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WILDERNESS SUPPLEMENT

to the

DRAFT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN/

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

for the

MEDICINE BOW RESOURCE AREA

RAWLINS DISTRICT, WYOMING

Prepared by:

U.S. Department of the Interior

Bureau of Land Management

1987

Wyoming Statelwirector

(Lfytiuu v-/3~<»7

Date

°&l

BLM LIBRARY
SC-324A, BLDG. 50

DENVER FEDERAL CENTER

P. 0. BOX 25047
DENVER, GO 80225-0047

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUMMARY 1

CHAPTER 1: PURPOSE AND NEED; ISSUES AND CRITERIA 5

PART I - ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

Chapter 2: Alternatives 13

Chapter 3: Affected Environment 23

Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences 35

PART II - PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

Chapter 2: Alternatives 43

Chapter 3: Affected Environment 51

Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences 59

PART III - BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

Chapter 2: Alternatives 67

Chapter 3: Affected Environment 73

Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences 81

CHAPTER 5: CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION 85

GLOSSARY 91

REFERENCES 97

MAPS

1 . Location of WSAs 10

2. Livestock Exclosures in the Encampment River Canyon WSA 16

3. Livestock Grazing Allotments in the Encampment River

Canyon WSA 31

4. Post-FLPMA Mining Claims in the Encampment River Canyon

WSA 33

5. Forest Management in Prospect Mountain WSA 56

6. Post-FLPMA Mining Claims in the Prospect Mountain WSA 58

7. Post-FLPMA Oil and Gas Leases - Bennett Mountains WSA 79

TABLES

1 . List of Wilderness Study Areas 9

2. Summary of Impacts - Encampment River Canyon WSA 20

3. Livestock Grazing Allotments in the Encampment River

Canyon WSA 30

4. Proposed Timber Sales in the Prospect Mountain WSA 47

5. Summary of Impacts - Prospect Mountain WSA 48

6. Summary of Impacts - Bennett Mountains WSA 71

7. Bennett Mountains WSA Post-FLPMA Oil and G?s Lease

Abstract 80

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PHOTOGRAPHS

1 . Encampment River Canyon WSA 26

2. Encampment River Canyon WSA 26

3. Prospect Mountain WSA 54

4. Bennett Mountains WSA 76

5. Bennett Mountains WSA 76

ABBREVIATIONS

[Note: Many of these terms are further defined in the Glossary.]

ACEC Area of critical environmental concern

BLM Bureau of Land Management

CDNST Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

EIS Environmental Impact Statement

FLPMA Federal Land Policy and Management Act

HMP Habitat Management Plan

NNL National Natural Landmark

NWPS National Wilderness Preservation System

ORV Off-Road Vehicle

RAMP Recreation Area Management Plan

RMP Resource Management Plan

USDI United States Department of the Interior

USFS United States Forest Service

WGFD Wyoming Game and Fish Department

WSA Wilderness Study Area

BLE OF COMTE^TS

Introduction 3

Major Issues and Concerns 3

Alternatives Including the Proposed Action 3

Encampment River Canyon WSO (WY-030-301) 3

Proposed Action; No Action: No Wilderness 3

All Wilderness Alternative 3

Prospect Mountain WSO (WY-03Q-303) 4

Proposed Action - All Wilderness 4

No Action: No Wilderness 4

Bennett Mountains WSO (WY-030-304) 4

Proposed Action; No Action: No Wilderness 4

All Wilderness Alternative 4

SUMMARY

Introduction

This Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is
an analysis of the effects of wilderness desig-
nation or nondesignation alternatives on 11,695
acres of public land in three wilderness study
areas (WSAs). The study areas are all located in
Carbon County. The Encampment River Canyon
is in southern Carbon County, two miles south of
Encampment; the Bennett Mountains WSA is in
north central Carbon County east of Seminoe
Dam; and the Prospect Mountain WSA is in
southern Carbon County approximately 16 miles
southeast of Encampment and 8 miles north of the
Colorado-Wyoming border. This EIS was pre-
pared in response to Section 603 of the Federal
Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) which
directs the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
to inventory, study, and report to Congress,
through the Secretary of Interior and the
President, those public lands suitable for
preservation as wilderness.

Major Issues and Concerns

The wilderness review for the Medicine Bow
Resource Area has involved many people. Based
on contacts with industry, organizations, indi-
viduals, federal, state and local agencies, the
following areas of concern and controversy were
identified for the three WSAs.

1. Effects on wilderness values, including naturalness,

solitude, and primitive and unconfined recreation.

2. Effects on recreational opportunities, including the use

of motorized vehicles and the quality of recreation.

3. Effects on mineral exploration and development-oil and

gas and locatable minerals.

4. Effects on wildlife including elk, mule deer, bighorn

sheep, and fish populations (Encampment River Canyon
WSA only).

5. Effects on livestock grazing and grazing management

(Encampment River Canyon WSA only).

6. Effects on forest resources and forest management

(Prospect Mountain WSA only).

7. Effects on wildlife including elk and mule deer (Prospect
Mountain WSA only).

Alternatives Including the
Proposed Action

This EIS deals with three v/ilderness study
areas and examines two alternatives including the
proposed action for each WSA. The alternatives
analyzed include All Wilderness or No Action: No
Wilderness.

Encampment River Canyon WSA
(WY-030-301)

Unit Description - The Encampment River
Canyon WSA consists of 4,547 acres of public
land. No private or state inholdings, and no
split-estate lands are located within the WSA
boundary. The topography of the entire unit is
mountainous with steep canyons and rocky
slopes. Elevations range from 7,200 feet to 8,545
feet. The dominant tree species within the unit are
limber pine, lodgepole pine, cottonwood, and
aspen.

Proposed Action; No Action: No
Wilderness

Under this alternative, the Encampment River
Canyon WSA would be recommended nonsuit-
able for designation as wilderness. Resource
management in the WSA would emphasize
protection and enhancement of recreational,
wildlife, fisheries, and scenic values.

All Wilderness Alternative

Under this alternative, the Encampment River
Canyon WSA would be recommended suitable for
designation as wilderness. The entire WSA would

SUMMARY

be closed to ORVs. Existing livestock manage-
ment practices would be continued.

Prospect Mountain WSA
(WY-030-303)

Unit Description -The Prospect Mountain WSA
consists of 1,145 acres of public land. No private
or state inholdings, and no split-estate lands are
located within the WSA boundary. The topog-
raphy of the entire unit is mountainous with dense
forest cover and riparian areas. Elevations range
from 7,400 feet to 8,430 feet.

Proposed Action - All Wilderness

Under this alternative, the Prospect Mountain
WSA would be recommended suitable for
designation as wilderness. Activities such as road
building, timber harvesting, the use of motorized
equipment and vehicles and mining would be
prohibited.

No Action: No Wilderness

Under this alternative, the Prospect Mountain
WSA would be recommended nonsuitable for
designation as wilderness. The WSA would be
managed for dispersed recreation, wildlife
habitat, forest production, and mineral devel-
opment.

Bennett Mountains WSA
(WY-030-304)

Unit Description - The Bennett Mountains WSA
consists of 6,003 acres of public land. No private
or state inholdings, and no split-estate lands are
located within the WSA boundary. There are three
types of topography in the WSA: the mountain
plateau/ridges; the steep rock ledges; and the
many tributary draws. Elevations range from
6,600 feet to 8,000 feet.

Proposed Action
Wilderness

No Action: No

Under this alternative, the Bennett Mountains
WSA would be recommended nonsuitable for
designation as wilderness. The WSA would be
managed for dispersed recreation.

All Wilderness Alternative

Under this alternative, the Bennett Mountains
WSA would be recommended suitable for
designation as wilderness. Management would
provide for protection and preservation of the
area's natural conditions and wilderness char-
acter.

Chapter One

Purpose and Need ;
Issues and Criteria

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Purpose and Need for Action 7

Planning Criteria and Quality Standards 7

Criterion Number 1 , Evaluation of Wilderness Values 7

Criterion Number 2, Manageability 8

Standard Number 1 , Energy Mineral Resource Values 8

Standard Number 2, Impacts on Other Resources 8

Standard Number 3, Impact of Nondesignation on Wildernss Values. . 8

Standard Number 4, Public Comment 8

Standard Number 5, Local, Social, and Economic Effects 8

Standard Number 6, Consistency with Other Plans 8

Wilderness Study 8

Major Issues and Concerns 9

Issues for the Enacampment River Canyon WSA 9

Issues for the Prospect Mountain WSA 9

Issues for the Bennett Mountains WSA 9

Concerns 9

Interim Management Policy 11

Wilderness Management Policy 11

CHAPTER 1

PURPOSE AND NEED; ISSUES AND CRITERIA

PURPOSE AND NEED FOR
ACTION

The Medicine Bow Resource Area Wilderness
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is being
prepared in response to Section 603 of the
Federal Land Policy and Management Act
(FLPMA), October 21, 1976. This law directs the
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to inventory,
study, and report to Congress, through the
Secretary of the Interior and the President, the
public lands preliminarily suitable for inclusion in
the National Wilderness Preservation System
(NWPS).

This EIS satisfies the study requirements for
three of the 40 BLM wilderness study areas in
Wyoming. According to FLPMA, the Secretary
must report his recommendations to the Presi-
dent by October21, 1991. The President has until
October 21, 1993, to send his recommendations
to Congress; only Congress has the authority to
designate any of the study areas as wilderness or
release them from study status as nonsuitable.

The purpose of this EIS is to analyze the effects
of present or potential resource uses in three
WSAs in central Wyoming. The WSAs are
Encampment River Canyon (WY-030-301),
Prospect Mountain (WY-030-303), and Bennett
Mountains (WY-030-304).

PLANNING CRITERIA AND
QUALITY STANDARDS

BLM planning regulations provide guidance for
the development of Resource Management Plans
(RMPs). These RMPs establish the combinations
of land uses and resource uses, related levels of
investment and production or protection to be
maintained, and general management practices
and constraints for the various public land
resources. Public participation is an integral part
of the RMP process. The nine steps of the RMP
process are listed below. A more complete

description of the planning process is included in
the Resource Management Plan/Environmental
Impact Statement for the Medicine Bow and
Divide Resource Areas (USDI, BLM forthcoming).

: t-i

Step 1. Identification of Issues
Step 2. Development of Planning

Criteria

Step 3. Collection of Inventory Data

Step 4. Analysis of the Management Situ-
ation

Step 5. Formulation of Alternatives

Step 6. Estimation of Effects of Alternatives

Step 7. Selection of the Preferred Alter-
native

Step 8. Selection of the Resource Man-
agement Plan

Step 9. Monitoring and Evaluation

During the development of RMPs, criteria are
developed for each resource element (such as
wilderness values) that represents an issue in the
planning effort. National planning criteria for the
wilderness study process have been developed by
BLM. All BLM wilderness recommendations, both
suitable and nonsuitable for preservation as
wilderness, are developed on the basis of the two
planning criteria and six quality standards listed
below.

Criterion Number 1, Evaluation of
Wilderness Values

Consider the extent that each of the following
contributes to the overall value of an area for
wilderness purposes.

1. Mandatory wilderness characteristics: size, naturalness

and outstanding opportunities for solitude or primitive,
unconfined recreation.

2. Special features: presence or absence and quality of

ecological, geological or other features of scientific,
educational, scenic, or historical value.

3. Multiple-resource benefits: benefits to other multiple-

resource values and uses that only wilderness
designation of the area could ensure.

PURPOSE AND NEED

Diversity: the extent that wilderness designation of the
area under study would contribute to expanding the
diversity of the NWPS from the standpoint of the factors
listed below:

a. Expanding the diversity of natural systems and
features, as represented by ecosystems and
landforms.

b. Assessing the opportunities for solitude or primitive
recreation within a day's driving time of major
population centers.

c. Balancing the geographic distribution of wilderness
areas.

Criterion Number 2, Manageability

The area must be capable of being effectively
managed to preserve its wilderness character.

Standard Number 1, Energy
Mineral Resource Values

Recommendations as to an area's suitability or
nonsuitability for wilderness designation will
reflect a thorough consideration of any identified
or potential energy and mineral resource values.

Standard Number 2, Impacts on
Other Resources

Consider the extent to which other resource
values or uses of the area would be foregone or
adversely affected as a result of wilderness
designation.

received from interested and affected public
groups at all levels-local, state, regional, and
national. BLM will develop its recommendations
by considering public comment in conjunction
with its analysis of a wilderness study area's
multiple resource and social and economic values
and uses.

Standard Number 5, Local,
Social, and Economic Effects

In determining whether an area is suitable or
nonsuitable for wilderness designation, BLM will
give special attention to adverse or favorable
social and economic effects, as identified through
the wilderness study process, that wilderness
designation will have on local areas.

Standard Number 6, Consistency
with Other Plans

In determining whether an area is suitable or
nonsuitable for wilderness designation, BLM will
considertheextentto which the recommendation
is consistent with officially approved and adopted
resource-related plans of other federal agencies,
state and local governments, and Indian tribes
(and the policies and programs contained in such
plans), as required by FLPMA and BLM planning
regulations.

WILDERNESS STUDY

Standard Number 3, Impact of
Nondesignation on Wilderness
Values

Consider the alternative use of land understudy
if the area were not designated as wilderness, and
the extent to which wilderness values of the area
would be foregone or adversely affected as a
result of this use.

Standard Number 4, Public
Comment

In determining whether an area is suitable or
nonsuitable for wilderness designation, the BLM
wilderness study process will consider comments

The three WSAs covered by this EIS were
identified during BLM's intensive wilderness
inventory, which was completed in November
1980. The RMP process for the Medicine Bow
Resource Area began in 1985. This EIS, in
conjunction with congressional action, will
complete the resource and land use guidance in
the RMP.

Detailed, site-specific management plans for
the WSAs in the event they are designated as
wilderness are not presented. Instead, a wil-
derness management plan will be developed for
any WSA that is designated, based on any special
wilderness management considerations incor-
porated by Congress. Areas not designated as
wilderness and released by Congress will be
returned to normal multiple-use management
without the constraints of BLM's Wilderness
Interim Management Policy.

BLM LIBRARY

MEDICINE BOW

■ ■ x -.

Wilderness Supplement

Draft Resource Management Plan/EIS

DRAFT WILDERNESS

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

FOR THE MEDICINE BOW RESOURCE AREA

Carbon County, Wyoming

Abstract

This draft wilderness environmental impact statement considers the suitability
or nonsuitability of three wilderness study areas (WSAs) in the Medicine Bow
Resource Area for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System.

The proposed action for each of the three study areas is:

Bennett Mountains (WY-030-304) - No Wilderness Alternative
Encampment River Canyon (WY-030-301) - No Wilderness Alternative
Prospect Mountain WSA (WY-030-303) - All Wilderness Alternative

To comment, or for further information, contact the following:

John Husband, RMP Team Leader

Bureau of Land Management

P.O. Box 670

Rawlins, Wyoming 82301

(307) 324-7171

Comments will be accepted for 90 days following the date that the
Environmental Protection Agency publishes the notice of filing of this draft
in the Federal Register.

PURPOSE AND NEED

As a result of a decision by the Secretary of
Interior on December 30, 1982, changes were
made in the wilderness study procedures
(Instruction Memorandum WO-83-138). Two
WSAs were dropped from further consideration
because they contained fewer than 5,000 acres:
Encampment River Canyon (4,547 acres) and
Prospect Mountain (1,145 acres). In 1985,
through a federal court action, these two areas
were reinstated as WSAs and are being
considered in this EIS for designation as
wilderness (see map 1).

The three areas being studied are located in
Carbon County. The natural features in these
areas are quite diverse, ranging from granite
mountains nearly barren of vegetation to
aspen/pine woodlands and deep, rugged can-
yons. Elevations range from a low of 6,600 feet in
the Bennett Mountains to 8,545 feet on the ridges
in the Encampment River Canyon.

These WSAs constitute approximately one-half
of 1 percent of the public land in the Medicine
Bow Resource Area and cover a total of 11,695
acres. Table 1 lists the areas and acreages under
wilderness study in the Medicine Bow Resource
Area.

TABLE 1
LIST OF WILDERNESS STUDY AREAS

Wilderness Study Area

Acres1

Encampment River Canyon
WY-030-301

Prospect Mountain
WY-030-303

Bennett Mountains
WY-030-304

TOTAL

4,547

1,145

6,003

11,695

1 All lands within the WSAs are public lands.
All minerals underlying the WSAs are federally
owned.

MAJOR ISSUES AND
CONCERNS

A number of issues have been identified
through public participation and by BLM
personnel. The issues were used to guide
formulation of management alternatives for each

WSA and to guide the analysis in this EIS. The
issues for each WSA are listed below. Each issue
reflects concerns about the effects of wilderness
designation or no wilderness designation.

Issues for the Encampment River
Canyon WSA

1. Effects on wilderness values, including naturalness,

solitude, and primitive and unconfined recreation.

2. Effects on recreational opportunities, including the use

of motorized vehicles and the quality of recreation.

3. Effects on wildlife including elk, mule deer, bighorn

sheep, and fish populations.

4. Effects on livestock grazing and grazing management.

5. Effects on mineral exploration and development-oil and

gas and locatable minerals.

Issues for the Prospect Mountain
WSA

1. Effects on wilderness values, including naturalness,

solitude, and primitive and unconfined recreation.

2. Effects on recreational opportunities, including the use

of motorized vehicles and the quality of recreation.

3. Effects on wildlife including elk and mule deer.

4. Effects on forest resources and forest management.

5. Effects on mineral exploration and development-oil and

gas and locatable minerals.

Issues for the Bennett Mountains
WSA

1. Effects on wilderness values, including naturalness,

solitude, and primitive and unconfined recreation.

2. Effects on recreational opportunities, including the use

of motorized vehicles and the quality of recreation.

3. Effects on mineral exploration and development-oil and

gas and locatable minerals.

Concerns

The following concerns were raised during the
scoping process for this EIS.

1. Wilderness designation would eliminate vehicular access
and would be detrimental to hunting and other
recreation; elderly or handicapped individuals would not
be able to use the wilderness areas. The effect of
wilderness designation on recreational opportunities is
addressed as an issue in this EIS.

Scale I n Miles

Map 1
LOCATIONS OF WILDERNESS STUDY AREAS

Medicine Bow Wilderness Supplement

PURPOSE AND NEED

2. Wilderness designation would result in use beyond the

optimal level for the area, which would result in a
decrease in the quality of the area. This concern is not
addressed as an issue in this EIS. Wilderness designation
would not be expected to result in an increase in use
beyond optimal levels in any of the WSAs. If it did,
specific management plans would be developed to
prevent degradation of the quality of the areas.

3. Wilderness designation would preserve the outstanding

opportunities for primitive recreation and solitude and
preserve high-quality scenic values and significant
cultural resources. The effect of wilderness designation
on opportunities for primitive recreation and solitude
and high-quality scenic values is addressed in this EIS.
The effect on significant cultural resources is not
addressed since BLM has adequate authority to manage
cultural resources regardless of the wilderness status of
a given area. Effects on significant cultural resources are
not expected regardless of the wilderness status of a
given area.

4. Wilderness designation might be the only way to ensure

long-term protection for wildlife habitat and primitive
recreational opportunities. The effect of wilderness
designation on wildlife habitat and primitive recreation
is addressed in this EIS.

5. The Encampment River Canyon provides high-quality

opportunities for recreation, particularly fishing and
hunting. Wilderness designation would result in an
increase in visitor use with a resultant decrease in quality
of recreation activities. This concern is not addressed as
an issue in this EIS. Wilderness designation would not
be expected to result in an increase in use beyond
optimal levels in the Encampment River Canyon. If it did,
specific management plans would be developed to
prevent degradation of the quality of recreational
opportunities.

6. Wilderness designation would ensure that water quality

in the Encampment River would remain high, and there
would be a positive impact on the trout fishery. This
concern is not addressed as an issue in this EIS.
Wilderness designation would not materially affect water
quality in the Encampment River.

7. Wilderness designation for the WSAs would add acreage

in southeastern Wyoming to the NWPS, thereby
providing wilderness in closer proximity to residents.
Proximity of opportunities for solitude and primitive and
unconfined recreation in relation to major population
centers is a consideration in making suitability
recommendations for WSAs. It is not an environmental
issue addressed in this EIS.

