BLM LIBRARY 613 The Rio Grande Corridor Proposed Plan and Final EIS August 1998 Volume 1 US. DEPARTMENT OFTHE INTERIOR BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT NEW MEXICO/COLORADO The Bureau of Land Management... Is responsible for the balanced management of the public lands and resources and their various values so that they are considered in a combination that will best serve the needs of tlie American people. Management is based upon the principles of multiple use and sustained yeild, a combination of uses that takes into account the long-term needs of future generations for renewable and non- renewable resources. These resources include recreation, range, timber, minerals, watershed, fish and wildlife, wilderness, and natural, scenic, scientific, and cultural values. (3 ol United States Department of the Interior BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT Taos Field Office 226 Cruz Alta Road Taos, New Mexico 87571 San Luis Resource Area <5^ 1921 Slate Street Alamosa, Colorado 81101 August 28, 1998 Dear Reader: Enclosed for your review is the Proposed Rio Grande Corridor Coordinated Resource Management Plan (CRMP) and Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). This proposed CRMP/FEIS is an integration of several activity-level plans along the Rio Grande in New Mexico (Taos Field Office) and in Colorado (San Luis Resource Area), and also addresses amendments to the Taos Resource Management Plan. The plan provides a vision for managing the natural resources in the corridor from La Sauses, Colorado to Velarde, New Mexico, and is a refinement of the preferred alternative presented in the Draft CRMP/EIS published in July, 1997. The Environmental Protection Agency has published a Notice of Availability for the Rio Grande Corridor CRMP/FEIS in the Federal Register. Proposed Resource Management Plan Amendment decisions may be protested by parties who participated in the planning process. Protests related to New Mexico RMP-Level Decisions (the yellow pages) must be filed in writing to: Director (WO-210), Bureau of Land Management, Attn: Brenda Williams, 1849 C Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20240. An informal protest may be made on speciHc actions described in Chapter 2, Activity-Level Proposals. Informal protests must be filed in writing to: Taos Field Office Manager, Bureau of Land Management, 226 Cruz Alta Road, Taos, New Mexico 87571 (for New Mexico); or San Luis Resource Area Manager, Bureau of Land Management, 1921 State Street, Alamosa, Colorado 81101 (for Colorado). Protests or informal protests must be postmarked no later than September 30, 1998 In order to be considered complete, your protest must contain, at a minimum, the following information: 1. The name, mailing address, telephone number, and interest of the person filing the protest. 2. A statement of the part or parts of the RMP amendment or activity-level proposal being protested. To the extent possible, this should be done by reference to specific pages, paragraphs, sections, tables, or maps included in the document. 3. A copy of all documents addressing the issue(s) that you submitted during the planning process or a reference to the date the issue(s) were discussed by you for the record. 4. A concise statement explaining why the Proposed Plan is believed to be incorrect. This is a critical part or your protest. Document all relevant facts, and, as much as possible, reference or cite the planning or environmental analysis document. A protest which merely expresses disagreement with the Proposed Plan, without any data will not provide us with the benefit of your information and insight. In this case, the decision-makers’ review will be based on the existing analysis and supporting data. At the end of the 30-day protest period, a Record of Decision may be issued approving all decisions not affected by a protest. If there are protests they will be re.solved and a Record of Decision will be issued based on the protest re.solution. Following the protest period and resolution of protests, if some are received, the CRMP will be prepared as a separate stand-alone document and distributed to interested parties. Progress on the Plan’s implementation would be reported through Resource Management Plan Updates for Taos Field Office and San Luis Resource Area. » t -u BLM Library Denver Federal Center Bldg. 50, OC-521 P.O. Box 25047 Denver, CO 80225 Thank you to those who participated in the planning process. Continued public involvement in implementing planned actions will allow us to effectively manage the public lands and resources in the Rio Grande Corridor. Sincerely, 'Steve Henke Taos Field Office Manager Proposed Rio Grande Corridor Coordinated Resource Management Plan and Taos Resource Management Plan Amendment/ Final Environmental Impact Statement THE Rio Grande Corridor Proposed plan and Final EIS August 1998 Uniteci States Departmentof the Interior Bureau of Lanc^ Management New Mexico/Colorado ^ tftr » ^<4- ' *f*‘. t\ ^;**r I » < «gN *j .••Ji:v.,rj’f'-i;8f'!b'«')(»)l»b’'fH)J • > < . V : w-'}.'^?! iMfw.'iH'; ;fvfi ■] Ta^f I, . I I , • 1 t k' '■'J-: ■ 4K' ■3 "\* *' i ,€ii:i . jAy»f'-i ifMA fyfA • » iv i’ f J . • ■. Ai ■ f^fi.u'oV , . ', i ^ . «, Sjj*. i Tij ,w ' ^ 4\ ’ (•' :' v\i A ,; ~!f': w y\ * ( •*! ■: ■) i:.i 1 ■;«.' 'lu: lO i., ■-' .S;.Vtj4y;j. I ,r/; i;.'< '!uij. jj.jl a 1 j ■ 4, J-: U' Rio Grande Corridor Proposed Coordinated Resource Management Plan and Final Environmental Impact Statement Draft ( ) Final (X) United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) 1. Type of Action: Administrative (X) Legislative ( ) 2. This Proposed Coordinated Resource Management Plan (CRMP)/Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) describes the Proposed Plan for managing public land and resources in the area managed by the Taos Field Office, New Mexico and San Luis Resource Area, Colorado. 3. Comments on the Draft CRMP/EIS from individuals, groups, and agencies and the BLM’s responses to those comments are included in this document. For further information, please contact: Steve Henke, Field Office Manager Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office 226 Cruz Alta Road Taos, NM 87571 Carlos Pinto, Area Manager Bureau of Land Management San Luis Resource Area 1921 State Street Alamosa, CO 81101 Telephone (505) 758-8851 Telephone (719) 589-4975 Date Final filed with Environmental Protection Agency: August 28, 1998 RECOMMENDED: APPROVED: New Mexico Steve Henke \" Field Office Manager, Taos Field Office Colorado (Recommendation is not required for activity-level planning) oin r' ■ . n jsmf-l " ;j * { i ''»5 ‘ hnli en^ liiii ni'ioj.Vr' I lenTl rx> l^iiH -I;,. _ ■.- . :'.VJf - « . t ( ;» -*«4n^ »;?•. f (X) ilOf^A V' ‘^rcf 'stfJf *r r -v* n .f V- t. .I'-ftll iUft >j»l «|5 vs' f;Mf. w»- -ii r.r ifru» liH'iiJl] v^ii.y^'.uuj f'' • *^06 (fiirR) otfC'M •I'r'^ ,«r>'A K‘n*y(jAei Kl *jfft t)t>« f##h( hiif ir 1 I’jiilitix) w( V3t\)rul '''^ VigwwV. /ijfu'* /‘x;lTtjD U0iv 1' fw» t ’iVirrt ';n»: i ;i nt«4|S^ V •it'O liKi^ -4l#t .51 i..*A i .^wjT imp.- ,8i 3^ii»:.’f>A / trx}%^ l/i)fTt;»viT-:.'y***i 4a a» NvJA If.rtr’ mUIU 9 r lOH' <**• ’V*/* 'f»*i . \ '^'- ♦ ^--I OS.*‘f- 7. wA«(JW3M>I «iU iw;? vr^j'* ■'*' . '■'4' .. • •' •• V.' h3rt?w/jsh Xu: a< i»nii4tl>i»3«.;r?fK»W5 ^SvtiniE9ikK • ♦ ■ •1.. * - ‘ •’■; :“V-J , -■ 1^0 , ^ - i; V •■‘.