Draft Environmental Assessment

Environmental Assessment

Ozark Plateau National Wildlife Refuge Hunt Plan

May 2019

Prepared by

Richard Stark Ozark Plateau NWR Tulsa, OK

Juli Niemann U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Region 2, Division of Visitor Services Albuquerque, NM

Table of Contents 1.0 Purpose and Need ...... 1 Proposed Action ...... 1 Background ...... 1 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Action ...... 3 2.0 Alternatives ...... 4 Alternatives Considered ...... 4 Alternative A – No Action Alternative ...... 4 Alternative B – Proposed Action Alternative - Walk-in Access Hunting on the SBH Unit for White-tailed Deer, Eastern Gray Squirrel, Fox Squirrel, Eastern Cottontail Rabbit, and Feral Hog ...... 4 Mitigation Measures to Avoid Conflicts...... 7 Alternative(s) Considered, But Dismissed from Further Consideration ...... 8 3.0 Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences ...... 8 Affected Environment ...... 8 Environmental Consequences of the Action ...... 8 Cumulative Impact Analysis ...... 9 Affected Natural Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives ...... 10 Hunted Species – White-tailed Deer ...... 10 Hunted Species – Eastern Gray and Fox Squirrel ...... 11 Hunted Species – Eastern Cottontail Rabbit ...... 11 Hunted Species – Feral Hog ...... 12 Other Wildlife and Aquatic Species ...... 13 Threatened and Endangered Species and other Special Status Species ...... 14 Vegetation ...... 17 Soils...... 18 Affected Visitor Use and Experience Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives ...... 19 Visitor Use and Experience ...... 19 Affected Cultural Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives ...... 20 Cultural Resources ...... 20 Affected Refuge Management and Operations Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives ...... 20

Refuge Management and Operations ...... 20 Affected Socioeconomic Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives ...... 24 Socioeconomics ...... 24 Climate Change ...... 25 Environmental Justice ...... 25 Indian Trust Resources ...... 26 Humaneness and Animal Welfare Concerns ...... 26 Anticipated Cumulative Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives ...... 26 Natural Resources ...... 26 Visitor Use and Experience ...... 28 Cultural Resources ...... 28 Refuge Management and Operations ...... 28 Socioeconomics ...... 29 Mitigation Measures and Best Management Practices ...... 29 Monitoring ...... 30 Summary of Analysis ...... 30 List of Sources, Agencies, and Persons Consulted ...... 32 References ...... 32 Determination ...... 35 Appendix 1 ...... 36 Appendix 2: Tables ...... 39

List of Tables

Table 1. Species to be Taken, Method of Take, and Hunting Periods ...... 5 Table 2. Game Species and Hunting Season Overlap between Ozark Plateau NWR and Ozark Plateau WMA ...... 39 Table 3. Total Deer Harvest by Year from 2012 – 2016, Adair County, Oklahoma...... 39 Table 4. Overlap of Hunting Seasons with the Typical Active Season of Bats (March 15 – October 15) ...... 40

List of Figures

Figure 1. Sally Bull Hollow Hunt Unit Map ...... 6

Environmental Assessment for Ozark Plateau National Wildlife Refuge Hunt Plan

This Environmental Assessment (EA) is being prepared to evaluate the effects associated with this proposed action and complies with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in accordance with Council on Environmental Quality regulations (40 CFR 1500-1509) and Department of the Interior (43 CFR 46; 516 DM 8) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (550 FW 3) regulations and policies. NEPA requires examination of the effects of proposed actions on the natural and human environment. 1.0 Purpose and Need Proposed Action The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing to open hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, gray squirrel, fox squirrel, eastern cottontail rabbit, and feral hog on the Ozark Plateau National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in accordance with the refuge’s White-tailed deer, Eastern Gray Squirrel, Fox Squirrel, and Cottontail Rabbit Hunt Plan. The refuge will open a portion of the Sally Bull Hollow (SBH) Unit to hunting of these species, while maintaining some of this unit as closed to all entry. The area proposed to be opened comprises about 802 acres. The adjacent Ozark Plateau WMA (State) that is already open to hunting occurs in three disjoined tracts that will now be connected through the portion of the SBH Unit open to hunting.

This proposed action is often iterative and evolves over time during the process as the agency refines its proposal and learns more from the public, tribes, and other agencies. Therefore, the final proposed action may be different from the original. The final decision on the proposed action will be made at the conclusion of the public comment period for the EA and the Draft 2019-2020 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. The Service cannot open a refuge to hunting and/or fishing until a final rule has been published in the Federal Register formally opening the refuge to hunting and/or fishing.

Background National wildlife refuges are guided by the mission and goals of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS), the purposes of an individual refuge, Service policy, and laws and international treaties. Relevant guidance includes the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, Refuge Recreation Act of 1962, and selected portions of the Code of Federal Regulations and Fish and Wildlife Service Manual.

The refuge was established pursuant to the following authorities:

• Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. subsection 1534, as amended) “...to conserve A) fish or wildlife which are listed as endangered species or threatened species...or (B) plants which are listed as endangered species or threatened species...” • Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, as amended (16 U.S.C. 742(b)(1)) “...for the development, advancement, management, conservation, and protection of fish and wildlife resources …for the benefit of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, in

performing its activities and services. Such acceptance may be subject to the terms of any restrictive or affirmative covenant, or condition of servitude.” • Migratory Bird Conservation Act of 1929, as amended (16 U.S.C. 715d) “…for use as an inviolate sanctuary ...for any other management purposes ...for migratory birds.” • Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1988 (Pub. L. 100-691, Sec. 2, Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4546.). • Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965, as amended • U.S.C. 460l-4 through 11 (land acquisition fund source).

The primary purpose of the refuge is to:

● Prevent the extinction and aid in recovery of federally listed threatened and endangered Ozark cave species; ● Reduce the need for future listing of species of concern in the Ozarks; ● Protect large continuous stands of Ozark forest essential to interior forest nesting migratory birds; and ● Provide important environmental educational opportunities identifying the need for protecting fish and wildlife and other karst resources of the Ozarks.

The mission of the NWRS, as outlined by the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA), as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.), is to:

“... to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.”

• The NWRSAA mandates the Secretary of the Interior in administering the System to (16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(4): • Provide for the conservation of fish, wildlife, and plants, and their habitats within the NWRS; • Ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the NWRS are maintained for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans; • Ensure that the mission of the NWRS described at 16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(2) and the purposes of each refuge are carried out; • Ensure effective coordination, interaction, and cooperation with owners of land adjoining refuges and the fish and wildlife agency of the States in which the units of the NWRS are located; • Assist in the maintenance of adequate water quantity and water quality to fulfill the mission of the NWRS and the purposes of each refuge; • Recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the NWRS through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife; • Ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS for compatible wildlife- dependent recreational uses; and • Monitor the status and trends of fish, wildlife, and plants in each refuge.

Therefore, it is a priority of the Service to provide for wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities, including hunting and fishing, when those opportunities are compatible with the purposes for which the refuge was established and the mission of the NWRS.

As of 2018, Ozark Plateau NWR consists of nine management units in Adair, Cherokee, Delaware, and Ottawa Counties, totaling 4,438.06 acres. Management units of Ozark Plateau NWR are identified, acquired, and/or managed based upon impact to federally-listed threatened or endangered Ozark cave species, including cave habitat, groundwater recharge areas, foraging areas, and movement corridors important to these species as well as other species of concern. In addition, Ozark Plateau NWR’s management units play a role in conserving continuous tracts of mature oak-hickory or oak-hickory-pine forest, beneficial to nesting and migrating Neotropical birds, as well as cave species.

Ozark Plateau NWR finalized its Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) on September 12, 2013 (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2013). The CCP provides long-term guidance to the refuge’s management programs and activities. During public scoping for the development of the CCP, many members of the public and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) expressed interest in having the refuge open up hunting of Oklahoma State game species (including deer, squirrels, and rabbits), in accordance with state regulations. The ODWC requested specifically that the refuge explore hunting opportunities on the SBH Unit, adjacent to its Ozark Plateau Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which is also open for hunting. Ozark Plateau NWR agreed that, as long as hunting would not affect the continuing existence and recovery of federally listed threatened and endangered cave species and the sustainability of other native wildlife populations, we would develop a Hunt Plan to allow walk-in only access of this wildlife-dependent use, on the SBH Unit adjacent to the state’s hunting area.

Purpose and Need for the Proposed Action The purpose of this proposed action is to provide compatible wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities like hunting on Ozark Plateau NWR. The need of the proposed action is to meet the Service’s priorities and mandates as outlined by the NWRSAA to “recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general uses of the NWRS” and “ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS for compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses.” 16 U.S.C. 668dd (a)(4)). Objective 6 of the Visitors services goal in the refuge’s CCP is to collaborate with ODWC to provide hunting opportunities on the SBH Unit adjacent to the Ozark Plateau WMA. The refuge determined during development of the CCP that, as long as hunting would not negatively impact the continuing existence and recovery of federally-listed cave species, a hunt plan that would allow walk-in access only on the SBH unit adjacent to the WMA would be pursued. Developing and implementing the proposed hunt plan will enable the refuge to meet this CCP objective.

This action is also needed to effectively implement S.O. 3356, which directs bureaus and offices within the Department of Interior (DOI), in collaboration with states, tribes, and territorial partners, to implement programs to enhance hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting opportunities on DOI-managed lands and waters, while also promoting conservation activities.

2.0 Alternatives Alternatives Considered Alternative A – No Action Alternative Currently, the refuge does not allow hunting. Public access and use of the refuge is currently only allowed by special-use permit for certain activities such as wildlife photography and observation, environmental education, and interpretation. The refuge was established to help recover federally-listed cave species. One of the main threats to these species includes unintentional human disturbance within the cave environment. Therefore, the refuge currently is closed to the public for general access but allows use of the refuge for certain activities by special-use permit only to help ensure that unnecessary impacts to federally-listed cave species do not occur.

Under the No Action Alternative, the refuge would continue to be closed to all hunting opportunities. Public use for other activities would continue to be allowed by special-use permit only to help ensure that unnecessary impacts and disturbance to federally-cave species would be avoided.

Alternative B – Proposed Action Alternative - Walk-in Access Hunting on the SBH Unit for White-tailed Deer, Eastern Gray Squirrel, Fox Squirrel, Eastern Cottontail Rabbit, and Feral Hog The refuge has prepared a hunt plan (Appendix 2), which is presented in this document as the Proposed Action Alternative. Under the Proposed Action Alternative, the refuge would open a portion of the SBH Unit to hunting of the following game species: white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), fox squirrel (S. niger), and eastern cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus). Incidental take of feral hogs (Sus scrofa), an invasive species, also would be allowed during established hunting seasons for other species.