8. Wilderness designation for the WSAs would add

ecosystems to the NWPS, thereby increasing diversity.
Expanding the diversity of natural systems and features
in the NWPS is a consideration in making suitability
recommendations for WSAs. It is not an environmental
issue addressed in this EIS.

9. Wilderness designation for the Prospect Mountain and

Encampment River Canyon WSAs would serve as logical
extensions to existing USFS wilderness areas located
adjacent to or near each WSA. This concern is addressed
in this EIS.

10. Wilderness designation would preclude major water
development projects. This concern is not addressed in
this EIS, because no major water projects are projected
within any of the WSAs.

Interim Management Policy

During the wilderness review process and until
Congress acts on the President's recommen-
dations, the Secretary of the Interior is required
to manage wilderness study areas so as not to
impair their suitability for preservation as
wilderness, subject to certain exceptions and
conditions. The policy and guidelines under
which BLM will manage the lands during the
wilderness review process is known as the Interim
Management Policy.

There are two goals of the Interim Management
Policy:

1. To ensure that WSAs, which now satisfy the wilderness

definition in Section 2(c) of the Wilderness Act, will
satisfy that definition when the Secretary sends his
wilderness recommendation to the President and until
Congress acts on that recommendation; and

2. To ensure that, by the time the Secretary sends his

recommendation to the President, the area's wilderness
values are not degraded, compared with the area's
values for other purposes, as to significantly constrain
the Secretary's recommendation with respect to the
area's suitability or nonsuitability for preservation as
wilderness.

There are two exceptions to this policy. The first
is that existing uses may continue in the same
manner and degree as on the date that FLPMA
was approved. Such uses are referred to as
"grandfathered."

The second exception involves mineral leases
that were issued before October 21, 1976, the date
FLPMA was passed. If an oil and gas lease was
issued before the passage of FLPMA, it would be
considered a valid existing right, and the owner
of such a lease would be entitled to exercise his
right to explore and produce oil and gas, even if
that activity were to impair the area's wilderness
values. For a further explanation of these rights,
copies of the complete Interim Management
Policy and Guidelines for Lands under Wilder-
ness Review are available at any BLM office or
may be obtained by writing or calling the Rawlins
District office.

When Congress decides which WSAs will be
designated wilderness and included in the NWPS,
those areas not designated wilderness will be
released from interim management.

Wilderness Management Policy

BLM's Wilderness Management Policy (avail-
able at any BLM office) was published in
September 1981. It details BLM's policy on

PURPOSE AND NEED

management of wilderness areas. The wilderness
management policy regulates use of designated
wilderness and contains information about
specific programs, such as livestock grazing, and
how they will be affected by a wilderness
designation.

The wilderness management policy stipulates
that once an area has been designated as
wilderness, the provisions of the Wilderness Act
of 1964 shall direct its administration and use.
According to the Wilderness Act, wilderness
areas will be managed to provide for their
protection and for the preservation of their natural
conditions and wilderness character. It further

provides that wilderness areas are to be devoted
to the public purposes of recreational, scenic,
scientific, educational, conservational, and his-
torical use.

Congress has provided for certain activities and
existing uses to be excepted from the general
management provisions of the Wilderness Act.
Examples are:

a. Valid existing rights

b. Measures requiring emergencies involving the health and

safety of persons

c. Livestock grazing where already established

PARTI

ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

Chapter Two

Alternatives

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 2: Alternatives 15

Introduction 15

Alternatives Elimated from Detailed Study 15

Alternatives Considered in Detail 15

Proposed Action - No Action: No Wilderness 15

Wilderness Management 15

Recreation Management 15

Wildlife Habitat Management 17

Fisheries Management 17

Livestock Grazing Management 17

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas Locatables 17

All Wilderness Alternative 17

Wilderness Management 18

Recreation Management 18

Wildlife Habitat Management 18

Fisheries Management 18

Livestock Grazing Management 18

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas Locatables 19

PART I - ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

(WY-030-301)

CHAPTER 2 - ALTERNATIVES

Introduction

Since the pattern of future actions within the
WSA cannot be predicted with certainty,
assumptions were made to allow for the analysis
of impacts under the alternatives. These
assumptions are the basis of the impacts
identified in this EIS. They are not management
plans or proposals, but represent feasible
patterns of activities that could occur under the
alternatives analyzed.

Alternatives Eliminated from
Detailed Study

An alternative to designate only part of the WSA
as wilderness was considered. Partial wilderness
designation would eliminate that area containing
mining claims to avoid potential conflicts with
other resource values. However, it was deter-
mined that the WSA is too small in size to make
any reductions. Also, there are no logical
boundaries for partial wilderness.

An alternative to enhance wilderness in the
WSA by closing boundary roads and adding
additional acreage was considered. However, this
would not be feasible since the roads are
designated county roads that provide the only
vehicle access to public and private lands.

Alternatives Considered in Detail

Two alternatives were analyzed for the
Encampment River Canyon WSA: (1) No
Action: No Wilderness (the Proposed Action)
and (2) All Wilderness. Descriptions of the
management direction for the alternatives follow.

Proposed Action - No Action: No
Wilderness

Under this alternative, the Encampment River
Canyon WSA (4,547 acres) would be recom-
mended as nonsuitable for designation as
wilderness. Resource management in the WSA
would emphasize protection and enhancement of
recreational, wildlife, fisheries, and scenic values.

Wilderness Management

The WSA would not be recommended for
wilderness designation and would be subject to
actions that would enhance recreation, wildlife,
fisheries, and scenic values. No special emphasis
would be placed on preservation of wilderness
values.

Recreation Management

The objective would be to enhance recreational
values while protecting and enhancing wildlife,
fisheries, and scenic values.

Wooden -fence exclosures would be con-
structed "at/key points along the Encampment
River Trail to allow caTnpTng/without interference

from livestock (see, map 2). y<e.*-*. u»^l<J ^*
-T^^ti-e^- 1-eo-c.irS <s»^ SBBk^i •p^ini'i-f-i'e.s

Off road vehicle (ORV) use would continue to
be prohibited throughout the area in the winter
(December 1 to April 30). During the remainder
of the year ORV use would be limited to existing
roads and trails with the exception of the
Encampment River Trail. The Encampment River
Trail would remain closed to motorized traffic at
all times.

A Recreation Area Management Plan (RAMP)
would be developed for the area to guide
development of recreation facilities and use
management.

Recreational use of the Encampment River Trail
would be expected to increase from the present

R 84 W

R 83 W

1/2

SCALE IN MILES

Encampment River Canyon WSA Boundary

Location of Fences to Exclude
Cattle from Camping Areas

^ Rawlir

~U]

Map 2

LIVESTOCK EXCLOSURES IN THE

ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

Medicine Bow Wilderness Supplement

ALTERNATIVES

level of between 4,000 and 5,000 visitor days to
about 6,000 visitor days within the next five years
and remain stable thereafter.

Recreational use for the remainder of the area
would remain stable at about 2,000 visitor .days^

Wildlife Habitat Management

The objective would be to enhance habitat for
bighorn sheep, mule deer, and elk.(l^

Tho oxioti-
-be -cxpa-n-de
would be-mofiitored.

Existing livestock management practices
would be continued. Cattle use would be
authorized and managed at existing levels.
Rangeland monitoring studies would be con-
tinued, and new studies would be implemented to
determine what adjustments in cattle use are
needed.

^trea-

ountain shrub/aspen&habitats would be
treated through prescribed burning or cutting of
200 acres to improve crucial big game range. T/h

Mountain shrubs would be established in
several areas that now have a low density of
shrubs (approximately 200 acres

Fisheries Management <f*e*.~y»*-2? <z*~q*>*

The objective would be to improve the trout
habitat on about 1 mile of heavily-used waters on
the Encampment River and Miner Creek. In other
areas, the objective would be to maintain the
river's high quality.

fetawes^ JJj is anticipated that the livestock

operators in the area would propose projects to

solve site-specific problems within the WSA. IjHjt

anticipated that two or three 'spring'^ a net 1&&

■HMWiatruoHon—of- approximately five miles of

allotment boundary fence would be required Xo*>

^implement management systems on the four

allotments. New range improvement projects

would be designed to consider scenic, wildlife,

and recreational values in the WSA. Design

considerations would include the use of let-down

fences to allow wildlife movement and careful

location of developments and selection of

*f /tfTX, ^M^materials to mitigate potential visual intrusions. /

One and one-half miles of existing fence/within tc<^

the WSA would be maintained, fyce

>*~^ j;

Minerals Management
Locatables

Oil and Gas and

T
EncarrT
determin
occurring. I
(for example
banks and
be used/to rehab

-fefc|^& 50 boulders
Encampment River to
hiding cover for trout

iner Creek and the

would be monitored to

etj/er habitat degradation is

radation of habitat is detected

e use were degrading stream

temporary fencing would

the area.

New oil and gas leases would be issued subject
to standard protection requirements for
surface-disturbing activities (-available 'from any
&WM-office-rn~Wyoming). No drilling is expected
because of the low potential for oil and gas
accumulation and the difficulty of access.

tf&-

would be placed in the
create^ools and provide
TSpSHpSSIfool structures
would be placed in lower Miner Creek to improve

The existing 17 post-FLPMA mining claims
would be managed subject to the Surface
Management Regulation of 43 CFR 3809
governing surface management of public lands
under U. S. mining laws. New mining claims
would be allowed and would be managed the
same as existing cJawga^Poj^cm^^pf tjj^^a/ga, t ^P 4£fc/?4/y

pool and spawning habitat for trout. These

actions would require the use of motorized heavy could undergo exploratory drilling or other-types
equipment. e-texplor-ation. No mining is expected due to&fr-f&c ^JitLdz

". ■ unfavorable economic outlook, thegeology of the
Under this alternative, BLM would not rec-
ommend a change in the management concept of
basic yield where the fishery may be supported
by stocking if necessary.

and

<fj^ty

AM Wilderness Alternative

Livestock Grazing Management

The objective would be to maintain current
grazing levels and management direction.

a historical lack of ore shipments.

Under this alternative, the Encampment River
Canyon WSA (4,547 acres) would be recom-
mended as suitable for designation as wilderness.
Management of the area would be guided by
BLM's Wilderness Management Policy, issued

/Li

September 24, 1981.
for protection and

Management would provide
preservation of the area's

ALTERNATIVE^ £^

natural conditions and wilderness character.

Management actions for recreation, wildlife
and fisheries, livestock grazing and minerals
would be constrained to ensure that wilderness
values were not impaired.

$r Actions would be undertaken if wildlife habitat
problems were documented. For example, if
crucial winter range were deteriorating because
of cattle use, temporary fencing or change in
season of use might be required. Any action taken
would be consistent with BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy. Thus, certain actions such
as the alteration of vegetation using motorized
equipment would be prohibited.

Wilderness Management

The objective would be to protect and preserve
the area's natural conditions and wilderness
character.

Activities that would impair the wilderness
character of the area such as construction of
facilities and use of motorized vehicles, would be
restricted. Specific restrictions are included in the
following discussions.

A wilderness management plan would be
written for the area, outlining specific manage-
ment guidance. The plan would be written
according to the guidelines in BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy and BLM Manual Section
8561, Wilderness Management Plans, available at
most BLM offices.

Recreation Management

The objective would be to provide opportunities
for primitive forms of recreation including hiking,
hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. M>/i£&J^3

J The entire WSA would be closed to ORVs.
Approximately 5 miles of two-track trails
presently available for ORV use would be
affected.

Recreational use of the Encampment River Trail
would be expected to increase from the present
level of between 4,000 and 5,000 visitor days to
about 6,000 visitor days within the next five years
and remain stable thereafter.

Recreational use of the remainder of the area
would decrease from 2,000 visitor days to 1,000
visitor days as a result of the ORV closure.

Wildlife Habitat Management

The objective would be to maintain or enhance
habitat for bighorn sheep, mule deer, and elk
within the constraints of BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy.

Big game habitat and populations in the WSA
would be assessed and monitored to determine
the distribution and interaction of big game
species. The extent of competition between cattle
and big game would be determined for the area.

Fisheries Management

The objective would be to manage existing
trout habitat and the naturally-reproducing trout
populations to preserve the opportunity to catch
wild trout in a wilderness setting. Trout habitat
would be managed within nonimpairment
guidelines toa^hance its quality and productivity.

^^Wmjt'*ttft and populations would be

■^i^fm^ed- }o- determine whether they are being

/,^a|f^d!f^e^0y activities such as recreation or cattle

/grazing. If problems were detected, actions would

be undertaken to resolve the conflict within the

constraints of BLM's Wilderness Management

Policy. For example, if cattle use were degrading

stream banks and vegetation, temporary fencing

would be used to rehabilitate the area.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department

would be requested to manage the Encampment

River under its "wild trout" management concept

to ensure continued opportunity to catch wild

;T trout.

Livestock Grazing Management

The objective would be to maintain current
grazing levels and management direction within
the constraints of BLM's Wilderness Management
Policy.

No range improvement projects are planned;
however, it is anticipated that livestock operators
in the area would propose projects to solve
site-specific problems within the WSA. It is
anticipated that two or three springs and the
construction of approximately five miles of
allotment boundary fence would be required to
implement management systems on the four
allotments. New range improvement projects
would be carefully designed and constructed to
ensure wilderness characteristics are not

* ALTERNATIVES

impaired. Design considerations would include
the use of let-down fences to allow for wildlife
movement and careful location of developments
and selection of materials to mitigate potential
visual intrusions. Use of motorized equipment for
construction of new range improvement projects
would be restricted.

One and one-half miles of existing fence within
the WSA would be maintained.

Motor vehicle access would be limited to
emergencies and when absolutely necessary to
maintain range improvements. Routine activities
such as feeding, herding, checking cattle, and
placing salt blocks would be accomplished
without the use of motor vehicles.

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas and
Locatables

No new oil and gas leasing would be allowed.

7*<

ntil the WSA is designated wilderness/by
Congress, the existing 17 post-FLPMA/mfning
claims would-be subject to the ipterim man-
agement policy^Ttiis policy allows only activities
that do not impain-wikierness values. If a
discovery is made using fndn-knpairing methods,
then a claimanU/vould be entitleoMo a patent on
those clajmsTThe area would continuelo-be open
to mining location until designation as wrtder-
ness.

"After the WSA is designated wilderness, the
existing 17 post-FLPMA mining claims would be
subject to BLM's Wilderness Management Policy.
No new mining claims would be allowed. Validity
examinations would be required before allowing
operations on claims. No mining is expected due
to an unfavorable economic outlook, the geology
of the WSA, and a historical lack of ore shipments.

TABLE 2

SUMMARY OF IMPACTS
Encampment River Canyon WSA

Issues

Effects on Wilderness
Values

Effects on Recreational
Opportunities

Effects on Wildlife

Proposed Action
No Action: No Wilderness

Solitude and naturalness would be somewhat
impaired by continued ORV use and implementation
of developments for recreation, wildlife,
fisheries, and livestock grazing management.
Opportunities for primitive recreation would be
enhanced by construction of livestock exclosures
along the Encampment River Trail.

Types of recreational activities would remain
unchanged and would be enhanced through
elimination of cattle use in the camping areas
along the trail and improved fishing and hunting
opportunities.

Stress and displacement of big game would be
reduced as a result of the winter ORV closure.
Usable trout habitat and numbers of trout would
increase in the Encampment River and Miner Creek
as a result of fisheries management actions.
About 50 acres of riparian habitat along about
one half mile of stream bank would be improved as
a result of construction of livestock exclosures
along the Encampment River. The quality and
quantity of big game forage would increase as a
result of vegetation manipulation on crucial
winter range.

All Wilderness

Naturalness, opportunities for solitude, and
opportunities for primitive and unconfined
recreation would be protected in the Encampment
River Canyon WSA. The scenic quality of the area
would be preserved. Closing the area to ORV use
would enhance opportunities for solitude and
primitive recreation during the entire year.

About 1 ,000 visitor days associated with ORV use
would be eliminated. Within five years total
recreational use would level off at about 500
fewer visitor days than are projected under
current management. There would be no increase
in usable habitat and numbers of trout, and the
number or size of trout creeled from the
Encampment River might need to be regulated in
the future. Conflicts between cattle and
recreationists from concentrated use along the
trail would remain.

Stress and displacement of big game would be
reduced year round as a result of the ORV
closure. Usable trout habitat and numbers of
trout would not increase in the Encampment River
and Miner Creek since fisheries improvement
actions are not proposed.

m
V)

TABLE 2 (Continued)

SUMMARY OF IMPACTS
Encampment River Canyon WSA

Issues

Proposed Action
No Action: No Wilderness

All Wilderness

Effects on Livestock
Grazing and Grazing
Management

Effects on Mineral
Exploration and
Development

Projected range improvement projects would
improve distribution patterns, eliminate
uncontrolled drift of cattle between allotments,
and provide additional sources of water for
cattle. Consideration of scenic, wildlife and
recreational values in the design and
construction of range improvement projects would
raise their costs compared to standard
construction.

There would be no effect on exploration and
development of oil and gas or locatable minerals.

Compliance with BLM's Wilderness Management
Policy would make routine management activities
such as herding, checking cattle, or placing
salt blocks more expensive and labor intensive
as a result of motor vehicle restrictions. It
also would make accomplishment of new range
improvement projects more expensive and labor
intensive. Projected range improvement projects
would improve distribution patterns, eliminate
uncontrolled drift of cattle between allotments,
and provide additional sources of water for
cattle.

The availability of currently unrecognized oil
and gas reserves would be forgone. Due to low
potential for development the effect on oil and
gas exploration and development would be minor.
No new mining claims would be allowed, so the
availability of currently unrecognized mineral
deposits would be forgone. The requirements of
BLM wilderness management policy would not
prevent development of any of the existing
claims, but would make development more
expensive and labor intensive.

H
m
n

z
>

m
c/>

PART I

ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

Chapter Three

Affected Environment

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 3: Affected Environment 25

Introduction 25

General Description 25

Wilderness Values 27

Size 27

Naturalness 27

Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude and/or a Primitive

Unconfined Type of Recreation 27

Special Features 27

Recreational Resources 28

Wildlife Resources 28

Fisheries Resources 29

Livestock Grazing 30

Mineral Resources 32

Geologic Setting 32

Oil and Gas 32

Locatable Minerals 32

PART I - ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

(WY-030-301)

CHAPTER 3 - AFFECTED
ENVIRONMENT

Introduction

There are many environmental components
that would be unaffected by either of the
alternatives for management of the Encampment
River Canyon WSA. Since they would not be
affected, they are not described in detail in this
chapter. These environmental components are
covered briefly in the following paragraphs.

Many environmental components are not
present in the WSA and therefore would not be
affected. These components include areas of
critical environmental concern (ACEC), coal
resources, nonenergy leasable minerals, flood-
plains, prime or unique farmlands, wetlands, wild
horses, and wild or scenic rivers (designated or
proposed).

Other environmental components are present
in the WSA, but none of the management actions
proposed would affect them. These include air
quality, climate, cultural resources, forestry,
topography, and water yield.

No lands and realty actions are proposed or
projected for the WSA, so none would be affected.

There are no permits for salable minerals in the
WSA. Because of inaccessibility and the exis-
tence of salable mineral deposits closer to areas
where they are needed, salable mineral deposits
in the WSA are not considered commercial.
Development of salable minerals is not expected.
Thus, availability of salable minerals would not be
affected.

Restricting ORV use can potentially reduce soil
erosion. However, in this WSA, ORV use is
relatively light and is dispersed so that effects on
soil erosion would be negligible.

Construction of pools in Miner Creek and
placement of boulders in the Encampment River
could potentially affect water quality during
construction. However, these activities would be
conducted in such a mannerthat effects would be
minimal during construction and negligible in the
long term.

Threatened or endangered species would be
unaffected by the management alternatives for
the WSA. Endangered bald eagles and peregrine
falcons may use the WSA on occasions when
hunting or migrating through the area, but the
WSA contains no breeding, nesting, or wintering
habitat that would be essential to the recovery of
either species. The area does not contain any
prairie dogs, primary food of black-footed ferrets,
so the existence of ferrets in the WSA is unlikely.

General Description

The Encampment River Canyon WSA is located
in southern Carbon County, approximately 2
miles south of Encampment, Wyoming and 1 mile
north of the U.S. Forest Service Encampment
River Wilderness.

