BLM LIBRARY

rtment Of The Interior
Land Management

CORN SPRINGS A.C.E.C.

FINAL MANAGEMENT PLAN AND EAR.

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CORN SPRINGS
AREA OF CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (ACEC)
MANAGEMENT PLAN

June 1981

Prepared by the

United States Department of the Interior
Bureau of Land Management
California Desert District
Indio Resource Area Office

Prepared by:

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Team Leader, Landscape Architect
Indio Resource Area

Reviewed by:

Area Manager

Indio Resource Area

Recommended by:

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Approved by

BLM Library

Bldg. 50

Denver Federal Center

P.O. Box 25047

Denver, Colorado 80225

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

I. Purpose 1

II. Objectives 3

III. Summary of Major Actions 4

IV. Background and Resource Summary 7

V. Use Philosophy and Goals 13

VI. Planned Actions 15

VII. Monitoring Plans 23

VIII. Implementation Plan 39

IX. Environmental Assessment Record 43

X. Appendices 49

A. Maps A-1

B. Details B-1

C. Relationship to the California Desert Conservation

Area Plan C-1

D. Analysis of Public Comment D-1

E. References Cited E-1

F. Contributing Staff F-1

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I. Purpose

The Corn Springs Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) Manage-
ment Plan has been prepared in order to give additional protec-
tion to a unique assemblage of resource values. The critical
resources present are vegetation, wildlife, cultural resources and
scenic values, which are potentially threatened by visitor use
and resource conflicts. This ACEC is vulnerable to adverse change if
a strong program of protective multiple-use management is not imple-
mented. The Corn Springs plan will recommend such a program.

Located in a canyon in the Chuckwalla Mountains, Corn Springs supports
a rich stand of riparian vegetation that includes approximately 64
native California fan palms, mesquite, catclaw, desert willow, and
smoke trees. Fan palm oases are truly an unusual occurrence, and are
found in the United States almost exclusively in California. Corn
Springs supports abundant wildlife and is important for migratory
birds. It was also an occupation site for prehistoric Native
Americans. Impressive petroglyphs consisting of approximately 600
design elements, a series of trail segments with pottery and lithic
debitage and bedrock mortars have all been recorded at the site.
Vegetation values include five rare plant species listed by the
California Native Plant Society which occur within the boundaries of
the ACEC. Lastly, the scenic values are spectacular. The lush
vegetation at the oasis combined with the rugged colorful surrounding
canyon walls rank it as one of the more impressive areas in the
CDCA.

The Corn Springs ACEC also contains a popular campground developed
by BLM in the '60s. The presence of the campground is a unique
opportunity for multiple-use management as mandated to the Bureau.
This plan will provide special management attention that will protect
the important environmental resources by reducing visitor use con-
flicts and resource conflicts yet provide a quality recreational
experience that is compatible with protection of these values.

The Corn Springs ACEC Management Plan is guided by the recommendations
of the California Desert Conservation Area Plan. The actions proposed
are compatible with the goals and specific recommendations proposed in
the Desert Plan. However, minor changes can be expected with inten-
sive small scale study of an area. These changes and their rationale
are presented in Section D of the Appendices (Relationship to the
California Desert Conservation Area Plan) .

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II. Objectives

The Corn Springs ACEC Activity Plan will:

A. Provide a strong program of multiple use management which
will be centered around the protection of critical resource
values present (vegetation, wildlife, cultural resources,
scenic values) ,

B. Provide for uses which are compatible with the protection of
the critical resource values, and

C. Provide a plan for monitoring the effectiveness of the
management program by indicating current conditions on an
annual basis and reflecting trends of the resources' condi-
tion.

III. Summary of Major Proposed Actions

Each action is keyed to the critical resource which it benefits. The
following codes have been used: WL - Wildlife; V - Vegetation; S -
Scenic; CR - Cultural Resources.

A. Decrease the size of the ACEC from the original designation
size of 8.7 sections (5,568 acres) to the proposed size of 4.25
(2,720 acres) to increase manageability. (WL, V, S, CR)

B. Prohibit vehicle use in the palm grove area. Remove existing
facilities in and immediately adjacent to the grove. (WL, V,
S)

C. Create a new loop of camping spurs in the western area of the
campground. Improvements will include plantings, rock mound
screens, ramadas, picnic tables, firerings, grills and waste
cans. (WL, V, S)

D. Provide a new restroom and water pump near the new loop camping
area. (WL, V, S)

E. Create a group camp area with facilities. (WL, V, S)

F. Develop rock mound screens around existing camping spurs.
(WL, V, S)

G. Redesign existing ramadas. (WL, V, S)

H. Define roads with rock barriers. (WL, V, S)

I. Institute weekly maintenance of campground. (WL, V, S)

J. Remove all deciduous tamarisk. (WL, V, S)

K. Remove one evergreen tamarisk initially. Removal of the second
tamarisk will be scheduled in phase three if the monitoring
program indicates there is sufficient need to remove another
tree. Retain the third tamarisk. (WL, V, S)

L. Install a low barrier with an interpretive sign in front of
the petroglyphs adjacent to the road. (CR)

M. Nominate Corn Springs to the National Register of Historic
Places. (CR)

N. Increase Bureau presence by rangers and other personnel. Insti-
tute an education program using the interpretive trail, kiosk,
brochures and programs. (WL, V, S, CR)

0. Remove all unsightly unwanted trespasses within the ACEC.
(S)

P. Sign the quail guzzler to discourage dumping of waste into it.
(WL)

Q. Install four nest boxes in palm grove to encourage cavity nesting
birds. (WL)

R. Install a wildlife drinker one-half mile east of the oasis.
(WL)

S. Install shallow water table monitoring wells. (WL, V, S)

T. Institute a monitoring program with reports submitted yearly
to the California Desert District Office. (WL, V, S, CR)

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IV. Background and Resource Summary

Corn Springs ACEC is centered around Corn Springs Wash in the western
end of the Chuckwalla Mountains. Falling within unsurveyed sections
of T. 6 S., R. 16 E. SBBM the ACEC is approximately seven air miles
south of Desert Center in eastern Riverside County. (See Maps 1 and 2
for location.)

The spring at the oasis has not been perennially active since the
late 1920s, but its location is pinpointed by the palm grove and other
common riparian vegetation. The spring is adjacent to a wash which
drains the western end of the Chuckwalla Mountains. Since the late
'60s, BLM has maintained a 14-unit campground adjacent to the palm
grove.

The following background information and resource summaries are
provided to give a brief overview of key concerns within the ACEC.

A. Access

The Corn Springs ACEC is approximately 9 miles from Interstate
10 by way of the Corn Springs Road. The road, which is the only
graded access to the area, is presently maintained by the County
of Riverside and continues up the wash past the palm oasis
approximately 3 miles to the mining community of Aztec Wells.
Aztec Wells is within the ACEC boundary, but is excluded from
management attention due to private ownership.

There are several rugged 4-wheel-drive and motorcycle trails
that originate at the Corn Springs Road, including one that
bisects the Chuckwallas and connects with the Red Cloud Mine
Road.

B . Present Status and Use

1. Land Status - The Corn Springs ACEC falls within the area
designated by BLM as the Chuckwalla Recreation Lands with
the exception of 80 acres on each side of a withdrawal for
Public Water Reserve (480 acres, July 1972, No. 22) . There
are between 15 and 25 unpatented mining claims within the
ACEC boundaries.

Approximately one-half dozen cabins and trailers, associated
with mining activities, appear to be constructed on public
lands. Many of these are suspected of being in trespass.

2. Recreation - Corn Springs has long been a popular recreation
area for campers. Since the 1960s, BLM has provided a
campground with 14 spurs which included ramadas, picnic
tables, firerings, grills and waste cans. A group camp area
is located in the palm grove area. A hand water pump,
4-unit vault toilet restroom, and informational signs are
the only other facilities provided.

Users of Corn Springs are in general non-destructive.
The campground shows low amounts of vandalism compared to
other facilities of its type. Users enjoy not only camping
in or near the lush vegetation, but the opportunity to enjoy
rockhounding , bird-watching, hiking, and motorcycle and
4-wheel-drive touring activities.

C. Historical Use

The Corn Springs area has been occupied by a number of miners
through the years. Between 1915 and 1932 Gus Lederer, nicknamed
the "Mayor of Corn Springs," was a permanent resident and prob-
ably its best known occupant. He erected a structure near the
palm grove and lived there for many years with a number of
burros. He passed his time by prospecting and painting in oil.
Gus died in 1932 from a black widow spider bite and is buried at
Aztec Well.

Gold was the major mining prospect in the area and accounts
for the settlement of Aztec Well. These deposits were small
scale and yields were insignificant.

D. Cultural Resources

A major east-west Indian trail runs through Corn Springs.
As the only permanent, reliable water source for some distance,
Corn Springs was probably visited by a number of groups moving
through the area.

The most obvious archaeological resources at Corn Springs are
the petroglyphs located on both walls of the wash immediately
below the spring. The existence of a large campsite or habita-
tion area with midden has been reported, but there is no evidence
to substantiate that thought. However, one bedrock mortar is
still present and hunting blinds are known to exist in the area.
A series of Indian trails have also been recorded.

It is not possible at present to determine exact dates for
the petroglyphs, the ethnographic group by which they were made,
or their meaning or purpose. One recurrent theory has been that
they were created in hunting places, perhaps by shamans, to
insure a successful hunt. A second theory holds that they may
have been created by individuals during vision quests. It is
possible that the Corn Springs petroglyphs represent a 2,000 year
time span supported by the extreme range of differential patina-
tion of the elements.

Since aboriginal groups hunted game moving into and away from
the spring, it is less likely that the spring itself was used as
a habitation site, since the presence of people at the spring
would have frightened off the game. Camps would have been
established far enough from the spring not to disturb the game.