The portion of the SBH Unit that will be open to hunting includes all of the refuge land in Sections 23, 26, and 35, T. 15 N., R. 26 E., and the SE/4 of Section 34, T. 15 N., R. 26 E. (see Figure 1). This area comprises about 802 acres. The adjacent Ozark Plateau WMA that is already open to hunting occurs in three disjoined tracts that will now be connected through the portion of the SBH Unit open to hunting.

Information pertaining to species to be taken, method of take, and hunting periods is provided in the Table 1. Refuge specific regulations are summarized below. More detailed information can be found in the Hunt Plan (Appendix 2).

Access to the SBH Unit for all hunt-able species would be the same. Hunting would be by walk- in access only. Vehicles would be confined to public access roads and designated parking areas. Horses and ATV’s/UTV’s would be prohibited.

Refuge-specific regulations will be published in the Federal Register as part of the 2019-2020 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. Everyone participating in hunting would be required to obtain and carry with them an annual refuge hunting tearsheet that indicates which portion of the SBH Unit is open to hunting. These tearsheets would be free of charge and may be obtained by printing one from the Ozark Plateau NWR website:

http://www.fws.gov/refuge/ozark_plateau/. A refuge tearsheet may also be mailed by request by calling the refuge office at (918) 326-0156.

Table 1. Species to be Taken, Method of Take, and Hunting Periods

Species Method of Take Hunting Period White-tailed deer Archery only October 1 – January 15 Eastern cottontail rabbit Shotgun, 17/22 rimfire, and October 1 – March 15 archery Eastern gray and fox squirrel Shotgun, 17/22 rimfire, and May 15 – January 31 archery Feral hog NA* NA* *There are no hunting programs specifically for taking feral hogs. The hunt plan only provides for the incidental take of feral hogs by the general public during established hunting seasons for other species (e.g., big game and small game).

Ozark Plateau NWR currently has one full-time officer that is shared with Sequoyah NWR. This officer, along with two state game wardens assigned to Adair County would enforce state/federal regulations and refuge specific laws and rules. Law enforcement efforts would include field compliance checks for licenses, permits, location (portions of the refuge are not open to hunting), legal means and methods, and legal equipment.

The following methods would be used to control and enforce hunting regulations:

• Refuge and hunt area boundaries would be clearly posted; • The refuge will provide a map or tearsheet that identifies the area open to hunting; • Service and state law enforcement staff would check hunters for compliance with Federal and state laws as well as refuge-specific regulations pertinent to the hunt, including compatibility stipulations; and • Service law enforcement staff would coordinate with ODWC and other law enforcement agencies for all hunting issues on the refuge; and information would be made available on the refuge website (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/ozark_plateau/).

The refuge does not anticipate receiving any additional funding to implement the Proposed Action. Existing refuge funding will be utilized. Anticipated expenses include staff salaries, development of a map, fuel, development of a parking area, and signage. The existing rough and uneven terrain does not allow for the development of an ADA compliant parking lot. The refuge would need new signs at the parking area and signs within the refuge unit that designate which portion of the refuge are open to hunting. The total first year cost of the hunting program is estimated to be $7,900. After the first year it is anticipated that the annual cost for the hunt program will be paid for out of our base funding. It is estimated that the hunt program’s annual cost would be about $3,900 primarily for staff salaries, boundary maintenance, fuel, and maintenance of the parking area.

Figure 1. Sally Bull Hollow Hunt Unit Map

Staffing is the most significant limiting factor for conducting a refuge hunting program. One law enforcement officer would be tasked with addressing all enforcement needs of the public use program throughout the 20,800 acres of Sequoyah NWR and about 4,438 acres of Ozark Plateau NWR. Ozark Plateau NWR does not have Visitor Services staff to help administer the hunting program. All other refuge staff would provide some support for public use programs such as hunting.

Estimated Cost to Establish a Hunting Program Staff salaries $2000.00 Map/Tearsheet $400.00 Fuel/misc. $1,000.00 Parking Lot Development $2,500.00 Signage $2,000.00 $7,900.00

Estimated Annual Costs for the Refuge Hunt Program Staff salaries $2000.00 Map/Tearsheet $200.00 Fuel/Misc. $1,000.00 Parking lot maintenance $500.00 Signs $200.00 $3,900.00

The hunting program would be reviewed on an annual basis by refuge staff in consultation with ODWC. Necessary changes and/or modifications to the hunt would be incorporated if populations, habitat, or hunter success rates significantly change or affect wildlife populations.

Mitigation Measures to Avoid Conflicts

Endangered/Threatened Species: At present, there have been no documented direct or indirect conflicts from deer, feral hogs, turkey, rabbit, or squirrel hunting on threatened and endangered species either present, or potentially present, at Ozark Plateau NWR.

The portion of the refuge that contains caves considered essential for the continuing existence of Ozark big-eared bats and the caves known to be used by gray bats and northern long-eared bats would remain closed to hunting to prevent any disturbance of bats while they roost in caves, which is the most sensitive time period. The refuge would post signage about karst resources and federally-listed species that occur on the refuge at the parking area established for hunters to inform the public about recovery issues associated with each species and the importance of not disturbing the caves or cave species. We also propose to inspect the integrity of all cave gates once per month during the hunting seasons to ensure that vandalism, breaches, and unauthorized human entry into caves used by federally-listed species is not occurring. Should a breach or other evidence of unauthorized human entry be discovered, refuge staff will enter the cave to inspect the site for vandalism and for impacts to federally-listed species that use the cave within two weeks. Necessary repairs at cave gates needed to prevent unauthorized human entry would be implemented within two weeks of discovery.

Alternative(s) Considered, But Dismissed from Further Consideration

Walk-in Access Hunting on the SBH Unit for Wild Turkey The refuge also considered opening the refuge to hunting of wild turkey in addition to white- tailed deer, eastern gray squirrel, fox squirrel, eastern cottontail rabbit, and feral hog. However, the ODWC currently estimates there are between 800 – 1,500 wild turkeys present in Adair County, Oklahoma. Wild turkeys are rarely observed on the SBH Unit. We believe eastern wild turkey are present on the refuge unit, but in very low numbers. The refuge determined that also opening hunting of wild turkeys would not be feasible at this time due to low numbers. Hunting of wild turkeys on the refuge will be re-considered when population numbers improve.

3.0 Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

Affected Environment The Ozark Plateau NWR consists of nine management units located in Adair, Cherokee, Delaware, and Ottawa counties, Oklahoma, and totals about 4,438 acres. We are proposing to open hunting on the SBH Unit of the refuge, which is largest unit and consists of approximately 2,300 acres in Adair County, Oklahoma. (See Hunt Unit Area Map). The SBH Unit is primarily native oak-hickory forest. For more information regarding the affected environment, please see Sections 3.1 – 3.5 of the refuge’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan which can be found here: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Ozark_Plateau/what_we_do/planning.html

Environmental Consequences of the Action This section analyzes the environmental consequences of the action on each affected resource, including direct and indirect effects. This EA only includes the written analyses of the environmental consequences on a resource when the impacts on that resource could be more than negligible and therefore considered an “affected resource.” An analysis of the effects of the proposed hunting plan has been conducted on the physical environment(soils); biological environment (vegetation, wildlife, and threatened and endangered species); and socioeconomic environment (cultural resources, and visual/aesthetic resources). The hunting program on the refuge should only increase use of the refuge by an additional 35 people per year, which should have negligible impacts on air and water quality. Any resources that will not be more than negligibly impacted by the action have been dismissed from further analyses.

Impact Types: ● Direct effects are those which are caused by the action and occur at the same time and place. ● Indirect effects are those which are caused by the action and are later in time or farther removed in distance, but are still reasonably foreseeable. ● Cumulative impacts 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 other actions.

Ozark Plateau NWR finalized an EA for the refuge’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan in 2013. Hunting was addressed in the 2013 EA. This EA Tiers from the 2013 EA prepared for the refuge’s

Comprehensive Conservation Plan and provides additional more specific analysis of the proposed action.

Cumulative Impact Analysis Cumulative impacts are defined as “the impact on the environment which results 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 other actions” (40 CFR 1508.7). Cumulative impacts are the overall, net effects on a resource that arise from multiple actions. Impacts can “accumulate” spatially when different actions affect different areas of the same resource. They can also accumulate over the course of time from actions in the past, the present, and the future. Occasionally, different actions counterbalance one another, partially cancelling out each other’s effects on a resource. However, more typically, multiple effects add up, with each additional action contributing an incremental impact on the resource.

The species considered for hunting are already being hunted on both private and public land in the vicinity of the SBH Unit. The SBH Unit of the refuge is adjacent to the Ozark Plateau WMA. The WMA is owned and managed by the ODWC, and is open to various hunting seasons (Table 3, Appendix 2).

Hunt Mill Hollow is a private hunting reserve of about 5,500 acres that occurs in Adair County located about one mile southwest from the SBH Unit. This preserve is a high-fence area that advertises private hunts for world-class white-tailed deer, elk, bobwhite quail, and pheasant.

The proposed refuge hunting program rules will be more restrictive than general hunting regulations throughout the State of Oklahoma and the regulations for the adjacent Ozark Plateau WMA (e.g., fewer species hunted, fewer seasons open; See Table 2, Appendix 2) primarily to avoid unnecessary impacts to sensitive cave resources and federally-listed species. By maintaining hunting regulations that are more restrictive than the state, the refuge also ensures that we are having a minimal impact on species to be hunted, and maintaining seasons which are supportive of management on a more regional basis. Such an approach also provides consistency with large scale population status and objectives. The refuge will consistently coordinate with the state over the hunting program.

Managing wildlife populations through hunting is an important management tool to ensure the health of the ecosystem. Establishing a hunt program on the refuge provides incrementally minor beneficial impacts to the wildlife population management in the State.

Listed below are brief descriptions of each resource affected by the alternatives considered and anticipated impacts.

Affected Natural Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives Hunted Species – White-tailed Deer Regional Analysis In the early 1900s there were an estimated 500,000 white-tailed deer in the United States. Unregulated commercial hunting and subsistence hunting threatened to eliminate the white- tailed deer from much of its range. At that time, many state wildlife agencies were formed with the goal of conserving the Nation's depleted wildlife resources. Hunting regulations were put into place, and the harvest of antlerless (female) deer was prohibited. The rebound of white-tailed deer populations that followed is considered a wildlife management success story. Today there are over 20 million deer in the United States and numbers are rising (Swihart and DeNicola 1997).