The topography of the entire unit is moun-
tainous (see photographs 1 and 2). Steep canyons
and rocky slopes dominate the vistas. The
Encampment River and a major tributary, Miner
Creek, add scenic features to the WSA. Elevations
range from 7,200 feet along the Encampment
River to 8,545 feet on the high ridges.

Approximately 10 percent of the WSA is
forested. Tree species present include limber
pine, lodgepole pine, Douglas-fir, subalpine fir,
Cottonwood and aspen. They occur in pure and
mixed stands scattered throughout the WSA.

Lower elevations and drainages are charac-
terized by narrow belts of deciduous trees
(cottonwoods, willows, alders), conifer trees
(Douglas-fir, true firs), grasses, and forbs
bordering the Encampment River.

The middle elevations and rocky slopes are
primarily composed of bunch grasses inter-
spersed with small shrubs (sagebrush, mountain
mahogany, bitterbrush, serviceberry) on steep
canyon slopes, and small fingers of trees in the
draws and gullies.

The upper elevations and high ridges above the
canyon rim generally include the same species as
the middle zone, but with smaller proportions of
shrubs and less dense stands of grass.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

A stroll along the Encampment River Trail - Encampment River Canyon WSA.

The Encampment River within the canyon - Encampment River Canyon WSA.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Access to the WSA is very good as public
roadsare available to most of the boundary. In
winter the area can be reached by snowmobile or
by cross country skis.

Wilderness Values

Size

The Encampment River Canyon WSA contains
4,547 acres of contiguous public land. The
original reported acreage of 3,380 was in error
and has been corrected to 4,547 acres. No private
or state inholdings, and no split-estate lands are
located within the WSA boundary.

Naturalness

Most of the WSA is in a natural state. A fence
line crosses one half of the WSA, but its location
is not intrusive. The area also has a few two-track
trails, remains of two old cabins and a river dam,
and several small prospect pits and tunnels, but
these do not detract from the natural values.
These intrusions blend into the overall view and
are not noticeable from a distance. They do not
impair the wilderness character of the WSA.

The International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF)
has developed a private parcel of land adjacent
to the WSA along the river; however, due to
screening provided by trees, rock outcrops, and
steep canyon walls, the area is not noticeable
from within the WSA. The development does not
impair the wilderness character of the WSA.

Upstream from the WSA, the USFS Encamp-
ment River Wilderness encompasses a large
portion of the Encampment River drainage.
Further upstream, in Colorado, the river is
proposed for wild and scenic river designation.

Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude
and/or a Primitive Unconfined Type of
Recreation

The WSA offers outstanding opportunities for
solitude. The deep canyons and high rocky ridges
provide topographic screening, and the vegeta-
tion of the area contributes further screening. At
current and projected levels of use visitors to the
area would have ample opportunity to avoid the
sights and sounds of other visitors to the WSA,
with occasional encounters along the trail.

Opportunities for primitive and unconfined
recreation are outstanding. Many people cur-
rently use the area for hiking, backpacking,
horseback riding, hunting, fishing, rockhound-
ing, wildlife viewing, photography, and sight-
seeing. The section on "Recreation Resources"
contains a discussion of current recreational use
in the WSA.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department
(WGFD) has classified the Encampment River as
very good trout waters with statewide importance.

The Encampment RiverTrail, which is managed
by the U. S. Forest Service (USFS), parallels the
river and provides access to the entire length of
the river. The trail is closed to motorized vehicle
use year round, and the entire WSA is closed to
motorized traffic in the winter for big game
protection. These restrictions enhance oppor-
tunities for solitude and primitive recreation.

The trail also has been mentioned as a potential
connector trail to the Continental Divide National
Scenic Trail (CDNST) to which it may intersect
when the CDNST route is established.

The trail provides access to the USFS
Encampment River Wilderness, which is
upstream. Conflicts between cattle and campers
occur along the trail because cattle congregate in
some of the best campsites (relatively flat areas
near water). Vegetation in these areas has been
reduced, and concentrations of cow manure have
led to aesthetic, sanitation, and insect problems.

In conjunction with the trail, the BLM has
developed and maintains the Encampment River
Trailhead just outside the WSA. This trailhead
provides a restroom, parking, picnicking and
primitive camping facilities. The trailhead en-
hances opportunities for primitive recreation
within the WSA by improving access.

Special Features

The Encampment River Canyon contains sites
associated with early exploration and mining
activities of regional historical importance.

A one mile wide corridor along the Encamp-
ment River is proposed for National Natural
Landmark (NNL) designation. A portion of the
proposed NNL lies within the WSA.

The canyon is highly scenic. It contrasts
sharply with the color and texture of the
surrounding environment, the heavily forested
areas to the south and the desert environment to
the north.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

The area has a Class II Visual Resource
Management rating.

Recreational Resources

The Encampment River Canyon WSA offers
opportunities for a great variety of recreational
activities, including fishing, hunting, backpack-
ing, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing and
photography, camping, rock hounding, and
sightseeing. The river canyon attracts recrea-
tionistsfrom Wyoming and the neighboring states
of Colorado, Nebraska, and Utah.

Access to the WSA is very good either by
vehicle, on foot or on horseback. The Encamp-
ment River Trail provides access to the USFS
Encampment River Wilderness, which lies
upstream. Development of the Encampment River
Trailhead, just outside the WSA, began in 1980.
A bridge was constructed at the trailhead. Prior
to that, the trail was accessible to foot traffic by
wading the river. The trail is heavily used
throughout the warmer months. According to
counter readings, the trail's popularity has grown
each summer since development of the trailhead.
In 1983, the use was estimated at 2,000 visitor
days. By 1984 this figure had doubled. Trail use
is projected to level off at about 6,000 visitor days
within the next five years.

The trail is closed to motorized vehicle use year
round, and the entire WSA is closed to motorized
traffic in the winter (December 1 to April 30) under
an emergency (temporary) ORV closure.

Fishermen have excellent foot access upstream
via the Encampment River Trail. All waters within
the study area are open to yearlong fishing. There
is a lack of data on exact fishing use and harvest.
Available estimates indicate that there are 20
fisherman days per mile, per year on the
Encampment River and 5 fisherman days per mile,
per year on Miner Creek. This equals 50 fisherman
days per year on the Encampment River and 17.5
fisherman days per year on Miner Creek within
the WSA. These figures are probably low in light
of the increased use of the Encampment River
Trail since development of the trailhead.
Approximately 1 6 percent of the visitor use on the
trail is associated with fishing.

Over the past few years, kayakers and tubers
have begun to use the river during spring runoff,
as it provides an exciting float trip.

Hunting, especially for mule deer, is very
popular within the WSA as, locally, it is
considered a potential trophy area. Bighorn
sheep hunting is limited by quota, but it is
considered a premium area to hunt.

Other recreational use of the WSA includes
ORV use (during nonrestricted periods), horse-
back riding, and sightseeing.

Recreational use away from the Encampment
River Trail is estimated at 2,000 visitor days per
year. About half of this involves the use of ORVs.

Wildlife Resources

The Encampment River Canyon WSA provides
habitat for a wide variety of game and nongame
wildlife. A list of these species is available at the
Rawlins BLM District Office.

Portions of three big game herd units occur in
the WSA. A variable number of animals from each
herd use the WSA throughout the year.

The entire Encampment River Canyon WSA is
part of a larger crucial winter range for bighorn
sheep. The Encampment bighorn sheep herd has
generated a great deal of interest recently
because of it's dramatic decrease in size. In 1976
and 1977, 68 bighorn sheep were introduced into
the Encampment River Canyon. The population
increased to approximately 135 by the fall of 1983.
During the winter of 1983-1984 the population
sustained a 25 percent loss because of the severe
winter weather. From 1984 to 1986 the population
decreased from 102 to 40-60 animals (Rudd 1986).
WGFD reports indicate that the reduction may
have been due to disease, competition from elk,
mule deer, antelope, and cattle; and harassment
by off-road vehicles.

Studies in different areas indicate that
harassment by humans can play a significant role
in such a reduction in bighorn sheep numbers,
especially if the harassment occurs during the
winter. The Encampment bighorn sheep herd has
historically concentrated on crucial range in the
WSA during the winter. Concern over the decline
of the herd led to the authorization in 1986 of an
emergency (temporary) ORV closure in the area
from December 1 to April 30. The environmental
assessment for the emergency closure (number
WY-033-0213) contains a more detailed discus-
sion of the effects of harassment on bighorn
sheep. A copy may be obtained from the BLM's
Rawlins District office.

Ewes from this herd also use a lambing area in
the WSA, where steep, rocky slopes provide
security from predators. Forage availability and
quality of the crucial winter range is essential to
the viability of the population.

The area is covered by a 1976 Habitat
Management Plan (HMP) that is scheduled for
revision. The annual coordination meeting in
1982 identified the need for better data collection

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

on herd dynamics by the WGFD and reliable
estimates of range utilization and production by
BLM and USFS.

Competition occurs among bighorn sheep, elk
and cattle due to season-long use by wildlife and
summeruse by livestock (Haas 1979). Much of the
generally more productive side slopes are
unavailable to cattle (due to topography) and to
wildlife (due to snow distribution patterns). As a
result, use is concentrated on the generally less
productive flat benches and the snow-free
southwesterly exposures.

While deer and elk will disperse as much as
possible to utilize high quality available forage in
adjacent areas, sheep are habitual by nature.
They tend to congregate in well-defined areas
and utilize all available forage before they
disperse to other areas. Cattle also tend to
congregate in well-defined areas, and their
concentrations compound the problem of com-
petition for forage.

The WSA is also used throughout the year by
mule deer. The northern half of the WSA
encompasses a small portion of the crucial winter
range required by the Platte Valley mule deer
herd. Variable numbers of mule deer may be
found yearlong throughout the WSA. Deer
concentrate on the lower elevation crucial winter
range (where forage availability is critical during
winter) when summer range on the national forest
is unavailable. Mule deer depend on the extensive
aspen and riparian habitat sites for spring
fawning.

In addition, the WSA is used by 90 to 150 elk
from the WGFD's Baggs Herd Unit. The northern
half of the WSA is used by elk primarily during the
winter months. The southern half is part of a much
larger crucial winter-yearlong range considered
to be essential to 10 to 15 percent of the Baggs
elk herd (Moody 1985).

The WSA contains high-value aspen, mountain
shrub, and riparian habitat sites used by up to 165
wildlife species. The aspen habitat sites are
primarily scattered in small stands on slopes and
exposures where snow concentrates and total
about 140 acres. Aspen habitat is normally
maintained by fire or other disturbances. In most
areas of their occurrence within the WSA, aspen
stands are rapidly being invaded by conifers
because of a lack of fire or other disturbance.
Much of the aspen is decadent and diseased and
in need of habitat manipulation if it is to be
maintained and/or improved.

Mountain shrub habitat sites are found
throughout the WSA and compose a large portion
of the nonforest vegetative community. These
mountain shrub sites are important to wintering

big game by providing much of their wintering
diet. They are presently in fair to poor condition
and the potential exists to increase the quality and
quantity of these sites for wildlife through
prescribed burning and shrub plantings.

Riparian habitat sites are present along the
banks of the Encampment River and tributary
drainages in the WSA and total about 110 acres.
Riparian sites are highly productive in terms of
plant and animal species diversity, vegetation
structure and biomass, and they are important to
wildlife because of their limited availability. Within
the WSA, some riparian areas are heavily utilized
by livestock and wildlife. As a result, plant vigor
has decreased and species composition has been
changed such that the sites are not producing at
their full potential.

Fisheries Resources

The Encampment River is a popular trout
fishery, attracting local and out-of-state fisher-
men. Brown, rainbow, and brook trout occur in
the Encampment River and Miner Creek, its
tributary within the WSA. Catchable rainbows
have been planted annually in the vicinity of the
Independent Order of Odd Fellow's Lodge
(IOOF) north of the WSA boundary. Trout have
not been planted upstream from this point since
1952.

The WGFD's stream fisheries classification for
the Encampment River is Class II (very good trout
waters, fisheries are of statewide importance).
Miner Creek is a Class IV stream (low production
waters, fisheries are of local importance).

The Encampment River and Miner Creek
provide a total of about 5.6 miles of habitat for
populations of brown, rainbow, and brook trout
within the WSA. The Encampment River runs
through the WSA for about 2.5 miles from south
to north, through a steep walled canyon. Miner
Creek runs about 2.7 miles through the WSA and
enters the Encampment River from the southwest
at a point just south of the northern boundary of
the WSA. The north fork and south fork of Miner
Creek each run about 0.4 miles within the WSA.

Riparian vegetation along the river and creek
includes willow, alder, and cottonwood. Habitat
along Miner Creek, including spawning and
rearing areas, was found to be in good condition
according to habitat surveys conducted in 1985
by BLM. Small areas of livestock induced damage
to the stream were noted. The Encampment River
habitat also is in good condition with limited
localized damage to the stream by cattle. The
channel stability rating along the Encampment
River is good.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

A self-sustaining brown trout population is the
predominant species in the Encampment River,
although rainbow and brook trout occur.
Electro-shocking studies by the WGFD (Kanaly
1977) have found up to 40 trout per 100 yard
station (700 trout per mile) in the Encampment
River upstream from the WSA. In the north fork
of Miner Creek results indicated 58 trout (mostly
brook trout) per 1 00 yard station (over 1 ,000 trout
per mile).

Opportunities exist to improve the already good
fisheries in the WSA through placement of
boulders in the Encampment River and con-
struction of pools in Miner Creek.

Nongame fish in the WSA include white and
longnose suckers, and longnose dace. Creek
chubs probably occur.

In summary, the Encampment River and Miner
Creek within the WSA provide good habitat for
populations of brown, rainbow, and brook trout.
Fish habitat appears to be in good condition,
populations are apparently self-sustaining, and
spawning takes place in both streams.

Livestock Grazing

Four operators graze livestock (cattle) within
the boundary of the Encampment River Canyon
WSA. The cattle tend to concentrate along the
river bottoms and associated riparian zones. The
upper reaches of the WSA are accessible but tend
to be lightly grazed due to the steepness of the
canyon walls and lack of available water away

from the drainage bottoms. There are four grazing
allotments in the area that are made up in part by
lands in the Encampment River Canyon WSA.

Only one fence exists within the WSA. This
fence, which partially separates two allotments,
does little to control drift of cattle. Due to the lack
of effective barriers, cattle congregate and spend
the majority of the grazing season (May through
October) in the same localized areas. Utilization
within the WSA, as a result of this concentrated
use, varies considerably between the riparian
zones and the side slopes and ridges. The
operators place supplemental salt along the
ridges and upper reaches of the WSA in an
attempt to better distribute grazing use.

Cattle within the WSA compete for forage with
elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. Due to a lack of
available data, it is unclear how this competition
has affected the overall availability of forage.
Recent utilization checks of the area have shown
utilization levels within the riparian areas as high
as 80 percent in some areas.

Herding and checking of cattle is done by
horseback and four-wheel drive vehicle on the
existing two-track trails in the WSA. Conflicts
exist between cattle and people using the
Encampment River Trail for recreation (see
"Recreation Resources").

Table 3 lists and describes the grazing
allotments, including a breakdown of federal
acres and animal unit months in the WSA, and in
the allotments as a whole.

Map 3 shows the four allotments as they lie
within the WSA boundary.

TABLE 3
LIVESTOCK GRAZING ALLOTMENTS IN THE ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

No. of

Percent of

No. of

Percent of

Total

Federal

Total

Federal

Allotment

Season

Kind of

Federal

Acres

Federal

AUMs

No.

Name

of Use

Livestock

Acres

in WSA

AUMs

in WSA

1008

Finch Ranch

Spring-Summer

Cattle

1,919

1,101

138

1010

Herring

Summer

Cattle

1,898

1,425

165

124

1029

Saulcy

Summer

Cattle

3,172

1,236

291

113

1017

Cottonwood

Summer-Fall

Cattle

1,966

767

220

R 84 W

R 83 W

SCALE IN MILES

GRAZING ALLOTMENTS:

1008 Finch Ranch
1010 Herring
1017 Cottonwood

jjjfKl 1029Saulcy

Encampment River Canyon WSA Boundary

Cheyenne

Map 3

LIVESTOCK GRAZING ALLOTMENTS IN

THE ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

Medicine Bow Wilderness Supplement

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Mineral Resources

Geologic Setting

The Encampment study area is part of the
Sierra Madre Range. The Sierra Madre Range is
a northwest trending anticlinal uplift of Pre-
cambrian rocks near the Colorado-Wyoming
border. A shear zone divides the Sierra Madre
Range into a complex of Archean granite and
feldspathic gneisses north of this shear, with
banded schists and gneisses of Proterozoic age
south of the shear. The shear zone appears to be
an extension of the Muller Creek Nash Fork Shear
Zone of the Medicine Bow Mountains, which
divides the Medicine Bow Range into an older
Archean province in the north and a younger,
Proterozoic province to the south. The older,
northern province has been interpreted as
Archean protocontinent with the shear and
southern province representing a Precambrian
continental margin. The Encampment River
Canyon study area lies north of the shear in the
Archean protocontinent province. The oldest unit
in the Sierra Madre Range is a well foliated,
medium grained quartz biotite gneiss (Divis
1976). This unit is also the predominant rock type
in the area. The quartz biotite gneiss is intruded
by numerous mafic and pegmatitic sills and dikes.
Two Kyanite bearing pegmatites were located in
Section 20, T. 14 N., R. 84 W.

Oil and Gas

There are no existing oil and gas leases within
the WSA. Due to the geologic environment, which
has no to low potential for oil and gas
accumulation, the difficulty of access, and the
difficulty of conducting drilling operations in
these types of geologic conditions, oil and gas
exploration and development is not anticipated in
the WSA.

Locatable Minerals

Based on a field examination of the
Encampment River Canyon WSA and adjacent
areas, the Mullen Creek Nash Forkshearzoneand
associated shears appear to control mineraliza-
tion in the general area, with the major shears
trending south of the area. The WSA is located
north of the Mullen Creek-Nash Fork shear zone
in older Archean rocks. There are numerous
prospect pits, shafts, and unnamed underground
mines within the WSA. There was no known
shipment of ore from any of the mines. There are
17 post-FLPMA mining claims within or partially
within the WSA (see map 4). The claims are
located for copper, gold and silver. An expression
of interest was submitted by a private company
indicating the area has a high potential for
copper, rare earths, lead, gold, and silver.
However, due to an unfavorable economic
outlook, the geology of the WSA, and the
historical lack of ore shipments, development of
the claims is not expected.

R 84 W

R 83 W

SCALE IN MILES

Encampment River Canyon WSA Boundary
Post-FLPMA Mining Claims

f Rawlii

Cheyenne

Map 4
POST-FLPMA MINING CLAIMS IN THE
ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

Medicine Bow Wilderness Supplement

PARTI

ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

Chapter Four

Environmental Consequences

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences 37

Proposed Action - No Action: No Wilderness 37

Effects on Wilderness 37

Effects on Recreational Opportunities 37

Effects on Wildlife and Fisheries 37

Effects on Livestock Grazing 38

Effects on Mineral Exploration and Development 38

All Wilderness Alternative 39

Effects on Wilderness Values 39

Effects on Recreational Opportunities 39

Effects on Wildlife and Fisheries 39

Effects on Livestock Grazing 40

Effects on Mineral Exploration and Development 40

PART I - ENCAMPMENT RIVER CANYON WSA

(WY-030-301)

CHAPTER 4 -

ENVIRONMENTAL

CONSEQUENCES

Proposed Action - No Action: No
Wilderness

Effects on Wilderness Values

Continuation of the ORV closure on the
Encampment River Trail and the WSA-wide
winter ORV closure would enhance opportunities
for solitude and primitive recreation during the
restricted period. During the nonrestricted
period, ORV use in the WSA would impair solitude
slightly.

Construction of livestock exclosures around
potential campsites, placement of boulders and
construction of pools to enhance fisheries,
vegetation manipulation for wildlife habitat
enhancement, and construction of range
improvement projects decrease solitude during
implementation. Once completed, these devel-
opments would decrease naturalness slightly
because of the presence of human influences that
would be noticeable to visitors.

The livestock exclosures would enhance
primitive recreation opportunities from the
standpoint that potential campsite areas would
have improved vegetation cover and would be
free of cattle manure.