No intensive survey of the entire ACEC has been carried out, so
there may be undiscovered sites present. The presence of bedrock
mortars indicate that some plant food processing also took place
here.

The rocks on which the petroglyphs have been placed are easily
climbable, and this activity may damage the petroglyphs. Graf-
fiti and damage from shooting have also occurred.

E. Hydrology

The Corn Springs ACEC is within a watershed drained by Corn
Springs wash. Mean annual rainfall measured approximately 10
miles north of Corn Springs is 2.44 inches.

Fluctuations in the spring's level has been watched with tremen-
dous interest by resource specialists. Wildlife and vegetation
are extremely dependent on the spring's existence and studies are
under way at present to determine what causes fluctuations and
what water levels we can expect in the future.

We can hypothesize that groundwater movement may be affected by
two or more faults. The presence of an impermeable fault zone at
the intersection of at least two faults is probable. A zone of
this type would impede the movement of groundwater downstream.
Where excess groundwater flows over the impermeable barrier, a
spring forms. The Corn Springs/Aztec Well area's unusual sub-
surface character may well be the explanation for the sporadic
flow of the spring. The studies will offer more concrete data.

All land lying within 1/4 mile of Corn Springs was withdrawn from
entry by Executive Order (April 17, 1926) (480 acres, Public
Water Reserve No. 22). Along with the land, the water necessary
to accomplish the purposes of the reservation is reserved. The
area within the reserve cannot be settled or sold but the spring
can be developed for public use as a watering source for human
and animal use.

F. Scenic Values

The method by which the Bureau assesses scenic quality is through
the Visual Resource Management (VRM) System. This system assigns
a numerical rating to the components that contribute to the
visual quality of an area. Scenic quality, sensitivity of the
area to change as perceived by users and distance from key
observation points are the factors used to determine the evalua-
tion.

Corn Springs received the highest rating within this system,
Scenic Quality Class A and VRM Class II. This was a reflection
of the lush, unique vegetation of the oasis, coupled with the
rugged red-hued rocky canyon hills.

Although the presence of the campground facilities and residences
at Aztec Wells diminish the visual quality, it does not totally
negate the scenic values.

Vegetation

A grove of approximately 64 California native fan palms
(Washingtonia f ilifera) is the most dominant feature within the
ACEC. Other vegetation around the palm grove consists of mes-
quite (Prosopis glandulosa) , arrowweed (Pluchea sericea) , salt-
bush (Atriplex polycarpa) , and other desert perennials usually
found where the water table is fairly high.

Five rare plant species occur within the revised proposed ACEC
boundaries. Three of these species have been named candidates
for listing as endangered or threatened by the U. S. Fish and
Wildlife Service (1980). These include California Snake-bush
(Colubrina californica) , Foxtail Cactus (Coryphantha vivipara
var. alversonii) , and California Ditaxis (Ditaxis californica) .
Two of the rare plant species within the ACEC are listed as rare
in California by the California Native Plant Society. These are
Cove's Cassia (Cassia covesii) and spearleaf (Matelea parvi-
folia) .

Tamarisk trees and shrubs contribute a major part of the vegeta-
tion at Corn Springs. Tamarisks are not a native species to this
continent. Decidous tamarisk have spread at an alarming rate
across the Western United States and are causing problems because
of their extravagant water use in regions where the water supply
is critical to the survival of native vegetation.

Both the deciduous and evergreen tamarisk may threaten the grove
in more than their consumptive water use. Tamarisk can displace
native vegetation through lowering of the water table. Their
leaves accumulate salt on the outer surfaces and when the leaves
fall, they deposit not simply leaf litter but a layer of salt on
the ground. Also when the tamarisk transpire, they literally
rain saltwater. This is effective in inhibiting growth of other
plants. These salts are leached into the soil and may inhibit
germination. It should be noted that tamarisk are usually
surrounded by barren soil indicating their effectiveness in
preventing other plants from living in their shadow.

After heavy rains in 1976 leached salt from the soil, many palm
seeds germinated in the grove. Most of these seedlings died,
however, as the soil surface dried. Although it is uncertain
what role tamarisk may have had in the failure of these palms,
tamarisk are known to accelerate groundwater depletion and
increase soil salinity, both conditions can be detrimental to
plant growth.

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Fan palms have a life expectancy of approximately 100-200 years.
Although the age of palms is extremely difficult to determine, it
appears that many of the palms at Corn Springs are reaching a
mature age. It has been reported that ideal conditions for
germination of palm seedlings need occur only once every 100
years in order to maintain a palm grove. However, a palm's
successful growth to maturity may be hindered by any conditions
which limit water availability.

Although ACEC management plans cannot ensure an ideal environment
for palm survival because of uncontrollable climatic conditions,
the proposed actions are designed to check as many conditions as
possible which are considered man-induced and deleterious to the
success of fan palms.

The presence of campers within the moist grove increases soil
compaction and trampling of seedlings. This also decreases the
chances for regeneration. Erosion potential is increased in
compacted areas creating an unhealthy situation for the palm

grove.
H. Wildlife

Palm groves and desert wash communities are some of the most
productive areas in the California Desert supporting more species
and individuals than adjacent desert scrub communities. Breeding
bird surveys have shown desert washes supporting seven times the
number of species and over 45 times the number of individuals.

A winter bird survey done at Corn Springs in 1979 concluded that
at least 31 species of birds wintered here in concentrations of
nearly 1200/100 acres. Of areas surveyed, this figure was
surpassed only by the Chuckwalla Valley dune thicket. A spring
survey in 1979 revealed six species of birds breeding at Corn
Springs (25 territorial males) . The oasis size was identified
as the limiting factor in the number of successful breeding
territories. The availability of surface water in the grove
attracted 43 different species of visitors and transients.

In addition, Corn Springs has supported successful breeding pairs
of Elf Owls. An Elf Owl was located at Corn Springs on March 18,
1972, with a pair present there later the same year. A pair was
present and successfully nested in 1973. There were no reports
of Elf Owls at Corn Springs during 1974, although at least one
individual was present in 1975 and 1976. Elf Owls have not been
observed at Corn Springs since 1976.

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Elf Owls are now listed by the State of California as endangered.
Sightings in California are at the western edge of this species'
range. The Elf Owl at one time probably inhabited the entire
length of the Colorado River utilizing riparian woodland and
mesquite brushland. It is also likely that this species was
found at suitable oases throughout the California desert. Now,
due largely to habitat destruction along the Colorado River, it
is unlikely there are any remaining breeding pairs in California.
Recreational use of oases including Cottonwood Springs and Corn
Springs has also reduced the viability of these areas to support
Elf Owls. Without an area like the Colorado River from which Elf
Owls can radiate the chances of a pair utilizing Corn Springs are
diminished. However, management of the grove for the maintenance
of existing birds including Screech Owls will help ensure that
the grove remains available for Elf Owls.

A Palm borer (Dinapate wrightii) , the largest member of its
beetle family, is also found here. This beetle is rare in the
California desert due to its specificity to its host plant
(Washingtonia f ilifera) .

Other species recorded at Corn Springs include antelope ground
squirrels (Ammospermophilus leucur us ) , desert cottontails
(Sylvilagus auduboni) , coyote (Canis latrans) , and gray fox
(Urocyon cinereoargenteus) . Bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis
nelsoni) utilize this portion of the Chuckwallas and there were
sightings at Chuckwalla big game guzzler #5 located about two
airline miles southeast of Corn Springs. Mule deer signs have
also been observed in the wash within a mile of the palm grove.

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V. Use Philosophy and Goals

The protection of the sensitive resource values is the primary goal of
this management plan. This protection, however, is not at the expense
of the other uses of the area.

Recreation, which includes camping, picnicking, hiking, off-road
vehicle touring on existing roads, birdwatching and rockhounding are
uses which exist now in the area and are compatible with the goals for
the ACEC. Research and educational activities (classes and tours) can
also continue in harmony with the goal of protection of the area's
critical resource values.

Mining is not compatible with the goals and should be discouraged but
cannot be prohibited. The proposed decreased boundary size will
eliminate any areas which could conceivably have mining value. Cross
country off-road vehicle touring is also incompatible and will be
controlled by management actions within the ACEC boundaries.

The facilities at Corn Springs will be redesigned to minimize impacts
to wildlife, vegetation, cultural resources and scenic values yet at
the same time provide for a quality recreational experience for
users. The uses defined as compatible can take place without degrada-
tion of the sensitive values.

Education of users on the necessity for protection of these valuable
resources will be an important key to the success of this plan.
Through increased Bureau presence and interpretive aids the plan can
be understood and accepted.

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VI . Planned Action

The following management actions will be implemented to protect the
key resource values of Corn Springs while providing for quality
recreational use. (See Map 3 for layouts.)

A. Goal; Increase manageability of the ACEC area by decreasing
the size of the area under intensive management.

Action; Initiate an amendment to the Desert Plan to decrease the
size of the Corn Springs ACEC from 8.7 sections (5,568 acres) to
4.25 sections (2,720 acres) . (See Map 2.)

Discussion; The original designation boundary included areas
which did not contain critical resource concerns and were in-
cluded as a buffer for the key areas. It is not necessary to
include these areas since the critical concerns can be protected
in an area about half the size of the original boundary. All
critical resource values that warranted the protective ACEC
designation are included within the proposed revised boundaries.

Implement at ion ; A yearly amendment process is proposed whereby
desired changes to the Desert Plan can be systematically ana-
lyzed at one time to insure that they are appropriate. The
revised boundary changes to Corn Springs ACEC should be submitted
to the appropriate coordinator with justifications contained in
this discussion. The decision on whether the boundary can be
appropriately altered can then take place.