Local Analysis White-tailed deer were nearly eliminated from Oklahoma in the early 1900s, and the refuge population likely also remained low through the 1980s. Spotlight or other deer surveys have not been conducted at the refuge, so we currently do not have data for the general deer population or trends. An average of 2.33 deer per year has been harvested from the adjacent Ozark Plateau WMA since 2012. Based on numbers reported to ODWC by hunters, the refuge assumes deer are present in fair numbers on the refuge.

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) Currently, the refuge does not allow hunting. Game species considered for hunting would continue to experience hunting pressure on the adjacent state-managed wildlife management area and surrounding private lands, but would not experience mortality or disturbance from hunting on the SBH Unit.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) White-tailed deer were nearly eliminated from Oklahoma in the early 1900’s, and the population on the area that is now on the SBH unit of the refuge likely also remained low through the 1980s. White-tailed deer populations have rebounded in Oklahoma. However, sSpotlight or other deer surveys have not been conducted at the SBH Unit, so we currently do not have data for the general deer population or trends. We assume deer are present in fair numbers on the refuge.

An average of 2.33 deer per year has been harvested from the adjacent Ozark Plateau WMA since 2012, based on numbers reported to ODWC by hunters. We expect that a similar number of deer would likely be harvested from the SBH Unit per year. The numbers are low likely due to deer being present only in fair numbers and due to the very rough and steep topography of the area which makes navigating the area and retrieval of large game difficult. The impact on the local deer population, therefore, is anticipated to be negligible due to the small number of hunters and the limited number of deer likely to be harvested per year.

Hunted Species – Eastern Gray and Fox Squirrel Regional Analysis There is no state data for squirrel populations for Oklahoma. However, the gray squirrel and fox squirrel are both arboreal species that require mature forest for shelter and food. They spend the majority of their time in native hardwood trees such as oaks and hickories, and occasionally in pines. They require mid- to late-succession forests, however, they will forage in some early successional stages such forest openings, or croplands. Both species can be found in bottomlands, on bluffs, and along rivers. Suitable habitat must contain food sources through all seasons. Food is provided by fruit- and nut-producing hardwoods, fungi, conifers, and the buds, flowers, an inner bark of some trees and shrubs. The most productive habitats have a variety of tree species. Both of these species are common on the refuge.

Local Analysis Squirrels have prolific breeding capabilities. Eastern gray squirrels breed twice a year and normally have two to six young in each litter, but this number can be as high as eight. Eastern gray squirrels can start breeding as early as 5-1/2 months old (Lawniczak 2002). Fox squirrels can produce two litters in a year. Average litter size is 2–3, but litters range between one and seven. Sexual maturity is attained at eight months for females (Fahey 2001). The oak-hickory forest on the SBH Unit provides ample food and cover for squirrels. The limit set by the State for 2018 for individual hunters is 25 squirrels per day.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Squirrels have prolific breeding capabilities and the oak-hickory forest on the SBH Unit provides ample food and cover for squirrels; therefore, squirrel populations would not be negatively impacted by refuge hunting.

Hunted Species – Eastern Cottontail Rabbit Regional Analysis The State of Oklahoma does not monitor rabbit populations. The eastern cottontail is found throughout Oklahoma. Cottontails are widely distributed throughout Oklahoma from bottomlands and marshes to upland habitat requirements can be met in a variety of diverse areas, as no single plant community type describes habitat for the rabbit. Optimum habitat for the cottontail is composed of early successional stages with low structure, transitional zones, and disturbed areas. This includes moderately grazed, weedy pastures with native grasses and low, dense clumps of trees and shrubs. The presence of perennial bunch-type grasses and a variety of forbs is common to good rabbit habitat in a variety of plant community types. Escape cover is essential and can be provided by dense underbrush, low growing vines, thorny vines and bushes, and woody perennials. Cottontails are rarely found in dense, mature forests or highly-stocked, pole-sized stands.

Local Analysis Rabbit populations have prolific breeding capabilities. Eastern cottontail rabbits can have one to seven litters of 1 to 12 young per year (Chapman and Ceballos 1990). The refuge provides adequate habitat for eastern cottontail rabbits.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Similar to squirrels, rabbits have prolific breeding capabilities. Eastern cottontail rabbits can have one to seven litters of 1 to 12 young per year (Chapman and Ceballos 1990). Additionally, there is more than adequate habitat on the refuge to continue support rabbit populations; therefore, impacts to the cottontail rabbit population would be negligible.

Hunted Species – Feral Hog Feral hogs are not a native species, and there is no need to sustain a population for any refuge objective. In fact, eradication of these destructive, exotic, feral animals would positively benefit the refuge (and neighboring) habitat. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that feral hog eradication will occur at the refuge due to the high reproduction of feral hogs, the presence of substantial feral hog populations on surrounding private land, and the transport and introduction of feral hogs by private individuals. Feral hogs can be very destructive to habitat and while total eradication is unlikely, the goal is to reduce the population as much as possible, including hunting.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Feral hogs are not a native species, and there is no need to sustain a population for any refuge objective. In fact, eradication of these destructive, exotic, feral animals would positively benefit the refuge (and neighboring) habitat. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that feral hog eradication will occur at the refuge due to the high reproduction of feral hogs, the presence of substantial feral hog populations on surrounding private land, and the transport and introduction of feral hogs by private individuals. Feral hogs can be very destructive to habitat and while total eradication is unlikely, the goal is to reduce the population as much as possible, through a variety of methods, including hunting.

Other Wildlife and Aquatic Species The refuge supports a diversity of wildlife species of eastern Oklahoma, including game and nongame species, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, which are important contributors to the overall biodiversity on the refuge. Caves on the SBH unit support a diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate cave fauna including bats, salamanders, isopods, and amphipods. The Duncan Field Cave complex that occurs on the SBH Unit is a large, biologically-rich cave that, based on bio-inventories done to date, is inhabited by at least 40 animal species. The Oak-hickory forest around refuge caves provides important bat foraging habitat.

Migratory Birds The SBH Unit Ozark Plateau NWR provides habitat for a variety of migratory birds such as raptors and songbirds. The active breeding season for most birds (with the exception of winter breeding raptors) is within April–July. Only squirrel hunting would be open during this period, but no conflict between squirrel hunting and breeding songbirds is expected. Breeding raptors (e.g., red-tailed hawks) may initiate nesting during periods of hunting activity. We are not aware of any specific active raptor nests on the SBH Unit.

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) The refuge would continue management practices such as prescribed fire and research activities intended to benefit resident and migratory species that occur on the SBH Unit. Bio- inventories of refuge caves to gain a better understanding of cave fauna occurrence and distribution also would continue. No adverse impacts would be anticipated.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Opening the SBH Unit to hunting may result in short-term disturbance to resident and migratory wildlife. The disturbance may occur in the form of temporary displacement of resident wildlife and migratory songbirds from increased foot traffic and/or gun shots. The active season for most migratory songbirds on the refuge is between April and August. We anticipate that most hunting will occur between October 1 and January 15 with most hunters pursuing white-tailed deer. However, squirrel hunting activity is also anticipated to occur and the squirrel season in Oklahoma overlaps with the breeding season of migratory songbirds (e.g., currently the hunting season is between May 15 and January 31). Because about two- thirds of the refuge will remain closed to hunting, experiences lower levels of disturbance, and offers quality breeding and foraging habitat for migratory songbirds, we believe these minor impacts will be offset.

Breeding raptors (e.g., bald eagles) may initiate nesting during periods of hunting activity. Ozark Plateau NWR provides habitat for a variety of migratory birds such as raptors and songbirds. The active breeding season for most birds (with the exception of winter breeding raptors) is within April – July. The refuge is not aware of any specific active raptor nests on the SBH Unit. Only squirrel hunting would be open during this period, but no conflict between squirrel hunting and breeding songbirds is expected.

Caves on the SBH unit support a diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate cave fauna including bats, salamanders, isopods, and amphipods. The refuge is proposing to open only that potion

of the SBH Unit that does not include caves use as either essential maternity sites or hibernaculum by federal-listed bats.

Incidental take of feral hogs would lessen negative impacts of feral hogs on other wildlife species, such as: nest depredation; competition for resources; direct consumption of small mammals, amphibians, and snakes. In comparison to Alternative A, disturbance effects to wildlife may be negligible in the short-term.

Threatened and Endangered Species and other Special Status Species Several federally-listed species occur on the SBH Unit. Federally-listed species include the endangered Ozark big-eared bat, endangered gray bat, and the threatened northern long-eared bat.

The Ozark big-eared bat was federally-listed as endangered in 1979 due to its small population size, reduced and limited distribution, and vulnerability to human disturbance (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1995). The Ozark big-eared bat is an insectivorous bat that is endemic to the Ozark Highlands and Boston Mountains Ecoregions (Omernik 1987) where it occurs in oak- hickory hardwood forests (Clark 1991; Leslie and Clark 2002). The Ozark big-eared bat primarily forages in edge, open (e.g., pasture and native grassland) and forested habitats (Clark et al. 1993; Wethington et al., 1996). Ozark big-eared bats use caves year round (Clark et al. 1996 and 2002; Clark et al. 1996; Wethington et al. 1996). Human disturbance at caves is a persistent problem and has been implicated as a major cause of decline of cave-dependent bats (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1995 and 2008). Disturbance may cause the bats to abandon favorite roosts. Disturbance of hibernating bats causes them to use valuable fat stores and increases the probability of starvation during the winter. Disturbance of maternity colonies can cause significant mortality of the young.

The Ozark big-eared bat utilizes several caves that occur on the SBH Unit. One cave serves as both an essential maternity cave and essential hibernacula, while another cave is an essential hibernaculum. Several other caves are used as limited-use sites by solitary males. The SBH unit also serves as important foraging habitat for Ozark big-eared bats.

The gray bat was federally-listed as endangered in 1976 primarily due to human disturbances at roosting caves (especially at hibernation and maternity caves), loss of habitat due to flooding by man-made impoundments, commercialization of caves, and improper gating of caves (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982). Gray bat distribution is limited to limestone cave areas of the southeastern United States. Major populations are found in Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee. Smaller populations occur in surrounding states including Oklahoma (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982 and 2009).

The gray bat utilizes a cave that occurs on the SBH unit during the summer. A small number of gray bats (less than 200 bats) recently have been known to also overwinter in the cave during some years. During the spring, summer, and fall, gray bats also forage on the refuge unit and use the area as a travel a corridor.

