 0.003 percent of the Tonto National Forest. However, the actual trail development is limited to a four-foot-wide unpaved path, and new trail construction is limited to approximately eight miles. Segment 22 extends from the Bronco Trailhead in the Cave Creek Ranger District to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in the city of Scottsdale, Arizona.
31 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
The Cave Creek Ranger District has been working with Maricopa Parks for several years to assist with the development of the portions of the Maricopa Trail located on the Tonto National Forest. Segment 20 (approximately 13 miles) of the Maricopa Trail is currently located within the Tonto National Forest, from the Maricopa Parks’ Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to the Bronco Trailhead. This segment follows existing Forest Service Trails 48, 245, and 247, as authorized by the Cave Creek Ranger District. Segment 22 is designed to connect the Bronco Trailhead to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which would complete the portion of the Maricopa Trail on Tonto National Forest land, as well as complete the entire Maricopa Trail loop. Intensity Intensity is a measure of the severity, extent, or quantity of effects, and is based on information from the effects analysis of this EA and the references in the project record. The effects of authorizing the designation and development of Segment 22 of the Maricopa Trail have been appropriately and thoroughly considered with an analysis that is responsive to concerns and issues raised by the public. The Cave Creek Ranger District has taken a hard look at the environmental effects using relevant scientific information and knowledge of site-specific conditions gained from field visits. This finding of no significant impact is based on the context of the project and intensity of effects using the ten factors identified in 40 CFR 1508.27(b). Both beneficial and adverse effects were analyzed in the EA and are summarized here.
1. Impacts that may be both beneficial and adverse. A significant effect may exist even if the Federal agency believes that on balance the effect will be beneficial. Beneficial effects of the project will result from the completion of Segment 22, which is the last major incomplete portion of the larger Maricopa Trail loop. The proposed project would be designed to provide a safe route, as part of a county-wide trail system, that would allow access to ten regional parks and portions of the Tonto National Forest that are currently inaccessible by a formal authorized and maintained route. As analyzed in the EA, the proposed action is anticipated to benefit recreational resources, visitor safety and socioeconomic conditions due to improved connectivity providing greater access to natural areas, reducing potential safety concerns from non-motorized users using motorized routes, and the increasing tourism potential. As shown in the cultural resources section of the EA, an indirect benefit of the proposed action includes increased public awareness of the importance of archaeological sites through educational signs and promotion of site stewardship through public vigilance and site monitoring programs. In addition, a designated trail through the project area could result in a positive impact on wildlife, habitat, fisheries, and special-status species and their habitat by reducing the establishment of user-created routes.
The proposed action will have no effect on groundwater resources. Ground disturbance associated with the project would be limited to the four-foot-wide trail corridor and the areas immediately adjacent for approximately eight miles of new trail. Due to the trail construction, the proposed action will result in minor impacts on biological communities; vegetation, including noxious, invasive, and non-native species; wildlife resources, including habitat, special-status species, management indicator species, and migratory birds; cultural resources; and surface water. Minor impacts on wetlands, riparian areas, and floodplains may result from construction activities within the floodplain. Impacts on soil resources are anticipated to be negligible or minor due to construction of the trail and increased use of the trail.
32 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
2. The degree to which the proposed action affects public health or safety. As detailed in the visitor safety section of the EA, Segment 22 would incorporate signs, bollards, and barriers to facilitate pedestrian crossing and to restrict motorized traffic on the trail to ensure visitor safety.
3. Unique characteristics of the geographic area such as the proximity to historical or cultural resources, parklands, prime farmlands, wetlands, wild and scenic rivers, or ecologically critical areas. As detailed in the cultural resources section of the EA, the cultural survey resulted in the identification of 13 cultural resource sites, including eight sites that are eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, four sites that are not eligible for inclusion in the National Register, and one site that is of indeterminate National Register eligibility. Areas of new trail were routed around identified cultural resource sites to mitigate impacts.
There are no prime or unique farmlands or farmlands of statewide or local importance, wetlands, wild and scenic rivers, or ecologically critical areas within the project area.
4. The degree to which the effects on the quality of the human environment are likely to be highly controversial. The proposed project will not adversely affect the quality of the human environment or be highly controversial. No significant individual or cumulative impacts are anticipated as a result of this action.
5. The degree to which the possible effects on the human environment are highly uncertain or involve unique or unknown risks. The Forest Service is a multiple use agency. One of the uses is providing for recreation. We have been building and maintaining non-motorized trails for recreational use for many decades. The proposed action in the EA follows standard operating procedures for the development of a recreational non-motorized trail. In addition, the analysis did not identify possible effects on the quality of the human environment that are uncertain or involve unique or unknown risk.