B. Goal; Prohibit vehicles in the palm grove and discourage use of
the grove area by removal of existing facilities. Institute an
interpretive program to explain why these changes are necessary.

Action; Remove all picnic tables, ramadas, firerings, grills and
waste cans from the grove area. Spurs 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 will be
phased out and replaced by ones as defined in Action C. A kiosk
will be erected adjacent to the tamarisk to the farthest east,
and will be the focus of the interpretive program at Corn
Springs. A brochure will be distributed from the kiosk which
will narrate a self-guided interpretive trail. (See Map 3 for
placement of campground improvements.)

Discussion; Concern over impacts to wildlife and vegetation
values are the primary reason for this action. Continual use of
the grove disturbs and displaces wildlife from the area. Compac-
tion caused by excessive foot traffic in the moist grove area
reduces the chance for seed germination and increases erosion.
There is also an increased chance of fire caused by careless
campers.

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Implementation; The removal of the picnic tables, ramadas,
fireringsf grills, and waste cans will discourage most people.
The kiosk and brochure will inform users of this vehicle closure
along with the importance of sensitive use of the grove to
protect wildlife and vegetation values. These interpretive aids
will also inform users of campground rules, fees, and interesting
facts about the area. Increased Bureau presence coupled with the
signing and brochure will be the methods used to discourage users
from using the grove for the first year. Second phase plans will
add rock barriers and road changes to further discourage use.

Spurs 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 will be phased out in a four-year program
beginning after additional facilities have been added. This
phasing program will also aid in acceptance of the changes.

C. Goal; Provide a new camping area to replace spaces lost when
facilities were removed from the grove area.

Action; Create a new loop road with seven additional camping
spaces in the western area of the campground. Plant 100 mesquite
and create rock mounds in order to make the new spurs desirable
for campers. Provide facilities including ramadas, picnic
tables, firerings, grills and waste cans. (See Map 3 for lay-
out.)

Discussion; In order to discourage people from using the grove
area, additional well-designed facilities will have to be
provided to accommodate their use. The planting of the mesquite
and rock mounds will create an area that will have some sense of
spatial modulation and will have a greater chance for acceptance.

Implementation ; Commencement of this action will not begin until
phase two, when the road for the new loop and spurs will be
graded. Rock mounds will come next and be followed by the
mesquite plantings. The mesquite will require watering three
times a week to insure their success. Special methods of
planting have been explored to ease shock. In phase three,
ramadas, picnic tables, firerings, grills, and waste cans will be
installed and mark the opening of the new loop area.

D. Goal; Encourage campers to use new loop camping area.

Action; Provide a new restroom and water pump near the new loop
area.

Discussion; It is not reasonable to think that campers will use
the new loop without the proximity to a restroom. The placement
of a restroom near the new spurs will concentrate use away from
the grove area.

16

Implementation: Install a cinder-block 4-unit vault toilet
facility. Plans are on hand for this project slated for phase
two. Install a hand water pump with reservoir.

E. Goal; Create an area for group camping to accommodate the
recreationist who originally used the grove facilities.

Action; Develop a group camp area as defined on Map 3 with
clusters of picnic tables, firerings, and grills. Provide
ramadas and waste cans.

Discussion; Through field observation and survey, it has been
determined that a group area is necessary. The grove area
originally provided this area, therefore a new site was selected.

Implement at ion ; As defined on Map 3, the group camp area will
contain 4 picnic tables, 4 ramadas, 2 firerings, 4 grills, and 4
waste cans. These improvements are slated for phase one.

F. Goal; Create more pleasant campground spaces by increasing
privacy at each site through spatial modulation.

Action; Develop rock mounds around spurs as shown on Map 3.
These sites are in need of screening to encourage people to use
them.

Discussion; Use of native rock as screening will provide the
privacy needed yet repeat the elements of the landscape character
(form, line, color, texture).

Implementation ; This action is slated for the second phase. A
source of rock will have to be found on BLM land and then an EAR
will be done on the quarry site prior to removal. Rocks will be
placed as per Map 3.

G. Goal; Improve ramadas to be more effective in controlling sun
and wind and to be visually pleasing.

Action; Redesign ramadas. Replace existing ones with newly
designed structures.

Discussion; Existing ramadas do not effectively screen wind and
sun and are unattractive.

Implementation: Install 7 new ramadas in addition to the group
camp and new loop ramadas at locations designated on Map 3 (as
shown on ramada design sheet) . This improvement is slated for
phase two. Install all new ramadas (4 group camps, 7 new loop
spurs) with newly designed structures.

17

H. Goal: Keep people on roads in campground. Prohibit parking
outside of defined spurs and roads.

Action: Define roads with rock barriers. This will encourage
people to stay on existing circulation ways. (See Map 3 for
revised road layouts.)

Discussion: Users at present drive on poorly defined ways in the
campground. This makes for an unattractive messy campground and
increases overall compaction as vehicles wander off the desig-
nated routes. The increased compaction is unhealthy for vegeta-
tion because runoff is increased and erosion potential increases.

Implementation: This action is slated for the second phase at
the same time as the spur rock mounds* installation. The rock
will be taken from the same quarry as discussed in F. The same
EAR will cover the amount of rock needed for both removals.

I. Goal: Maintain campground regularly. Keep trash and litter
picked up. Keep restroom clean. Water new vegetation.

Action: Institute weekly maintenance of the campground. Once
the full-time maintenance worker for the Resource Area is hired
this task will be under control.

Discussion: At present, the campground is maintained by the
District maintenance worker who is spread thin. Maintenance is
suffering.

Implementation : Trash should be picked up at least once a week.
Toilets should have chemicals added regularly and pumped out at
least once a year. Vegetation, where it is hazardous to users,
should be cleaned out (ex. visibility or fire hazard) . This will
be under the direction of the maintenance supervisor. New
tamarisk will be removed regularly. Newly planted vegetation
will require watering at least three times a week. This action
will commence with the hiring of the maintenance worker.

J. Goal: Remove all deciduous tamarisk.

Action: By mechanical means, remove all deciduous tamarisk.

Discussion: Deciduous tamarisk are a noxious weed in the camp-
ground. Their high water consumption, salt leaf litter, and
saltwater rain are a threat to native vegetation in the grove.
Their rapid spread in the Western United States at a frightening
rate is cause for alarm.

18

Implementation : Cut all deciduous tamarisk down. Regularly
maintain area to keep it free of new shoots. This action is
slated for phase one.

K. Goal; Remove evergreen tamarisk that are a threat to the grove's
continued existence.

Action: Remove one tree initially by mechanical means. The
second tamarisk will be slated for removal in phase three if
monitoring indicates there is sufficient benefit and need
to justify. The third tamarisk will remain permanently.

Discussion: Tamarisk are extremely water consumptive and can be
a threat to native vegetation. Under a tamarisk, the soil is
usually barren, a reflection of its effectiveness in reducing
growth of other plants in its shadow. The salty leaf litter and
saltwater transpiration make what little water is available
inadequate for establishment of new plants. Evergreen tamarisk
are, however, not quite as noxious as deciduous due to the fact
that they can only reproduce vegetatively and not by seed. For
this reason, the plan proposes to eliminate the two trees in
direct competition with the grove and retain the third for
interpretive purposes. The last tamarisk will be used as a
backdrop for the interpretive kiosk and will provide shade away
from the palm grove. This will hopefully concentrate interpre-
tive use in a less vulnerable area.

Implementation : Cut down one evergreen tamarisk in phase one.
Remove the second tamarisk in phase three if monitoring indicates
a need. Tamarisks* location are shown on Map 3. All wood will
be left for campers.

L. Goal: Protect petroglyphs from vandalism.

Action: Install a low barrier with interpretive sign in front of
the petroglyphs adjacent to the road.

Discussion: This low "symbolic" barrier and intepretive sign
will hopefully discourage climbing on the petroglyphs. Climbing
can wear down images. The barrier will not physically keep
anyone off who really wishes to climb them, because a barrier
that would accomplish that would be too large and visually
unpleasing. The interpretive sign will inform users of the
significance of the petroglyphs and why it is important not to
climb on them. A warning of penalties associated with defacing
the site will be included.

Implementation: With funding already on hand for fencing of

archaeological sites, this action will be completed in phase
one. The low barrier and sign will be designed and installed with
the assistance of the Indio Archaeologist. The effects of this
action will be closely tracked under the monitoring program to
determine how successful the barrier and sign are in protecting
the petroglyphs.

19

M. Goal; Provide additional protection for Corn Springs' archae-
ological sites.

Action; Nominate Corn Springs to the National Register of
Historic Places.

Discussion; National Register designation will give Corn Springs
additional protection through documentation and recognition of
the cultural resource values.

Implementation; Complete necessary paperwork and mapping
necessary to submit for the National Register designation. The
Indio Resource Area Archaeologist will complete this task in
phase one.

N. Goal; Increase Bureau presence to decrease chances of vandalism,
unlawful shooting, compliance with campground rules and to gain
increased acceptance of the proposed actions by use of interpre-
tive aids and site visits.

Action; Increase ranger and Bureau personnel site visits. These
visits will insure that campground rules are enforced. Users
will be informed through personal contacts and interpretive aids
such as the kiosk, brochure, trail and programs that will explain
the reasons for change, why it is necessary, the resource values
present, and their significance.

Discussion; Increased contact with users will reduce vandalism
and increase the chance of user acceptance to campground changes
and regulations.

Implementation ; At least two visits each week by Bureau person-
nel should be scheduled in phase one. Installation of an inter-
pretive kiosk (see detail p. B-2) , brochure, and trail will take
place in phase one (See Map 3 for layout of trail and kiosk) .