Expected locatable mineral exploration would
be small-scale and would not materially affect
wilderness values.

Conclusion: Under this alternative, the wil-
derness values of solitude and naturalness would
be slightly impaired by continued ORV use and
implementation of developments for recreation,
wildlife, fisheries, and livestock grazing man-
agement. Opportunities for primitive recreation
would be enhanced by construction of livestock
exclosures along the Encampment River Trail.

Effects on Recreational Opportunities

Under this alternative, all forms of recreation
would remain basically unchanged. Activities
would include those of a primitive nature such as
hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and sight-
seeing.

Construction of livestock exclosures would
enhance recreational opportunities from the
standpoint that potential campsite areas would
have improved vegetation cover and would be
free of cattle manure.

Placement of boulders and construction of
pools to enhance fisheries would lead to
enhanced fish production and better fishing.
Vegetation manipulation for wildlife habitat
enhancement would slightly enhance the op-
portunity to view or hunt big game in the WSA.

Projected range improvement projects would
have no material effect on recreational oppor-
tunities in the WSA. They could reduce conflicts
with cattle through better grazing distribution.

Mineral exploration would be small-scale and
would have no material effect on recreation.

Conclusion: Types of recreational activities
would remain unchanged and would beenhanced
through elimination of cattle use in the camping
areas along the trail and improved fishing and
hunting opportunities.

Effects on Wildlife and Fisheries

The winter ORV closure would continue to
reduce harassment due to snowmobile use on
crucial big game winter ranges. As a result there
would be less stress and displacement of big
game.

On the Encampment River, boulder placement
in more heavily fished sections would increase
usable habitat and numbers of trout in these
areas. On Miner Creek, spawning and year-round
habitat would be modified with in-stream
structures, thereby improving wild trout
recruitment to the Encampment River and
numbers of trout using the creek year-round.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Construction of livestock exclosures around
potential campsites along the Encampment River
would result in the improvement of about 50 acres
of riparian habitat along about one-half mile of
stream bank. This would benefit fisheries and
wildlife species that utilize riparian habitats.

Treatment of 200 acres of mountain shrub/
aspen habitats and establishment of mountain
shrubs on an additional 200 acres would improve
the quality of crucial winter habitat for bighorn
sheep, elk, and mule deer. The quality and
quantity of big game forage would increase. This
would enhance the viability of the Encampment
bighorn sheep herd and the elk and mule deer that
use the area.

Livestock grazing management would include
monitoring to determine whether adjustments are
needed. If studies show that additional forage is
needed for wildlife, adjustments in livestock use
would be made, which would improve wildlife
forage availability.

Projected range improvement projects would
not materially affect wildlife since they would be
designed to consider wildlife values.

Expected locatable mineral exploration would
be small-scale and would not materially affect
wildlife or wildlife habitat.

Conclusion: Stress and displacement of big
game would be reduced as a result of the winter
ORV closure. Usable trout habitat and numbers
of trout would increase in the Encampment River
and Miner Creek as a result of fisheries
management actions. About 50 acres of riparian
habitat along about one half mile of stream bank
would be improved as a result of construction of
livestock exclosures along the Encampment
River. The quality and quantity of big game forage
would increase as a result of vegetation
manipulation on crucial winter range.

Effects on Livestock Grazing

No change in livestock use is proposed under
this alternative. Existing data are insufficient to
predict how future vegetation changes if any,
would affect the availability of forage. Adjust-
ments to livestock use would be made in the
future if monitoring identified a need.

Some areas would be lost to livestock use as
a result of livestock exclosures around potential
campsites. The loss of forage available to
livestock would be negligible since such a small
area would be involved. Livestock movement

along the trail would not be restricted since
livestock could move freely around the exclo-
sures.

Projected allotment boundary fences would
improve distribution patterns and eliminate
uncontrolled drift of cattle between allotments.
New spring developments would improve dis-
tribution and provide additional sources of water
for cattle. Consideration of scenic, wildlife and
recreation values in the design and construction
of range improvement projects would cause
greater implementation expense as compared to
standard construction. This consideration would
include use of let-down fences and location of
projects to avoid visual intrusions.

Proposed vegetation manipulation to improve
big game crucial winter range would not improve
forage availability for livestock to any great
extent.

Conclusion: Adjustments to livestock use
would be made in the future if monitoring
identified a need. The loss of forage available to
livestock as a result of livestock exclosures
around potential campsites would be negligible.
Projected range improvement projects would
improve distribution patterns, eliminate uncon-
trolled drift of cattle between allotments, and
provide additional sources of water for cattle.
Consideration of scenic, wildlife and recreational
values in the design and construction of range
improvement projects would raise their costs
compared to standard construction. Proposed
vegetation manipulation to improve big game
crucial winter range would not improve forage
availability for livestock to any great extent.

Effects on Mineral Exploration and
Development

Oil and gas leases would be issued subject to
appropriate standard surface disturbance stip-
ulations. There would be no impact on oil and gas
exploration and development within the WSA.

Locatable mineral exploration activity would be
regulated by the 1872 Mining Law and the 43 CFR
3809 regulations. ORV restrictions would not
significantly affect mining activities since they
would not preclude access to mining claims for
assessment or exploration. There would be no
impact to exploration and development of
existing or future claims under this alternative.

Conclusion: There would be no effect on
exploration and development of oil and gas or
locatable minerals.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

All Wilderness Alternative

Effects on Wilderness Values

Under this alternative the Encampment River
Canyon WSA would be recommended suitablefor
wilderness designation. Upon designation, the
area would be managed according to the
guidelines of BLM's wilderness management
policy. Activities that would impair the wilderness
character of the area would be restricted. This
would help ensure the long-term protection of the
wilderness values of naturalness, opportunities
for solitude, and opportunities for primitive and
unconfined recreation. It would also help ensure
the preservation of the scenic quality of the area.

Closing the area to ORV use would enhance
opportunities forsolitudeand primitive recreation
during theentire year. Currently the area isclosed
to ORVs only in the winter.

Projected range improvement projects would
decrease solitude during implementation, but
would not impair wilderness values in the long
term since they would be designed to comply with
the wilderness management policy.

Expected locatable mineral exploration would
be small-scale and would not materially affect
wilderness values.

Conclusion: Under this alternative the wil-
derness values of naturalness, opportunities for
solitude, and opportunities for primitive and
unconfined recreation would be protected in the
Encampment River Canyon WSA . The scenic
quality of the area would be preserved. Closing
the area to ORV use would enhance opportunities
for solitude and primitive recreation all year long.
Other actions would not greatly affect wilderness
values.

Effects on Recreational Opportunities

Recreational use of the Encampment RiverTrail
would be largely unaffected. Activities would
include those of a primitive nature such as
hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and sight-
seeing. Trail use is projected to level off at about
6,000 visitor days within the next five years.

Under this alternative, motorized forms of
recreation would be prohibited. This would
displace approximately half of the use that
currently occurs away from the Encampment
River Trail; about 1,000 visitor days associated
with ORV use. Within five years, nonmotorized
recreational use would increase and the total use

would level off at about 1,500 visitor days in the
area away from the trail. This is approximately 500
visitor days fewer than is projected under current
management.

The ORV use displaced from the WSA could
easily be shifted to other areas with virtually no
effect on opportunities for motorized recreation
in the region.

Under this alternative there would be no
increase in usable habitat and numbers of trout
in the Encampment River and Miner Creek. As a
result, the number or size of trout creeled from the
Encampment River might need to be regulated in
the future if fishing pressure and trout harvest
resulted in a threat to the viability of the wild trout
populations or a reduction in angler success
rates.

Conflicts between cattle and recreationists
from concentrated use along the trail would
remain. Some potential campsites would still have
reduced vegetation and concentrations of cattle
manure, because cattle would continue to use
them for loafing areas.

Projected range improvement projects would
have only minor effects on recreational oppor-
tunities in the WSA. They could reduce conflicts
with cattle through better grazing distribution.

Mineral exploration would be small-scale and
would have no material effect on recreation.

Conclusion: Recreational use of the
Encampment River Trail would be largely
unaffected. About 1,000 visitor days associated
with ORV use would be displaced. The ORV use
displaced from the WSA could easily be shifted
to other areas with virtually no effect on
opportunities for motorized recreation in the
region. Within five years total recreational use
would level off at about 500 fewer visitor days than
are projected under current management. There
would be no increase in usable habitat and
numbers of trout, and the number or size of trout
creeled from the Encampment River might need
to be regulated in the future. Conflicts between
cattle and recreationists from concentrated use
along the trail would remain.

Effects on Wildlife and Fisheries

The ORV closure would benefit big game by
reducing harassment due to snowmobile use on
crucial big game winter ranges. It also would
reduce big game encounters with ORVs within the
WSA through the remainder of the year. As a
result, there would be less stress and displace-
ment of wildlife. Currently the area is closed to
ORVs only in the winter.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Under this alternative, actions would be
undertaken to improve wildlife habitat if problems
were found during monitoring. Since any action
taken would have to be consistent with BLM's
Wilderness Management Policy, certain actions
such as the alteration of vegetation using
motorized equipment would be prohibited. Thus,
the range of available techniques for improving
wildlife habitat in the WSA would be somewhat
limited. However, the policy is sufficiently flexible
to allow for habitat rehabilitation when clearly
needed, so the quality of big game habitat and it's
ability to support animals would not be reduced
under this alternative.

Since no actions to enhance fisheries are
proposed, there would be no increase in usable
habitat and numbers of trout in the Encampment
River and Miner Creek.

Livestock grazing management would include
monitoring to determine whether adjustments are
needed. Adjustments in livestock use would be
made if monitoring indicates a need. This could
help improve wildlife habitat conditions.

Projected range improvement projects would
not materially affect wildlife since they would be
designed to consider wildlife values.

Expected locatable mineral exploration would
be small-scale and would not materially affect
wildlife or wildlife habitat.

Conclusion: Stress and displacement of big
game would be reduced year round as a result of
the ORV closure. Usable trout habitat and
numbers of trout would not increase in the
Encampment River and Miner Creek since
fisheries improvement actions are not proposed.
The quality of big game habitat and its ability to
support animals would not be reduced by the
constraints on wildlife habitat improvement
techniques imposed by BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy.

Effects on Livestock Grazing

Compliance with BLM's Wilderness Manage-
ment Policy would affect livestock grazing
management in the WSA. In general, motor
vehicle access would be allowed only in
emergency situations and occasionally to
maintain range improvements. Routine man-

agement activities such as herding, checking
cattle, or placing salt blocks would be more
expensive and labor intensive as a result of motor
vehicle restrictions.

Projected allotment boundary fences would
improve distribution patterns and eliminate
uncontrolled drift of cattle between allotments.
New spring developments would improve dis-
tribution and provide additional sources of water
for cattle. Compliance with the wilderness
management policy would cause higher con-
struction expenses as compared to standard
construction. The increased construction costs
would be the result of using let-down fences,
locating projects to avoid visual intrusions and
restricting the use of motorized equipment.

Conclusion: Adjustments to livestock use
would be made in the future if monitoring
identified a need. Compliance with BLM's
Wilderness Management Policy would make
routine management activities such as herding,
checking cattle, or placing salt blocks more
expensive and labor intensive as a result of motor
vehicle restrictions. It also would make
accomplishment of new range improvement
projects more expensive and labor intensive.
Projected range improvement projects would
improve distribution patterns, eliminate uncon-
trolled drift of cattle between allotments, and
provide additional sources of water for cattle.

Effects on Mineral Exploration and
Development

No new leasing would be allowed, so the
availability of currently unrecognized oil and gas
reserves would be forgone. However, since oil
and gas potential for the Encampment WSA is
believed to be low to none and no development
is projected, this effect is considered to be minor.

No new mining claims would be allowed, so the
availability of currently unrecognized mineral
deposits would be forgone. There are 17
post-FLPMA mining claims within or partially
within the WSA. Activity on these existing claims
or on any claims staked prior to wilderness
designation would be subject to the nonim-
pairment criteria. Upon designation, the area
would be closed to new mineral entry, and validity
examinations would be done on existing claims.
The area would be unavailable for further
exploration except for certain nonimpairing
resource surveys. Wilderness designation would
make exploration for and development of
possible mineralized zones in the WSA very
difficult due to restrictions on vehicles and
equipment. The effect would basically be one of

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

added expense and labor to meet BLM wilderness
management policy requirements of prevention
of undue or unnecessary degradation of wil-
derness character. Motorized equipment could be
used and impairing activities could be carried out
only if absolutely necessary for development of
claims. Reclamation measures would be required
to restore the surface of disturbed land as near
to its former state as practicable after mining.
These requirements would not prevent devel-
opment of any of the existing claims.

Conclusion: The availability of currently
unrecognized oil and gas reserves would be
forgone. Due to low potential for development the
effect on oil and gas exploration and development
would be minor. No new mining claims would be
allowed, so the availability of currently unrec-
ognized mineral deposits would be forgone. The
requirements of BLM wilderness management
policy would not prevent development of any of
the existing claims, but would make development
more expensive and labor intensive.

PART II

PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

Chapter Two

Alternatives

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 2: Alternatives 45

Introduction 45

Alternatives Eliminated from Detailed Study 45

Alternatives Considered in Detail 45

Proposed Action - All Wilderness 45

Wilderness Management 45

Recreation Management 45

Wildlife Habitat Management 46

Forest Management 46

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas and Locatables 46

No Action: No Wilderness 46

Wilderness Management 46

Recreation Management 46

Wildlife Habitat Management 46

Forest Management 47

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas and Locatables 47

PART II - PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

(WY-030-303)

CHAPTER 2 - ALTERNATIVES Proposed Action - All Wilderness

Introduction

Alternatives Eliminated from
Detailed Study

An alternative to designate only part of the WSA
as wilderness was considered. Partial wilderness
designation would eliminate that area containing
mining claims to avoid potential conflicts with
other resource values. However, it was deter-
mined that the WSA is too small to make any
reductions. Also, there are no logical boundaries
for partial wilderness.

An alternative to enhance wilderness in the
WSA by closing boundary roads and adding
additional acreage was considered. However,
there is no feasible way to do this. The area
outside of the WSA does not have the wilderness
characteristic of naturalness because of existing
intrusions which include old mine pits, roads and
fences.

Alternatives Considered in Detail

Two alternatives were analyzed for the
Prospect Mountain WSA; (1) All Wilderness (the
Proposed Action) and (2) No Action: No
Wilderness. Descriptions of the management
direction for the alternatives follow.

Under this alternative, the Prospect Mountain
WSA (1,145 acres) would be recommended as
suitable for designation as wilderness. Man-
agement of the area would be guided by BLM's
Wilderness Management Policy, issued Sep-
tember 24, 1981. Management would provide for
protection and preservation of the area's natural
conditions and wilderness character.

Management actions for recreation, wildlife
and fisheries, livestock grazing and minerals
would be constrained to ensure that wilderness
values were not impaired.

Wilderness Management

The objective would be to protect and preserve
the area's natural conditions and wilderness
character.

Activities such as construction of facilities that
would impair the wilderness character of the area,
road building, the use of motorized equipment
and vehicles, timber harvesting, and mining
would be restricted or prohibited. Specific
restrictions are included in the following dis-
cussions.

A wilderness management plan would be
written for the area outlining specific manage-
ment guidance. The plan would be written
according to the guidelines in BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy and BLM Manual Section
8561 , Wilderness Management Plans, available at
most BLM offices.

Recreation Management

The objective is to provide for primitive forms
of recreation such as hunting, camping^wildlife
viewing^andbackpacking. a4 am^/uk AiMvto

The entire WSA would be closed to ORVs. A
little more than 1 mile of jeep trails presently
available for ORV use would be affected.

ALTERNATIVES

Recreational use in 1985 was estimated to be
about 500 visitor days. This level of use is
expected to remain constant in the future with
nonmotorized forms of recreation replacing
motorized recreation displaced by the ORV
closure.

Wildlife Habitat Management

The objective would be to maintain or enhance
habitat for elk and mule deer within the
constraints of BLM's Wilderness Management
Policy.

Big garne habftat and populations in the WSA
would be assessed and monitored to determine
the condition^ of the habitat and the distribution
and interac/iVi of big game species. The extent
of competition! between cattle and big game
would be determined for the area.

Actions would be undertaken if wildlife habitat
problems were documented. For example, if
crucial winter range were determined to be
deteriorating, temporary fencing or change in
season of use might be required, or the number
of big game animals could be reduced in
cooperation with the WGFD. Any action taken
would be consistent with BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy. Thus, certain actions such
as the alteration of vegetation using motorized
equipment would be restricted or prohibited.
;il

Forest Management

Under this alternative, there would be no forest
management actions and no harvest of forest
products.

Minerals Management
Locatables

Oil and Gas and

No new oil and gas leasing would be allowed.

NJ-aiil the WSA was designated wildemejs-by
CongressTHhe existing 13 post-FLPMA^ffiining
claims would"~&e^sybject to thejnterim man-
agement policy. This"pS>llcvaUows only activities
that do not impair wilderness values. If a*
discovery were ^made using\nonimpairing
methods, then^a"c1aimant would bVeqtitled to a
patent on those claims. The area woulchsontinue
to be opren to mining location until designatTofkas
wilderness.

After the WSA was designated wilderness, the
existing 13 post-FLPMA mining claims would be
subject to BLM's Wilderness Management Policy.

No new mining claims would be allowed. Validity
examinations would be required before allowing
operations on claims. Mining development would
be carried out in a manner that prevents
unnecessary or undue degradation of wilderness
character. Smalh-scale-development'of severahof
tho olaims could bo oxpootod with eaerrmfne site
oX'Gluoivo of-acoooo-foadc disturbing looo than five
ae res-of -t h e-WS A .

No Action: No Wilderness

Under this alternative, the Prospect Mountain
WSA (1,145 acres) would be recommended as
nonsuitable for designation as wilderness. The
WSA would be managed for dispersed recreation,
wildlife habitat, forest production, and mineral
development.

Wilderness Management

The WSA would not be recommended for
wilderness designation and would be subject to
actions that would enhance dispersed recreation,
wildlife habitat, forest production, and mineral
development. No special emphasis would be
placed on preservation of wilderness values.

Recreation Management

The objective is to provide for continuation of
existing forms of recreation such as hunting,
camping, wildlife viewing, and backpacking. A/%
/i&eX&^r-ekn* /{**-* <J?t vitf a^'- fi tost^-*JJ,

ORV use wduld be limited to existing roads and

trails. A little more than 1 mile of jeep trails would
remain available for ORV use.

Recreational use in 1985 was estimated to be
about 500 visitor days. This is expected to remain
constant in the future.

Wildlife Habitat Management

r enhance

The objective would be to maintain
habitat for elk and mule deer. ° %

Prescribed burningAor cutting! to increase
perennial grass production and to stimulate
important shrub communities would be accom-
plished on 200 acres of crucial elk winter range.

During severe winters the area would be closed
to logging from December 1 to April 30. The area
would be closed to logging May 10 to June 15 to
protect calving elk.

ALTERNATIVES

Forest Management

Under this alternative the forest resource would
be managed for the production of wood fiber
within multiple-use constraints. Forest man-
agement activities would include commercial
sawlog timber sales, corral pole and fence post
sales, individual fuelwood sales, and precom-
mercial thinning.

Approximately 300 acres would be harvested
over the next 60 years through clearcuts ranging
in size from about 10 to 25 acres. These clearcuts
would be scattered throughout the area to
eventually provide a mosaic of timber stands in

four different age classes. Approximately 2.5
million board feet would be harvested through
four separate timber sales, 20 years apart. A
harvest of 1 million board feet is recommended
as soon as possible to control the current
mountain pine beetle activity.

Potential harvest from the WSA is about 60,000
board feet per year of conifer on a sustained yield
basis under intensive management. Small harvest
volumes such as this are not feasible because of
the economics of logging. Therefore, harvesting
would take place periodically and would amount
to larger volumes. The proposed schedule of
harvest is detailed on table 4.