* TABLE OF CONTENTS Summary of the Proposed Plan S-1 CHAPTER 1— PURPOSE AND NEED Introduction 1-1 Background 1-1 Location and Description of the Planning Area 1-5 The Planning Process 1-5 Environmental Concerns Not Warranting Detailed Analysis 1-6 Planning Issues and Criteria for the Rio Grande Corridor Plan 1-8 CHAPTER 2— PROPOSED PLAN Introduction 2- I Description of Future Conditions 2- 1 Continuing Management Guidance 2- 3 Planned Actions 2-10 Colorado RMP - Level Decisions 2-10 New Mexico RMP - Level Decisions 2-11 Activity-Level Proposals 2-16 Issue 1: Wild and Scenic River Recommendations 2-16 Issue 2: Riparian Resources 2-19 Issue 3: Vegetation, Soils, Water Quality, Livestock Management, and Wildlife Habitat 2-21 Issue 4: Prehistoric and Historic Resources 2-38 Issue 5: Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management 2-38 Issue 6; Recreation and Facility Development 2-40 Issue 7: Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses 2-53 Issue 8: Public Access 2-56 Issue 9: Interpretation and Public Education 2-56 CHAPTER 3— AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT Introduction 3-1 Description of the Affected Environment for Areas with Special Management Designations 3-1 Upper Gorge Unit 3-1 Lower Gorge Unit 3-3 Copper Hill Unit 3-5 Description of the Affected Environment by Planning Issues 3-6 Issue 1 : Wild and Scenic River Recommendations 3-6 Issue 2: Riparian Resources 3-7 Issue 3: Vegetation, Soils, Water Quality, Livestock Management, and Wildlife Habitat 3-10 Issue 4: Prehistoric and Historic Resources 3-41 Issue 5: Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management 3-45 Issue 6: Recreation and Facility Development 3-48 Issue 7; Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses 3-64 Issue 8; Public Access 3-68 Issue 9: Interpretation and Public Education 3-69 1 Table of Contents (continued) • 10 Fire and Emergency Services Socioeconomic Conditions CHAPTER 4— ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES Introduction ^ Impacts on Wild and Scenic Rivers 4-1 Impacts on Riparian Resources 4-3 Impacts on Vegetation 4-4 Impacts on Soils and Water Quality 4-7 Impacts on Livestock Management 4-8 Impacts on Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat 4-8 Impacts on Prehistoric and Historic Resources 4-19 Impacts on Scenic Quality 4-2 1 Impacts on Recreation 4-22 Impacts on Minerals 4-30 Impacts on Public Access 4-30 Impacts on Socioeconomic Conditions 4-3 1 Impacts on Social Values 4-33 Cumulative Impacts 4-34 CHAPTER 5— CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION Introduction 5-1 Formal Consultation 5-1 Consistency with Other Plans 5-1 Public Participation 5-4 Preparers of the Plan 5-6 Abbreviations and Acronyms AA-1 Glossary GL-1 References r_1 ^^dex Index- 1 APPENDICES A - Comments and Responses on the Draft CRMP/EIS B - Rio Grande Corridor Planning Area Wild and Scenic River Study C - Visual Resource Management Classes and Objectives D - Supplementary Rules for Recreation E - Proposed Vegetation Treatments and Livestock Grazing Allotments (Maps) F - State and Private Lands and Minerals Proposed for Acquisition in the Planning Area G - Rio Grande Corridor Route Designations H - Swiftwater Rating System I - Additional Descriptions of the Six Counties Considered in the Socioeconomic Analysis ii LIST OF TABLES 1-1 Special Management Units in the Rio Grande Corridor Planning Area 1-4 1- 2 Issues and Criteria 1-10 2- 1 River Segments Managed for Wild and Scenic Values 2-17 2-2 Grazing Allotment Management Plans Under the Proposed Plan 2-23 2-3 Allowable Animal Unit Months for Livestock Use 2-34 2-4 Miles of Road and Public Land Road Density for Each Planning Unit Under the Proposed Plan . 2-36 2-5 Visual Resource Management Classes Assigned to the Planning Area 2-39 2- 6 Mineral Withdrawals and Closures 2-53 3- 1 Eligibility and Tentative Classifications in the Planning Area of WSR Segments 3-7 3-2 Riparian Functional Ratings for Stream Reaches in the Planning Area 3-9 3-3 Vegetation Associations in the Rio Grande Corridor Planning Area 3-10 3-4 Vegetative Associations on Various Slopes in Each Planning Unit 3-11 3-5 Plant Community Types in the Woodland Association of the Planning Area 3-13 3-6 Special-Status Plant Species Potentially Occurring Within the Planning Area 3-15 3-7 Grazing Allocations in the New Mexico Portion of the Planning Area 3-21 3-8 Information for Livestock Grazing Allotments in the Planning Area 3-23 3-9 Animals of Concern in the Rio Grande Corridor Between La Sauses, Colorado and Velarde, New Mexico 3-32 3-10 National Register Eligibility Review Status for Cultural Resource Sites in the Upper Gorge Unit, Colorado 3-43 3-1 1 Existing Visual Resource Management Classifications on Public Lands Within the Planning Area 3-46 3-12 Floatboating Use on Rio Grande Segments and Rio Embudo 3-56 3-13 Existing Trails in the Rio Grande Corridor Planning Area 3-59 3-14 BLM Recreation Facilities and Types of Uses in the Planning Area 3-63 3-15 Surface Ownership Within the Planning Area 3-65 3-16 Land and Mineral Restrictions in the Planning Area 3-67 3-17 Relationship of Planning Area Land to County Land 3-72 3-18 Race and Partial Origin Distribution for the Planning Area's Population, 1990 3-72 3- 19 Number of Civilian Labor Force Participants in 1980, 1990 & 1994 3-76 4- 1 Animal Species of Concern 4-11 4-2 Recreation Use Projections 4-24 4-3 Contribution of Resource-Related Activities to the Economy of the ESA 4-32 4-4 Change in ESA Employment as the Result of Implementation of the Proposed Plan 4-32 4-5 Projected Economic Impacts of Proposed Plan Implementation on Taos County 4-32 4- 6 Impacts of Boating Expenditures in the Economic Study Area 4-33 5- 1 Partial List of Document Recipients 5-2 5-2 Public Meetings 5-5 5-3 List of Preparers 5-7 111 LIST OF FIGURES 1- 1 Rio Grande Corridor Planning Process 1-6 2- 1 Boating Management Segments 2-42 3- 1 Recreation Use in the Planning Area by Unit 3-62 3-2 Industry Employment, 1 990 3-74 3-3 Comparison of 1988 and 1995 Earnings by Industry for the Two-State, Four County Area . 3-75 LIST OF MAPS Map 1 Planning Area Location 1-2 Map 2 Planning Units 1-3 Map 3 Planning Area 1-7 Map 4 Proposed Special Area Designations 2-12 Map 5 Wild and Scenic River Review Areas 2-18 Map 6 Mineral Materials Sites 2-55 Map 7 Route Designations (North half) pocket Map 7 Route Designations (South half) pocket Map 8 Grazing Allotments 3-28 Map 9-a Recreation Sites 3.49 Map 9-b Recreation Sites 3.5O Map 9-c Recreation Sites 3.5 1 Map 9-d Recreation Sites 3_52 Map 9-e Recreation Sites 3.53 Map 9-f Recreation Sites 3.54 IV THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PROPOSED PLAN SUMMARY The Rio Grande Corridor Proposed Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is a 15-year strategy for managing the public lands and allocating resources along 94 miles of the Rio Grande and some 42.7 miles of its tributaries. The document also serves as a proposed amendment to the Taos Resource Management Plan. The Rio Grande Corridor planning area includes public land within the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM’s) San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office in south-central Colorado and north-central New Mexico. The plan and accompanying EIS were prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA). THE DRAFT PLAN The BLM conducted a major scoping effort with interested citizens, community and local government leaders, resource specialists and user groups in late 1994 and early 1995 to identify issues the planning effort needed to resolve. The issues addressed in the plan represent resource or program areas for which the BLM anticipates changes in management direction within the Rio Grande Corridor as a result of the planning process, and are as follows: • Issue 1 : Wild and Scenic River Recommendations • Issue 2: Riparian Resources • Issue 3: Vegetation, Soils, Water Quality, Livestock Management, and Wildlife Habitat • Issue 4: Prehistoric and Historic Resources • Issue 5: Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management • Issue 6: Recreation and Facility Development • Issue 