0. Goal; Eliminate all unsightly unwanted trespasses on BLM land.

Action; Prepare a preliminary report on all trespasses within
the ACEC by 1982. This report will define where trespasses occur
and what action is needed.

Discussion; A number of trailers and structures are thought to
be in trespass on BLM land. Many of these are associated with
inactive or invalid mining operations. The report will determine
if action to remove them is appropriate.

Implementation ; Scheduled for phase two, the lands report will
disclose the status of apparent trespasses and actions needed.
Remove the silt measuring device in the wash adjacent to the
petroglyphs in phase one.

20

P. Goal: Keep quail guzzler free from contaminants.

Action; Sign quail guzzler to inform users of its purpose.
Explain on the sign that the guzzler is not the place to dump waste
water or sewage .

Discussion; In the past, campers have mistakenly dumped waste
water in the guzzler. This creates an obvious hazard for the
wildlife.

Implementation : The guzzler sign will be installed in phase
one. The sign is in stock at present.

Q. Goal; Encourage breeding of cavity nesting birds.

Action; Install four nest boxes in the palm grove to encourage
cavity breeding birds to nest.

Discussion: Elf Owls and Screech Owls are cavity nesting birds.
These boxes will encourage them to stay and breed at the oasis.

Implementation ; Install next boxes during phase one. Monitor
boxes and remove starlings if found.

R. Goal; Provide wildlife an opportunity to water away from the
high use areas adjacent to the palm grove.

Action: Install a wildlife drinker one-half mile east of the
oasis. This will provide wildlife with an alternate source of
water away from the campground.

Discussion; Use in the campground obviously displaces some
wildlife use. Since it is impossible to remove all users from
the area, an alternate water source will be provided for wildlife
drinking.

Implementation ; Slated for phase one, the wildlife drinker will
drain water from the spring area to the drinker by way of PVC
pipe.

S. Goal: Try to determine what causes water level fluctuations at
the spring.

Action: Install shallow monitoring wells to record trends in
water table fluctuations.

Discussion: The fluctuating water table has long been a mystery
to observers. At times the water pours from the ground, flooding
the grove and creating a lush, almost tropical environment.
However, the spring has not flowed perennially since the 1920s
and it is suspected that fault activity may be the reason for the
sudden starting and stopping of the spring's flow.

21

Implementation: The monitoring wells will be installed and a
monitoring program begun in phase one.

T. Goal; Determine effect of management actions on Corn Springs
ACEC.

Action: Institute a yearly monitoring plan beginning in June
1981.

Discussion: It is very important that the effects of the
actions proposed in this ACEC plan are carefully analyzed each
year by the specialist. If certain actions are ineffective, they
should be eliminated or modified. If additional actions are
required, they should be instituted.

Implementation : As defined in the monitoring plan section of
this report, resources will be evaluated yearly according to the
system defined. A report will be submitted in June to the
California Desert District Coordinator for review.

22

VII. Monitoring Plans

The monitoring of the resources' improvement or decline will be the
key to successful management of the Corn Springs ACEC. A report will
be prepared yearly in June and submitted to the California Desert
District Office ACEC Coordinator. This report will use the numerical
ratings defined in each resource section to evaluate its improving or
declining state. Reports will reflect (a) trends, (b) effectiveness
of management of the area, and (c) current condition.

The status of the ACEC will be compared against the status of the area
in June 1981 .

The following are rating systems for each critical resource:

23

WILDLIFE MONITORING

The following actions will be scheduled to monitor the effect of the
management plan on wildlife resource values:

1 . A winter and spring bird survey of the established study
plot (p. 28) should be conducted annually. The area should
be surveyed using the spot map technique described in
American Birds, December 1972, and compared against the
winter and spring baseline bird surveys (p. 25 and 26) .

2. Nest boxes should be inspected (visual) at three-week
intervals during the breeding season to determine if they
are being utilized. If starlings are present, the nest and
eggs should be removed.

3. Photographic plots of the grove will be established by June
1981. These plots will be the same as those used by the
vegetation monitoring staff. The plots will help to estab-
lish the vegetation trends in the area.

4. The following rating system will be used to quantify the
assessment of the wildlife resource:

Value

10 - No Human Influence

T

4 - Current Status (See Baseline Conditions Bird Surveys,

1 ' " " "

Unacceptable Level (Below 4)
1 - Catastrophic Loss of Grove

Assign 1/2 point for every three breeding pairs found above
baseline survey numbers.

Deduct 1/2 point for every three breeding pairs found below
baseline survey numbers.

Assign 1/2 point for each new breeding bird species recorded
above baseline survey numbers.

Deduct 1/2 point for every previously recorded breeding
species not recorded on a subsequent survey.

Assign 1 point for surface water availability.

Assign 1 point for successful Elf Owl return and successful
breeding.

24

BASELINE SPRING BIRD SURVEY

DESERT OASIS WOODLAND - Location: California; Riverside County,
Corn Springs Oasis, about 9 mi. SW of Chuckwalla Road off ramp on
Interstate 10 near Desert Center. The study plot is located in
NE1/4, NE1/4, Sec. 29, and the NW1/4, NW1/4, Sec. 28, T. 6 S. , R.
16 E. , San Bernardino Base and Meridian. Chuckwalla Mountains
Quadrangle, USGS; 33° 38' N, 115° 19' W. Continuity; Estab-
lished January 1978. Size: 5.8 ha = 14.6 acres (rectangular
273 m x 210 m, surveyed) . Description of Plot: See AB ( ) .
Weather: Temperatures during the study period ranged from 32°
F. to 79° F. with a daily mean of 67° F. Light breezes and
clear to partly cloudy skies were recorded. Coverage: April 23,
24; May 9, 10, 11, 23, 24, 25. Total : 12 trips, 4 between 1730
and 2200 hours and 8 between 0615 and 1030 hours. The night
visits averaged 173 minutes each and the day trips 201 minutes
each. Total man-hours: 38. Census: House Finch, 13 (220, 89);
Garabel's Quail, 4 (68, 27); Verdin, 3.5 (59, 24); Costa's
Hummingbird, 2.5 (42, 17); Hooded Oriole, 1 (17, 7); Scott's
Oriole, 1 (17, 7). Total : 6 species; 25 territorial males
(432/km2, 171/100 acres). Visitors: Red-tailed Hawk, White-
winged Dove, Mourning Dove, Screech Owl, Great Horned Owl,
Poorwill, Lesser Nighthawk, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Western
Kingbird, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Say's Phoebe, Rock Wren,
Mockingbird, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Phainopepla Loggerhead
Shrike, Lesser Goldfinch. Remarks: 8 nests were located: House
Finch, 4; Verdin, 1 with 3 eggs; Costa's Hummingbird, 1 with 2
eggs; Hooded Oriole, 1; Scott's Oriole, 1. The oasis habitat
covers only 0.5 acres of the total 14.6 acre plot. The oasis
size is restrictive on the numbers of successful breeding terri-
tories established. However, the availability of surface water
attracted 43 different species of visitors and transients. This
study was sponsored by the Bureau of Land Management, California
Desert Plan Program.

RICHARD W. KOOPMAN

45-421 Sunset Lane, #2

Palm Desert, California 92260

25

BASELINE WINTER BIRD SURVEY

DESERT OASIS WOODLAND - Location; California; Riverside County,
Corn Springs Oasis, about 9 mi. SW of Chuckwalla Road offramp on
Interstate 10 near Desert Center. The study plot is located in
NE1/4f NE1/4, Sec. 29, and the NW1/4, NW1/4, Sec. 28, T. 6 S., R.
16 E. , San Bernardino Base and Meridian. Chuckwalla Mountains
Quadrangle, USGS ; 33° 38' N, 115° 19' W. Continuity: New.
Size: 5.8 ha = 14.6 acres (rectangular 273 x 210 meters, sur-
veyed) . Description of Plot: A unique and isolated Colorado
Desert Fan Palm Oasis situated on a slight bench above a desert
wash. The native Fan Palms located at the oasis are at the
easternmost range of their distribution in the California
deserts. Vegetation: The distribution of plant species within
the study area is considerably variable and influenced by major
washes on the periphery, a portion of a small public campground
within the boundaries of the plot and the availability of seep
water at the oasis. Fifteen 0.1 acre (0.04 ha) circular plots
were made to determine percent cover, species composition, and
numbers of shrubs and trees. The substratum was composed of
20.2% small rocks (less than 5 cm), 8.8% large rocks (greater
than 5 cm), 25.8% bare ground, and 45.2% litter. The shrub cover
of 40% was made up of 21.7% Mesquite (Prosopis glandlosa var.
torreyana) , 18.2% Palo Verde (Cercidum floridum) , 18.1% Allscale
(Atriplex polycarpa) , 11.4% Arrowweed (Pluchea sericea) , 6.5%
Catclaw (Acacia greggi) , 4.4% each of Cheesebush (Hymenoclea
salsola) and Abrojo (Condaliopsis lycioides) , 3.1% Cat-tail
(Typha domingensis) , 3.1% Sweetbush (Bebbia juncea) , 2.8% Desert
Lavender (Hyptis emoryi) , 2.1% Brandegea (Brandegea bigelovii) ,
1 .3% Desert Tobacco (Nicotiana tr igonophylla) , 0 .8% each of
Palmate-leaved Gourd (Cucurbita palmata) and Brittlebush (Encelia
farinosa) , and 0.5% Saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) . The tree
cover of 7% was made up of 45.1% Tamarisk (Tamarix ramosissima) ,
38% Fan Palm (Washingtonia f ilifera) , and 16.9% Ironwood (Olneya
tesota) . There are 2020 shrubs/ha (818/acre) , of which 52.1%
were Arrowweed, 23.9% Cat-tails, 6.8% Allscale, 3.3% Burrobush
(Ambrosia dumosa) , 2% Cheesebush, 1 .5% Creosote Bush (Larrea
tridentata) , 1.2% Mesquite, 1.1% each of Desert Tobacco, Palo
Verde, and Catclaw, and less than 1% each of 19 other perennial
species located in the study plots. There are 202 trees/ha
(82/acre) , of which 49.6% are Tamarisk, 48.8% Fan Palm, and 1.6%
Ironwood. Nomenclature of plant species follows P. A. Munz, A
Flora of Southern California (1974). Elevation: 1600-1640 ft.
(480-492 m) ; nearest mountain slopes are directly North, South,
and West of the plot. Edge: The plot is bounded on the North,
East, and South sides by desert wash and associated wash edge
species (i.e., Mesquite, Catclaw, Palo Verde, etc.). Topography:
Slightly sloping bench. Water : There are several springs and
seeps in the center of the study plot which have a permanent