TABLE 4
Proposed Timber Sales in Prospect Mountain WSA

Year

from

Present

Estimated
Volume
(MMBF)

Acres

of
Harvest

Method

of
Logging

Miles

of Road

Upgrading

Miles of
Temporary

Road
Construction

As soon as
possible

Clearcut

1-1/4

1/2

Clearcut

1-1/4

1/2

Clearcut

1/2

Clearcut

3/4

Totals

2.5

300

1-1/4

3-1/2

Timber harvesting would be prohibited from
December 1st to April 30th of each year. This
restriction could be waived during mild winters.
In this event, a multiple resource evaluation would
take place, including consultation with the
Wyoming Game and Fish Department, to
determine severity of impacts on the wintering elk
population.

Precommercial thinning would occur when the
regenerated stands are about 25 years old.
Another harvest of the stand through clearcutting
would occur when the stand reaches 100 years of
age.

Minerals Management
Locatables

Oil and Gas and

New oil and gas leases would be issued subject
to standard protection requirements for sur-

face-disturbing activities (available from any BLM
office in Wyoming). No drilling is expected,
because of the low potential for oil and gas
accumulation and the difficulty of access.

The existing 13 post-FLPMA mining claims
would be managed subject to the Surface
Management Regulation of 43 CFR 3809
governing surface management of public lands
under U. S. mining laws. New mining claims
would be allowed and would be managed the
same as existing claims. Staking of additional
mining claims would be anticipated. Some minor
exploratory activity would be^nfjciEiated within
the WSA boundary'-: Small-scale development of
several of the claims could be expected over the
long term with each mine site exclusive of access
roads disturbing less than five acres of the WSA.

TABLE 5

SUMMARY OF IMPACTS
Prospect Mountain WSA

Issues

Proposed Action
All Wilderness

No Wilderness

Effects on Wilderness
Values

Effects on Recreational
Opportunities

Effects on Wildlife

Naturalness, opportunities for solitude, and
opportunities for primitive and unconfined
recreation would be protected in the Prospect
Mountain WSA. The scenic quality of the area
would be preserved. Designation would expand an
area where wilderness values are afforded
protection, because of the proximity to the
Platte River Wilderness. Closing the area to
ORV use would enhance opportunities for solitude
and primitive recreation. Expected locatable
mineral exploration and development would
degrade the wilderness values of solitude and
naturalness. Reclamation requirements under the
wilderness management policy would reduce the
effect on naturalness to negligible levels in
the long term.

Primitive recreational values and opportunities
would be protected and enhanced somewhat under
this alternative, because there would be no
motorized vehicle traffic. Recreation use would
remain at about 500 visitor days. Wilderness
designation would preserve primitive recreation
opportunities adjacent to the Platte River
Wilderness.

Closing the area to ORV use would reduce big
game encounters with ORVs within the WSA and
associated stress and displacement of big game.
Expected locatable mineral exploration and
development would have virtually no effect on
wildlife use or wildlife habitat.

Continued ORV use would degrade opportunities
for solitude and primitive recreation somewhat.
Forest management activities would degrade
naturalness and opportunities for solitude.
Expected locatable mineral exploration and
development would degrade the wilderness values
of solitude and naturalness. Reclamation
requirements under BLM's surface management
regulations would reduce the effect on
naturalness in the long term.

[-71

Recreational use and values would change only
slightly. Forest management and mineral
exploration and development could displace
recreationists during development or management
activities.

Continued ORV use would not greatly affect big
game. Prescribed burning or cutting would
improve 200 acres of crucial elk winter range
and high priority habitat types. Forest
management would not greatly affect wildlife
habitat and populations. Expected locatable
mineral exploration and development would have
virtually no effect on wildlife use or wildlife
habitat.

TABLE 5 (Continued)

SUMMARY OF IMPACTS
Prospect Mountain WSA

Issues

Proposed Action
All Wilderness

No Wilderness

Effects on Forest
Resources and Forest
Management

Effects on Mineral
Exploration and
Development

Natural forest succession would continue with
eventual conversion of the lodgepole pine stands
to Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir. Fire
hazard would increase. The productivity and
health of the forest would be far less than
optimal. Tree diversity, in terms of different
species, sizes, and ages within any given stand
would increase. Prohibiting timber harvest in
the WSA would result in a loss of about 10 work
years of potential employment and about $737,000
in potential revenue generation in the near
future and would make a potential winter logging
area unavailable.

Timber harvesting would reduce fire hazard. The
productivity and health of the forest would be
enhanced by management activities. Tree
diversity, in terms of different species, sizes,
and ages within any given stand would be reduced
in harvested areas, but increased in the
un harvested areas. Timber harvest would
contribute to the local economy for 1 or 2
years. A 1 million-board-foot timber sale in
the near future would provide about 10 work
years of employment and generate about $737,000
of revenue in the local economy. Availability
of winter logging areas would be increased.

There would be no effect on exploration and
development of oil and cjas or locatable minerals.

H
m

PART II

PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

Chapter Three

Affected Environment

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 3: Affected Environment 53

Introduction 53

General Description 53

Wilderness Values 54

Size 54

Naturalness 54

Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude and/or a Primitive

Unconfined Type of Recreation 54

Special Features 55

Recreational Resources 55

Wildlife Resources 55

Forest Resources 55

Mineral Resources 53

Geologic Setting 57

Oil and Gas 57

Locatable Minerals 57

PART II - PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

(WY-030-303)

CHAPTER 3 - AFFECTED
ENVIRONMENT

Introduction

There are many environmental components
that would be unaffected by either of the
alternatives for management of the Prospect
Mountain WSA. Since they would not be affected,
they are not described in detail in this chapter.
These environmental components are covered
briefly in the following paragraphs.

Many environmental components are not
present in the WSA and therefore would not be
affected. These include areas of critical envi-
ronmental concern (ACEC), coal resources,
nonenergy leasable minerals, floodplains, prime
or unique farmlands, wetlands, wild horses, and
wild or scenic rivers (designated or proposed).

Other environmental components are present
in the WSA, but none of the management actions
proposed would affect them. These include air
quality, climate, cultural resources, livestock
grazing, topography, water quality, and water
yield.

No lands and realty actions are proposed or
projected for the WSA, so none would be affected.

There are no permits for salable minerals in the
WSA. Known deposits of sand and gravel occur
but are segregated from sale by a previous
management decision. Access to the Prospect
Mountain WSA is limited and rough, and the area
is about 3 miles from the nearest paved road,
making it an unlikely source of salable materials.
In addition, adequate sources of material are
available outside the WSA along the highway
right-of-way and in adjacent areas. Thus,
availability of salable minerals would not be
affected.

Restricting ORV use can potentially reduce soil
erosion. However, in this WSA, ORV use is
relatively light and is dispersed such that effects
on soil erosion would be negligible.

Mining activities can increase erosion rates.
However, soil erosion rates due to mining
activities would be similar under either alterna-
tive. This is because mining would be managed
under the surface management regulation of 43
CFR 3809, BLM's interim management policy, or
BLM's wilderness management policy under
either alternative to keep effects on soils to a
minimum.

Timber harvesting activities can increase
erosion rates. However, these actions would be
implemented using standard mitigation measures
that would minimize effects on soil erosion rates.

Threatened or endangered species would be
unaffected by the management alternatives for
the WSA. The Prospect Mountain WSA is within
the range of the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, and
black-footed ferret, which are protected by the
Endangered Species Act (1964, as amended).
However, no documented observations of these
three species have been made in the WSA. Bald
eagles may occasionally use the area during the
winter for hunting. Peregrines are believed to
migrate through the area in late fall and early
spring. However, the WSA contains no breeding,
nesting, or wintering habitat that would be
essential to the recovery of either species. The
area does not contain any prairie dogs, primary
food of black-footed ferrets, so the existence of
ferrets in the WSA is unlikely.

General Description

The Prospect Mountain WSA is located in
southern Carbon County approximately 16 miles
southeast of Encampment, Wyoming, and 8 miles
north of the Colorado-Wyoming border, along the
southwestern flank of the Snowy Range,
Medicine Bow Mountains. Elevations range from
7,400 feet along the North Platte River to 8,430
feet on Prospect Mountain. The WSA is 70 percent
forested (see photograph 3).

Access is provided by a primitive public road
that originates 3 miles west of the WSA boundary
on State Highway 230. During most of the winter,
the WSA is inaccessible except by snowmobile.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

■ ' '

•*^V»%r

Prospect Mountain WSA looking east from near the western border.

The Prospect Mountain WSA is adjacent to the
U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Platte River Wilder-
ness, which shares its eastern boundary.

Wilderness Values

Size

The Prospect Mountain WSA contains 1,145
acres of public land. No private or state in holdings
and no split-estate lands are located within the
WSA boundary.

Naturalness

Man's influence for the most part is unno-
ticeable. Except for one old dilapidated cabin and
two short jeep trails that dead end, the area is free
of intrusions. These intrusions blend into the
overall view and are not noticeable from a
distance. They do not impair the wilderness
character of the WSA. The vegetation and/or
topography screen the primitive trails, providing
a high degree of naturalness.

Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude
and/or a Primitive Unconfined Type of
Recreation

The mountain and drainage, coupled with
dense forest cover and riparian areas, provide a
high degree of solitude, while creating numerous
secluded places for recreational activities. With
70 percent of the area covered by trees, visitors
are easily screened from one another. The Platte
River Wilderness, which forms the eastern
boundary of the WSA and contains 23,000 acres,
enhances the opportunity for solitude in this WSA
because of its undeveloped nature.

There are no developed recreational sites in or
adjacent to the WSA. The road that forms a
portion of the northern boundary of the WSA
provides access to the North Platte River. This
road, however, is accessible only via four-wheel
drive vehicles.

The area offers opportunities for high-quality
mule deer and elk hunting. It also offers hiking,
camping, and rock hounding. The North Platte
River offers high quality fishing and floatboating.
Opportunities for sightseeing within the WSA are
numerous as the area is exceptionally scenic, has

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

abundant wildlife such as raptors, small mammals
and other nongame wildlife and is very photo-
genic.

Special Features

The Prospect Mountain WSA is highly scenic.
Color and texture of the WSA contrast sharply
with the adjacent high desert environment. Colors
are many shades of green and blue in the warmer
months and change to green, gold, and brown in
the fall. The area has a Class II Visual Resource
Management rating.

Recreational Resources

The Prospect Mountain area provides a variety
of recreational activities, including fishing,
hunting, sightseeing, hiking, camping, rock
hounding, and wildlife viewing. The area is used
by local residents and nonresidents alike. The
North Platte River adjacent to the WSA offers high
quality fishing and floatboating, and is a
well-known national attraction.

There are no developed recreational sites in or
adjacent to the WSA.

Public access to the area is available by vehicle,
horseback, hiking, or boat. Estimated use is 500
visitor days per year.

About 20 special recreation use permits have
been issued to area guides and outfitters who use
the WSA in conjunction with adjacent areas for
hunting operations and floatboating.

Floatboaters access the WSA by way of the
Prospect Creek access point on the North Platte
River. This put-in and take-out point is reached
via the road that forms a portion of the northern
boundary of the WSA. Use varies according to
water flow and weather conditions. Many river
users camp along the river within the WSA or
adjacent to it while on overnight float trips down
the river.

Other major recreational use is associated with
mule deer and elk hunting. This area provides
high-quality hunting and has regional signifi-
cance.

Wildlife Resources

Elk from the Snowy Range elk herd may be
found in the Prospect Mountain WSA year round.
The northern half of the WSA is part of a large
crucial winter range that is considered essential
to the survival of the herd. The aspen and conifer

habitat types in the WSA provide elk with thermal
and hiding cover. Forage is available in the aspen,
riparian, and open sagebrush-grassland habitat
types.

The WSA also provides yearlong habitat for
variable numbers of mule deer from the extensive
Platte Valley herd. More deer use the WSA during
winter, when higher elevation habitat is made
unavailable by deep snow. The extensive aspen
and willow-riparian habitat sites on the WSA
provide important fawning cover.

The aspen and willow-riparian habitat types on
the WSA are used by up to 135 wildlife species.
Aspen are found on both upland and riparian sites
in the WSA. Aspen habitat is normally maintained
by fire or other disturbances. In most areas of
their occurrence within the WSA, stands are being
rapidly invaded by conifers because of a lack of
fire or other disturbance. About 30 percent of the
WSA (320 acres) contains aspen in nonriparian
areas.

Most of the riparian areas in the WSA are
heavily utilized by livestock and wildlife and are
not producing attheirfull potential. Riparian sites
are highly productive in terms of plant and animal
species diversity, vegetation structure, and
biomass, and they are important to wildlife
because of their limited availability. About 3
percent of the WSA (32 acres) contains riparian
habitat.

Forest Resources

Prospect Mountain WSA contains about 450
acres of commercial forestland, primarily mature
lodgepole pine. More than two-thirds of the
forested land is suitable for timber harvesting
without special logging techniques (see map 5).
The remaining acreage has limited harvesting
opportunity because of poor accessibility,
streamside protection corridors, and a visual
buffer along the North Platte River.

The lodgepole pine is in several different
even-aged stands that vary in age between 80 and
130 years. An understory of subalpine fir and
Engelmann spruce is scattered throughout these
stands. If left unmanaged the pine would
eventually die because of insects and disease,
and would be replaced by the subalpine fir and
Engelmann spruce through natural succession.

The lodgepole pine is located on what is
considered a good site (site index is 40 on a
50-year base) and has the potential, under
intensive management, of producing 20,000
board feet per acre on a 100-year rotation.
However, the current situation is a result of no

R 81 W

SCALE IN MILES

Prospect Mountain WSA Boundary
Area Suitable for Forest Management
Area Unsuitable for Forest Management

~u\

f Rawlins

Cheyenne

****** Planned Two-track Upgrading

sMKBuan* Planned Temporary Road Construction

Map 5

FOREST MANAGEMENT IN THE

PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

Medicine Bow Wilderness Supplement

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

past management. Current volumes range from
3,000 to 9,000 board feet per acre. The number of
trees per acre varies from under 1 00 to over 1 ,000.

Mountain pine beetle activity is currently
confined to about six small pockets of infestation.
A risk rating system was applied to the
sawtimber-sized lodgepole pine stands in the
WSA to determine their susceptibility to major
mountain pine beetle infestations. The risk rating
system used incorporates climatic suitability
(specifically latitude and elevation), tree age and
tree size (Cole and Amman 1980). The results of
this procedure indicate that a major outbreak is
anticipated because of the elevation of the WSA
(8,300 feet), an average diameter breast height of
around 9 inches, and an average age of over 80
years. Mortality could reach one-half million
board feet (over 5,000 trees) within the next 5 to
10 years.

The potential harvest from the WSA is about
60,000 board feet per year of conifer on a
sustained yield basis under intensive manage-
ment.

Demand for wood products exists from the
sawmills located in Encampment and Saratoga.
Over a period of 10 years or longer the potential
wood supply from this WSA is insignificant
toward meeting the needs of these mills.
However, the wood that could be harvested
becomes more important toward meeting their
needs in a given year; particularly since this WSA
has good winter logging potential, which is highly
desirable for this region.

Other forest product sales are relatively minor
and include fuelwood cutting, corral pole cutting,
and Christmas tree cutting. These types of sales
result from individual requests from the public.

Mineral Resources

Geologic Setting

The Prospect Mountain WSA contains rocks of
Precambrian age. A pink, medium-to-coarse-
grained granite and a foliated quartz monzonite
are found in the southern half of sections 1 and
2 and the northern half of section 12, T.13 N., R.

81 W. The northern half of Sections 1 and 2
consist of mafic igneous rocks ranging from
orthoamphibolite to faintly foliated rocks with
well developed igneous textures to massive, little
altered igneous rocks. The degree of metamor-
phism is variable within the unit. Sections 2, 11,
12 and 13, T. 13 N., R. 81 W. also contain a
complex unit made up chiefly of hornblende
gneiss, but including biotite gneiss, sillimonite
gneiss, and quartzo-feldspathic gneiss.
Diopside-homblende-calcite gneiss, impure
marble, calcite-garnet-epidote gneiss, amphib-
olite and calc-biotite gneiss also occur. Pink to
white granite pegmatites, chiefly potassium
feldspar, and quartz, mostly unzoned, are found
throughout the area.

Oil and Gas

There are no existing oil and gas leases within
the WSA. Due to the geologic environment, which
is not favorable for oil and gas accumulation, the
difficulty of access, and the difficulty of
conducting drilling operations in these types of
geologic conditions, oil and gas exploration and
development is not anticipated in the WSA.

Locatable Minerals

There have been several producing mines
within 2.5 miles of the Prospect Mountain WSA.
Copper, uranium, gold, and rare earth minerals
reportedly were shipped from the mines as
recently as the late 1950s. The pegmatites
scattered throughout the area appear to contain
the important mineralization as all the known
mines were located on pegmatite bodies. Several
pegmatites are reported to occur within the area.
An abandoned mine lying 200 yards outside of the
WSA boundary has magnetic minerals and what
appears to be a possible nickel bloom. A traverse
of Prospect Mountain in 1981 showed the
presence of scattered magnetic minerals and
several prospect pits. Based on this information,
it is likely that further exploration work would
occur in the area, with the possibility of
small-scale mine development. Thirteen post-
FLPMA mining claims are located in the WSA (see
map 6). These claims are located for various
minerals including copper, uranium and feldspar.

R 81 W

SCALE IN MILES

Prospect Mountain WSA Boundary
Post-FLPMA Mining Claims

~U]

Cheyenne

Map 6
POST-FLPMA MINING CLAIMS IN
THE PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

Medicine Bow Wilderness Supplement

.':":: : ■. •

, ! " . *i

, " , ' ;:■.'

" ' ■

PART II

PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

Chapter Four

Environmental Consequences

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences 61

Proposed Action - No Action: All Wilderness 61

Effects on Wilderness Values 61

Effects on Recreational Opportunities 61

Effects on Wildlife 62

Effects on Forest Resources and Forest Management 62

Effects on Mineral Exploration and Development 63

No Action: No Wilderness 63

Effects on Wilderness Values 63

Effects on Recreational Opportunities 63

Effects on Wildlife 64

Effects on Forest Resources and Forest Management 65

Effects on Mineral Exploration and Development 65

PART II - PROSPECT MOUNTAIN WSA

(WY-030-303)

CHAPTER 4 -

ENVIRONMENTAL

CONSEQUENCES

Proposed Action - All Wilderness

Effects on Wilderness Values

Under this alternative the Prospect Mountain
WSA would be recommended suitable for
wilderness designation. Upon designation, the
area would be managed according to the
guidelines of BLM's wilderness management
policy. Activities that would impair the wilderness
character of the area would be restricted. This
would help ensure the long-term protection of the
wilderness values of naturalness, opportunities
for solitude, and opportunities for primitive and
unconfined recreation. It would also help ensure
the preservation of the scenic quality of the area.
Designation would essentially expand an area
where wilderness values are already afforded
protection since the WSA is adjacent to the Platte
River Wilderness.

Closing the area to ORV use would enhance
opportunities for solitude and primitive recre-
ation.

Expected locatable mineral exploration and
development would be small-scale. Although
development of several claims would disturb less
than five acres each and would be in compliance
with BLM's wilderness management policy, they
would degrade the wilderness values of solitude
and naturalness during development activities.
Access roads would degrade naturalness over a
larger area. Reclamation requirements under the
wilderness management policy would reduce the
effect on naturalness to negligible levels in the
long term.

Conclusion: Under this alternative the wil-
derness values of naturalness, opportunities for
solitude, and opportunities for primitive and
unconfined recreation would be protected in the
Prospect Mountain WSA. The scenic quality of
the area would be preserved. Designation would
expand an area where wilderness values are
afforded protection, because of the proximity to

the Platte River Wilderness. Closing the area to
ORV use would enhance opportunities for
solitude and primitive recreation. Expected
locatable mineral exploration and development
would degrade the wilderness values of solitude
and naturalness. Reclamation requirements
under the wilderness management policy would
reduce the effect on naturalness to negligible
levels in the long term. Other actions would not
greatly affect wilderness values.

Effects on Recreational Opportunities

Primitive recreation values and opportunities
would be protected and enhanced under this
alternative, because there would be no motorized
vehicle traffic.

Motorized forms of recreation would be
prohibited. Motorized recreation is a minor use of
the area and is mostly associated with other
activities such as hunting orsightseeing. ORV use
displaced from the area could easily be shifted to
other areas with virtually no effect on opportu-
nities for motorized recreation in the region.