The northern long-eared bat was federally-listed as threatened in 2015 due to drastic declines caused by white-nose syndrome (WNS). The Service also developed a final 4 (d) rule for this species in 2016. Section 4 (d) of the Endangered Species Act allows the Service to promulgate special rules for species listed as threatened that provide flexibility in implementing the ESA. The Service uses 4 (d) rules to target take prohibitions to those that provide conservation benefits for the species, which can reduce ESA conflicts by allowing some activities to continue that do not harm the species. Under the 4(d) rule for the northern long-eared bat, incidental take inside the WNS zone (includes Oklahoma) is prohibited at known hibernacula, and/or if it is caused by tree removal within ¼ mile of a known hibernaculum (at any time of year), or if the tree removal cuts or destroys a known occupied maternity roost tree or any other trees within a 150-foot radius of the maternity roost tree during the pup season (June 1 through July 31).

Northern long-eared bats roost in trees during the summer, typically underneath the bark or in cavities or crevices (Carter and Feldhammer, 2005). Roost trees typically are live hardwoods or snags that are greater than 3-inch diameter at breast height (Foster and Kurta, 1999; Broders and Forbes, 2004). Non-reproductive females and males are also known to roost in caves during the summer (Amelon and Burhans, 2006). The northern long-eared bat is known to roost in a cave on the SBH Unit, and is believed to also roost in trees on the unit during the spring, summer, and fall, although we currently are not aware of any specific roost trees.

Several state species of greatest conservation need (ODWC, 2005) are known to occur on the SBH Unit. Current ongoing research by Oklahoma State University indicates that the ringed salamander (Ambystoma annulatum) occurs on the unit and that small wetlands that occur on the unit are very important breeding habitat for this species. Several other species of greatest conservation need are known to occur in the Duncan-Field Cave Complex: grotto salamander (Typhlotriton spelaeus), Ozark salamander (Plethodon angusticlavius), and the slender- fingered cave isopod (Caecidotea stiladactyla).

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) The refuge would continue to implement conservation and recovery actions for the benefit of federally-listed species and species of concern that occur on the SBH unit including the endangered Ozark big-eared bat and gray bat, and the threatened northern long-eared bat. Research efforts that benefit these species and improve our ability to manage for them (e.g., habitat use studies, diet studies, white-nose syndrome research etc.) in collaboration with our partners including other federal agencies, state agencies, tribes, NGOs, and universities also would continue. The refuge would also continue annual monitoring efforts including bat hibernacula and maternity colony censuses, white-nose syndrome surveillance, and cavefish and cave crayfish counts. Bio-inventories of refuge caves to gain a better understanding of cave fauna occurrence and distribution would continue. No adverse impacts would be anticipated.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Several federally-listed species and state species of special concern occur on the SBH Unit. The abundance of these species is not likely to be affected by any changes to abundance or distribution of any species to be hunted on the refuge unit or by hunter activity.

The endangered Ozark big-eared bat utilizes several caves that occur on the SBH Unit. One cave serves as both an essential maternity cave and essential hibernacula, while another cave is an essential hibernaculum. Other refuge caves are used as limited-use sites by solitary males. The endangered gray bat and threatened northern long-eared bat also are known to utilize the Duncan-Field Cave Complex on the SBH Unit.

Several other species of greatest conservation need are known to occur on the SBH Unit. Ongoing research by Oklahoma State University indicates that the ringed salamander occurs on the unit and that small wetlands that occur on the unit are very important breeding habitat for this species. Species of greatest conservation concern known to occur in the Duncan-Field Cave Complex include the grotto salamander, Ozark salamander, and the slender-fingered cave isopod. Bio-inventories have been performed only in portions of this large cave (over nine miles of mapped passage), and are currently ongoing.

We do not anticipate any impacts to ringed salamanders as a result of hunting activity. Ringed salamanders are fossorial and spend most of their life underground except during rain events during the fall when they emerge to travel to breeding ponds. During the fall breeding period, ringed salamanders are largely nocturnal (Trauth et al. 2004). Because hunting activity will occur during the day, we do not anticipate direct interactions between hunters and active salamanders. We also anticipate that hunters will pursue game animals primarily in upland habitat as they pursue white-tailed deer, rabbits, and squirrels. Hunting is not being proposed for wetland species or shorebirds. Hunting activity should not negatively impact the small breeding wetlands that occur on the unit.

To avoid impacts to caves, federally-listed species, and other sensitive species that use refuge caves, the refuge is proposing to implement several conservation measures. We propose to open only that potion of the SBH Unit that does not include important caves used by federally- listed bats and species of concern. The refuge also will post signage about karst resources and federally-listed species that occur on the refuge at the parking area established for hunters to inform the public about recovery issues associated with each species and the importance of not disturbing the caves or cave species. We also propose to inspect the integrity of all cave gates once per month during the hunting seasons to ensure that vandalism, breeches, and unauthorized human entry into caves used by federally-listed species is not occurring. Should a breech or other evidence of unauthorized human entry be discovered, refuge staff will enter the cave to inspect the site for vandalism and for impacts to federally-listed species that use the cave within two weeks. Necessary repairs at cave gates needed to prevent unauthorized human entry would be implemented within two weeks of discovery. Therefore, increased incidences of cave gate vandalism and unauthorized entry into caves and disturbance of federally-listed and other sensitive cave species is anticipated to be minimal.

The SBH unit also serves as important foraging habitat for Ozark big-eared bats, gray bats and northern long-eared bats. The northern long-eared bat also likely roosts in trees on the SBH unit during the spring, summer, and early fall. The active season for these bats on the refuge is typically from March 15 through October 15.

Most hunting is anticipated to occur during the fall and winter months (between October 1 through March 15), as this is the time of year when temperatures tend to cool down and activity levels of insect pests such as ticks, chiggers and mosquitos and venomous snakes is substantially reduced. During this time period, we anticipate that most bats would be hibernating inside caves, and therefore, not impacted by hunting activity. A minor amount of deer and rabbit hunting would overlap with the bat’s active season (15 days; Table 4, Appendix 2). This activity may result in some minor disturbance from foot traffic and gun shots. It is possible that some minor disturbance from the placement of tree stands for deer hunting may occur to northern long-eared bats roosting in trees. However, this type of temporary disturbance is unlikely to occur, and would only occur after the maternity season in fall when all bats are capable of flight. We do not consider roost tree habitat to be limited on the refuge. Bats should be capable of leaving the site of temporary disturbance to an alternate roost site in the unlikely event that this disturbance did occur.

A more significant overlap with the bat active season would occur with squirrel hunting (154 days; Table 4, Appendix 2). However, we anticipate only minor disturbance to bats because hunting would occur during the day while bat foraging activity occurs at night. It is possible, although unlikely, that some minor disturbance could occur to northern long-eared bats roosting in trees on the refuge during the day while hunting activity occurs as a result of foot traffic and gun shots. The likelihood of significant impacts (bats being hit by shotgun pellets) is extremely low because the bats are anticipated to roost in protected areas within the tree such as underneath bark and in crevices and hollows inside the trees.

An Intra-Service consultation pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act is being conducted for the federal-listed species known to occur on or near the refuge. A finding of “may affect, but not likely to adversely affect” is anticipated.

Vegetation The vegetation is predominantly native oak-hickory forest. The variation in slope and aspect of the area allows for a diversity of plant species on the unit. Dominant forest overstory species include white oak (Quercus alba), northern red oak (Q. rubra), bur oak (Q. macrocarpa), blackjack oak (Q. marilandica), bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis), mockernut hickory (C. tomentosa), red maple (Acer rubrum), and sugar maple (A. saccharum). Other common forest trees include sugarberry (Celtis laevigata), American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), and black walnut (Juglans nigra). Woody understory species include flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), winged sumac (Rhus copallina), smooth sumac (R. glabra), sassafras (Sassafras albidum), northern spicebush (Lindera benzoin), winged elm (Ulmus alata), and eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis). Common herbaceous species include woodoats (Chasmanthium latifolium), mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum), eastern purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), hairy sunflower (Helianthus hirsutus), carolina elaphantsfoot (Elephantopus carolinianus), red purple bee balm (Monarda russeliana), wild

blue phlox (Phlox flavus), white fawn lily (Erythronium albidum), prairie fleabane (Erigeron strigosus), western rough goldenrod (Solidago radula), Baldwin’s ironweed (Vernonia baldwinii ), bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), and several tick-trefoils (Desmodium spp). Several species of fern grow near cave entrances and along limestone walls in the hollow including common maidenhair fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) and Christmas fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris).

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) The refuge would continue habitat management practices such as prescribed fire and research activities intended to improve habitat conditions for resident and migratory species that occur on the SBH Unit. Impacts associated with prescribed fire would be anticipated but are expected to be beneficial to the native vegetation overall.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Approximately one-third of the refuge would be open to hunting during the specified seasons. The incidental take of feral hogs by hunters will reduce the impacts of their destructive behavior, such as the spread of invasive species, uprooted plants, and fewer devegetated wallows. Some adverse impacts are expected from the placement of boundary signs and hunter signage and hunters trampling vegetation, but these impacts would be negligible due to limited number of hunters (approximately 25 archery deer hunters and 10 upland game hunters).

Soils The SBH Unit is located within the Boston Mountains Ecoregion (Omernik, 1987) at the southwest edge of the Ozark Plateau (Curtis and Ham, 1972). The topography of the area is rough and uneven and consists primarily of two meandering ridges (oriented northeast to southwest) and the narrow namesake hollow between them. The Ozarks are one of the oldest geologic regions in North America (Heikens, 1999). The area was uplifted several times, eventually resulting in a large flat dome. The key geologic feature of the area is the presence of karst geological formations (e.g., valleys, losing streams, caves and sinkholes). These karst formations are the result of limestone and chert deposited when the area was covered by a shallow inland sea during the Mississippian Period (365-330 million years ago). The limestone formed slowly as the skeletons and shells of sea-dwelling animals settled to the sea floor, precipitated out calcium carbonate, and were compacted together under pressure. Because limestone is soluble in water and acid solutions and rainwater becomes slightly acidic as it picks up carbon dioxide from the air and from decaying organic matter in the soil, caves and other karst features formed slowly in the area as slightly acidic water eroded away the limestone but left sandstone.

The soils of the SBH Unit are part of the Hector complex. These soils formed in material that weathered from sandstone and some shale, and are moderately coarse textured and stony. The surface layers of these soils typically are stony fine sandy loams with a depth to bedrock of about 6-inches in most areas. Soils typically contain numerous sandstone fragments. Rocky outcrops and sandstone boulders and ledges are common. Internal water drainage and runoff is rapid (U. S. Department of Agriculture, 1965).