7: Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses • Issue 8: Public Access • Issue 9: Interpretation and Public Education The planning team spent nearly 1 8 months collecting resource inventory data and other information, reviewing the existing management system and guidance, and developing and analyzing four planning alternatives. The Draft Plan was issued in July 1997 and evaluated the alternatives, each of which was developed to address a different combination of resource uses based on the issues raised during scoping. The following alternatives were evaluated: • Alternative A: No Action - multiple-use management would continue much in the same manner as it currently exists. Policies and decisions in existing land use plans would continue to be implemented. • Alternative B: Biodiversity Protection - where conflicts in resource use occur, the emphasis would be on sustaining or improving biodiversity and healthy ecosystems. The primary goal of this alternative would be to preserve and enhance natural resources. • Alternative C: Resource Use - where conflicts in resource use occur, the preference would be given to developed recreation opportunities and other resource uses. This alternative focuses on consumptive uses and development of natural resources (e.g., timber, recreation, minerals, and grazing). • Alternative D: Preferred Alternative - would provide for management that maintains and enhances ecosystem health while optimizing recreational opportunities and other resource uses. The Draft Plan analyzed the environmental, social, and economic impacts of each alternative. In addition, a mandated Wild and Scenic River Study was included in the plan to evaluate potential recommendations to Congress for river segments to be included in the National Wild and Scenic River System. S-1 SUMMARY RMP-LEVEL AMENDMENTS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN PUBLIC COMMENT AND PROPOSED PLAN Following issuance of the draft, and as a result of requests for extensions, the comment period lasted through December 20, 1997. During the comment period, the BLM received 167 letters and 28 written comments by e-mail, as well as 75 oral comments at 4 public hearings. At the end of the comment period, the BLM began analyzing and responding to all substantive comments on the draft and incorporating the comments and responses into the Proposed Plan and Final EIS. This document presents the Proposed Plan, which is a mixture of the actions/prescriptions from various alternatives presented in the draft, and changes or additions based on the public comments. The final document also contains all comments received during the comment period and BLM’s responses. RMP-LEVEL AMENDMENTS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Resource Management Plans (RMPs) have been completed for the Colorado and New Mexico portions of the planning area. The San Luis RMP (BLM 1991) provides continuing management guidance for the planning area in Colorado, and the Taos RMP (BLM 1988, amended for oil and gas leasing in 1991 and for designation of the Orilla Verde Recreation Area in 1994) provides continuing management guidance for the planning area in New Mexico. These broad-based plans provide general management direction for public lands and are periodically amended as necessary. The RMPs outline what uses can occur, list special restrictions when needed, and present long-term direction for specific issues such as transportation planning, land ownership adjustments, and facility development. No changes are proposed to the San Luis RMP; rather, as part of the Proposed Plan, the BLM is providing a detailed list of actions for implementing RMP decisions for the planning area. Conversely, the BLM in New Mexico proposes several amendments to the Taos RMP, as follows. Special Area Designations (page 2-11) The BLM designates Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) or Recreation Areas to provide special management to areas that have unique or fragile resources, significant recreation opportunities, or user-resource conflicts that require special attention. As part of the Proposed Plan, the BLM would designate public lands as follows: ■ Upper Gorge Unit - rescind the Wild Rivers Special Management Area (SMA) and Guadalupe Mountain ACEC designations and incorporate management of the area into an expanded Wild Rivers Recreation Area. ■ Lower Gorge Unit - rescind the Racecourse ACEC designation, incorporate 660 acres of the Black Mesa ACEC and designate all public lands (16,351 acres) outside the Orilla Verde Recreation Area within the Lower Gorge Unit as the Lower Gorge ACEC. ■ Copper Hill Unit - rescind designations for the Warm Springs SMA, Agua Caliente ACEC, and Embudo Canyon ACEC and designate 17,280 acres of public lands in the Copper Hill Unit as the Copper Hill ACEC. Livestock Management (pages 2-6, 2-21) The Proposed Plan excludes additional acres in the Rio Grande Corridor in New Mexico from grazing to help improve riparian areas and protect other natural, cultural, and visual resources on public lands. The Taos RMP (1988) identified 25,046 acres that are currently excluded from grazing. Of the additional 33,719 acres that would be excluded from livestock grazing under the Proposed Plan (for a total of 58,765), most are currently unallocated and unpermitted. The Proposed Plan does not exclude any additional acres from grazing in Colorado. S-2 SUMMARY RMP-LEVEL AMENDMENTS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN The Proposed Plan seeks to find a balance between protecting ecosystems and allowing for managed use of public lands. The BLM proposes to decrease allowable animal unit months (AUMs [the amount of forage needed to support one cow, one horse, or five sheep for a month]) by four in Colorado. There would be a total reduction of 2 1 5 AUMs on BLM allotments in the New Mexico portion of the planning area. The reductions in AUMs are designed to help improve vegetation and increase rangeland productivity, as well as improve riparian areas and soil and water quality. Minerals (pages 2-8, 2-53) The BLM proposes to withdraw certain areas in New Mexico from mineral entry to protect the natural, scenic, and cultural resources that are important to local communities and visitors and to the National Wild and Scenic River System. Under the Proposed Plan, 73,280 acres would be withdrawn from mineral entry; 50,173 acres would be closed to mineral leasing; 25,615 acres would be put under No Surface Occupancy standards; and 65,432 acres would be closed to mineral material disposal. Land Ownership Adjustment (page 2-8, 2-54) Land ownership patterns in New Mexico and Colorado are often scattered and intermingled. As a result, the BLM routinely identifies through its RMPs parcels of land it is willing to dispose of through laws such as the Color-of-Title Act and Recreation and Public Purposes Act. The BLM also identifies private land it would like to acquire to enhance public land management. The Color-of-Title program helps individual citizens who can verify a family chain-of-title, along with continual occupancy on and improvement to public lands to acquire title to those lands. The BLM routinely works with municipal and county governments to help them acquire lands for community needs such as waste disposal transfer sites, recreation facilities, health centers, and other such facilities. These lands must already be identified for disposal, and only government entities or 501(c) nonprofit organizations may apply for Recreation and Public Purposes leases or patents on them. Under the Proposed Plan, lands within the planning area would not be considered for disposal through any means, except for Color-of-Title sales and three sites which have been identified for potential Recreation