Recreation use would remain at about 500
visitor days. Recreational activities currently
associated with ORV use such as hunting or
sightseeing would continue without the use of
motor vehicles. The WSA is small enough that
recreationists could easily walk from the
boundary road into the area for the activities.

Wilderness designation would preserve prim-
itive recreational opportunities adjacent to the
Platte River Wilderness.

Designation of wilderness would not affect
f loatboaters' access to the Prospect Creek access
point on the North Platte River. The boundary
road would remain open to motor vehicle traffic.

Conclusion: Primitive recreational values and
opportunities would be protected and enhanced
under this alternative, because there would be no
motorized vehicle traffic. ORV use displaced from
the area could easily be shifted to other areas with
virtually no effect on opportunities for motorized
recreation in the region. Recreation use would
remain at about 500 visitor days. Wilderness
designation would preserve primitive recreation
opportunities adjacent to the Platte River
Wilderness. Floatboaters' access to the Prospect

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Creek access point on the North Platte River
would not be affected.

Effects on Wildlife

Closing the area to ORV use would benefit big
game by reducing big game encounters with
ORVs within the WSA and associated stress and
displacement of big game. This effect would be
minor since ORV use in the area is low.

Under this alternative, actions would be
undertaken to improve wildlife habitat if problems
were detected through monitoring. Since any
action taken would have to be consistent with
BLM's Wilderness Management Policy certain
actions such as the alteration of vegetation using
motorized equipment would be prohibited. Thus,
the range of available techniques for improving
wildlife habitat in the WSA would be somewhat
limited. However, the policy is sufficiently flexible
to allow for habitat rehabilitation when clearly
needed, so the quality of big game habitat and it's
ability to support animals would not be reduced
under this alternative.

Expected locatable mineral exploration and
development would be small-scale. Development
of several claims would disturb wildlife slightly
during development activities, however, there
would be virtually no effect on wildlife use in the
area or wildlife habitat over the long term.

Conclusion: Closing the area to ORV use
would benefit big game by reducing big game
encounters with ORVs within the WSA and
associated stress and displacement of big game.
The quality of big game habitat and its ability to
support animals would not be reduced by the
constraints on wildlife habitat improvement
techniques imposed by BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy. Expected locatable mineral
exploration and development would have virtually
no effect on wildlife use or wildlife habitat.

Effects on Forest Resources and Forest
Management

There would be no forest management
activities under this alternative. Natural forest
succession would continue with eventual con-
version of the lodgepole pine stands to Engel-
mann spruce and subalpine fir. Chance fire
occurrence would be the only disturbance that
would revert stands back to young lodgepole pine
and aspen.

Increased mountain pine beetle activity would
accelerate the decline of the lodgepole stands
and consequently speed up the development of
Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir stands.
Lodgepole mortality caused by mountain pine
beetle would increase fire hazard because of
increased accumulations of dead wood. This
would increase the chance of large wildfires in the
long term.

Productivity of the forest in terms of useable
wood fiber growth would remain far below its
potential. Incidence of tree mortality due to
naturally occurring insects and disease would
remain high. The productivity and health of the
forest would be far less than optimal from the
stand point of wood fiber growth.

The gradual establishment of Engelmann
spruce and subalpinefir would lead to an increase
in tree diversity, in terms of different species,
sizes, and ages within pny given stand.

Wood products from the WSA would be
unavailable to the sawmills located in Encamp-
ment and Saratoga. A 1 million-board-foot timber
sale that is needed in the near future to control
current mountain pine beetle activity would be
forgone. The elimination of this planned sale
would result in a loss of about 10 work-years of
potential employment and about $737,000 in
potential revenue generation. Prohibiting timber
harvest in the WSA would also mean that an area
with winter logging potential would be unavail-
able for logging. This factor is locally important
because the Platte Valley has limited opportu-
nities for winter harvesting.

Over the next 60 years the amount of harvest
forgone would be 2.5 million board feet. This
amount is not very important to the local economy
when considering the total timber harvest in the
Platte Valley.

Conclusion: Natural forest succession would
continue with eventual conversion of the
lodgepole pine stands to Engelmann spruce and
subalpine fir. Fire hazard would increase. The
productivity and health of the forest would be far
less than optimal. Tree diversity, in terms of
different species, sizes, and ages within any given
stand would increase. Prohibiting timber harvest
in the WSA would result in a loss of about 10
work-years of potential employment and about
$737,000 in potential revenue generation in the
near future and would make a potential winter
logging area unavailable. Over the next 60 years
the amount of harvest forgone would not be very
important to the local economy.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Effects on Mineral Exploration and
Development

No new leasing would be allowed, so the
availability of currently unrecognized oil and gas
reserves would be foregone. However, since oil
and gas potential for the Prospect Mountain WSA
is low and no development is projected this effect
is considered to be minor.

No new mining claims would be allowed, so the
availability of currently unrecognized mineral
deposits would be forgone. There are 13
post-FLPMA mining claims within or partially
within the WSA. These claims are located for
various minerals, including copper, uranium, and
feldspar. Activity on these existing claims or on
any claims staked prior to wilderness designation
would be subject to the nonimpairment criteria.
Upon designation, the area would be closed to
new mineral entry, and validity examinations
would be done on existing claims. The area would
be unavailable for further exploration except for
certain nonimpairing resource surveys. Wilder-
ness designation would make exploration for and
development of possible mineralized zones in the
WSA very difficult due to restrictions on vehicles
and equipment. The effect would basically be one
of added expense and labor to meet BLM
wilderness management policy requirements of
prevention of undue or unnecessary degradation
of wilderness character. Motorized equipment
could be used and impairing activities could be
carried out only if absolutely necessary for
development of claims. Reclamation measures
would be required to restore the surface of
disturbed land as near as practicable after mining.
These requirements would not prevent devel-
opment of any of the existing claims.

Conclusion: The availability of currently
unrecognized oil and gas reserves would be
forgone. Due to low potential for development the
effect on oil and gas exploration development
would be minor. No new mining claims would be
allowed, so the availability of currently unrec-
ognized mineral deposits would be forgone. The
requirements of BLM wilderness management
policy would not prevent development of any of
the existing claims, but would make development
more expensive and labor intensive.

No Action: No Wilderness

Effects on Wilderness Values

Under this alternative the Prospect Mountain
WSA would be recommended nonsuitable for

wilderness designation. Wilderness values would
be impaired by continued ORV use, forest
management activities, and mineral exploration
and development.

Continued ORV use would degrade opportu-
nities for solitude and primitive recreation, but
this effect would be minor because of the
relatively small amount of ORV use in the area.

Forest management activities would impair the
wilderness values of naturalness and opportu-
nities for solitude. Harvesting of approximately
2.5 million board feet over the next 60 years would
disturb solitude during harvesting operations.
Precommercial thinning would also disturb
solitude during operations. The roads and
clearcuts would be obvious to visitors from many
areas in the WSA and would degrade naturalness
for many years following harvest.

Expected locatable mineral exploration and
development would be small-scale. Although
development of several claims would disturb less
than five acres each at the mine sites and would
be in compliance with BLM's surface manage-
ment regulations (43 CFR 3809), they would
degrade the wilderness values of solitude and
naturalness during development activities. Ac-
cess roads would degrade naturalness over a
larger area. Reclamation requirements under
BLM's surface management regulations would
reduce the effect on naturalness in the long term.

Conclusion: Continued ORV use would
degrade opportunities for solitude and primitive
recreation. Forest management activities would
degrade the wilderness values of naturalness and
opportunities for solitude. Expected locatable
mineral exploration and development would
degrade the wilderness values of solitude and
naturalness. Reclamation requirements under
BLM's surface management regulations would
reduce the effect on naturalness in the long term.
Other actions would not greatly affect wilderness
values.

Effects on Recreational Opportunities

Recreational use is not likely to change in the
Prospect Mountain area and would remain at
about 500 visitor days.

Forest management and mineral exploration
and development could displace recreationists
during development or management activities.
Since deer and elk would be displaced during
activity, hunters would be affected. However,
these activities would be limited to specific areas
and the effect would be relatively minor.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Conclusion: Recreational use and values
would change only slightly. Forest management
and mineral exploration and development could
displace recreationists during development or
management activities.

Effects on Wildlife

ORV use would continue in the area, but use
is low enough that effects on big game would be
minimal.

Prescribed burning or cutting on 200 acres
would enhance perennial grass production and
stimulate important shrub communities. These
actions would improve crucial elk winter range
and high priority habitat types in the area.

Under this alternative, logging within the
boundaries of the crucial elk winter range would
occur during noncritical periods. Timber
removed, as described in the alternatives, would
neither benefit or adversely impact the crucial
range. Disturbance of wintering and calving elk
would be avoided by seasonal stipulations. There
would be no significant effect on wildlife habitat
and populations from forestry under this
alternative.

Conclusion: Continued ORV use would not
greatly affect big game. Prescribed burning or
cutting would improve 200 acres of crucial elk
winter range and high priority habitat types.
Forest management would not greatly affect
wildlife habitat and populations. Expected
locatable mineral exploration and development
would have virtually no effect on wildlife use or
wildlife habitat.

Effects on Forest Resources and Forest
Management

Forest management activities would occur
under this alternative. These activities would
include timber harvesting, along with associated
road building, thinning, and fuelwood sales. Of
the 450 acres of commercial forestland in the
WSA, approximately 300 would receive intensive
forest management.

Harvesting of lodgepole pine that is being
attacked by mountain pine beetles would reduce
fire hazard that would otherwise result from a
buildup of dead wood.

Productivity of the forest in terms of useable
wood fiber growth would be enhanced by timely
removal of mature timber and the establishment
of healthy regeneration. Incidence of tree
mortality due to insect and disease activity would
be reduced by forest management activities. The
productivity and health of the forest would be
enhanced from the standpoint of wood fiber
growth.

Forest diversity within harvested areas would
be reduced. Clearcuts would be regenerated with
lodgepole pine that would be all the same age. In
the unharvested areas the gradual establishment
of Engelmann spruceand subalpinefirwould lead
to an increase in tree diversity, in terms of
different species, sizes, and ages within any given
stand.

Wood products from the WSA would be
available to the sawmills located in Encampment
and Saratoga. A 1 million-board-foot timber sale
that is needed in the near future to control current
mountain pine beetle activity would contribute to
the local economy fori or 2 years. This sale would
provide about 10 work years of employment and
generate about $737,000 of revenue in the local
economy. The forest stands in the WSA are
suitable for winter logging, and its availability for
logging is locally important because the Platte
Valley has limited opportunities for winter
harvesting.

Over the next 60 years the amount of harvest
from the WSA would be 2.5 million board feet.
This amount is not very important to the local
economy when considering the total timber
harvest in the Platte Valley.

Conclusion: Timber harvesting would reduce
fire hazard. The productivity and health of the
forest would be enhanced by management
activities. Tree diversity, in terms of different
species, sizes, and ages within any given stand
would be reduced in harvested areas, but
increased in the unharvested areas. Timber
harvest would contribute to the local economy for
1 or 2 years. A 1 million-board-foot timber sale in
the nearfuture would provideabout 10 work years
of employment and generate about $737,000 of
revenue in the local economy. Availability of
winter logging areas would be increased. Overthe
next 60 years the amount of harvest would not be
very important to the local economy.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Effects on Mineral Exploration and
Development

Oil and gas leases would be issued subject to
appropriate standard surface disturbance stip-
ulations. There would be no impact on oil and gas
within the WSA.

Locatable mineral exploration activity would be
regulated by the 1872 Mining Law and the 43 CFR
3809 regulations. There would be no impact to
exploration and development of existing or future
claims under this alternative.

Conclusion: There would be no effect on
exploration and development of oil and gas or
locatable minerals.

PART III

BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

Chapter Two

Alternatives

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 2: Alternatives 69

Introduction 69

Alternatives Elimated from Detailed Study 69

Alternatives Considered in Detail 69

Proposed Action - No Action: No Wilderness 69

Wilderness Management 69

Recreation Management 69

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas Locatables 69

All Wilderness Alternative 70

Wilderness Management 70

Recreation Management 70

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas Locatables 70

PART III - BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

(WY-030-304)

CHAPTER 2 - ALTERNATIVES

Introduction

Alternatives Eliminated from
Detailed Study

An alternative to designate only part of the WSA
as wilderness was considered. However, it was
determined that the WSA is too small in size to
make any reductions. Also, there are no logical
boundaries for partial wilderness.

An alternative to enhance wilderness in the
WSA by closing boundary roads and adding
additional acreage was considered. However,
there are no feasible opportunities to do this. The
area outside of the WSA does not have the
wilderness characteristic of naturalness because
of existing intrusions which include powerlines
and roads.

An alternative to intensively manage the
Bennett Mountains WSA for recreation, wildlife,
and livestock grazing was considered, but it was
determined that the potential benefits were low
and the alternative was therefore not feasible. For
example, the WSA contains no crucial winter
range for big game and habitat conditions are
good. Therefore, intensive management of
wildlife habitat would not greatly improve habitat
conditions or benefit wildlife populations.

Alternatives Considered in Detail

Two alternatives were analyzed for the Bennett
Mountains WSA: (1) No Action: No Wilderness
(the Proposed Action) and (2) All Wilder-

ness. Descriptions of the management direction
for the alternatives follow.

Proposed Action
Wilderness

No Action: No

Under this alternative, the Bennett Mountains
WSA (6,003 acres) would be recommended as
nonsuitable for designation as wilderness. The
WSA would be managed for dispersed recreation.

Wilderness Management

The WSA would not be recommended for
wilderness designation and would be subject to
actions that would enhance dispersed recreation.
No special emphasis would be placed on
preservation of wilderness values.

Recreation Management

The objective is to provide for continuation of
existing forms of recreation such as hunting,
camping, wildlife viewing, and backpacking.

Recreational objectives would be designed to
promote dispersed activities such as hunting,
hiking, and horseback riding.

ORV use would be limited to existing roads and
trails. Approximately 4 miles of two-track trails
would remain available for ORV use.

Recreational use is expected to remain stable
at 1,000 visitor days per year.

Minerals Management - Oil and Gas and
Locatables

There are no pre-FLPMA oil and gas leases.
There are eight post-FLPMA oil and gas leases
that are subject to the special and regular
stipulations attached to each lease. New oil and
gas leases would be issued subject to standard
protection requirements for surface-disturbing
activities (available from any— B=lrM— offree— in
Wyoming^- ^^ ^cr^^^fi —

No development is expected because of the low
potential for oil and gas accumulation and the
difficulty of access. However, it is expected that

ALTERNATIVES

one exploratory well would be drilled in the
southeastern portion of the WSA at some time in
the future, since that is the only portion easily
accessible to oil and gas exploration. The
exploratory well would result in about 20 acres of
surface disturbance.

There are currently no pre- or post-FLPMA
mining claims. New mining claims would be
allowed, and they would be subject to the Surface
Management Regulations of 43 CFR 3809
governing surface management of public lands
under U. S. mining laws. No mining claim activity
is expected, since the overall potential for
locatable minerals is low.

All Wilderness Alternative

Under this alternative, the Bennett Mountains
WSA (6,003 acres) would be recommended as
suitable for designation as wilderness. Man-
agement of the area would be guided by BLM's
Wilderness Management Policy, issued Sep-
tember 24, 1981. Management would provide for
protection and preservation of the area's natural
conditions and wilderness character.

Wilderness Management

The objective would be to protect and preserve
the area's natural conditions and wilderness
character.

Activities such as the use of motorized
equipment and vehicles and mining would be
restricted. Specific restrictions are included in the
following discussions.

A wilderness management plan would be
written for the area outlining specific manage-
ment guidance. The plan would be written
according to the guidelines in BLM's Wilderness
Management Policy and BLM Manual Section
8561, Wilderness Management Plans, available at
most BLM offices.

Recreation Management

The objective is to provide for primitive forms
of recreation such as hunting, camping, and
backpacking.

The entire WSA would be closed to ORVs.
Approximately 4 miles of seldom used two-track
trails currently available for ORV use would be
affected.

Recreational use was estimated to be 1,000
visitor days in 1985. This level of use is expected
to remain constant in the future with nonmoto-
rized forms of recreation replacing motorized
recreation displaced by the ORV closure.

Minerals Management
Locatables

Oil and Gas and

There are no pre-FLPMA oil and gas leases.
There are eight post-FLPMA oil and gas leases
that are subject to the special and regular
stipulations attached to each lease. In addition, all
existing leases would be subject to nonimpair-
ment criteria as described in the interim
management policy and guidelines for lands
under wilderness review. This policy states that
only activities that do not degrade wilderness
values would be permitted on post-FLPMA leases.
No new oil and gas leasing would be allowed.

,y Currently there are no mining claims in the
c WSA. The-ar-ea-wou Id^be-operrtormi n i ng-loeatron
untikdesignation as wilderness. Any mjpmg
claims loca-tad prior to designation as wilderness
would be sul^el;t^tQ_Jhe intenp-HTfanagement
policy. This policy allowfconty activities that do
not impair wildern.ess^alues. iflTdiscqvery were
made usijig^lTonimpairing methodsT^t-hena
claimawfwould be entitled to a patent on those'
da-ims.

~j> After.!a WSA is designated wilderness no new
mining claims would be allowed. Validity
examinations would be required before allowing
operations on claims. Mining development would
be carried out in a manner that prevents
unnecessary or undue degradation of wilderness
character. Nonimpairing mineral surveys or
studies, such as surface exams subject to
wilderness management constraints, would be
allowed. No mining claim activity is expected,
since the overall potential for locatable minerals
is low.

TABLE 6

SUMMARY OF IMPACTS
Bennett Mountains WSA

Issues

Proposed Action
No Action: No Wilderness

All Wilderness

Effects on Wilderness
Values

Effects on Recreational
Opportunities

Effects on Mineral
Exploration and
Development

Continued ORV use would degrade opportunities
for solitude and primitive recreation somewhat.
Expected oil and gas exploration would degrade
the wilderness values of solitude and
naturalness during drilling. In the long term
the effect on naturalness would become
unnoticeable because of reclamation.

Recreational use and values would be little
changed. Oil and gas exploration could displace
recreationists during drilling.

There would be no effect on exploration and
development of oil and gas or locatable minerals.

Naturalness, opportunities for solitude, and
opportunities for primitive and unconfined
recreation would be protected in the Bennett
Mountains WSA. The scenic quality of the area
would be preserved. Closing the area to ORV use
would enhance opportunities for solitude and
primitive recreation somewhat.

Recreational activities currently associated
with ORV use such as hunting or sightseeing
would continue without the use of motor
vehicles. Primitive recreational values and
opportunities would be protected and enhanced
somewhat by the lack of motorized vehicle
traffic.

New oil and gas leasing and mining claims would
be prohibited, so the availability of
currently unrecognized oil and gas reserves and
mineral deposits would be forgone. The
nonimpairment criteria would effectively
preclude drilling an exploratory well. Since
the potential for these resources is low and no
development is projected, the effects would be
minor.

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■.'.:.■.■■■.■■■' ■. ■. ■ .■■

PART

BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

Chapter Three

Affected Environment

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 3: Affected Environment 75

Introduction 75

General Description 75

Wilderness Values 77

Size 77

Naturalness 77

Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude and/or a Primitive

Unconfined Type of Recreation 77

Special Features 77

Recreational Resources 77

Oil, Gas and Other Minerals 77

Geologic Setting 77

Oil and Gas 78

PART III - BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

(WY-030-304)

CHAPTER 3 - AFFECTED
ENVIRONMENT

Introduction

There are many environmental components
that would be unaffected by either of the
alternatives for management of the Bennett
Mountains WSA. Since they would not be
affected, they are not described in detail in this
chapter. These environmental components are
covered briefly in the following paragraphs.

Many environmental components are simply
not present in the WSA and therefore would not
be affected. This includes areas of critical
environmental concern (ACEC), coal resources,
nonenergy leasable minerals, fisheries, flood-
plains, prime or unique farmlands, wetlands, wild
horses, and wild or scenic rivers (designated or
proposed).

No lands and realty actions are proposed or
projected for the WSA, so none would be affected.

There are no permits for salable minerals in the
WSA. Because of inaccessibility and the exis-
tence of saleable mineral deposits closer to areas
where they are needed, salable mineral deposits
in the WSA are not considered commercial.
Development of salable minerals is not expected.
Thus, availability of salable minerals would not be
affected.