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) The refuge would continue implementing necessary management actions to benefit federally listed cave species, species of greatest conservation need, migratory songbirds, and other resident and migratory fish and wildlife species. Minor impacts to bedrock and surface soils may occur during activities such as the construction and repair of cave gates and maintenance of the dirt roads that occur on the unit.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Approximately one-third of the refuge would be open to hunting during the specified seasons for walk-in access only. Negligible impacts are expected to soils from placement of boundary signs indicating which portion of the refuge is open to hunting and from minor foot traffic because of the low number of users anticipated. Additionally, take of feral hogs, would likely reduce potential impacts on soil resources. Feral hog damage to native habitat may be slightly reduced by the take of hogs. This alternative may slightly improve soil quality as the feral hog population is reduced.

Affected Visitor Use and Experience Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives Visitor Use and Experience Ozark Plateau NWR currently is closed to the public on all refuge units except for certain planned events by permit only. The planned events are environmental education programs, interpretive programs, and wildlife observation and photography.

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) The SBH Unit would remain closed to public access except for planned environmental education events, interpretive programs, and wildlife observation and photography by permit only.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) The Ozark Plateau NWR would open 802 acres of the refuge unit (about 2,300 acres total) to walk-in access only hunting. Public access and use on the refuge would increase due to hunting for white-tailed deer, eastern gray squirrel, fox squirrel, and eastern cottontail rabbit. The refuge’s ability to connect with a limited number of the public is anticipated to be moderately increased due to planned signage about karst resources and federally-listed species that occur on the refuge at the parking area that will be established for the new hunting program.

The refuge would remain closed to other public access except by special-use permit only for planned environmental education events, interpretive programs, and wildlife observation and photography. During the hunting season, any planned events would occur in the portion of the unit that will remain closed to hunting to eliminate any potential conflict between user groups.

The refuge would use an adaptive management approach for its hunt program, reviewing the hunt program annually and revising the program, as necessary, to ensure a successful program that does not conflict with other wildlife-dependent recreational groups or the purposes for which the refuge was established.

Affected Cultural Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives Cultural Resources There are two known archeological sites on the SBH Unit. Locations of the sites are kept confidential. The refuge is currently closed to public access except by special-use permit. Therefore, public access to the sites is limited. The refuge partners with the SHPO, Sam Noble Museum of Natural History, and Tribal Nations to study, preserve, and protect important archeological and paleontological sites.

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) Under this alternative, there are no anticipated direct or indirect impacts to the cultural environment. The SBH Unit would remain closed to public access except by special-use permit. Therefore, public access to the sites will remain limited and by special-use permit only. Open public access to the sites would not be allowed. The refuge would continue to work with partners to study, preserve, and protect important archeological and paleontological sites.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) The SBH Unit would be open to hunting and receive increased use from the public. Both known archeological sites occur on the portion of the SBH Unit that would remain closed to hunting. Therefore, open public access to the sites would not be allowed, and the chances of disturbance would be very low. The refuge would continue to work with partners to study, preserve, and protect important archeological and paleontological sites.

Affected Refuge Management and Operations Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives Refuge Management and Operations Land Use Ozark Plateau NWR has a prescribed burning program for the SBH unit. Historical fire regime information indicates frequent low-intensity fires maintained a moderately open oak- hickory forest. Prescribed fire is used as a management tool to return fire to the refuge unit, mimicking a historic regime to encourage native flora and fauna; help restore a forest condition that has become overcrowded due to fire suppression to a more moderately stocked, oak-hickory forest with an herbaceous understory and to minimize encroachment of eastern red cedars; provide enhanced habitat for resident and migratory bird species, foraging bats, and other native wildlife species; maintain a mosaic of plant communities representative of the

ecosystem; and to reduce fuel loading and the risk of unplanned and unnatural high intensity wildfires from damaging natural resources or nearby public and private developments. Prescribed fires typically occur between February and April.

The refuge was established to help prevent the extinction of and help recover federally-listed cave species in the Ozarks. Human disturbance and vandalism are leading factors in the degradation of cave habitats and the decline of several federally-listed bats including the endangered Ozark big-eared bat and gray bat. Ozark Plateau NWR strives to provide undisturbed and protected cave habitat by eliminating unnecessary human disturbance and vandalism. Twelve cave gates have been constructed on the SBH Unit in order to control human entry into the sensitive caves used by federally-listed species that occur on the refuge unit. The refuge regularly inspects, maintains and repairs, as necessary, cave gates that occur on the SBH Unit.

Administration The refuge receives funding and staffing for operations, infrastructure and maintenance. Currently, there are three full-time staff members at the refuge which consists of two biologists and one maintenance worker. Ozark Plateau NWR is in a refuge complex with Sequoyah NWR. The manager and deputy manager at Sequoyah NWR also have management responsibilities for Ozark Plateau NWR. Refuge headquarters for Ozark Plateau NWR is located at the Mary and Murray Looney Unit of the refuge in Delaware County, Oklahoma, which provides for only one office. Due to limitations on office space, the three full-time staff members works out of either the Oklahoma Ecological Services Field Office in Tulsa, Oklahoma; Sequoyah NWR in Vian, Oklahoma; or the Looney Unit of the refuge in Colcord, Oklahoma.

The refuge does not currently have a hunting program. Therefore, no staff time or money is allocated toward hunting. Current budget allocations and staff time are devoted to implementing recovery and conservation actions to help recovery federally-listed species and prevent the need to list additional species of concern; monitoring populations of federally- listed species; bio-inventories of caves; scientific research on important topics such as white- nose syndrome, improvement of bat monitoring/survey techniques, and habitat use; land acquisitions; protecting water quality; maintaining and enhancing important refuge habitat including caves, streams, and upland forest; maintenance of refuge facilities and upkeep of offices; and providing unique visitor experiences and educational opportunities through planned events.

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) Land Use Prescribed fire would continue to be used a management tool to enhance oak-hickory forest on the refuge. Inspection, maintenance and repair of cave gates also would continue to be implemented as necessary.

Administration No staff time or money would be allocated toward hunting. Refuge staff time and budget would be allocated towards other refuge priorities including the implementation of recovery actions and conservation measures to help assure the continuing existence and aid in the recovery of federally-listed Ozark cave species; reduce the need for future listing of species of concern in the Ozarks; and to protect large continuous stands of Ozark forest for migratory forest birds. Refuge staff would continue to provide educational opportunities regarding the need to protect important fish and wildlife and other karst resources in the Ozarks.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Land Use Ozark Plateau NWR has a prescribed burning program for the SBH unit. Prescribed fires typically occur between February and April, which would overlap with the rabbit and squirrel hunting seasons. However, prescribed burns on the unit are anticipated to be fully implemented within one - two days, and would occur only on a portion of the refuge open to hunting (i.e., not the entire area open to hunting) and only in some years. Prescribed fire in any given area typically will be implemented in 3–5 year intervals. The prescribed fire would be advertised on our website where we post information pertaining to hunting. We also would post information on any proposed burns that would occur in the portion of the refuge open to hunting in the designated parking area at least two weeks prior to any burn. Therefore, no conflict with hunting activity is expected.

The refuge regularly inspects, maintains and repairs, as necessary, the twelve cave gates installed on the SBH Unit. We plan to inspect these cave gates once per month during the hunting seasons. The cave gates are located on the portion of the refuge that will remain closed to hunting. Therefore, we do not anticipate that hunting activity would impede our ability to inspect, maintain, or repair cave gates.

Administration Staffing is the most significant limiting factor for conducting the refuge hunting program. As noted in the CCP for Ozark Plateau NWR (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2013), current staffing and funding levels would not be adequate to fully implement the additional projects, programs and activities described in the CCP. Hunting is one of many additional activities identified in the ambitious course of future action outlined in the CCP that the refuge now seeks to implement. Full time staff at the refuge consists of two biologists and a maintenance worker. The manager and deputy manager at Sequoyah NWR also have management responsibilities for Ozark Plateau NWR since the two refuges are in a refuge complex. One law enforcement officer would be tasked with addressing all enforcement needs of the public use program throughout the 20,800 acres of Sequoyah NWR and also about 4,438 acres of Ozark Plateau NWR. Although only about 802 acres of Ozark Plateau NWR will be open to hunting, we anticipate law enforcement needs on the portion that remains closed to hunting to help ensure unauthorized human entry into that portion of the refuge is not occurring. Ozark Plateau NWR does not have an outdoor recreation planner to help administer the hunting program. All other refuge staff provides some support for public use programs, and are anticipated to help administer the hunting program.

In addition to an increase in law enforcement needs, the refuge managers, administrative staff and full-time staff members at Ozark plateau NWR would have increased duties for overseeing and implementing the hunting program on the refuge. Although the portion of the SBH Unit that contains caves considered essential for federally-listed species will not be open to hunting or any other type of public access (except by special-use permit only), there is small chance that opening the SBH Unit to hunting may increase the incidents of human vandalism at cave gates due to increased exposure of these sites to the public. Therefore, refuge staff would develop and post signage about karst resources and federally-listed species that occur on the refuge at the parking area established for hunters to inform the public about recovery issues associated with each species and the importance of not disturbing the caves or cave species. Refuge staff would also inspect the integrity of all cave gates once per month during the hunting seasons to ensure that vandalism, breaches, and unauthorized human entry into caves used by federally-listed species is not occurring. Should a breach or other evidence of unauthorized human entry be discovered, refuge staff will enter the cave to inspect the site for vandalism and for impacts to federally-listed species that use the cave within two weeks. Necessary repairs at cave gates needed to prevent unauthorized human entry would be implemented within two weeks of discovery. Other additional duties include initial planning, siting and construction of a parking lot; annual maintenance of the parking lot; fielding phone calls pertaining to the refuges hunting program; posting signs within the refuge unit that designate which portion of the refuge is open to hunting; and the annual development of hunting tearsheets.

The refuge does not anticipate receiving any additional startup funding or staff to implement the hunting program. Existing refuge funding will be utilized. Anticipated expenses include staff salaries, development of a map/tearsheet, fuel, development of a parking area, and signage. The existing rough and uneven terrain does not allow for the development of an ADA compliant parking lot. The refuge would need a new sign at the parking area, educational signs about refuge resources including caves and federally-listed species, and signs within the refuge unit that designate which portion of the refuge is open to hunting. The total first year cost of the hunting program is estimated to be $7,900.00. After the first year it is anticipated that the annual cost for the hunt program would be paid for out of our base funding. It is estimated that the hunt program’s annual cost would be about $3,900.00 primarily for staff salaries, boundary maintenance, fuel, and maintenance of the parking area (see tables below).