and Public Purpose uses for trash disposal or community buildings. Rights-of-Way (page 2-54) Currently the BLM Taos Field Office grants rights-of-way across public lands on a case-by-case basis, with the exception of eight excluded zones that are located primarily in the wild and scenic river corridor and current ACECs. Under the Proposed Plan, rights-of-way would be excluded from the expanded Wild Rivers Recreation Area, Lower Gorge Unit (with exceptions). Copper Hill ACEC, and Agua Caliente and Rio Embudo protection zones. These areas would be excluded from rights-of-way to protect fragile natural and cultural resources and important viewsheds from right-of-way use and development. Though the BLM is required to provide access to private parcels of land, it is not required to provide separate access for each private landowner within a parcel. Some private landowners, without a right-of-way, who would access their property across BLM-managed public lands may be required to use alternate access. In such cases, the private landowner would need to negotiate personally with neighboring landowners to obtain permission to cross their property to access his or her land. S-3 SUMMARY ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE The following is a summary of actions and prescriptions included in the Proposed Plan. The plan is described in terms of the planning issues identified during the scoping process. I.ssue 1 : Wild and Scenic River Recommendations (page 2-16) As directed by Congress and BLM planning policy, the BLM studied certain segments of the Rio Grande, Rio Embudo, and other tributaries to determine if they are eligible and suitable for designation as Wild and Scenic Rivers (WSRs). The basic objective of WSR designation is to maintain the existing condition of a river. The BLM in Colorado completed a WSR study in 1991 as part of the San Luis RMP. That study indicated that the river corridor in the study section contains significant values deserving of some enduring form of protection. The Proposed Plan does not affect the WSR status of any portion of the Rio Grande in Colorado. Ultimately, Congress will determine the appropriate means or designation for protecting that portion of the river. In the interim, the BLM will continue to manage that section of the river to protect the values that make it suitable for WSR designation. The Proposed Plan includes a copy of the WSR study completed by the BLM in New Mexico as part of the planning effort. The BLM found that 7.6 miles of the Rio Grande Bosque segment (just south of the Taos/Rio Arriba county line to the Velarde Diversion Dam) and a segment of the Rio Embudo beginning at the western boundary of the Picuris Pueblo and continuing downstream for 5 miles are suitable to be considered for inclusion in the National WSR System. The Proposed Plan recommends a classification of wild for the Rio Embudo Box segment and a classification of recreational for the Rio Grande Bosque segment. These classification recommendations were included because they most closely represent the classification criteria established by Congress in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Another 10.1 miles on 5 stream segments in New Mexico would be under interim protection until a Joint suitability analysis is completed in cooperation with the Carson National Forest. It is a common misunderstanding that rivers designated as scenic are managed primarily for scenery and that recreational rivers are managed to promote recreation use. These labels can be misleading — regardless of the classification, management is designed to maintain or enhance the river-related values and character of the river. Only Congress can designate a river as Wild and Scenic. The BLM’s job is to manage the river to protect the values which make it eligible and suitable for wild and scenic designation until Congress makes a decision to pass or not pass wild and scenic legislation. The BLM will continue to work cooperatively with private landowners to meet interim management objectives in the Rio Grande Corridor. Any interim management action undertaken by the BLM that involves private lands in the corridor will be based on the voluntary agreement of the private landowner(s). Standing water rights, fishing and hunting, land ownership, and zoning would not be affected by congressional WSR designation. Issue 2: Riparian Resources (page 2-19) Western riparian areas are located near rivers, streams, lakes, or springs and generally lie within much larger, drier, and higher upland ecosystems. By supporting a greater volume of plants and vegetation than the nearby uplands and adding to the supply of groundwater, riparian areas also reduce the effects of flooding and remove water pollutants. Many riparian areas in the western United States are in nonfunctioning condition due to climatic conditions, historically poor grazing management, and proliferation of invasive (non-native) plant species. The BLM has been mandated to return S-4 SUMMARY ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE western riparian areas to a properly functioning condition. Under the Proposed Plan, a total of 34 1 .5 acres of riparian resources would be enhanced, restored, or maintained. In Colorado, about 2.5 acres with riparian potential would be allocated for livestock watering so that livestock can be excluded from the rest of the riparian zone. Issue 3: Vegetation. Soils. Water Quality. Livestock Management, and Wildlife Habitat Vegetation Treatments (page 2-21) Throughout the United States, the BLM routinely uses controlled fire, mechanical and chemical treatments, road closures, and reseeding to modify vegetative conditions and improve vegetative ground cover. Improved vegetation helps stabilize erosive soils, improve water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat on public lands. The Proposed Plan includes vegetation treatments on 13,703 acres (primarily through burning) and road closures affecting 35 acres to protect soils and improve water quality. Chemical treatments would be used only if burning was unsuccessful. While there is a great deal of controversy regarding chemical treatments, it should be noted that the BLM completed a nationwide EIS regarding herbicidal treatments. The EIS indicated that, in general, the potential health risks — including risks to groundwater, air quality, and wildlife habitat — is minimal when applied in accordance with Environmental Protection Agency label restrictions regarding time, location, and application rates. In addition, chemical treatments have been used successfully throughout the United States and have been shown to be an efficient and cost-effective method of vegetation management. Prior to conducting any vegetative treatments in the planning area, the BLM would initiate and complete an environmental assessment (EA). The EA process follows the standards established in NEPA and provides opportunities for public participation. The BLM would work closely with the public throughout that process to address their concerns. Livestock Management (page 2-22) Under the Proposed Plan, AUMs would be reduced by 4 AUMs to 2,41 8 in Colorado and reduced by 215 AUMs to 1,255 in New Mexico. Changes are proposed to the season of use, range improvements, pasture rotations and levels of inventory and monitoring. Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat (page 2-36) Although the BLM does not manage the wildlife on public lands, they are responsible for managing those lands in a way that supports the wildlife and provides them with adequate habitat. The BLM has found that managing toward a goal of increasing vegetative biodiversity and ensuring that riparian and upland sites are productive and functional best meets wildlife habitat management goals. Under the Proposed Plan, the BLM would treat 12,579 acres of vegetation in New Mexico and 674 acres in Colorado to improve biological diversity. Road densities also would be reduced. Other actions include controls on development activities and recreation use. Vegetative modifications would be prescribed to meet wildlife needs and in some habitats would not be allowed. Issue 4: Prehistoric and Historic Resources (page 2-38) In Colorado, the BLM would inventory 10 percent of this portion of the planning area by 2002, in addition to conducting inventories when ground- disturbing activities were proposed. Any location with heavy visitation would be inventoried and the monitoring frequency increased from current levels. S-5 SUMMARY ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE Sites that were eligible for the National Register and able to withstand visitation would be interpreted. In New Mexico, the BLM would keep the Big Arsenic Springs site open to public use and monitor it on a regular basis. Guided hikes for visitors would be continued to provide some awareness and education to help visitors respect the values associated with the site. The BLM would interpret historic and prehistoric resources at the John Dunn Bridge and Manby Hot Springs for visitors. The Wild Rivers Recreation Area would be expanded to include public lands in the Guadalupe Mountains that contain cultural resource sites. In the Copper Hill Unit, a Class III cultural resources inventory of the area would be completed and all archaeological sites would be recorded. The inventory would be phased over time and tied to priority areas (based on protection needs). The BLM would nominate archaeological sites to the National Register of Historic Places, as appropriate. The BLM would limit access to the pueblo ruins in the Lower Embudo Cultural Protection Zone to permitted users only. Issue 5: Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management (page 2-38) The BLM classifies public lands for their scenic quality and visual resources. Such classifications provide guidance on what level of development is allowable in and area. For example, ACECs or wilderness areas might be considered Visual Resource Management (VRM) Class I, which provides the highest level of protection. VRM classifications determine limitations on rights-of- way; construction or maintenance of roads, facilities, and power lines; and vegetation treatments depending on the classification in any particular area. The San Luis and Taos RMPs include some VRM classifications. While no changes are proposed to these classifications in Colorado, the Proposed Plan does include changes to VRM classifications in New Mexico. Currently, VRM classifications are in place for some but not all of the public lands in the New Mexico planning area. Under the Proposed Plan, all acreage would be assigned a VRM class. Specifically, Class I acreage would increase to 14,190; Class II acreage would increase to 67,480; and Class III acreage would increase to 42,080. Efforts would be made to rehabilitate disturbed areas. Issue 6: Recreation and Facility Development (page 2-40) Special Recreation Use Permits (page 2-40) The BLM requires permits for commercial boating and other recreational activities. While there are currently 17 commercial boating permits, the Proposed Plan aims to reduce that number by attrition to 10 for segments of the Rio Grande south of the John Dunn Bridge. Segments above the bridge would be maintained at five permits. The number of permits would decrease by attrition (i.e., if a current permittee wishes to retire their permit, it would not be automatically available for reissuance). In addition, if a current permittee wishes to sell all or part of their commercial permit, they are restricted to selling only to another current permittee. In this way, the number of actual permitted outfitters would, over time, decrease. No outfitter would be permitted to use more than 30 percent of the commercial launches available for one segment. Other types of permits, such as for special events, or other commercial uses such as guided fishing, would be considered on a case-by-case basis. Boating Management (page 2-41) BLM received more comments on boating management than any other element of the Draft Plan. The Proposed Plan has incorporated several suggestions made by the public during the comment period — to provide a process that would allow prompt attention to new issues or concerns, and one that allows BLM, with input from affected interests, to adapt management to current conditions. The Proposed Plan, particularly for the Lower Gorge, provides a series of thresholds which will guide S-6 SUMMARY ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE monitoring, with certain actions to be implemented for the 1999 season, and others that would be implemented only when the need arises or use passes a certain level. At the end of each season, BLM would solicit recommendations from boaters, other recreation users and residents to determine what changes should be considered for the following season to address emerging issues, or make changes in current management that have proven less effective than desired. River access would be provided for at several sites throughout the Gorge, with effort made to minimize or reduce impact to riparian vegetation. Parking areas would be designated, highway safety at pullouts would be improved, and trails built to prevent erosion and make locational boater access safer in the Racecourse. If an agreement can not be reached to provide boater takeout at Embudo Station, BLM would develop an alternate site 0.5 mile downstream. From Lobatos Bridge to John Dunn Bridge, the number of groups would be strictly regulated to preserve the wild character of the river corridor, and assure that all users have an opportunity for a primitive experience with limited contact with other groups. To protect wildlife, the Ute Mountain segment would be off-limits during the months of April and May. Overnight trips would be strictly limited; day use trips would have higher thresholds established initially. All groups would be limited to 16 passenger/guides, whether outfitted or private. The more popular and accessible stretch of river from John Dunn Bridge south to the Velarde Diversion Dam is also the stretch with developed private lands and high amounts of other recreation uses. To provide for boater access but also to give residents the degree of privacy they have requested, and other shoreline users the opportunity to fish, camp or pursue other activities, the Proposed Plan would establish a series of initial controls, primarily for outfitted boaters, including daily use thresholds, limits on group size in Orilla Verde and the Bosque, and limits on the number of launches that can occur each day. Use guidelines provide for a higher degree of boating use through the village of Pilar and in the Bosque segment from May 15 through July 15, when flows are generally at their peak and boating demand is highest. For the rest of the boating season, to improve opportunities for other users and meet privacy concerns by residents, lower use levels that can still accommodate private boater demand, and to a lesser extent, demand by outfitted boaters would be in effect. The guidelines are intended to shift more use to the 5-mile Racecourse segment, where conflicts with resources, other users or residents are not as great as in other Lower Gorge segments. Casual Use (Airspace) (page 2-50) Currently, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations apply to airspace use in the planning area. The BLM permits hot air balloons which use public lands for takeoff or landings in the planning area; balloon flights are