26

surface flow. There is also a "guzzler" located in the camp-
ground on the North border of the study plot. Weather; Tem-
peratures during the study period ranged from 39° F. to
66° F. with a daily mean of 50° F. There was some precipita-
tion and strong winds recorded. Coverage; Jan. 15, 23, 24, 31;
Feb. 1, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15. Total ; 13 trips, 5 from 1630-2200 and
8 between 0645 and 1130. The night trips averaged 186 minutes
each and the day trips 211 minutes each. Total man-hours; 44.
Count; White-crowned Sparrow, 55 (916, 371); Ruby-crowned
Kinglet, 45 (748, 303); Verdin, 30 (511, 201); Gambel's Quail, 11
(176, 71); House Finch, 7 (111, 45); Black-tailed Gnatcatcher , 4
(69, 28); Phainopepla, 4; Yellow-rumped Warbler, 3 (42, 17);
Common Flicker, 2 (36, 14); Rock Wren, 2; Ladder-backed Wood-
pecker, 2; Cedar Waxwing, 1 (17, 7); American Robin, 1; Hermit
Thrush, 1; Red-tailed Hawk, 1; Savannah Sparrow, 1; House Wren,
1; Common Raven, 1; Chirping Sparrow, 1; Song Sparrow, 1; Costa's
Hummingbird, 1; Varied Thrush, 1; Say's Phoebe +; Loggerhead
Shrike +; Great Horned Owl +; Red-winged Blackbird +; Lesser
Goldfinch +; Lincoln's Sparrow +. Total ; 31 Species, 173
(2906/km^, 1176/100 acres). Remarks; The presence of surface
water at the oasis has an influence on bird densities in this
area of the desert. The oasis not only provides a source of
drinking water, but it also influences the variety and amount of
vegetation able to withstand the stress of growing in this
otherwise inhospitable environment. An average of 1.6 Antelope
Ground Squirrels (Ammospermophilus leucurus) were seen per census
(250/km2, 107/100 acres) . Three Desert Cottontails (Sylvilagus
audubonni) , 3 Coyotes (Canis latrans) , and 1 Gray Fox (Urucyon
cinereoargenteus) were recorded on the counts. I wish to thank
Paul Romero for his assistance in the bird counts. This study
was sponsored by the Bureau of Land Management, California Desert
Plan Program.

RICHARD W. KOOPMAN

45-421 Sunset Lane, #2

Palm Desert, California 92260

27

CULTURAL RESOURCES

The following actions will be scheduled to monitor the effect of the
management plan on the cultural resource values:

Ratings are to be done yearly on:

1) Petroglyphs

2) Trails

3) Other Features Found in the Inventory

A complete rating system will be established after the inventory is
complete in June 1981. An overall rating for all features will be
compiled by averaging the individual feature numbers. The following
is a tentative rating system:

10 - Pristine Conditions of Feature. No noticeable evidence of
^N degradation, damage, or destruction.

5 - Feature is Half Gone From What was Originally There (From
j photos on file at the San Diego Museum of Man, dated 1930s.)

Unacceptable Level (Below 5)

1 - Feature is Obliterated

The present condition will be documented through photographs keyed to
a map. The photographic record of June 19 81 will be compared with the
current condition photograph record taken each June.

A count can be taken of the number of elements that have been damaged
by human or natural causes during the year. It should also be pos-
sible over a period of two or three years to determine what activity
is causing the greatest amount of damage to the cultural resources at
Corn Springs. Once the levels of degradation are determined and the
types of activities causing the greatest problems are known, new
management recommendations may need to be drawn up to increase protec-
tion.

29

VISUAL

Photographs of the existing condition will be taken in June 1981 at
five critical observation points as defined in the attached maps. The
relative state of each of the viewpoints will be evaluated and
recorded on a VRM contrast rating form. The baseline for evaluation
is a hypothetical viewshed with existing contrasts compared to an
untouched environment. Every June, photos from the same location
should be retaken and analyzed against the June 1981 environment.
Suggestions for improvement of management activity should be included
in the annual report.

Contrast*
Rating Score

10 -

■ Excellent Improvement - Area is pristine

decrease of

(untouched) . All features totally compat-

16

ible with the environment.

. 9 -

- Strong Improvements

decrease of
10 - 15

8 -

- Moderate Improvements

decrease of
5-9

7 -

- Weak Improvements

decrease of
1 - 4

6 -

■ June 1981 Status - No Change

0

5 -

- Small Decline

increase of
1 - 4

4 -

- Moderate Decline

increase of
5-9

3 -

- Severe Decline UNACCEPTABLE

I |

increase of
10 - 15

2 -

- Very Severe Decline

increase of
16 - 19

1 -

- Declined to a point where values are no

increase of

longer present.

20+

*Use VRM Contrast Rating Form (8400-4) .
decreases from June 1981.

Scores are increases or

30

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'-

VEGETATION

The monitoring program to study impacts and effectiveness of manage-
ment actions will include:

1. Prior to, or concurrent with initial implementation of
management plan, establish height of present water table,
and conduct regular, dated hydrological measurements there-
after .

2. Establish 5 permanent vegetation plots by June 1981 (each 5
meters by 10 meters) within the palm grove (approximate
locations are marked on map) . Within each survey plot,
location and extent of perennial plant species will be
sketched, and the percent ground cover of each species will
be estimated and recorded. A list of annual plant species
within each plot will also be recorded. The number and size
class of individual fan palms within each plot will be
recorded. Three size classes of palms will be distin-
guished: a) less than 5 feet in height; b) between 5 feet
and 20 feet; and 3) greater than 20 feet. Size classes may
or may not directly correspond to age class.

3. Establish 5 permanent photo sites by June 1981 within the
vegetation plots to track gross trends in vegetation pat-
terns.

4. Have aerial photo transect taken by June 1981 of entire
campground and oasis at altitude of 700 ft. to serve as
permanent baseline condition. Line transects may be taken
from these photos to determine percent cover of each peren-
nial plant species, and to record number, location, and size
of palm trees. Photos can be retaken at intervals and
interpreted or overlaid on past photos to detect changes in
vegetations' patterns and abundance.

5. Establish a list of all plant species by April 1981 in and
around the palm grove, and record date of new appearance or
disappearance of any species which may indicate changes in
water table depth, soil moisture, soil salinity, etc.
Record number of mature and seedling palms every year.

6. By June 1981, survey for and map locations and population
sizes of six species of rare, threatened, or endangered
plants which occur within boundaries of Corn Springs ACEC.
Three of these plant species occur very close to the oasis,
and their exact locations should be determined before any
extensive management actions are initiated.

33

7. Use the following system to quantify changes found while
monitoring the ACEC:

Value

10 - No noticeable disturbance of natural conditions:

No

non-native plant species present; stand of palms is
composed of individuals of various age classes; mature
palms reflect adequate soil moisture for continued
survival (diameter of live foilage in crown exceeds
diameter of dead shag) ; no evident soil compaction or
soil erosion resulting from camping or visitor activi-
ties; no damage to or decline of herbaceous plant cover
either from direct physical damage or soil compaction
due to foot traffic; no damage to native trees or
shrubs by camping activities or firewood collection; no
vandalism to palm trees.

4 - Present Condition

3 - Unacceptable Level

X

1 -

Complete loss of grove: No successful reproduction of
seedling palms; older palms die and are not replaced by
younger individuals; introduced (non-native) plants
occupy available space and compete with native plants
for available water; introduced plants tap a signifi-
cant portion of the soil moisture such that the water
table is lowered below normal seasonal depth; soil
compaction occurs in the grove due to camping and
recreational activities, and inhibits germination or
growth of herbaceous and/or woody plants within oasis;
decrease or elimination of phreatophytic (water-loving
plants) , indicating drop in water table.

34

NUMERICAL RATING

Planned Management Actions (3 1/2-point increase possible)

Add: 1 point - Remove 2 (evergreen) tamarisk trees (1/2

point for removal of each tree) .

1 1/2 points - Remove and continue necessary abatememt of
(deciduous) saltcedar shrubs.

1/2 point - Remove all picnic tables from within palm
grove .

1/2 point - Remove campsites closest to palm grove (#1,
2, 3, 4, and 5) .

Anticipated Impacts of Planned Management

Add: 1/2 point - Significant increase in percent ground cover

of native vegetation in and around grove as
compared to cover measured in June 1981.

1/4 point - Appearance of native phreatophytic or emer-

(each) gent aquatic plant species not previously

recorded in BLM records as of June 1981.

Possible Impacts

Deduct: 1 point - Significant increase in percent ground cover

of saltcedar shrubs as compared to baseline
survey of June 1981 .

1/2 point - Significant decrease in percent ground cover
of native vegetation in and around grove as
compared to baseline survey of June 1981 .