Overall, we believe that implementing the hunting program will impact the administration of the refuge since no additional funding or staff members are anticipated to help implement the new hunting program. However, the impact would not be significant because we propose to open only a portion of the refuge to hunting and to limit the hunting seasons and species hunted on the refuge. In doing so, potential impacts to important refuge resources including federally-listed species and caves would be minimized, and refuge staff members would still be able to carry out other priority actions and obligations in meeting the purpose of the refuge and the mission of the NWRS, such as protecting important cave and forest habitat and providing environmental education programs. Assistance may be sought from other refuges and from the State if serious conflicts do arise.

Estimated Cost to Establish a Hunting Program Staff salaries $2000.00 Map/Tearsheet $400.00 Fuel/misc. $1,000.00 Parking Lot Development $2,500.00 Signage $2,000.00 $7,900.00

Estimated Annual Costs for the Refuge Hunt Program Staff salaries $2000.00 Map/Tearsheet $200.00 Fuel/Misc. $1,000.00 Parking lot maintenance $500.00 Signs $200.00 $3,900.00

Affected Socioeconomic Resources and Anticipated Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives Socioeconomics Local and Regional Economies The refuge is currently closed to public access except for planned events by permit only. Total expenditures from refuge visitors currently are considered negligible.

Social and Economic Context The SBH Unit of Ozark Plateau NWR is located in Adair County, Oklahoma. The City of Stilwell is the largest city in the County. Stilwell is located about 6 miles northwest of the SBH Unit and had a population of 3,949 people in 2010 (2010 U.S. Census Bureau), and an estimated population of 4,002 in 2017 (source: U.S. Census Bureau Website https: factfinder.census.gov; accessed October 17, 2018.) The economy of Adair County is dominated by manufacturing (food processing and canning industries), healthcare and social services, and agriculture (poultry farms, strawberry fields).

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A (No Action Alternative) Local and Regional Economies The refuge would remain closed to public access except for planned events by permit only. Total expenditures from refuge visitors would remain negligible.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative) Local and Regional Economies Hunting visitation is anticipated to result in about 35 visits to the refuge each year. Total expenditures associated with 35 visits associated with hunting are estimated to total approximately $3100.00 per year from expenditures on hunting supplies, gas, lodging, and

food. These revenues represent a negligible/minor impact in the context of the overall Adair County economy.

Climate Change Climate change, whether it results from anthropogenic or natural sources, is expected to affect a variety of natural processes and associated resources. However, the complexity of ecological systems means that there is a tremendous amount of uncertainty about the impact climate change will actually have. In particular, the localized effects of climate change are still a matter of much debate. That said, the combination of warming temperatures and increased frequency and severity of drought could reduce the amount and quality of habitat.

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A The refuge believes that its hunt program will have negligible impacts on climate change under either alternative.

Alternative B Under the proposed action alternative, the refuge would use an adaptive management approach for its hunt program, reviewing the hunt program annually and revising annually (if necessary).

Environmental Justice Executive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations, requires all federal agencies to incorporate environmental justice into their missions by identifying and addressing disproportionately high or adverse human health or environmental effects of their programs and policies on minorities and low-income populations and communities.

In 2016, 41.8 percent of Adair County residents were classified as Native Americans. There are estimated to be 1.02 times more Native Americans than any other race or ethnicity in the county. The second and third most common racial groups are white (41.1 percent) and multiracial (9.8 percent) (Source: https: datausa.io/profile/adair-county-ok; accessed October 23, 2018).

The poverty rate for Adair County Oklahoma is 30.1 percent, which is higher than the national average of 14 percent. The largest race living in poverty in Adair County is Native American, which comprise almost 50 percent of those living below the poverty line in the county (Source: https: datausa.io/profile/adair-county-ok; accessed October 23, 2018).

Direct and Indirect Impacts The Service has not identified any potential high and adverse environmental or human health impacts from this proposed action or any of the alternatives. Minority or low income communities will not be disproportionately affected by any impacts from this proposed action or any of the alternatives.

Indian Trust Resources The Service will consult with the Native American Tribes that historically occurred and/or currently occur in the area including the Caddo Nation, Cherokee Nation, Delaware Tribe, Osage Tribe, Quapaw Tribe, Seneca-Cayuga Nation, and Wyandotte Nation to determine if there are any Trust Resources on the SBH unit that may be impacted as a result of the proposed hunt plan.

Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A Through the consultation process mentioned above, we will determine if this action will impact any Indian Trust Resources.

Alternative B Impacts under the proposed action alternative are expected to be the same as those under Alternative A.

Humaneness and Animal Welfare Concerns Direct and Indirect Impacts Alternative A Currently, the refuge does not allow hunting. Therefore, no impacts to humaneness and animal welfare are expected.

Alternative B Under Alternative B, there will be mortality of white-tailed deer, feral hogs, squirrel, and rabbit. All hunters must comply with ODWC’s regulations regarding the possession of Hunters Education certification. During this course, established hunter ethics and responsibilities to help ensure hunters are using good judgment related to humaneness and animal welfare are addressed. Accurate, clean shots are expected. The target should be within the effective range of the firearm, ammunition, bow and arrow, and the skills of the hunter; a humane kill is likely.

Anticipated Cumulative Impacts of the No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives Natural Resources We anticipate increased pressure on white-tailed deer, eastern gray and fox squirrel, and eastern cottontail rabbit since the adjacent WMA is open to hunting of these species. However, due to the abundance of habitat and high reproduction rates of squirrels and rabbits and hunting opportunities throughout the state, providing additional opportunities on the refuge would be incrementally negligible to those populations.

White-tailed deer are also hunted on the private game preserve, but are managed within a high- fence area. The cumulative impact is likely to be small because hunter activity and take of each species is expected to be low. For example, about 2.3 deer are harvested from the adjacent WMA each year. We expect a similar harvest from the refuge. Even should 10 times more deer be harvested from the refuge unit, this level of harvest (23 deer) would contribute

only a minimal amount to the overall harvest that typically occurs in Adair County, Oklahoma (Table 3, Appendix 2), and represents just a fraction of the state and national population. This increased level of harvest would be incrementally negligible to the overall deer population in the county and state.

Ozark Plateau NWR provides habitat for a variety of migratory birds such as raptors and songbirds. The active breeding season for most birds (with the exception of winter breeding raptors) is within April – July. Only squirrel hunting would be open during this period, but no conflict between squirrel hunting and breeding songbirds is expected.

Caves on the SBH unit support a diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate cave fauna including bats, salamanders, isopods, and amphipods. The refuge is proposing to open only that potion of the SBH Unit that does not include caves use as either essential maternity sites or hibernaculum by federal-listed bats. No cumulative impacts are expected.

Incidental take of feral hogs would lessen negative impacts of feral hogs on other wildlife species, such as: nest depredation; competition for resources; direct consumption of small mammals, amphibians, and snakes. The cumulative impacts of hunting on the refuge is likely to be small because hunter activity is expected to be low.

Hunting activity should not have a significant negative impact on the small breeding wetlands, caves, and trees, which endangered species that occur use. The refuge is proposing to implement several conservation measures to avoid impacts to federally-listed species and other sensitive species that use the refuge as described above. Therefore, the minor disturbance associated with hunting should have negligible cumulative impacts on threatened and endangered species because hunter activity is expected to be low.

The incidental take of feral hogs by hunters would negligibly reduce the impacts of their destructive behavior, such as the spread of invasive species, uprooted plants, and fewer devegetated wallows. Cumulative impacts to vegetation from hunting activities would be negligible due to the limited number of hunters on the landscape.

Approximately one-third of the refuge would be open to hunting during the specified seasons for walk-in access only. Negligible cumulative impacts are expected to soils because the refuge would receive very few hunter visits every year and the unit would receive very few visitors from all activities due to its remote location.

Walmart’s corporate headquarters are located in Bentonville, Arkansas, which is only about 40 miles from Ozark Plateau NWR. In Walmart’s 2010 Global Sustainability Report, the corporation reported to emit over 20 million metric tons of CO2 in 2008, and that their “company’s absolute GHG footprint continues to rise as [they] expand.” The city of Tulsa has been expanding since the 1950s, and small towns that had once been suburbs of the city were annexed as the city limits expanded to the south and east with additional roads, vehicles, large footprint homes, etc. (Tulsa Historical Society, 2010), further contributing to global greenhouse gas emissions. There are also many agricultural lands surrounding the refuge that may use aerial application of herbicides, which can result in an immediate and temporary air

quality impact. Nearby oil, gas, and coal operations contribute to the decline in air quality. Cumulative impacts on air quality would remain about the same, pending extreme infrastructure expansion and subsequent heightened levels of air pollution.

Many adjacent lands are used for crop production, ranching, or commercial development. These operations may result in soil particles travelling in the air from wind, tillage, and removal of native vegetation. Development and monoculture agriculture can result in erosion of soils, and the use of chemical pesticides nearby can leach into refuge soils. These cumulative impacts are expected to be minor. Vegetation and habitats of the refuge might experience some minor cumulative impacts due to loss of mature forests, increased water runoff, and decreased groundwater recharge due to nearby timber harvesting and increased development.

The refuge’s hunt program is not expected to add significant cumulative impacts to hunted species and other natural resources in the area.

Visitor Use and Experience Hunting Hunting is allowed on the adjacent Ozark Plateau WMA, which is owned and managed by ODWC. The refuge anticipates 25 archery deer hunter visits per year and approximately 10 hunt visits per year for rabbit and squirrel. The refuge will be open to walk-in access only hunting. Road and trail development is not part of the refuge’s proposed hunt program. Hunting and various recreational opportunities occur on adjacent Ozark plateau WMA; therefore, the addition of a hunting program would be incrementally negligible when put into the context of the other recreational opportunities occurring in the State.

Use of Lead Ammunition/Tackle The presence of lead in soil can pose a hazard to wildlife. Movement of the lead into groundwater also is a concern. Rainwater acts as a carrier for solubilized lead. The more easily the lead moves through the soil, the more of an impact it will have.

The SBH Unit occur is in an area of karst topography where rainwater enters the groundwater rapidly as it moves quickly through thin soils and fractured bedrocks. However, hunter activity is anticipated to be low (approximately 35). We anticipate that the concentration of lead in the refuge as a result of hunters using lead ammunition will not reach concentrations to be of environmental concern because only a small percentage of the hunt visits per year would be likely to be using lead ammunition.