not permitted below the rim of the gorge under permit guidelines. Under the Proposed Plan, the BLM would work with the Department of Defense and FAA to restrict military, civilian, and hot air balloon flights over the Rio Grande Gorge, no matter whether public lands are involved in takeoffs or landings. Prescriptions applied acknowledge Taos Pueblo concerns and raptor nesting seasons. Fishing (page 2-50) In the past, conflicts have arisen between non- commercial fishers and recreational boaters. In developing management alternatives, the BLM took into account boating launch and takeout times, and use periods to ensure adequate fishing opportunities would exist. In addition to fishing in the sections of the river that typically receive high boater use, there are also ample sites within the planning area that provide more remote fishing opportunities and where conflicts between fishers and other river users are minimal. Under the Proposed Plan, trails would be upgraded to improve fishing access to the river. Restrictions on boating and commercial recreational uses of the river would maintain opportunities for fishing. Commercially guided trips would be SUMMARY ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE prohibited on the Ute Mountain segment during April and May, and commercial fishing access would be closed between Chiflo and Big Arsenic trails. Camping/Picnicking (page 2-51) The Proposed Plan would improve these opportunities by expanding the number of developed sites at Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde, providing improved bathrooms with running water and showers, and designating some additional sites to provide for a semi-primitive experience. Restrictions on camping would apply to areas where crowding or resource concerns exist. The Proposed Plan includes development of facilities as follows: • Permanent restrooms would be constructed at the John Dunn Bridge, County Line Recreation Site, and on the east side of the Taos Junction Bridge, if the BLM acquires the land. • Portable toilets would be installed at sites suffering from resource degradation. • If no agreement is reached for public access at Embudo Station, a trail, parking area, and restrooms would be developed at the Embudo South River Access Site. • Additional camping facilities would be built in the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde Recreation Areas. Trails (page 2-51) The BLM currently maintains existing trails in the planning area. The Proposed Plan involves the expansion of several existing trails, along with the development of some new trails, as follows: • expansion of West Rim Trail north to Cerro Chiflo • Pescado Trail (from Red River, near the Fish Hatchery, to the Wild Rivers trail system) • expansion of Rinconada Hill Trail • Cieneguilla Trail (Pilar to the Taos Junction Bridge) The BLM would coordinate with private landowners to determine access, signing, and camping restrictions for the Manby Hot Springs easement. Issue 7: Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses (page 2-53) The planning area would be available for various commercial and personal uses, some of which have already been described (including livestock grazing and recreation). This issue includes other opportunities for commercial and personal uses such as mineral development, land ownership adjustments, and rights-of-way for access or utilities to private lands. Locatable Mining (page 2-53) Under the Proposed Plan, the BLM would allow locatable mineral entry on 49,93 1 acres, primarily in the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit and in the Copper Hill Unit. To protect resources that could be affected by surface disturbance and/or facilities development, the BLM would withdraw 27,417 acres of public land from entry under land and mineral laws. Under the Proposed Plan, a total of 14,122 acres of private and state lands would be withdrawn if acquired by the BLM. Leasable Minerals (page 2-54) Existing mineral leasing closures or limits would continue in the Upper Gorge Unit, with an additional 14,906 acres subject to the No Surface Occupancy stipulation for oil and gas development. If acquired by the BLM, an additional 90 acres would be closed S-8 SUMMARY ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE to mineral leasing. The entire Lower Gorge Unit would be closed to leasing activity (an additional 14,996 acres). To protect Mexican spotted owl habitat and scenic quality in the Copper Hill Unit, mineral and geothermal leasing would not be allowed in the Agua Caliente and Rio Embudo Protection Zones (an additional 4,550 acres). Leasing in the Lower Embudo Cultural Protection Zone would be authorized with a No Surface Occupancy stipulation. Mineral Materials (page 2-54) In the Upper Gorge Unit, no sales would be approved in the Rio Grande Corridor ACEC, Flat Top Mountain (2,000-acre) portion of the San Luis Hills ACEC, Rio Grande WSR, or Wild Rivers Recreation Area. No sales would be made in the Lower Gorge Unit, except at three sites that would remain open — the Rinconada, Dixon and La Mesita area pits — until the materials were exhausted. The Copper Hill ACEC would be closed, except for three existing sites at Piedra Lumbre, Hill Top, and Canada del Oso. Land Ownership Adjustments (page 2-54) The planning area would remain a public land retention and acquisition zone. No sale or exchange of public land would be allowed except for color-of- title sales and disposal of the three parcels mentioned in the section of this summary that discusses RMP- Level Amendments under the Proposed Plan. No other lands would be available for disposal under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act. The BLM would acquire private and state lands in the planning area if owners were willing to sell or trade and funds were available. Rights-of-Way (page 2-54) New rights-of-way would be considered on a case-by-case basis except in exclusion areas. To protect scenic quality and habitat for the Mexican spotted owl and fisheries, rights-of-way would be excluded from the expanded Wild Rivers Recreation Area, entire Lower Gorge Unit, and Agua Caliente and Rio Embudo Protection Zones within the Copper Hill ACEC. (Note: Rights-of-way would be excluded from the Lower Gorge Unit unless they were necessary to administer or improve access to recreation sites, or to provide access or utility service to private or state land where such access was otherwise not possible. Utilities would be underground only and would be collocated with roads.) The right-of-way window near the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge would continue in effect. Rights-of-way for acequias (irrigation ditches) are grandfathered through the legislation for WSRs, so they would remain in effect. Construction and rehabilitation of acequias would have to be done using historical materials and methods to protect WSR values (including scenic quality) and wildlife habitat. Issue 8: Public Access (page 2-56) The BLM coordinates road access on public lands through its RMPs and other specific transportation planning projects. Currently, all existing roads in the planning area (203 miles) are open to motorized use. Under the Proposed Plan, the BLM would close 76.3 miles of road in the planning area to motorized use. Road closures would occur primarily in the wild and scenic corridor and ACECs to protect fragile vegetative and soil resources and enhance visual resources management. Issue 9: Interpretation and Public Education (page 2-56) Under the Proposed Plan, the BLM would establish guidelines for signs, both to provide a consistent appearance and message throughout the planning area, and to better identify opportunities and help minimize conflicts. Most interpretive signs and brochures