1/4 point - Disappearance of native phreatophytic or

(each) emergent aquataic plant species previously

recorded in BLM records as of June 1981.

35

It is not necessarily valid to interpret the condition of the
palm oasis by the increase or decrease in number of palm trees
over a period of 5 or even 10 years. Ideal conditions for
germination and success of fan palm seedlings normally need occur
only once every 100 years to maintain a healthy palm grove
(normal life span of a native fan palm is between 100 and 200
years; Vogl, pers. comm.) . Fluctuations in the number of palms
during shorter periods may not represent any significant changes
in the long-term condition of the grove. For this reason,
numbers of palms will not be used in the rating scale to evaluate
the condition of the grove.

Some indication of the health of an individual palmr however, can
be determined by the proportion of live foliage to dead attached
foliage (shag) . The diameter of the live foliage will exceed the
diameter of the shag near the crown if soil moisture is adequate
for continued growth. A "healthy" palm is considered to be one
in which the diameter of the fronds is twice the diameter of
the shag (Vogl, pers. comm.) . This condition of individual palms
will be noted during monitoring, but should not be used to assess
the long-term status of the entire grove. A combination of the
number and condition of individual palms in various size classes
may reveal short-term changes in the oasis environment, and this
information will be monitored. Care must be taken, however, not
to assume that these short-term conditions will predict the
future of the fan palms.

Other environmental clues should be used to evaluate the effec-
tiveness of the management actions. Appearance of new native
phreatophytes will indicate a rise in the water table (whether
induced by man or by climatic conditions) . An increase in the
ground cover of native vegetation may reflect decreased competi-
tion for space and water by non-native plants, or may indicate
decreased soil compaction or physical disturbance. These types
of shorter-termed environmental changes will be recorded and used
in the numerical rating of resource condition.

36

jLAJk^lLs^ -=*

VIII. Implementation Plan

Schedule and Cost Estimates

All items are listed in the priority in which they should be per-
formed. They are referenced to the Goals in the Planned Actions
Section (Section VI) .

All estimates are for materials only. Labor costs are not figured
into estimates.

Asterisks (*) behind a cost indicate that the project should be
coordinated with groups wishing to do volunteer work. Several groups
have indicated that they would be interested in assisting the BLM with
volunteer projects. Volunteer projects afford us a unique opportunity
to not only get projects implemented with little expenditure of labor
costs but also to keep the public informed and involved in the manage-
ment of public lands. Frequent interaction with user groups will also
improve the lines of communication enabling BLM to have better indica-
tors of the public's feelings.

FISCAL YEAR 1981 - FIRST PHASE

1. Increase BLM presence. 3 WM per year. (Goal N)

Install 4 nest boxes. (Goal Q)

Sign quail guzzler. Sign on hand. (Goal P)

2.
3.
4.

5.
6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.
12.

Install water monitoring devices (equip-
ment rental) . (Goal S)

Install petroglyph barrier and sign. (Goal L)

Remove picnic tables, ramadas, firerings,
grills, and trash cans. (Goal B)

Materials Cost

No Cost
$ 50.00
No Cost
2,000.00

2,000.00
No Cost*

Install the interpretive kiosk. (Goals B and N)

Remove deciduous tamarisks. (Goal J)

Remove 1 evergreen tamarisk. (Goal K)

Nominate for National Register designation.
1 WM. (Goal M)

Install wildlife drinker. (Goal R)

Install the interpretive trail (10 trail
markers § $20) . (Goals B and N)

13. Install the brochure. (Goals B and N)

3,000.00
No Cost*
No Cost*
No Cost

200.00*
200.00*

2,000.00

39

Materials Cost

14. Create a group camp area. Install 4 ramadas
and picnic tables, 2 firerings, 4 grills,
and 4 trash cans. (Goal E)

15. Remove water/silt monitoring device across
from petroglyphs. (Goal 0)

16. Institute yearly monitoring system beginning
in June 1981. 1 WM per year. (Goal T)

Total FY 81
10% Contingency

$ 3,000.00*

No Cost*

No Cost

$12,450.00

1,245.00

$13,695.00

FISCAL YEAR 1982 - SECOND PHASE
1 . Road Work

No Cost

2.

3.

a) Close certain routes in campground as
defined on Map #3. (Goal C)

b) Create new campground loop and spurs
as defined on Map #3. (Goal C)

Create rock barriers around road edges.
(Goal H)

Create rock mounds around spur areas (new
loop and old spurs) . (Goal F)

No Cost*

No Cost

4. Plant 100 mesquite in new loop area. Water
three times a week. Mesquite to be 15 gal.
@ $30. (Goal C)

5. Replace old ramadas with new design (7 @
$300) . (Goal G)

6. Prepare preliminary report on all tres-
passes. 1 WM. (Goal 0)

7. Construct new 4-unit pit toilet. (Goal D)

8. Install new hand water-pump with reservoir
adjacent to restrooms. (Goal D)

Total FY 82
10% Contingency

3,000.00*

2,100.00

No Cost

25,000.00
20,000.00

$50,100.00
5,010.00

$55,110.00

40

Materials Cost

FISCAL YEAR 1983 - THIRD PHASE

1. Install 7 ramadas and picnic tables, 7 trash
cans, 7 grills, and 7 firerings in the new
loop area. Open for camping. (Goal C)

2. Remove second tamarisk (if sufficient need is
shown through monitoring of resource values) .
(Goal K)

$ 4,000.00*

No Cost*

3. Remove spur #1. (Goal B)

Total FY 83
20% Contingency

No Cost*

$ 4,000.00

800.00

$ 4,800.00

FISCAL YEAR 1984 - FOURTH PHASE
1. Remove spur #2. (Goal B)

No Cost*

FISCAL YEAR 1985 - FIFTH PHASE
1. Remove spur #3. (Goal B)

No Cost*

FISCAL YEAR 1986 - SIXTH PHASE

1. Remove spurs #4 and #5. (Goal B)

No Cost*

TOTAL FOR ALL PHASES

$73,605.00

41

IX. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT RECORD
(Minimal Acceptable Documentation)

For
Corn Springs ACEC Management Plan
and Implementation

43

Summary of Major Proposed Actions

Each action is keyed to the critical resource which it benefits. The
following codes have been used: WL - Wildlife; V - Vegetation; S -
Scenic; CR - Cultural Resources.

A. Decrease the size of the ACEC from the original designation
size of 8.7 sections (5,568 acres) to the proposed size of 4.25
(2,720 acres) to increase manageability. (WL, V, S, CR)

B. Prohibit vehicle use in the palm grove area. Remove existing
facilities in and immediately adjacent to the grove. (WL, V,
S)

C. Create a new loop of camping spurs in the western area of the
campground. Improvements will include plantings, rock mound
screens, ramadas, picnic tables, firerings, grills and waste cans.
(WL, V, S)

D. Provide a new restroom and water pump near the new camping loop
area. (WL, V, S)

E. Create a group camp area with facilities. (WL, V, S)

F. Develop rock mound screens around existing camping spurs.
(WL, V, S)

G. Redesign existing ramadas. (WL, V, S)

H. Define roads with rock barriers. (WL, V, S)

I. Institute weekly maintenance of campground. (WL, V, S)

J. Remove all deciduous tamarisk. (WL, V, S)

K. Remove one evergreen tamarisk initially. Removal of the second
tamarisk will be scheduled in phase three if the monitoring
program indicates there is sufficient need to remove another
tree. Retain the third tamarisk. (WL, V, S)

L. Install a low barrier with an interpretive sign in front of
the petroglyphs adjacent to the road. (CR)

M. Nominate Corn Springs to the National Register of Historic
Places. (CR)

44

N. Increase Bureau presence by rangers and other personnel. Insti-
tute education program using interpretive trail, kiosk, brochures
and programs. (WL, V, S, CR)

0. Remove all unsightly unwanted trespasses within the ACEC.
(S)

P. Sign the quail guzzler to discourage dumping of waste into it.
(WL)

Q. Install four nest boxes in palm grove to encourage cavity nesting
birds. (WL)

R. Install a wildlife drinker one-half mile east of the oasis.
(WL)

S. Install shallow water table monitoring wells. (WL, V, S)

T. Institute a monitoring program with reports submitted yearly
to the California Desert District Office. (WL, V, S, CR)

Refer to the Planned Actions section of the Corn Springs ACEC Manage-
ment Plan (Section VI) for a complete description of action.

2. Impacts

The intent of the Corn Springs ACEC Management Plan is to provide
additional protection to the key resources in the area. Wildlife,
Vegetation, Cultural Resource Values, and Scenic Values have been
shown to be those critical concerns.

Anticipated impacts as a result of implementation of this plan are
minimal vegetative disturbance associated with the new loop of camping
spurs and interpretive trail. Tamarisk removal will have a beneficial
effect on vegetation and wildlife.

The proposed project will not affect sensitive, rare, threatened, or
endangered plants or animals and their habitats. The project is
proposed to protect both wildlife and vegetation values. All non-
wildlife/vegetation related aspects of the plan have been designed to
avoid adverse impacts to wildlife and vegetation.

This action will have no effect on the adjacent wilderness study areas
or any floodplain or alluvial valley.

Cultural resource values were considered. No archaeological values
will be impacted by the projects due to avoidance of sensitive areas
under the direction of the Indio Area Archaeologist. The project is
in part a protection plan for cultural resource values and is there-
fore beneficial. ■*

45

There will be some minor displacement of recreationists who normally

camp in the grove, but new facilities will be provided for their

recreational needs. The addition of new facilities at Corn Springs
will benefit users.

Scenic quality protection is another facet of the proposal. Projects
are aimed at removing visually obtrusive items from the area. All
non-visually related proposals have been prepared sensitively and will
have no negative visual impacts.