Cultural Resources No direct or indirect impacts to cultural resources are expected from current management or the proposed action; therefore, there will be no cumulative impacts under either alternative.

Refuge Management and Operations The refuge anticipates no additional cumulative impacts from refuge management and operations under either alternative.

Socioeconomics Hunting visitation is anticipated to result in about 35 visits to the refuge each year which are estimated to result in expenditures of approximately $3100.00 per year. These revenues will be in addition to expenditures by hunters visiting the adjacent Ozark plateau WMA which may account for an additional 35 hunting visits to the local area per year, and an additional $3100.00 per year. These revenues represent a negligible/minor impact in the context of the overall Adair County economy.

Global corporation, Walmart, has its corporate headquarters located only 40 miles from the Ozark Plateau NWR in Bentonville, Arkansas. Walmart accounts for much of the urbanized growth in the surrounding area due to jobs and expansion. The city of Tulsa, located about 80 miles from the refuge, has been expanding significantly since the 1950s.

Climate Change There are no anticipated cumulative impacts to climate change under either alternative. The Service’s hunt program can be adjusted to ensure that it does not contribute further to the cumulative impacts of climate change on resident wildlife. The refuge may be a minor contributor to climate change; however, the potential to acquire up to 15,000 acres of mature forest will account as an important carbon offset on the landscape-level through carbon sequestration.

Environmental Justice There are no additional cumulative impacts expected under either alternative.

Indian Trust Resources No additional cumulative impacts are expected under either alternative.

Humaneness and Animal Welfare Concerns No additional cumulative impacts are expected from either alternative.

Mitigation Measures and Best Management Practices There are additional mitigation measures we propose to assist in avoiding adverse effects on the federally-listed species that occur on the SBH Unit which are the endangered Ozark big-eared and gray bat, and threatened northern long-eared bat. In addition to closing the portion of the SBH Unit that contains important caves used by these species, we propose to develop educational signage identifying recovery issues associated with each species and place it in the parking area. We propose to inspect the integrity of all cave gates once per month during the hunting seasons to ensure that vandalism, breaches, and unauthorized human entry into caves used by federally-listed species is not occurring. Should a breach or other evidence of unauthorized human entry be discovered, refuge staff will enter the cave to inspect the site for vandalism and for impacts to federally-listed species that use the cave within two weeks. Necessary repairs at cave gates needed to prevent unauthorized human entry would be implemented within two weeks of discovery.

Monitoring The refuge will continue to annually monitor populations of federally-listed species that occur on the refuge in conjunction with our partners. The refuge also would monitor cave gates during the hunting seasons to ensure that vandalism, breaches, and unauthorized human entry into caves used by federally-listed species is not occurring.

Summary of Analysis The purpose of this EA is to briefly provide sufficient evidence and analysis for determining whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).

Alternative A – No Action Alternative As described above, the refuge would remain closed to public access except for planned events by permit only such as environmental education events, interpretive programs, and wildlife observation and photography. Hunting would not be allowed. Game species (considered for hunting) would continue to experience hunting pressure on the adjacent state-managed wildlife management area and surrounding private lands, but would not experience mortality or disturbance from hunting on the SBH Unit. The refuge would continue management practices such as prescribed fire intended to benefit resident and migratory species that occur on the SBH Unit. Bio-inventories of refuge caves to gain a better understanding of cave fauna occurrence and distribution also would continue. The refuge would continue to implement research and conservation actions for the benefit of federally-listed species, species of greatest conservation need, migratory songbirds, and other resident and migratory fish and wildlife species that occur on the SBH Unit including the endangered Ozark big-eared bat and gray bat, and the threatened northern long-eared bat. Total expenditures from refuge visitors would remain negligible. There are no anticipated cumulative impacts from the No Action alternative.

Alternative B – Proposed Action Alternative - Walk-in Access Hunting on the SBH Unit for White-tailed Deer, Eastern Gray Squirrel, Fox Squirrel, Eastern Cottontail Rabbit and Feral Hog This alternative would provide additional wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities on the Ozark Plateau NWR, and in the area. Game species proposed to be hunted would experience more pressure and mortality but the overall impact is expected to be minor. The impact on the local deer population is anticipated to be negligible due to the small number of hunters anticipated on the refuge, and the limited number of deer likely to be harvested per year. Squirrel and rabbit populations will not be negatively impacted by refuge hunting because they have prolific breeding capabilities and more than adequate refuge habitat. Moderate beneficial effects are expected by reducing feral hog populations.

Opening the SBH Unit to hunting may result in short-term disturbance to resident and migratory wildlife. Because about two-thirds of the refuge will remain closed to hunting, and this area also offers quality breeding and foraging habitat for migratory songbirds, we believe these minor impacts will be offset.

Several federally-listed species and state species of special concern occur on the SBH Unit. Federally-listed species are the endangered Ozark big-eared and gray bat and the threatened northern long-eared bat. Species of greatest conservation concern include the grotto salamander,

Ozark salamander, ringed salamander, and the slender-fingered cave isopod. The abundance of these species is not likely to be affected by any changes to abundance or distribution of any species to be hunted on the refuge unit or by hunter activity.

To avoid impacts to caves, federally-listed species, and other sensitive species that use refuge caves, the refuge is proposing to implement several conservation measures. We propose to open only that potion of the SBH Unit that does not include important caves used by federally-listed bats and species of concern. The refuge also will post signage about karst resources and federally-listed species that occur on the refuge at the parking area established for hunters to inform the public about recovery issues associated with each species and the importance of not disturbing the caves or cave species. We also propose to inspect the integrity of all cave gates once per month during the hunting seasons to ensure that vandalism, breaches, and unauthorized human entry into caves used by federally-listed species is not occurring. Should a breach or other evidence of unauthorized human entry be discovered, refuge staff will enter the cave to inspect the site for vandalism and for impacts to federally-listed species that use the cave within two weeks. Necessary repairs at cave gates needed to prevent unauthorized human entry would be implemented within two weeks of discovery. Therefore, increased incidences of cave gate vandalism and unauthorized entry into caves and disturbance of federally-listed and other sensitive cave species is anticipated to be minimal.

We anticipate only negligible disturbance to bats because hunting will occur during the day while bat foraging activity occurs at night. Northern long-eared bats roosting in trees on the refuge during the day while hunting activity occurs could be temporarily disturbed by foot traffic and gun shots, although the likelihood of this minor impact occurring is very low. The likelihood of significant impacts (bats being hit by shotgun pellets) also is extremely low because the bats are anticipated to roost in protected areas within the tree such as underneath bark and in crevices and hollows inside the trees.

Public use of the refuge would increase because the SBH Unit would be open to walk-in access hunting for white-tailed deer, eastern gray squirrel, fox squirrel, and eastern cottontail rabbit. The refuge’s ability to connect with certain segments of the public is anticipated to be moderately increased due to planned signage about karst resources and federally-listed species that occur on the refuge at the parking area established for hunters. During the hunting season, any planned events would be planned to occur in the portion of the unit that will remain closed to hunting. Therefore, no conflict with other public use is anticipated.

The proposed hunt program will take more time and resources and staff. Staffing is the most significant limiting factor for conducting the refuge hunting program. As noted in the CCP for Ozark Plateau NWR (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2013), current staffing and funding levels would not be adequate to fully implement the additional projects, programs and activities described in the CCP. In addition to an increase in law enforcement needs, the refuge managers of the Ozark Plateau/Sequoyah NWR Complex, administrative staff, and full-time staff members at Ozark plateau NWR will have increased duties for overseeing and implementing the hunting program on the refuge. The refuge does not anticipate receiving any additional startup funding or staff to implement the hunting program. Existing refuge funding will be utilized. The total first year cost of the hunting program is estimated to be $7,900.00. After the first year it is

anticipated that the annual cost for the hunt program will be paid for out of our base funding. It is estimated that the hunt program’s annual cost will be about $3,900.00 primarily for staff salaries, boundary maintenance, fuel, and maintenance of the parking area. Overall, we believe that implementing the hunting program will impact the administration of the refuge since no additional startup funding or staff members are anticipated to help implement the new hunting program. However, the impact would not be significant because we propose to open only a portion of the refuge to hunting and to limit the hunting seasons and species hunted on the refuge. In doing so, potential impacts to important refuge resources including federally-listed species and caves would be minimized, and refuge staff members would still be able to carry out other priority actions and obligations in meeting the purpose of the refuge and the mission of the NWRS, such as protecting important cave and forest habitat and providing environmental education programs

Under the Proposed Action Alternative, new public hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, eastern gray and fox squirrel, cottontail rabbit and feral hog during designated hunting seasons on Ozark Plateau NWR will be available. This alternative provides a wildlife-dependent recreational experience to the general public while maintaining sustainable populations of each game species. This alternative offers increased opportunities for public hunting/fishing and fulfills the Service’s mandate under the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997. Overall, the Service has determined that the proposed action is compatible with the purposes of the Ozark Plateau NWR and the mission of the NWRS. The Compatibility Determination is attached (Appendix X).

List of Sources, Agencies, and Persons Consulted Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Personnel: Sequoyah and Ozark Plateau NWR Staff: Darrin Unruh, Damon Taylor, and Daniel Jackson

References

Amelon, S., and D. Burhans. 2006. Conservation assessment: Myotis septentrionalis (northern long-eared bat) in the eastern United States. Pages 69-82 in Conservation assessments for five forest bat species in the eastern United States, Thompson, F. R., III, editor. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Research Station, General Technical Report NC-260. St. Paul, Minnesota. 82 pp.

Broders, H.G., and G.J. Forbes. 2004. Interspecific and intersexual variation in roost-site selection of Northern Long-eared and Little Brown Bats in the Greater Fundy National Park ecosystem. Journal of Wildlife Management 68:602–610.

Carter, T. C. and G. A. Feldhamer. 2005. Roost tree use by maternity colonies of Indiana bats and northern long-eared bats in southern Illinois. For Ecol Manag 219: 259–268.

Chapman J.A and G. Cephalos. 1990. The Cottontails. In J.A. Chapman and J.E.C. Flux (Eds.), Rabbits, Hares, and Pikas: Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan (pp. 95 - 110).

International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural resource, and World Wildlife Fund. Gland, Switzerland.

Clark, B. S. 1991. Activity patterns, habitat use, and prey selection by the Ozark big-eared bat (Plecotus townsendii ingens). Ph.D. Dissertation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK. 80 pp.

Clark, B. S., D. M. Leslie Jr., and T. S. Carter. 1993. Foraging activity of adult female Ozark big-eared bats (Corynorhinus townsendii ingens). Journal of Mammalogy 74:422-427.