would be available in both English and Spanish. BLM would also establish partnerships with a wider range of users (e.g., fishing, hiking, mountain biking) to help inform them of public land opportunities as well as responsibilities. S-9 SUMMARY ACTIVITY-LEVEL PROPOSALS BY PLANNING ISSUE Interpretation would continue to be emphasized at the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde recreation areas. However, the BLM would post signs at additional sites such as the Lobatos Bridge, John Dunn Bridge, Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, and pullouts along the Racecourse segment of the river to provide a better appreciation of the resources, local custom, and culture. Signs would be posted at river access points to provide information on the location of adjacent access points, the length of river segments, safety concerns, and emergency services. The BLM would not provide on-site interpretation at any areas in the Copper Hill Unit, but would provide specific information or interpretive services at some sites. S-10 Chapter i PURPOSE AND NEED CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE AND NEED BACKGROUND INTRODUCTION This proposed Rio Grande Corridor Coordinated Resource Management Plan (CRMP)' is a plan for managing the public land and allocating resources along 94 miles of the Rio Grande and some 42.7 miles of its tributaries (refer to Maps 1 and 2). The document also serves as a Proposed Amendment to the Taos Resource Management Plan (RMP 1988 and 1993) and a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Proposed Plan, RMP Amendment, and Final EIS have been prepared according to the requirements of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The Rio Grande Corridor planning area includes public land within the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM's) San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office in south-central Colorado and north-central New Mexico. Usually, the BLM prepares a discrete RMP for public land in each separate Resource Area/Field Office, especially if these areas are in different states. Usually, the agency prepares individual activity plans for those portions of Resource Areas/Field Offices that deserve more intensive management, such as Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs), designated Wild and Scenic Rivers (WSRs), cultural resource areas, and grazing allotments. And, usually, the BLM does not combine individual activity-level plans with its more general, long-range RMPs. However, BLM managers in Colorado and New Mexico recognize the interdependence of the people; land and natural resources along the northern portion of the Rio Grande; and the efficiencies of a single, cooperative, coordinated resource planning effort. So this document is a little different than the usual because it includes two very different levels of BLM planning. Through this document the BLM is preparing an activity-level CRMP for the public land within the Rio Grande Corridor and amending the Taos RMP. (The San Luis RMP is not being amended.) The life of the plan is 15 years. Changes in recreation use and public demand, wildlife habitat, and ecosystem concerns have caused the BLM to take a comprehensive look at its management of public land within the Rio Grande Corridor. Additional factors contributing to the decision to prepare a CRMP have included the following: • The San Luis RMP (1991) calls for a CRMP for the Rio Grande Corridor ACEC and San Luis Hills ACEC and for 12 grazing Allotment Management Plans. It also recommends developing the CRMP jointly with the Taos Field Office. • The Taos RMP (1988) and RMP Amendments (1991 and 1994) call for preparation of individual activity plans for ACECs and other special management units and for grazing Allotment Management Plans. • Numerous units for which activity plans or studies are required exist in each Resource Area/Field Office, as shown in Table 1-1. The need to amend the Taos RMP has arisen from the following: • Public Law 103-242 (May 4, 1994) designated a 12-mile segment of the Rio Grande (from the Taos Junction Bridge to just below the County Line Recreation Site) as a National WSR and required a suitability study of an 8-mile segment of the Rio Grande (actually 7.6 miles, below the County Line Recreation Site to the Velarde Diversion Dam) for inclusion in the National WSR System. Neither of these segments was included in the Taos RMP. 1-1 T35N R9E T34N T33N T32N T31N T30N T29N T28N T27N T26N T25N T24N T23N Map 2 Planning Units Rio Grande Corridor Coordinated Resource Management Pian Planning Area Boundary Unit Boundary State Boundary Rio Grande Township and Range or Grant Line IS miles Produced by the New Mexico State Olfice Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 03, 1998 No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliabiiity, or completeness of these data for itxiividual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM. Spatiai Information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This Information may be updated without notification. CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE AND NEED BACKGROUND TABLE 1-1 SPECIAL MANAGEMENT UNITS IN THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANNING AREA Special Management Unit Resource Area/ Field Office Activity Plan Completed/Updated ^ (Year) e San Luis Hills ACEC San Luis RGCRMP Ml 998) San Luis Hills Wilderness Study Area San Luis Not needed Rio Grande Corridor ACEC and Special Recreation Management Area San Luis RGCRMP (1998) Rio Grande and Red WSRs (New Mexico state line to Taos Junction Bridge) Taos Completed (1984), RGCRMP update Wild Rivers Special Management Area Taos Not needed"* Wild Rivers Recreation Area Taos Completed (1988), RGCRMP update Guadalupe Mountain ACEC Taos RGCRMP (1998)= San Antonio-Pot Mountain Habitat Management Area (covers Upper Gorge-New Mexico) Taos Completed (1990), RGCRMP update (for portion in planning area) North Unit Transportation Plan (covers Upper Gorge-New Mexico) Taos Completed (1994) Orilla Verde Recreation Area Taos RGCRMP (1998) Racecourse ACEC Taos RGCRMP (1998)“^ 12-mile segment of Rio Grande WSR (Taos Junction to County Line Recreation Site) Taos RGCRMP (1998) 7.6-mile Bosque segment of Rio Grande WSR Study Area (County Line Recreation Site to Velarde Diversion Dam) Taos RGCRMP (1998-WSR Study) Black Mesa ACEC (includes 663 acres in planning area) Taos Completed (1993), RGCRMP update (for portion in planning area)'* Warm Springs Special Management Area Taos Not needed Embudo Canyon ACEC and Rio Embudo WSR Study Area Taos RGCRMP (1998)= Agua Caliente ACEC Taos RGCRMP (1998)= Lower Embudo Special Management Area Taos RGCRMP (1998)= Grazing allotments ( 13 in San Luis and 12 in Taos) San Luis and Taos RGCRMP (1998) Riparian/Aquatic Special Management Areas (unspecified) Taos RGCRMP (1998)^ management units are included or updated in this plan.) An Activity Plan would be completed if the Congress designated this area as Wilderness. Becomes part of Wild Rivers Recreation Area through the RGCRMP. Becomes part of Lower Gorge ACEC through the RGCRMP. Becomes part of Copper Hill ACEC through the RGCRMP Rescinded through the RGCRMP within the planning area; values are protected under other designations. 