3. Mitigating Measures

The following mitigation measure will eliminate any further impacts.

During construction of the new loop camping spurs, a
botanist, archaeologist, and landscape architect will be on
site to insure that plans are strictly adhered to. A
specialist may stop the project at any time if discovery of
a sensitive value is found. The project will resume only
with the approval of the specialist. If on the advice of
the specialist, a mitigation plan approved by the appro-
priate office will be prepared.

46

The environmental impacts of the proposed action have been assessed. I
conclude that the proposed action is not a major Federal action which would
significantly affect the quality of the human environment. Preparation of
an environmental impact statement pursuant to Section 102(2) (c) of the
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, is not required.

Prepared by:

5-2&^<J7

Feam Leader, Landscape Architect
Indio Resource Area

Date

Reviewed by;

Area Manager

Indio Resource Area

Date

Recommended by:

/iOiiiig District Manager

.ifornia Desert Di

Date

47

X. Appendices

Page

A. Maps

1. Regional Location Map (Map 1) A-1

2. ACEC Boundary Map (Map 2) A-3

3. Legend for Campground Map A-4

4. Campground Layout Map (Map 3) A-5

B. Details B-1

1 . Kiosk B-2

2. Ramada B-3

3. Picnic Table B-4

4. Tree Planting B-5

5. Fire Pit B-6

6. Road Rock Barriers B-7

7. Typical Camping Spur and Interpretive Trail

Marker B-8

8. Camp Stove Detail B-9

9. Picnic Grill B-10

10. Garbage Can Mount B-1 1

C. Relationship to the California Desert Conservation

Area Plan C-1

D. Analysis of Public Comment D-1

E. References Cited E-1

F. Contributing Staff F-1

49

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B-9

#500 PICNIC SHELTER/GROUP GRILL

Here's the solution to the problem of large
groups cooking or barbecuing in your park.

Grill has an overall
cooking surface
of 1400 sq. inches.

is steel
and weighs 445 lbs.

Both top grills are hinged,
with large handles for
easy access to the unique
fire grate below.

Top hinged grills
are half inch
rolled steel.

Large utility
shelf is 12" x 36"

Good draft openings through
fire grate guarantees ideal
charcoal fire, and allows
spent ashes to fall through
into bottom pan.

Sets on single 6" iron
pipe pedistal and bolts
into concrete.

Fire grates can be set
at four different heights
for heat control.

rate holds four-five
bags of charcoal.

Set two of them side by side by your picnic
shelter and you'll provide enough cooking
surface for 100 people. Family, church and
social groups really appreciate it. Grills hold
50-60 pork steaks, chicken halves, etc.

EXTRA HEAVY DUTY CONSTRUCTION PROVIDES YEARS
OF CONTINUOUS SERVICE WITH MINIMUM MAINTENANCE

#200S WAIST-HIGH POST-MOUNTED GRILL

Long lasting steel grill, ideal for campground
or picnic area. Grill size is 20" x 14V4" x 10"
mounted on 36" waist-high post. Durable
Vie steei construction. Rotates 360c Four
position adjustment of grill height. Grill and
firebox are non-removable to resist theft.
Paint — heat resistant black enamel.

#200P

Same as above except unit is portable and
comes with 16" x 16" steel base plate.

IRON

MOUNTAIN^!
FORGE^ y

LESTERVILLE, MISSOURI 63654

Sales Office

Factory

7603 Forsyth Blvd.
St. Louis, Mo. 63105
314-721-7861

Lesterville. Mo. 63654
314-637-2599

\

8"eyebolt Botter
thread end after
installation

Padlock fastened
to chain

Apply F PL. light
redwood stain

Treat with
Pentachloro phenol

GARBAGE CAN MOUNT

SO&" x 16" Sign "GARBAGE"

. -— 3' of No. 10 single |ock chain welded
£ ' to lid os shown
£wgj— >■

*?m

f-ZZ Gollon con

Wire mesh reinforcing
3 5/8"

t-Ground line

! Nut- ' i; s — 12:3 Mix concrete

SIDE ELEVATION

Rod to hold slab
in place

PLAN

ALTERNATE POST

6*i 8" square timber or

concrete oou

C\ Fosten padlock to end of chain.

IP" " To lock run chain thru handle
Kid and snap lock over chain.

M

2 i 4 form' REAR ELEV.

y^l_Bull hinges

Provide holes for
3/4" rods

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eld 3/16" i l"x 20"
ps to corrugated

SURFACE CORRUGATING "TROWEL"
Fill form with concrete. Place corrugated roofing material
trowel on the concrete ond press it in to corrugate the
lurfoce of the concrete. Moving II bock ond forth will
smooth the concrete surface. A 3/4" lifting eyebolt con be
inserted into the concrete, nut down, through hole in center of
"trowel". Remove bolt when slob is in place .

Screws

,-Orill hole for
clomp

FRONT ELEV.

Cs~ Piatt screwed to
end 2"i 4"

FORM DETAILS
Forms should be placed on a level surfoce such as a
concrete slob before pouring concrete.

L "on1 .Plot.

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clamp

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SIDE ELEV.

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PLAN
ENLARGED DETAIL
FORM LOCK

OTHCe 'ohm locume mcthoos cam ec usee

Ponel Loc'clomp mfg. by Universol Form Clomp Co.,
Chicogo 51, Illinois (or equal)

B-ll

C. Relationship to the California Desert Conservation Area Plan.

The management actions proposed in this plan follow for the most
part the guidance of the Desert Plan's prescriptions for Corn
Springs. There are some exceptions as defined in the charts
below:

1 . Desert Plan Recommendations That Were Changed in The Corn
Springs Plan.

Desert Plan Recommendations Corn Springs Plan Change & Rationale

a. Size of the ACEC -
Desert Plan calls for
boundary to include 8.7
sections or 5,568 acres.

a. Corn Springs plan proposes to
decrease acreage to 4.25 sections
or 2,720 acres through an amend-
ment to the Desert Plan. The pro-
posed decrease of approximately
one-half was to increase manage-
ability of the key areas. The
proposed revised boundary includes
all critical resource values that
warranted the protective designa-
tion.

b. Develop a county ordi-
nance with Riverside County
to prohibit discharge of
firearms except during
appropriate hunting seasons,

b. No ordinance is proposed. No
hunting or shooting will be allowed
in the campground and for one mile
surrounding the area. This restric-
tion will be posted on the informa-
tion kiosk, brochures and on signs.
This, coupled with increased Bureau
presence will adequately accomplish
the desired goal.

C-1

2. Recommendations of the Corn Springs Plan That Were Not
Proposed in the Desert Plan

Corn Springs Plan Recommendations

Rationale for Change from Desert Plan

a. Prohibit vehicle use in
the palm grove area. Remove
existing facilities in and
immediately adjacent to the
grove.

b. Create a new loop of
camping spurs in the western
area of the campground. Im-
provements will include
plantings, rock mound screens,
ramadas, picnic tables, fire-
rings, grills, waste cans, a
4-unit vault toilet and a
hand water pump with
reservoir .

a. Needed to protect wildlife and
vegetation values. (See Discussion
Goal B.)

b. Needed to replace facilities re-
moved from grove and to gain user
acceptance of closure. (See Discus-
sion Goals B, C, D and E.)

Create a group camp area with
facilities

c. Develop rock mound
screens around existing
camping spurs.

c. Needed to encourage campers to
use new camping areas away from
grove. (See Discussion Goal F.)

d. Nominate Corn Springs
to the National Register of
Historic Places.

d. Designation will give Corn Springs
additional recognition and protection.
(See Discussion Goal M.)

e. Remove all unsightly
unwanted trespasses within
the ACEC.

e. Many of these trespasses detract
from the scenic quality of the ACEC.
It is necessary that they be removed.
(See Discussion Goal 0.)

f. Sign the quail guzzler
to discourage dumping of
waste into it.

f. Needed to protect the guzzler from
uninformed campers who have dumped waste
water into it in the past. (See
Discussion Goal P.)

g. Install four nest boxes
in the palm grove to encourage
cavity nesting birds.

g. Needed to encourage Elf Owls and
screech owls to stay and breed at the
oasis. (See Discussion Goal Q.)

C-2

Corn Springs Plan Recommendations

Rationale for Change from Desert Plan

h. Install a wildlife
drinker one-half mile east
of the oasis.

h. Needed to provide wildlife an oppc
tunity to water away from the high use
areas adjacent to the palm grove. (See
Discussion Goal R.)

i. Install shallow water
table monitoring wells.

i. Needed to determine what causes
water level fluctuations at the spring^
This is very important to successful
management since the palm grove is
drastically affected by the fluctua-
tions. (See Discussion Goal S.)

I

I

I

C-3

Analysis of Public Comment

The draft plan for the Corn Springs ACEC incorporated comments
received during the public input period of the plan for the
California Desert Consevation Area (CDCA) . The comments were
split between desires for extremely protective management of the
area (for Elf Owl) and beliefs that the area does not warrant
special management.

The CDCA Advisory Committee in their discussion of the ACEC
offered a variety of perspectives on management of the area
including removal of the campground for wildlife enhancement and
retention of the campground as a control to vandalism.

Following preparation of the draft a public meeting was held at
Corn Springs on Saturday, April 11, 1981. The purpose of the
meeting was to acquaint representatives of a variety of interest
groups with the actions proposed for the ACEC. Approximately 35
people were in attendance representing recreation, wildlife,
vegetation, Native Americans, cultural resource, and local
resident's concerns. Those in attendance were invited due to
their comments made on the Desert Plan about Corn Springs or due
to their interest in one of the critical resources present in the
area.