Restricting ORV use can potentially reduce soil
erosion. However, in this WSA, ORV use is
relatively light and is dispersed such that effects
on soil erosion would be negligible.

Wildlife habitat would not be materially affected
undereither alternative. Mule deer and elk use the
area, but there is no crucial winter range for
either. No actions are proposed that would
disturb wildlife habitat to any great degree.

Threatened or endangered species would be
unaffected by the management alternatives for
the WSA. The Bennett Mountains WSA is within

the range of the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, and
black-footed ferret which are protected by the
Endangered Species Act (1964, as amended).
However, no documented observations of these
three species have been made in the WSA. Bald
eagles may occasionally use the area during the
winter for hunting. Peregrines are believed to
migrate through the area in late fall and early
spring. However, the WSA contains no breeding,
nesting, or wintering habitat that would be
essential to the recovery of either species. The
area does not contain any prairie dogs, primary
food of black-footed ferrets, so the existence of
ferrets in the WSA is unlikely.

General Description

The Bennett Mountains are located in north
central Carbon County east of Seminoe Dam.

Vehicle access to the WSA during the warmer
months is limited to unimproved two-track roads,
trails, or ways. The only legal public vehicle
access is by the Bennett Mountain/Dry Lake Road
at the west end of the WSA. All other roads cross
private land through which there is no legal
access. Some visitors have crossed Seminoe
Reservoir by boat and walked into the WSA in the
summer, or crossed the ice by snowmobile in the
winter. Other roads are the Hanna-Leo road
which is approximately one mile east of the WSA,
and the Kortes Dam road which is approximately
one mile northwest of the WSA. Nonvehicle public
access is available from both of these roads.
During most of the winter, the WSA is
inaccessible except by snowmobile.

The WSA ranges in elevation from approxi-
mately 6,600 to 8,000 feet.

There are three basic types of topography in the
WSA: (1) the mountain plateau/ridges, (2) the
steep rock ledges and walls, and (3) the many
tributary draws (see photographs 4 and 5). The
mountain, which is approximately four miles long,
has distinct rocky ledges and walls along the
entire southern exposure, and the northern
portion is traversed with numerous tree-filled
drainages. In many places, the rocky walls are
vertical outcrops that create a fortress type
appearance. In most cases, all portions of the
WSA are interspersed with grasses, sagebrush
and othershrubs, and pockets of pine, aspen, and
willows. The higher elevations have considerably
less vegetation and more rugged rocky features.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

,y^ffidfewW

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*A\

Bennett Mountains WSA looking east from the western border.

Timber pine trees among massive granite outcrops in the Bennett Mountains WSA.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Wilderness Values

Recreational Resources

Size

The Bennett Mountains WSA contains 6,003
acres of public land. No private or state in holdings
and no split-estate lands are located within the
WSA boundary.

Naturalness

Man's influence is, for the most part, unno-
ticeable. The only intrusions are approximately 4
miles of two-track trails. These are not noticeable
from a distance and do not impair the wilderness
character of the WSA.

Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude
and/or a Primitive, Unconfined Type of
Recreation

The high plateau, coupled with numerous
draws and rocky outcrops, provides a high degree
of solitude. The mountain offers numerous
secluded places for recreational activities. These
features, along with pockets of overstory
vegetation, offer screening forvisitors throughout
most of the WSA.

There are no developed recreational sites in or
adjacent to the WSA. The Bennett Mountains
WSA provides opportunities for primitive recre-
ational activities that primarily include hunting,
hiking, trapping, camping, wildlife viewing, and
sightseeing.

Special Features

The mountain conveys a feeling of uncluttered
open space, isolation, and peacefulness. This is
accentuated by the altitude difference between
the WSA and thesurrounding low-lying plains. Its
drainages and steep rock walls contrast sharply
with adjoining landscapes. The topography and
vegetation are quite different from the sur-
rounding area. The contrast between the WSA
and surrounding plains is very abrupt as the
plains below are relatively low and rolling.

The area has a Class II, Visual Resource
Management rating. The Bennetts offer a
spectacular view of Seminoe Reservoir, which
adds significantly to the quality of the scenery.

The Bennett Mountains WSA provides
opportunities for primitive recreational activities
that include hunting, hiking, trapping, camping,
wildlife viewing, and sightseeing. Use is primarily
by Wyoming residents for all types of recreation,
but nonresident hunters frequent the mountain
during hunting season. All activities are
dispersed.

Recreational use within the WSA was estimated
to be approximately 1,000 visitor days in 1985.
Most of the estimated visitor days are attributable
to hunting or wildlife viewing activities. A limited
amount of camping takes place during the
hunting season. Use is concentrated primarily
along the fringes of the WSA. Hiking and
backpacking activities occur during the summer
months but levels of use are low. Sightseeing and
camping are largely associated with other
recreational activities.

Hunting is the primary recreational activity.
Mule deer are hunted throughout the area, and elk
hunting occurs but is not significant. Visitor use
is relatively constant from year to year with most
use occurring in September and October.

Vehicle access points are available almost
anywhere along the boundary of the WSA.
However, all except one access point are
accessible only by crossing private lands through
which there currently is no legal public access.
Until the early 1970s, public access across
Seminoe Dam was permitted by the Bureau of
Reclamation. After this route was closed, public
use on the east side of Seminoe Reservoir and the
south side of Bennett Mountains declined
drastically. Access by boat across Seminoe
Reservoir is available in the summer and by
snowmobile when the lake is frozen in winter. The
primary means of travel within the WSA are hiking
and horseback riding for which access is
available. ORV use occurs on the two-track trails
within the WSA. There are approximately four
miles of two-track trails in the WSA.

Oil, Gas, and Other Minerals

Geologic Setting

The Precambrian rocks of the Bennett
Mountains consist of a series of metasedimen-
tary, metaigneous and metavolcanic rocks,
potentially similarto the Western Seminoe Range.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

Paleozoic and Mesozoic sedimentary rocks are
found on the south side of the Bennett Mountains
WSA. The Precambrian geology of the Bennett
Mountains WSA is poorly known, and there is little
published information available defining the
variety of metamorphic rock types in the area.

The Bennett Mountains WSA is geologically
complex. Paleozoic and Mesozoic units crop out
along the south side, while Tertiary (2 to 70
m.y.B.P.) sedimentary rocks have been identified
only on the north side. Surficial deposits in the
WSA consist of pediment gravels that are found
along the flanks of the range.

The major bedrock unit that forms the core of
the range is a series of Precambrian rocks. Rock
types identified in the Bennetts include granite
gneisses, amphibolites, alaskites, amphibolite
gneisses and metadiabase dikes.

Overlying the Precambrian rocks is a Paleozoic
section exposed along the south flank of the
Bennett Mountains. The formations exposed
include the Flathead Sandstone, Madison
Limestone, Amsden Formation, Tensleep Sand-
stone, and Casper Formations.

The Bennett Mountains are associated with the
Sweetwater uplift and the north and south Granite
Mountains fault system. During the Laramide
orogeny (Cretaceous-Tertiary age), the uplift in

this area caused considerable structural defor-
mation in the adjacent Paleozoic and Mesozoic
sedimentary rocks, considerable potassic alter-
ation and metasomatic effects along the north
and south Granite Mountain fault system.

Oil and Gas

Portions of eight post-FLPMA oil and gas leases
exist in the WSA (see map 7). These leases are
subject to the special and regular stipulations
attached to each lease (see table 7). The potential
for oil and gas is believed to be low to none. Due
to geology that is unfavorable for the accumu-
lation of oil and gas deposits, the difficulty of
access, and the difficulty in conducting drilling
operations in these types of geologic conditions,
it is unlikely that oil and gas development would
occur in the Bennett Mountains WSA.

No mining claims are located in the WSA. Very
little is known about possible mineralization. Jade
and beryl gemstones are reported to occur in the
vicinity but are unverified in the Bennett
Mountains WSA. Gold, metallic sulfides, and iron
mineralization are potential resources that may
occur in the Precambrian rocks of the Bennett
Mountains. The overall potential for locatable
mineral development is low.

SCALE IN MILES

R 83 W

Bennett Mountains WSA Boundary
Post-FLPMA Oil and Gas Leases

TJ1

Map 7
POST-FLPMA OIL AND GAS LEASES
IN THE BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

Medicine Bow Wilderness Supplement

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

TABLE 7

BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA
POST-FLPMA OIL AND GAS LEASE ABSTRACT

Total

Lease

Acres

Effective

Number

Acres

in WSAi

Date

Stipulations

W-59124

2,320.00

July 1, 1977

1,2,3

W-73050

4,044.39

250

April 1, 1981

2,4

W-62213

1,600.72

May 1, 1978

2,5

W-63539

1,282.32

1,040

July 1, 1978

2,6,7

W-64013

2,515.82

1,270

December 1, 1978

2,8,9.10

W-64014

642.07

570

September 1, 1979

2,10,11

W-6401 1

1,753.25

580

November 1, 1978

2,12,13,14,
15,16

1 Approximate acreages.

1. No occupancy within 200 feet Red Springs Draw, Hurt Gulch and 1,000 feet high
water line Seminoe Reservoir.

2. No occupancy slopes greater than 25 percent without written permission.

3. Drilling allowed only from April 15 to December 25.

4. No drilling or storage facility allowed within 250 feet of unnamed tributary of Lost
Creek, House Gulch Reservoir, Spencer Draw, and Hurt Gulch without written permission.

5. No occupancy or surface disturbance within 200 feet of Sips Creek and tributaries,
Cottonwood Creek, and unnamed creeks in Sections 20 and 21 without written permission.

6. No occupancy or surface disturbance within 200 feet of Sips Creek, unnamed
tributaries, and Cottonwood Creek without written permission.

7. No drilling or storage facilities within 500 feet of Sips Spring without written
permission.

8. No occupancy or surface disturbance within 1,320 feet of the North Platte River
(Seminoe Reservoir) without written permission.

9. No drilling or storage facilities within 500 feet of live streams located in Section
8, T. 25 N., R. 84 W. without written permission.

10. Drilling and other exploration activity allowed only from April 15 to December 15
unless written permission is given.

11. No drilling or storage facilities within 500 feet of live streams of Cottonwood drainage
located in Section 18, T. 25 N., R. 84 W. without written permission.

12. No drilling or storage facilities within 500 feet of No. 1 and No. 2 Gulch and Kortes
Reservoir without written permission.

13. Exploration, drilling or other development prohibited during wet or muddy periods
when notified by the District Manager, BLM.

14. No occupancy or other surface disturbance allowed within 250 feet of live water
Hurt Gulch, Spencer Draw, House Gulch, House Gulch Reservoir and the unnamed stream
located in Section 11, T. 25 N., R. 83 W. without written permission.

15. No surface occupancy, directional drilling from privately owned land allowed.

16. No surface occupancy 75 feet each side of right-of-ways under administration of
the Bureau of Reclamation.

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PART III

BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

Chapter Four

Environmental Consequences

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences 83

Proposed Action - No Action: No Wilderness 83

Effects on Wilderness Values 83

Effects on Recreational Opportunities 83

Effects on Mineral Exploration and Development 83

All Wilderness Alternative 83

Effects on Wilderness Values 83

Effects on Recreational Opportunities 84

Effects on Mineral Exploration and Development 84

PART III - BENNETT MOUNTAINS WSA

(WY-030-304)

CHAPTER 4 -

ENVIRONMENTAL

CONSEQUENCES

Proposed Action
Wilderness

No Action: No

Effects on Wilderness Values

Continued ORV use would degrade opportu-
nities for solitude and primitive recreation. This
effect would be primarily limited to the months of
September and October when most of the visitor
use occurs.

Expected oil and gas exploration would disturb
about 20 acres. The wilderness values of
naturalness and solitude would be degraded over
a much larger area during drilling activity. The
effect on naturalness would become unnotice-
able in the long term as a result of reclamation
efforts.

Conclusion: Continued ORV use would
degrade opportunities for solitude and primitive
recreation. Expected oil and gas exploration
would degrade the wilderness values of solitude
and naturalness during drilling. In the long term
the effect on naturalness would become unno-
ticeable because of reclamation.

Effects on Recreational Opportunities

Underthis alternative, recreation in the Bennett
Mountains would remain largely unchanged in
the long term. The volume of big game hunting
would gradually increase somewhat, but the
overall level of recreation use would remain at
about 1,000 visitor days.

Expected oil and gas exploration would not
greatly affect recreational opportunities. Drilling
an exploratory well would displace recreationists
from the drilling site during drilling. This effect
would be short-term, lasting only for the time
drilling occurs, and would be limited to a small
portion of the WSA.

Conclusion: Recreational use and values
would be little changed. Oil and gas exploration
could displace recreationists during drilling.

Effects on Mineral Exploration and
Development

There are eight existing oil and gas leases in the
WSA. New oil and gas leases would be issued
subject to appropriate standard surface dis-
turbance stipulations. No development is antic-
ipated, but one exploratory well would be
expected in the southeastern portion of the WSA.
There would be no impact to oil and gas leasing,
exploration, or development.

There are no mining claims in the WSA.
Locatable mineral exploration activity would be
regulated by the 1872 Mining Law and the 43 CFR
3809 regulations. No mining claim activity is
expected. There would be no impact to
exploration and development of locatable min-
erals.

Conclusion: There would be no effect on
exploration and development of oil and gas or
locatable minerals.

All Wilderness Alternative

Effects on Wilderness Values

Under this alternative the Bennett Mountains
WSA would be recommended suitable for
wilderness designation. Upon designation, the
area would be managed according to the
guidelines of BLM's wilderness management
policy. Activities that would impair the wilderness
character of the area would be restricted. This
would help ensure the long-term protection of the
wilderness values of naturalness, opportunities
for solitude, and opportunities for primitive and
unconfined recreation. It would also help ensure
the preservation of the area's scenic qualities.

Closing the area to ORV use would enhance
opportunities for solitude and primitive recre-
ation. This effect would be minor, since current
ORV use is relatively low.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Oil and gas exploration would not be expected
to occur. The nonimpairment criteria would
effectively prohibit drilling of an exploratory well.
Thus, the wilderness values of naturalness and
solitude would not be degraded by oil and gas
exploration.

Conclusion: Under this alternative, the wil-
derness values of naturalness, opportunities for
solitude, and opportunities for primitive and
unconfined recreation would be protected in the
Bennett Mountains WSA. The scenic quality of
the area would be preserved. Closing the area to
ORV use would enhance opportunities for
solitude and primitive recreation. The wilderness
values of naturalness and solitude would not be
degraded by oil and gas exploration since an
exploratory well would not be expected under the
nonimpairment criteria.

Effects on Recreational Opportunities

Recreational use would remain largely
unchanged. Wilderness designation would allow
this area to be utilized for nonmotorized activities
that are historically important and increasingly
popular in this area. Recreational activities
currently associated with ORV use, such as
hunting or sightseeing, would continue without
the use of motor vehicles. The WSA is small
enough that recreation ists could easily walk from
boundary access points into the area for these
activities. The volume of big game hunting would
gradually increase somewhat, but the overall level
of recreation use would remain at about 1,000
visitor days.

Closing four miles of two-track trails in the WSA
would not have a great effect on opportunities for
motorized recreation in the region. The routes are
deadend, and ORV use is incidental.

Primitive recreational values and opportunities
would be protected and enhanced under this
alternative, because there would be no motorized
vehicle traffic.

Conclusion: Closing four miles of two-track
trails in the WSA would not have a great effect on
opportunities for motorized recreation in the
region. Recreational activities currently asso-
ciated with ORV use such as hunting or
sightseeing would continue without the use of
motor vehicles. Primitive recreational values and
opportunities would be protected and enhanced
by the lack of motorized vehicle traffic.

Effects on Mineral Exploration and
Development

There are eight existing oil and gas leases in the
WSA. No new leasing would be allowed, so the
availability of currently unrecognized oil and gas
reserves would be forgone. The nonimpairment
criteria would effectively prohibit drilling of an
exploratory well. Since oil and gas potential is low
and no development is projected, the effects of
wilderness designation on oil and gas exploration
and development would be minor.

There are no mining claims in the WSA. Upon
designation, no new mining claims would be
allowed, so the availability of currently unrec-
ognized mineral deposits would be forgone. The
area would be unavailable for further exploration
except for certain nonimpairing resource surveys.
The geology of the Bennett Mountains WSA
appears to have low favorability for significant
hardrock mineralization. No mining claim activity
is expected, so these effects would be minor.

Conclusion: New oil and gas leasing and
mining claims would be prohibited, so the
availability of currently unrecognized oil and gas
reserves and mineral deposits would be forgone.
The nonimpairment criteria would effectively
prohibit drilling of an exploratory well. Since the
potential for these resources is low and no
development is projected, the effects would be
minor.

Chapter Five

Consultation and
Coordination

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Coordination and Public Involvement 87

Introduction 87

Consistencies 87

Agencies and Organizations Consulted 87

Required Reviewers 87

Other Contacts 88

State of Wyoming 88

Indian Tribes 88

Cities and Counties 88

United State Legislators 88

State Elected Officials 88

EIS Team 88

Technographics Supoort and Printing 89

Coordination and Support 89

CHAPTER 5

CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

COORDINATION AND
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

Introduction

The Draft Wilderness Environmental Impact
Statement for the Medicine Bow Resource Area
has been prepared by specialists from the BLM's
Medicine Bow Resource Area, with assistance
from the Rawlins District Office.

Public participation has been an ongoing
process throughout the inventory and planning
phases of the wilderness review required by
FLPMA. The review process included inventories
of resources, public participation, and coordi-
nation with individuals, organizations, and other
agencies. Care has been exercised to inform the
public throughout the wilderness review process.

A Federal Register notice and news release in
February 1986 announced the initiation of the
Medicine Bow RMP and wilderness EIS, inviting
comments and soliciting suggestions and input
on issues identified to be analyzed in the land use
planning effort including wilderness.

Wilderness has been a topic in formal and
informal meetings involving many members of the
ranching community and minerals industries and
with other interest groups and agencies. Public
opinion was elicited through mailings to an
extensive list of groups and individuals; personal
interviews; and public meetings in Rawlins,
Saratoga, Laramie, Medicine Bow, Baggs, and
Wheatland. A summary of the comments
generated from those meetings is on file in the
Medicine Bow Resource Area.

Consistency

Federal, state and local agencies, and orga-
nizations were considered during the preparation
of this EIS. Wilderness suitability recommenda-
tions resulting from this EIS were analyzed in
relationship to consistency with the plans of these
agencies and organizations. No inconsistencies

with any existing state or other government plans
were identified. Frequent contacts have been
made with state, county, and Forest Service
officials.

Agencies and Organizations
Consulted

The wilderness EIS team has consulted with
and or received input from numerous organi-
zations during the development of this document.
The Rawlins District Office maintains a lengthy
wilderness mailing list. At each point in the overall
wilderness review/EIS process, when public input
is necessary or when some tentative decision
regarding a WSA is reached, materials and/or
information are sent to all groups, organizations
and individuals on the mailing list.

The following list is representative of the
agencies that have indicated an interest in the
Medicine Bow Wilderness EIS and that have been
contacted during the planning process. This list
is not inclusive. A complete list is on file at the
Medicine Bow Resource Area office.

Required Reviewers

U.S. Department of the Interior

Bureau of Land Management (340), Washington, D.C.
Bureau of Land Management (931), Cheyenne, WY
Office of Environmental Project Review, Denver, CO
National Park Service, Division, of Env. Compliance
(WASO 762), Washington, D.C.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Chief, Division Envi-
ronmental Coord., Washington, D.C.
Minerals Management Service Offshore Environmental
Assessment Division, Washington, D.C.
Bureau of Reclamation, Division of Environmental
Affairs, Washington, D.C.

Bureau of Mines, Mineral Data Analysis (MS-5000),
Washington, D.C.

U.S. Geological Survey, National Center (423), Reston,
VA

Office of Surface Mining, Division of Environmental &
Economic Analysis, Washington, D.C.

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Forest Service, Office of Environmental Coordination,
Washington, D.C.

U.S. Air Force

HQ USAF/LEER, Washington, D.C.

CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

U.S. Air Force (Continued)

HQ-US LEVX, Office of Environmental Planning, Boiling
AFB, Washington, D.C.