6. The degree to which the action may establish precedent for future actions with significant effects or represents a decision in principle about a future consideration. The analysis did not reveal that the proposed action would establish a precedent for any future actions with significant effects, and the activities are not connected to any other future actions. Future actions will be evaluated through an environmental analysis process, in compliance with 40 CFR 1500–1508 and 36 CFR 220. Implementation of this decision would not trigger other actions, nor would it be part of a larger action in the project area encompassed by this decision. Furthermore, as detailed in the EA, this project is consistent with the Tonto National Forest Plan of 1985, as amended.
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7. Whether the action is related to other actions with individually insignificant but cumulatively significant impacts. Significance exists if it is reasonable to anticipate a cumulatively significant impact on the environment. Significance cannot be avoided by terming an action temporary or by breaking it down into small component parts. The cumulative effects are disclosed in the EA. These effects evaluated the combined effects of the project with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions. Based on the information contained in this EA and the information identified during public review of the EA, there are no cumulatively significant impacts.
8. The degree to which the action may adversely affect districts, sites, highways, structures, or objects listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or may cause loss or destruction of significant scientific, cultural, or historical resources. Effects on cultural resources from the proposed action have been analyzed in the EA and include potential removal of, displacement of, or damage to artifacts, features, or stratigraphic deposits of cultural material related to construction of approximately eight miles of new trail and increased site visitation due to use of the trail. To avoid impacts on cultural resources, areas of new trail have been routed around identified archaeological sites that have been recommended eligible for listing on the National Register under Criterion D for their potential to provide important information regarding prehistoric occupation of the area through archaeological research.
The proposed action will benefit cultural resources by increasing public awareness of the importance of archaeological sites through educational signs and promoting site stewardship through public vigilance and site monitoring programs.
9. The degree to which the action may adversely affect an endangered or threatened species or its habitat that has been determined to be critical under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. No suitable habitat for federally threatened, endangered, proposed, and candidate species is present in the project area. However, suitable habitat for the Sonoran desert tortoise, a candidate conservation agreement species and Forest Service sensitive species, is present in the project area, and this species has been documented within three miles of the project vicinity. In addition, suitable habitat for the lowland leopard frog, a Forest Service sensitive species, is present downslope of the project limits in Camp Creek; however, no suitable habitat is present for this species within the project limits. No suitable habitat for other Forest Service sensitive species is present in the project area.
As described in the Special-Status Species section of the EA, through implementation of the described mitigation measures, including adherence to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Guidelines for Handling Sonoran Desert Tortoises Encountered on Development Projects, impacts on the Sonoran desert tortoise from the proposed project are expected to be minor, direct, and short term. Potential indirect effects from the proposed action include potential runoff and increased sedimentation where there is suitable habitat for the lowland leopard frog in Camp Creek, downslope from construction activities. These indirect effects from the proposed project are expected to be minor and short term.
34 Cave Creek Ranger District, Tonto National Forest
10. Whether the action threatens a violation of federal, state, or local law or requirements imposed for the protection of the environment. The proposed action will not violate federal, state, and local laws or requirements for the protection of the environment. It is fully consistent with the Tonto National Forest Plan of 1985, the National Environmental Policy Act (40 CFR 1502.13), and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (43 United States Code 1761–1771) and is compliant with the Endangered Species Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, National Historic Preservation Act, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act and with Executive Orders 12898, 13007, l3212, 11988, and l1990.
35 Maricopa Trail Segment 22 Final Environmental Assessment
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———. 2008. Heritage Program Management. Chapter 2360 in Recreation, Wilderness, and Related Resource Management, Forest Service Manual 2300. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Headquarters (Washington Office). July.
———. 2014. Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Travel Management on the Tonto National Forest. Publication No. MB-R3-12-03. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southwestern Region. June.
———. 2014. Challenge Cost Share Agreement between Maricopa County, a Political Subdivision of the State of Arizona and the USDA, Forest Service, Tonto National Forest.
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———. 2016. Travel Management on the Tonto National Forest: Draft Record of Decision. June. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southwestern Region.
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Marshall, R.M., S. Anderson, M. Batcher, P. Comer, S. Cornelius, R. Cox, A. Gondor, D. Gori, J. Humke, R. Paredes Aguilar, I.E. Parra, S. Schwartz. 2000. An Ecological Analysis of Conservation Priorities in the Sonoran Desert Ecoregion. Prepared by The Nature Conservancy Arizona Chapter, Sonoran Institute, and Instituto del Medio Ambiente y el Desarrollo Sustentable del Estado de Sonora.
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