The majority of the attendees were local users from Eagle
Mountain and Desert Center and were totally opposed to any
improvements or changes to the campground. However, later
correspondence from a representative of the group indicated that
their major concerns were the closure of the palm grove area to
camping and picnicking and "the unnecessary" expenditures of tax
dollars for new ramadas, picnic tables, rock mounds, plantings,
additional Bureau presence, and monitoring programs.

Other attendees at the meeting voiced conflicting opinions to the
local users. Many were in favor of the grove closure, new
ramadas, picnic tables, rock mound plantings, additional Bureau
presence, and a strong monitoring program.

In response to the comments at the meeting and from letters
received, several changes were made in the final plan. They
were:

1. Discourage but not prohibit (as previously proposed)
picnicking and camping in the grove. Vehicle use of the
grove is still prohibited as in the draft. This measure
will be done through rerouting of roads in the campground,
by placing rock barriers around edges of roads, by removing
existing facilities from the grove, by creating a new group
camp area and by creating a new loop of camping spurs that
will be pleasant and easily accessed. In order to expect
recreationists to use the non-sensitive new camping areas
they must be made to be inviting and desirable. This will
encourage use of the appropirate areas and discourage use of
the grove.

D-1

2. Remove only one evergreen tamarisk initially. The second
(center tree) is proposed for removal in phase three if
monitoring indicates that there is sufficient need to
justify the removal. The third tamarisk will remain per-
manently.

3. Cottonwoods will not be planted as originally planned.
Since the third tamarisk will remain there is no need to
plant replacement vegetation.

Other comments received that did not affect a change are
addressed in the following chart with the rationale for the
proposed action:

I

1
I

I
I

Public Comment

Action

a. ACEC boundary should be
reduced to a size smaller than
proposed in the draft.

b. Do not put rock mound
barriers or screens, plant
additional vegetation, or
redesign ramadas.

c. Do not increase
presence of BLM personnel
This is a waste of tax
dollars.

d. Objection to removal
of trespasses within ACEC
boundaries.

a. The boundary has been proposed
for adjustment to half the size
originally designated. The proposal"
revised boundary is the minimum area
necessary to protect the critical lm
resources. Any reduction could T •
result in a loss of resource values.

b. Rock mound screens, plantings
around new camping spurs, and the
redesign of ramadas are essential
to providing a new camping area th
will be used and accepted by recre
tionists. This new area will take
use away from the grove which
contains many sensitive resources.

II

1

I

c. Increased BLM presence is .
needed to not only assure that the vU \
area is safe for recreationists
but also to inform users of the
resources in the area.

d. Many trespasses are unsightly
and ugly and distract from the
scenic quality of the area. The
trespasses will be investigated
to find the most appropriate
course of action. The historical
value of the trespasses will be
considered. :

■
■
I

D-2

n

Public Comment

Action

e. A monitoring program is not
necessary.

e. A monitoring program is
essential to the protection of
the critical resource values at
Corn Springs. The improvement
or decline of values is important
to track so that adjustments can
be made, if necessary, to the
management prescription for the
area. There are no other govern-
ment agencies that monitor any of
the resources at Corn Springs.
This action is not a duplication
of services provided by another
agency.

f. Move campground 1/4 mile
away from palm grove.

f. Use of the grove and the
immediately adjacent area has a
long historic use that would be
impossible to prohibit even if
the environmental concerns showed
a strong need for this severe an
action. The county maintained
road which services Aztec Well
bisects the ACEC and it is not
possible or desirable for BLM
to control use of this road.
For this reason the campground
will have to remain in fairly
close proximity to the palm
oasis.

D-3

E. References Cited

Aitchison, S. W.

1977. Some Effects of a Campground on Breeding Birds in
Arizona. Contributed paper, Symposium on the Importance,
preservation, and Management of the Riparian Habitat.
Tucson, Arizona, pp. 175-182.

"Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) , Policy and
Procedures Guidelines.", U. S. Department of the Interior,
Bureau of Land Management, June 1980.

California Department of Water Resources

1980. "California Rainfall Summary, Monthly Total Precipi-
tation, 1849-1979."

Daniels, B. E.

1979a. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 81 .
Palo Verde desert wash. Am. Birds 33:42.

Daniels, B. E.

1979b. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 82.
I ronwood- smoke tree desert wash. Am. Birds 33:42.

Daniels, B. E. , and J. Boyd

1979a. Forty-second breeding bird census. No. 142.
Ironwood-smoketree desert wash. Am. Birds 33:92-93.

Daniels, B. E., and J. Boyd

1979b. Forty-second breeding bird census. 156. Paloverde
desert wash. Am. Birds 33:42.

"Final Environmental Impact Statement and Proposed Plan, Appendix
Volume C, Appendix IV, Areas of Critical Environmental
Concern." U. S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land
Management, September 1980.

Foster, M. , and D. Johnston

1979a. Forty-second breeding bird census. No. 153.
Saltbush community. Am. Birds 33:95.

Foster, M., and D. Johnston

1979b. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 66.
Saltbush community. Am. birds 33:38.

Franzreb, K. E.

1978. Breeding bird densities, species composition, and
bird species diversity of the Algodones Dunes. West. Birds
9:9-20.

Heizer, Robert F., and Martin A. Baumhoff

1963. Prehistoric Rock Art of Nevada and Eastern
California. University of California Press, Berkeley.

E-1

Heizer, Robert F. , and C. W. Clewlow, Jr.

1973. Prehistoric Rock Art of California. Ramona,
California: Balena Press.

Henderson, R. P.

1979. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 39.
Paloverde woodland. Am. Birds 33:29.

Jennings, C. W.

1967. Geologic Map of California, Salton Sea Sheet:
California Division of Mines and Geology, scale 1:250,000.

Johnston, D., and M. Foster

1979a. Forty-second breeding bird census. No. 132.
Creosote bush community. Am. birds 33:90.

Johnston, D., and M. Foster

1979b. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 65.
Creosote bush community. Am. Birds 33:38.

Jones, L.

1979. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 93.
Psammophytic scrub, II. Am. Birds 33:46.

Jones, L., J. Dunn, and I. MacGregor

1979. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 90.
Creosote scrub, I. Am. Birds 33:45.

Jones, L., and T. Clark

1979. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 92.
Psammophytic scrub, I. Am. Birds 33:46.

Jones, L., and K. Garret

1979. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 91.
Creosote scrub, II. Am. Birds 33:45-46.

Kroeber, A. L.

1925. Handbook of the Indians of California. Reprinted
by Dover Publications, Inc., New York.

Marcus, S. M.

1980. Mineral Resources Evaluation of the Chuckwalla
Mountains G-E-M Resource Area, BLM unpublished draft report.

Nace, R.

1964. "Water: Essential Factor of Economic Development."
Impact of Science on Society, 14(1):39-55.

Robinson, T. W.

1965. Introduction, Spread, and Areal Extent of Saltcedar
(Tamarisk) in the Western States. U. S. Geological Survey
Professional Paper 491-A, 12 pp.

E-2

Romoli, Douglas

1978. National Register Nomination for Corn Springs.

Russi, T.

1980. Personal communication.

Sanchez, P. G.

1975. A Tamarisk Fact Sheet. Desert Bighorn Council 1975
Transactions, p. 12-14.

Steward, Julian

1929. Petroglyphs of California and Adjoining States.
University of California Publications in Archaeology and
American Ethnography 24:2:47-238.

Tomoff, C. S.

1977. The spring avifauna of the Colorado Desert of South-
eastern California. Unpubl. Rept. U. S. Bureau of Land
Management, California Desert District, Riverside,
California, Contract No. CA-060-CT7-987 .

Toraoff, C. S.

1979a. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 57.
Blue paloverde-ironwood smoketree desert riparian woodland,

I. Am. Birds 33:35-36.

Tomoff, C. S.

1979b. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 58.
Blue paloverde-ironwood smoketree desert riparian woodland

II. Am. Birds 33:36.

Tomoff, C. S.

1979c. Thirty-first winter bird population study. No. 77.
Blue paloverde-ironwood mixed shrub and succulent desert
wash. Am. Birds 33:41.

University of California Publications in Archaeology and American
Ethnography 24:2:47-238.

Vogl, R. J. and L. T. McDargue

1966. Vegetation of California Fan Palm Oases on the
San Andreas Fault. Ecology 47:532-540.

Weinstein, M.

1978. Impact of off-road vehicles on the avifauna of Afton
Canyon, California. U. S. Bureau of Land Management,
California Desert Program, Riverside, California. Rept. on
Contract CA-060-CT7-2734.

E-3

F. Contributing Staff

The following specialists formed
ACEC Management Plan and EAR:

the team for the Corn Springs

Pamela M. Elliott
Landscape Architect/ORP

Robert F. O'Brien
Landscape Architect/ORP

Faye J. Davis
Wildlife Biologist

Team Leader, Recreation Report,
Visual Report, Details, Inter-
pretive Brochure

Campground Redesign, Interpre-
tive Trail

Wildlife Report

Judyth E. Reed
Archaeologist

Robin L. Kobaly
Botanist

Cultural Resource Report

Vegetation Report

Mark R. Hatchel
Realty Specialist

Lands Report

Duane Winters
Hydrologist

Hydrology Report

Matthew W. Shumaker
Geologist

Rebecca R. Knehr
Indio Area Clerk

Geology Report

Editing and Typing

Roberta L. Grannis
Clerk-typist

Typing

Staff memorandums submitted to the Team Leader in the course of
preparing the plan and EAR are on file at the Indio Resource Area
Office, 3623 H101 Canyon Crest Drive, Riverside, California
92507.

F-1

BLM Library

Bldg. 50

Denver Federal Center

P.O. Box 25047

Denver, Colorado 80225