Assistant Secretary of the Air Force, Installation
Environment and Safety, Pentagon, Admiralty, VA

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Chief, Planning Division, Omaha, NE
Chief, Planning Division, Portland, OR

Department of Energy (EP-36), Washington, D.C.

Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Bethesda, MD

Environmental Protection Agency, Denver, CO

Environmental Review Coordinator, EPA Region VIII,
Denver, CO

State of Wyoming, Wyoming State Clearing House,
Cheyenne, WY

Other Contacts

Federal Government

U.S. Department of Agriculture
Farmers Home Administration
Soil Conservation Service
U.S. Department of Transportation

State of Wyoming

Office of the Governor

Archives, Museums, and Historical Department

National Guard

State Board of Land Commissioners

University of Wyoming

Conservation Commission

Department of Agriculture

Department of Environmental Quality

Game and Fish Department

Geological Survey

Highway Department

Recreation Commission

State Engineer

Water Development Commission

Oil and Gas Conservation Commission

Public Lands Commission

Public Lands and Farm Loan District

State Historic Preservation Officer

State Planning Coordinator's Office

Indian Tribes

Arapahoe Business Council
Shoshone Business Council

Cities and Counties

Cities and towns of Bairoil, Cheyenne, Encampment, Hanna,
Laramie, Medicine Bow, Rawlins, Saratoga, and Wheatland.

County commissioners, county planning commissions, and
weed and pest control districts of Albany, Carbon, Laramie,
and Sweetwater counties.

United States Legislators

The Honorable Richard Cheney
The Honorable Alan K. Simpson
The Honorable Malcolm Wallop

State Elected Officials

Wyoming Governor's Office

State senators and state representatives from Albany,
Carbon, Laramie, and Sweetwater counties.

In addition to the agencies and offices listed
above, notices, requests for comments and
copies of this document have been sent to
businesses, organizations, interest groups, and
individuals. Copies of the wilderness EIS are
available for review in the BLM offices at Rawlins,
Lander, Worland, Rock Springs, Cheyenne, and
Casper and in the county libraries in Albany,
Carbon, Laramie, and Sweetwater counties.

Preparers of Document
EIS Team

Shirley Bye-Jech, Outdoor Recreation Planner

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 6
years,. B.S. Outdoor Recreation Planning,
Oregon State University.

Responsibility: Technical Coordination

Tim Bottomley, Forester

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 7
years. B.S. Forest Management, University of
Illinois.

Responsibility: Forestry

John Husband, RMP/EIS Team Leader

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 9
years. B.S. Forestry, Purdue University.

Responsibility: Technical Coordination

Robert Janssen, Planning Coordinator

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 10
years. B.S. Earth Sciences, University of Wis-
consin; M.S. Geology, Colorado State University.

Responsibility: Minerals

Vern Lovejoy, Outdoor Recreation Planner

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 10
years; Corps of Engineers, 3 years. B.A. Physical

CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION

Geography, University of Charleston; M.S.
Outdoor Recreation and Park Administration,
Eastern Kentucky University.

Responsibility: Recreation

Jan Macey, Clerk-Typist

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 2
years; Bureau of Reclamation, 8 years. Business
College.

Responsibility: Word Processing

Mark Newman, Geologist

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 8
years; private industry, 4 years. B.S. Geology,
University of Wisconsin.

Responsibility: Minerals

Tom Rinkes, Wildlife Biologist

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 8
years. B.S. Wildlife Resources, University of
Idaho.

Responsibility: Wildlife

John Spehar, Range Conservationist

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 8
years. B.S. Forestry, University of California at
Berkeley.

Responsibility: Livestock Grazing

Fred Stabler, Fisheries Biologist

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 6
years; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1 year. B.S.
Wildlife Biology, Washington State University;
M.S. Fishery Resources, University of Idaho.

Responsibility: Fisheries

Bob Tigner, Regional Planner

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 6
years; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 21 years.
B.S., M.S. Wildlife Management. Colorado State
University; Ph. D. Biology, University of Colo-
rado.

Responsibility: Wilderness EIS Team Leader

Gordon Warren, Public Affairs Officer

Qualifications: Bureau of Land Management, 1
year; Air Force Reserve, 1 year; Newspaper

Writer/Editor, 17 years. B.A. Technica
ism, Colorado State University.

Responsibility: Editing

Journal-

Technographics Support and
Printing

The following personnel from the Wyoming
State Office, BLM, provided technographics and
printing support in the preparation of this
document.

Shelley Peele, Supervisory Cartographic Tech-
nician
Richard Puis, Cartographic Technician
Sue Roberts, Cartographic Technician
Esther Simons, Cartographic Technician
Doug Morrow, Photolithographer
Carol Ross, Illustrator

Jerry Carter, Printing Management Specialist
Tina Warren, Printing Technician
Sheri Esch, Editorial Assistant

Coordination, Support, and Review

Coordination, support, and review were pro-
vided by the Division of Minerals, Division of
Lands and Renewable Resources, and Division of
Operations, Rawlins District. From the Wyoming
State Office, coordination and review were
provided by the Division of Lands and Renewable
Resources, Branch of Biological Resources and
Branch of Planning and Environmental Assis-
tance.

Printing arrangements were made by the
Branch of Administrative Services, Wyoming
State Office.

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Glossary

GLOSSARY

ALASKITE. A leucocratic (light colored) form of granite.

ALLOTMENT. An area allocated for the use of the livestock
of one or more qualified grazing lessees. It generally
consists of BLM-managed lands but may include parcels
of private or state-owned lands. The number and kind
of livestock and period of use are stipulated for each
allotment. An allotment may consist of several pastures
or may be only one pasture.

AMPHIBOLITE ROCKS. Metamorphic rock consisting
essentially of amphiball, a group of minerals with
essentially like crystal structures involving a silicate
chain, OH (Si40„).

ANTICLINE. An upfold or arch of stratified rock in which
the beds or layers bend downward in opposite directions
from the crest or axis of the fold.

ANIMAL UNIT. A standardized unit of measurement for
range livestock or wildlife. Generally, one mature
(1,000-pound) cow or its equivalent, based on an average
daily forage consumption of 26 pounds of dry matter per
day.

ANIMAL UNIT MONTH. A standardized unit of measure-
ment of the amount of forage necessary for the
sustenance of one animal unit for one month; also, a unit
of measurement that represents the privilege of grazing
one animal unit for one month.

ARCHEAN. The term meansancientand has generally been
applied to the oldest rocks of the Precambrian.

BOARD FOOT.

thick.

A unit of solid wood 1 foot square and 1 inch

BROWSE. The tender shoots, twigs, and leaves of trees and
shrubs often used as food by deer, antelope, livestock,
and other animals; to feed on browse.

CLOSED (ORV). Vehicle travel is prohibited yearlong with
no exceptions other than for emergency vehicles in
emergency situations. Access by means other than
motorized vehicles is permitted.

COMMERCIAL FORESTLAND. Forestland that is now
producing or is capable of producing at least 20 cubic
feet of wood fiber per acre per year from commercial
coniferous tree species, and which has met certain
economic, environmental, or multiple use criteria for
inclusion in the commercial forestland base.

COVER. Vegetation orterrain used by wildlife for protection
from predators and adverse weather conditions. Cover
is a major component of wildlife habitat.

CRETACEOUS. A period in time extending from approx-
imately 70 to 135 million years before present.

CRUCIAL HABITAT. Habitat on which a species depends
for survival because there are no alternative ranges or
habitats available.

CRUCIAL WINTER RANGE. The portion of the winter range
to which a wildlife species is confined during periods of
heaviest snow cover.

CULTURAL RESOURCE. A fragile and nonrenewable
remnant of human activity, occupation, or endeavor
reflected in districts, sites, structures, building, objects,
artifacts, ruins, works of art, architecture, and natural
features.

DIKE. A thin, sheet-like intrusion of igneous rock cutting
across the bedding or foliation of the country rock.

ENDANGERED SPECIES. Any plant or animal species that
is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant
portion of its range, as defined by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service under the authority of the Endangered
Species act of 1973.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT. A written
analysis of the impacts of a proposed project and
alternatives.

Containing feldspar as a principal ingre-

FELDSPATHIC.

client.

FOLIATED. The laminated structure resulting from seg-
regation of different minerals into layers.

FORAGE. All browse and herbaceous foods available to
grazing animals.

FORESTLAND. Land that is now, or is capable of becoming,
at least 10% stocked with forest trees, which has not been
developed for nontimber use.

GNEISS. A foliated metamorphic rock of medium to coarse
grain. As used in the text the mineral name(s) preceding
the term gneiss describe the composition of the rock.
Thus, a calcite-garnet-epidote gneiss is a gneiss
consisting of the minerals calcite, garnet, and epidote.

HABITAT MANAGEMENT PLAN. An officially approved
activity play for a specific geographic area of public land.
An HMP identifies wildlife habitat and related objectives,
defines the sequence of actions to be implemented to
achieve the objectives, and outlines procedures for
evaluating accomplishments.

IGNEOUS. Rock formed by solidification of a molten
magma.

INHOLDINGS. Private or State owned land inside
boundary of a WSA, but excluded from the WSA.

the

JEEP TRAIL. A two-wheel track created only by the passage
of vehicles. A trail is not a road.

KYANITE. An aluminum silicate (AI2Si05) which commonly
occurs as blue crystals.

LEASABLE MINERALS. Minerals subject to lease by the
federal government, such as coal, oil and gas, oil shale,
potash, sodium, phosphate, and other minerals that may
be acquired under the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as
amended. The major leasable minerals in the planning
area are oil and gas and coal.

LIMITED (ORV). Vehicle travel is restricted in some manner
in the area. Restrictions could take many forms, but the
most common are "limited to existing roads and trails,"
which allows vehicle travel only on roads that were in
existence at the time of designation or as authorized for
future uses; "limited to designated roads and trails,"

GLOSSARY

which allows vehicle travel only on roads that the BLM
designates by signs; and "seasonal restrictions," which
restricts vehicle travel in an area or on certain roads
during some portion of the year (such as wintertime
vehicle restrictions to protect big game on crucial winter
range).

Under limitations to existing or designated roads and
trails, vehicle travel off roads is permitted only to
accomplish necessary tasks and only if such travel would
not result in resource damage. Necessary tasks are
defined as work requiring the use of a motor vehicle.
Examples include picking up big game kills, repairing
range improvements, managing livestock, and mineral
activities where surface disturbance does not total more
than 5 acres, as described in the provisions of 43 CFR
3809.1-3.

LOCATABLE MINERALS. Generally, the metallic minerals
subject to development specified in the Federal Mining
Law of 1872. Examples are gold, silver, and copper.

MAFIC. Containing abundant dark colored minerals such
as amphibolis, pyroxenes, and certain feldspars.

MESOZOIC. An era in time extending from approximately
70 to 225 million years before present.

METAIGNEOUS. An igneous rock which has been meta-
morphosed.

METAMORPHISM. The process by which consolidated
rocks are altered in composition, texture, or internal
structure by conditions and forces not resulting simply
from burial and the weight of subsequently accumulated
overburden. Pressure, heat, and the introduction of new
chemical substances are the principal causes.

METASEDIMENTS. A sedimentary rock which has been
metamorphosed.

METASOMATIC. Produced by metasomatism which is the
replacement, partly or wholly, of one mineral by another.

METAVOLCANIC. A volcanic rock which has been
metamorphosed.

NATURALNESS. Refers to an area which "generally
appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of
nature, with the imprint of man's work substantially
unnoticeable." (From section 2 (C), Wilderness Act)

NONIMPAIRMENT CRITERIA. A series of guidelines which
govern surface disturbing activities on lands being
studied by BLM for inclusion in the National Wilderness
Preservation System. The guidelines require that lands
be managed so as to not impair their suitability for
designation as wilderness. Any authorized activities
must be temporary in nature and not degrade the area's
wilderness values. Disturbed areas must be capable of
being reclaimed so that "they are substantially unno-
ticeable by the time the Secretary of the Interior makes
his recommendation on Wilderness Areas to the
President.

OFF-ROAD VEHICLE. Any motorized tracked or wheeled
vehicle designed for cross-country travel over any type
of natural terrain. Exclusions (from Executive Order
11644, as amended by Executive Order 11989) are
nonamphibious registered motorboats, any military, fire,
emergency, or law enforcement vehicle while being used
for emergency purposes, any vehicle whose use is
expressly authorized by the authorizing officer or
otherwise officially approved, vehicles in official use, and
any combat support vehicle in times of national defense
emergencies.

OROGENY. The process of forming mountains particularly
by folding and thrusting.

ORTHOAMPHIBOLITE. A rock resulting from the
metamorphism of igneous rocks such as diabase basalt.

OUTSTANDING. Standing out among others of its kind;
conspicuous; prominent; or, superior to others of its
kind; distinguished; excellent.

PALEOZOIC. An era in time extending from approximately
225 to 570 million years before present.

PEDIMENT. A gently sloping surface produced by the
erosion of steep slopes.

PEGMATITE. A very coarse-grained igneous rock with a
composition similar to granite. It is usually found in veins
or dikes.

POTASSIC. Pertaining to or containing potassium.

PRECAMBRIAN ROCKS. Igneous and metamorphic rocks
formed during Precambrian time, which ended
approximately 570 million years before present.

PRIMITIVE UNCONFINED RECREATION. Nonmotorized
and nondeveloped types of outdoor recreational
activities.

PROTEROZOIC. The entire Precambrain era.

PROTOCONTINENT. A primitive continental nucleus.

PUBLIC LAND. As used in this document, surface or
mineral estate administered by the Bureau of Land
Management.

QUARTZ MONZONITE. A common rock in large intrusions.

RANGE IMPROVEMENT. Any activity or program on or
relating to rangelands that is designed to improve
production of forage, change vegetation composition,
control patterns of use, provide water, stabilize soil and
water conditions, or provide habitat for livestock, wild
and free-roaming horses and burros, or wildlife. Range
improvement projects may be fences, reservoirs, brush
control, or spring and well developments.

RANGELAND MONITORING PROGRAM. A program
designed to measure changes in plant composition,
ground cover, animal populations, and climatic con-
ditions on the public rangeland. Studies monitor
changes in range condition and determine the reason for
any changes. Studies also monitor actual use, forage
utilization, trend, and climatic conditions.

RIPARIAN. Situated on or pertaining to the bank of a river,
stream, or other body of water. Normally used to refer
to plants of all types that grow rooted in the water table
of streams, ponds, and springs.

ROAD. For the purpose of BLM's wilderness inventory, the
following definition has been adopted from the
legislative history of FLPMA:

"The word 'roadless' refers to the absence of roads which
have been improved and maintained by mechanical
means to ensure relatively regular and continuous use.
A trail maintained solely by the passage of vehicles does
not constitute a road."

To clarify this definition, the following subdefinitions also
apply.

Improved and Maintained - Physical human actions taken
to keep a road open to vehicular traffic. A trail maintained
solely by the passage of vehicles does not constitute a
road.

GLOSSARY

Mechanical Means - Use of hand or power machinery or
tools.

Relatively Regular and Continuous Use - Vehicular use
which has occurred and will continue to occur on a
relatively regular basis. Examples are access roads for
equipment to maintain a stock water tank or other
established water sources, access roads to maintained
recreation sites or facilities, or access roads to mining
claims.

SALABLE MINERALS. Minerals that may be sold under the
Material Sale Act of 1947, as amended. Included are
sand, gravel, flagstone, scoria, and crushed rock such
as limestone.

SCHIST. A metamorphic rock consisting predominately of
mica minerals with a parallel orientation of the mica
plates.

SHEAR. A tangential stress in which equal and opposite
forces are imposed on either side of a plane and parallel
to it. Shear stress tends to deform a body of rock by
moving one part of it relative to another.

SILL. An intrusive body of igneous rock of approximately
uniform thickness and relatively thin compared to its
lateral extent which is emplaced parallel to the bedding
of the intruded rock.

SOLITUDE. The State of being along or remote from
habitations; isolation. A lonely, unfrequented, or
secluded place. Factors contributing to opportunities for
solitude are vegetative screening, topographic relief,
vistas, and physiographic variety.

SPLIT ESTATE. Surface and minerals of a given area in
different ownerships. Frequently the surface will be
privately owned and the minerals federally owned.

THREATENED SPECIES. Any plant or animal species that
is likely to become an endangered species throughout
all or a significant portion of its range, as defined by the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the authority of the
Endangered Species Act of 1973.

TWO-TRACK TRAIL. See "Jeep Trail."

WILDERNESS. The definition contained in Section 2(c) of
the Wilderness Act of 1964 is as follows: "A wilderness,
in contrast with those areas where man and his own
works dominate the landscape, is hereby recognized as
an area where the earth and its community of life are
untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who
does not remain." Wilderness is an area of undeveloped
Federal land retaining its primeval character and
influence, without permanent improvements or human
habitation, which is protected and managed so as to
preserve its natural conditions and which (1) generally
appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of
nature, with the imprint of man's work substantially
unnoticeable; (2) has outstanding opportunities for
solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of recreation;
(3) has at least 5,000 acres of land or is of sufficient size
as to make practicable its preservation and use in an
unimpaired condition; and (4) may also contain
ecological, geological, or other features of scientific,
educational, scenic, or historical value.

WILDERNESS AREA. An area formally designated by
Congress as part of the National Wilderness Preser-
vation System.

WILDERNESS STUDY AREA (WSA). A parcel of public land
that through BLM's wilderness inventory process has
been found to possess the basic wilderness charac-
teristics of being at least 5,000 acres in size, being
primarily natural, and having outstanding opportunities
for solitude or primitive and unconfined types of
recreation.

REFERENCES

Cole, Walter E., and Amman, Gene D.

1980 Mountain Pine Beetle Dynamics in Lodgepole Pine
Forests, Part

I: Course ol an Infestation. General Technical Report
INT-89. Ogden, UT: Intermountain Forest and Range
Experiment Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department
of Agriculture.

Divis, Allan F.

1976 "Geology and Geochemistry of Sierra Madre
Range, Wyoming." Quarterly of the Colorado School of
Mines 71(3).

Haas, Wendy L.

1979 "Ecology of an Introduced Herd of Rocky Mountain
Bighorn Sheep in South Central Wyoming." M.S.
thesis, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.

Houston, R. S. and others

1 968 A Regional Study of Rocks of Precambhan Age in that
Part of the Medicine Bow Mountains Lying in
Southeastern Wyoming - with a Cahpter on the
Relationship Between Precambhan and Laramide
Structure'. Memoir No. 1. Laramie, WY: Geological
Survey of Wyoming. Contributions by M. E.
McCallum, J. S. King, B. B. Ruehr, W. G. Myers, C.
J. Orback, J. R. King, M. 0. Childers, Irwin Matus,
D. R. Currey, J. C. Gries, H. L. Stensrud, E. J.
Catanzaro, M. N. Swetnam, D. D. Michalek, and D.
L. Blackstone, Jr. Age determinations by F. Allan
Hills, Paul W. Gast, and Ian Swainbank.

Houston, Robert S.

1961 The Big Creek Pegmatite Area,
Wyoming. Preliminary Report No.
Geological Survey of Wyoming.

Carbon County,
1. Laramie, WY:

Kanaly, Jack

1977 "A Fisheries Survey of the Encampment River
Drainage, Tributary to the North Platte River, Carbon
County, Wyoming." Completion Report prepared for
Wyoming Game and Fish Department Project
5074-01-7201.

Moody, Dave

1985 Personal communication with Carol Jorgenson of
Medicine Bow Resource Area, Bureau of Land
Management, regarding crucial winter range for the
Baggs elk herd. Moody is with the Wyoming Game
and Fish Department.

Rudd, Bill

1986 Personal communication with Tim Rinkes of
Medicine Bow Resource Area, Bureau of Land
Management, regarding the Encampment bighorn
sheep herd. Rudd is with the Wyoming Game and
Fish Department.

Sf. U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE:1987- 773-065/40060

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BLM LIBRARY
SC-324A, BLDG. 50
DENVER FEDERAL CENTER
P. 0. BOX 25047
DENVER, CO 80225-0047

BLM-WY-ES-87-009-4332

U.S. Department of the Interior

Bureau of Land Management

Medicine Bow - Divide Resource Areas

Wyoming

1987

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Full text of "Wilderness supplement to the draft resource management plan/environ0mental impact statement for the Medicine Bow Resource Area, Rawlins District, Wyoming"

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