Clark, B. K., B. S. Clark, D. M. Leslie, Jr., and M. S. Gregory. 1996. Characteristics of caves used by the endangered Ozark big-eared bat. Wildlife Society Bulletin 24(1):8-14.

Clark, B. S., B. K. Clark, and D. M. Leslie, Jr. 2002. Seasonal variation in activity patterns of the endangered Ozark big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii ingens). Journal of Mammalogy 83(2):590-598.

Curtis, N.E. Jr. and W.E. Ham. 1972. Geomorphic provinces of Oklahoma. p. 3. IN: Johnson, K.S., C.C. Branson, N.E. Curtis Jr., W.E. Ham, W.E. Harrison, M.V. Marcher, and J.F. Roberts. 1979. Geology and Earth Resources of Okla-homa. An Atlas of Maps and Cross Sections. Oklahoma Geological Survey Education Publication Number 1. Norman, Oklahoma.

Fahey 2001 Fahey, B. 2001. "Sciurus niger" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed august 23, 2018 at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Sciurus_niger/

Foster, R.W. and A. Kurta. 1999. Roosting ecology of the northern bat (Myotis septentonalis) and comparisons with the endangered Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis). Journal of Mammalogy 80:659-672.

Heikens, A.L. 1999. Savanna, Barrens, and Glade Communities of the Ozark Plateaus Province. In Eds. Anderson, R.C., J.S. Fralish, and J.M. Baskin: Savannas, Barrens, and Rock Outcrops of North America. Cambridge University Press. 470pp.

Lawniczak, M. 2002. "Sciurus carolinensis" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed August 23, 2018 at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Sciurus_carolinensis/

Leslie, D. M. and B. S. Clark. 2002. Feeding habits of the endangered Ozark big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii ingens) relative to prey abundance. Acta Chiropterologia 4(2):173-182.

ODWC. 2005. Oklahoma Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy. Oklahoma City, OK.

Omernik, J.M. 1987. Ecoregions of the conterminous United States. Map (scale 1:7,500,000) revised August 2002. Annals of the Association of American Geographers 77:(1) 118- 125.

Swihart, R. K., and A. J. DeNicola. 1997. Public involvement, science, management, and the overabundance of deer: Can we avoid a hostage crisis? Wildlife Society Bulletin 25:382- 387.

Trauth, S. E., H., W. Robison, and M. V. Plummer. 2004. The Amphibians of Arkansas. The University of Arkansas Press. 421 p.

Tulsa Historical Society “Learn” Online Exhibits. 2010. http://www.tulsahistory.org/learn/online-exhibits/

U. S. Department of Agriculture. 1965. Soil Survey of Adair County, Oklahoma. 62 pp.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1982. Gray Bat Recovery Plan. Minneapolis, MN. 21pp.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1995. Ozark Big-Eared Bat (Corynorhinus townsendii ingens) Revised Recovery Plan. Tulsa, OK. 50pp.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2008. Ozark Big-Eared Bat 5-Year Review. Tulsa, OK. 40pp.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2009. Gray Bat (Myotis grisescens) 5-Year Review. Columbia, MO. 33pp.

Wethington, T. A., D. M. Leslie, Jr., M. S. Gregory, and M. K. Wethington. 1996. Prehibernation habitat use and foraging activity by endangered Ozark big-eared bats (Plecotus townsendii ingens). American Midland Naturalist 135:218-230.

List of Preparers Richard Stark, Senior Biologist, Ozark Plateau NWR

State Coordination Oklahoma refuge managers met with ODWC personnel in January 2018 to discuss how refuges could provide additional hunting and fishing opportunities on Oklahoma refuges. This meeting was a result of Secretarial Order 3356 (Hunting, Fishing, Recreational Shooting, and Wildlife Conservation Opportunities and Coordination with States, Tribes, and Territories). The Refuge Manager for Sequoyah and Ozark Plateau presented a proposal to the ODWC to open the SBH Unit of the refuge to hunting of certain big game and upland game species. The ODWC accepted this proposal. The hunting opportunities implemented in this plan will honor agreements with the ODWC and provide the public with quality recreational hunting opportunities while still maintaining protection for threatened and endangered species and their habitats.

Tribal Consultation

On January 17, 2019, the Service sent out a letter to all 38 recognized tribes in Oklahoma inviting them to consult on the proposed hunting opportunities on 8 Oklahoma refuges.

Public Outreach The refuge posted a Public Notice about the proposed hunt plan for the SBH Unit in the Stilwell democrat Journal (the local newspaper of the largest nearby town) and on the Facebook page for the refuge during the public scoping period (September 2018). The refuge plans to conduct additional public outreach for the Draft EA. A public outreach meeting will be held in Adair County during the public review period.

Determination This section will be filled out upon completion of any public comment period and at the time of finalization of the Environmental Assessment.

☐ The Service’s action will not result in a significant impact on the quality of the human environment. See the attached “Finding of No Significant Impact”.

☐ The Service’s action may significantly affect the quality of the human environment and the Service will prepare an Environmental Impact Statement.

Preparer Signature: ______Date:______

Name/Title/Organization: ______

______

Reviewer Signature: ______Date:______

Name/Title: ______

Appendix 1 OTHER APPLICABLE STATUTES, EXECUTIVE ORDERS & REGULATIONS

STATUTES, EXECUTIVE ORDERS, AND REGULATIONS Cultural Resources

American Indian Religious Freedom The proposed action includes no ground-disturbing activities, or other Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 1996 – activities that might disturb undocumented paleontological, 1996a; 43 CFR Part 7 archaeological, or historic sites.

Antiquities Act of 1906, 16 U.S.C. 431-433; 43 CFR Part 3

Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, 16 U.S.C. 470aa – 470mm; 18 CFR Part 1312; 32 CFR Part 229; 36 CFR Part 296; 43 CFR Part 7

National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 470- 470x-6; 36 CFR Parts 60, 63, 78, 79, 800, 801, and 810

Paleontological Resources Protection Act, 16 U.S.C. 470aaa – 470aaa-11

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, 25 U.S.C. 3001-3013; 43 CFR Part 10

Executive Order 11593 – Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment, 36 Fed. Reg. 8921 (1971)

Executive Order 13007 – Indian Sacred Sites, 61 Fed. Reg. 26771 (1996) Fish & Wildlife

Bald and Golden Eagle Protection No changes are proposed to current refuge-specific hunting regulations Act, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 668- for migratory birds and upland game birds. 668c, 50 CFR 22 There are several federal threatened or endangered species on the refuge, including the Ozark big-eared bat, endangered gray bat, and the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as threatened northern long-eared bat; an Intra-Service Section 7 amended, 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544; 36 Consultation was conducted with the Service’s Tulsa Ecological Services CFR Part 13; 50 CFR Parts 10, 17, Field Office. 23, 81, 217, 222, 225, 402, and 450 The proposed action is consistent with Executive Order 13186 because the Environmental Assessment for Hunting on Ozark Plateau NWR evaluates Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, 16 U.S.C. 742 a-m the effects of agency actions on migratory birds.

Lacey Act, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 3371 et seq.; 15 CFR Parts 10, 11, 12, 14, 300, and 904

Migratory Bird Treaty Act, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 703-712; 50 CFR Parts 10, 12, 20, and 21

Executive Order 13186 – Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds, 66 Fed. Reg. 3853 (2001)

Natural Resources

Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 The Service has evaluated the suitability of the Ozark Plateau NWR for U.S.C. 7401-7671q; 40 CFR Parts wilderness designation and concluded that the Refuge does not meet the 23, 50, 51, 52, 58, 60, 61, 82, and 93; basic criteria for inclusion into the National Wilderness Preservation 48 CFR Part 23 System. The Service has evaluated the eligibility of streams on Ozark Plateau Wilderness Act, 16 U.S.C. 1131 et NWR for wild and scenic river designation and concluded no streams seq. meet the basic criteria for inclusion into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. The proposed action would have negligible effects to air quality. The proposed action is consistent with Executive Order 13112 because Executive Order 13112 – Invasive stipulations in permits would be designed to prevent the introduction of Species, 64 Fed. Reg. 6183 (1999) invasive species.

Water Resources

Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, 16 U.S.C. The refuge does not lie in a coastal zone, and contains no rivers, harbors, 1451 et seq.; 15 CFR Parts 923, 930, or navigable waters. 933 There would be negligible impacts of the proposed action on water quality or water resources. Federal Water Pollution Control Act The refuge contains no drinking water sources and does not supply of 1972 (commonly referred to as Clean Water Act), 33 U.S.C. 1251 et drinking water to any community. seq.; 33 CFR Parts 320-330; 40 CFR The proposed action is consistent with Executive Order 11990 because Parts 110, 112, 116, 117, 230-232, implementation of the Hunt Plan would protect existing wetlands. 323, and 328 The proposed action is consistent with Executive Order 11988, because implementation of the Hunt Plan would not result in the modification or Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, as destruction of floodplains. amended, 33 U.S.C. 401 et seq.; 33 CFR Parts 114, 115, 116, 321, 322, and 333

Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, 42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.; 40 CFR Parts 141-148

Executive Order 11988 – Floodplain Management, 42 Fed. Reg. 26951 (1977)

Executive Order 11990 – Protection of Wetlands, 42 Fed. Reg. 26961 (1977)

Appendix 2: Tables

Table 2. Game Species and Hunting Season Overlap between Ozark Plateau NWR and Ozark Plateau WMA

Game Species and Season SBH Unit-Ozark Plateau Ozark Plateau WMA NWR Deer Archery X X Deer Youth Gun X Deer Muzzleloader X Deer Gun X Holiday Antlerless Deer Gun X Dove X Rail X Gallinule X Crow X Quail X Snipe X Woodcock X Waterfowl X Rabbit X X Squirrel X X Turkey Fall Archery X Turkey Spring X Predator/Furbearer calling X Trapping X

Table 3. Total Deer Harvest by Year from 2012 – 2016, Adair County, Oklahoma. Source: https://www.wildlifedepartment.com/hunting/species/deer/harvesttotals Year Deer Harvest 2012 2,284 2013 1,655 2014 1,693 2015 1,301 2016 1,691 5-Year Average 1,724.5

Table 4. Overlap of Hunting Seasons with the Typical Active Season of Bats (March 15 – October 15)

Game Species Hunting Season Overlap with Typical Bat Active Season White-tailed deer October 1 – January 15 15 days in October Rabbit October 1 – March 15 15 days in October Squirrel May 15 – January 31 154 days between May 15 and October 15