1-4 CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE AND NEED THE PLANNING PROCESS • During scoping and plan development, it, became apparent that several proposed actions were not in conformance with the current RMP and, therefore, would require an RMP Amendment. These actions include proposals to: • Dispose of three parcels of public land under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act. One parcel would be used for solid waste disposal, one for a solid waste transfer station and community purposes, and one for the personal safety of an adjacent landowner. • Change the boundaries of some ACECs and delete the “Special Management Area” (SMA) category. • Modify rights-of-way exclusion areas. • Identify additional areas that should be withdrawn from realty and/or mineral laws. Identify areas excluded from disposition under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act. • Establish Visual Resource Management classes for all public lands in the New Mexico portion of the planning area. • Exclude livestock grazing from all unallotted and unpermitted areas. • Modify areas open to oil and gas or geothermal leasing; the leasing stipulation requirements would be changed for some areas. • Establish fire suppression zones. These challenges presented the BLM San Luis and Taos Resource Area/Field Office managers with an opportunity to jointly prepare a plan for the Rio Grande Corridor. This plan is intended to facilitate BLM management of the corridor as a healthy ecosystem with emphasis on maintaining and enhancing biological diversity. LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AREA The planning area includes approximately 123,750 acres of public land in south-central Colorado and north-central New Mexico (refer to Map 3). The boundary of the planning area roughly follows the rims of the Rio Grande Gorge, except where SMAs or ACECs extend beyond. In addition to the special management units shown in Table 1-1, the planning area includes the BLM-administered land that lies between the two Colorado ACECs and the abandoned Molycorps molybdenum millsite near the Guadalupe ACEC in New Mexico. Within Colorado, the planning area encompasses approximately 47,780 acres of public land in Conejos County. It also includes approximately 75,970 acres of public land in Rio Arriba and Taos counties in New Mexico. This acreage is not large. For Colorado, .07 percent of the state's land acreage is in the planning area. However, this tiny part of Colorado contains some riparian areas that are very important to the river ecosystem. For New Mexico, the planning area acreage is .01 percent of the state's total. This small portion of New Mexico is important because the state has little water-based recreation. The planning area offers an opportunity for such recreation within 2 hours of driving time for more than 45 percent of New Mexico's population. THE PLANNING PROCESS The overall objective of resource management planning as prescribed by the BLM Planning Regulations (Title 43 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1600) is to provide a sound basis for systematically evaluating and deciding uses of the public lands. The BLM develops three types of plans: RMPs (and RMP Amendments), Activity Plans (such as CRMPs), and Project Plans.^ This document is both an amendment to the Taos RMP and an activity-level plan for the Rio Grande Corridor planning area. Once the document is approved, individual project plans will be prepared as needed. Preparation of this document follows the BLM's process for RMPs. Nine action steps compose the RMP process, as summarized on Figure 1-1. The proposed plan and Final EIS completes the planning process except for issuing a Record of Decision which would be followed by implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The process focuses on planning issues, which are significant problems, concerns, or opportunities that strongly affect management direction. Issues were identified by the general public; American Indian tribes; other federal 1-5 CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE AND NEED ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS NOT WARRANTING DETAILED ANALYSIS staff and managers. FIGURE 1-1 RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANNING PROCESS Issue IdentiRcation * Development of Planning Criteria * Inventory Data and Information Collection Management Situation Analysis Formulation of Alternatives Estimation of Effects of Alternatives Selection of Preferred Alternative * (Plan, RMP Amendment, and Draft EIS) Selection of Resource Management Plan * (Proposed Plan, RMP Amendment, Final EIS, and Record of Decision for Plan) Monitoring and Evaluation *Opportunities for public involvement occur during these steps. After considering public comments on the draft, the BLM proposes the Rio Grande Corridor CRMP and the Taos RMP Amendment. This proposed plan includes a mixture of the actions/prescriptions from various alternatives presented in the draft. The Proposed Rio Grande Corridor CRMP/Taos RMP Amendment/Final EIS includes responses to public comments received on the draft document (refer to Appendix A). Affected parties who have participated in the planning effort have 30 days in which to protest decisions in the Taos RMP Amendment. At the end of the 30-day protest period, a Record of Decision may be issued approving all decisions not affected by a protest. If there are protests they will be resolved and a Record of Decision will be issued based on the protest resolution. Following the protest period and resolution of protests, if some are received, the CRMP will be prepared as a separate stand-alone document and distributed to interested parties. Progress on the Plan’s implementation would be reported through RMP Updates for Taos Field Office and San Luis Resource Area. For CRMP decisions, persons adversely affected by the implementation of a specific action may appeal the implementation of that action. Appeals must be made to the Interior Board of Land Appeals (in accordance with 43 CFR 4.400-.704) when the action is proposed for implementation. ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS NOT WARRANTING DETAILED ANALYSIS NEPA and other regulations require that the environmental concerns of the following management programs be considered in this document. These programs have been reviewed and for the reasons stated are determined not to warrant detailed analysis. These management programs will also be reviewed during project-level environmental analyses to implement this plan. 1 . Air Quality — Recreational and other types of activities and natural occurrences may cause dust, and fires may cause smoke that for short periods of time may result in reduced air quality. Management actions taken to meet vegetation objectives should reduce dust and minimize fire- created smoke. The BLM acquires appropriate state air quality permits before conducting prescribed bums. No actions proposed in this document are expected to contribute substantially to dust- or smoke-producing occurrences. 2. Hazardous Materials — ^No known hazardous material sites exist within the planning area. If a suspected hazardous material or substance is discovered, BLM policy is to consider the site as a threat to human health and the environment. All surface and subsurface authorizations, including public access, would be suspended at and near the suspected contaminated area until the recommended response action was initiated by the BLM or other appropriate regulatory agency. Because the potential for hazardous material contamination is low in the planning 1-6 jajMRseHe*^' A ift •>. / >■ ^ 4:^ *4 I f 4 ii. M W-v'- 'l':* $ S*. -C " .';v t’- 'i <'-* , :i :iS» ’►.% j^;-, Ji, !tt *tfc'Tt ®-r i|; - ^1 •m-'- *'i '■ ' -V » : I • f* «i( .-, ►■§ unc « 1 M ^ ■. t.*- '< ■ ..- , r. lig“- V . »*■ > ' *’\(F. ; J j ■ ''^■ .,J' ,-» ^ w4!i ' *1 . n ■ » *-V.' ■“" ■“ “ ■ nX^S'lt! -V^ i'*-»||f, s ' ^ ; f{ “ . '. '■* .i»f It ' ♦V, C^. t- *.A?V ;. . •»>"4 5-V^ ■. 'f'«*i.. T f i \ jT # • l?CT j‘ '; . .-' V . \ ’ t &i ')•’ ■■ ■J ■ f. ^ •* * -^;: ' f » i. It 5^ ■/ , ■••■r ^ ':■•■ . : i: i . , :H *• ■>c^ ■' >' iUft s ' « < r . ^ . X^iM / s. » . / 4 . -i . - 4 MIP^I •t ,‘* - n 'jM*' **»^. *m * \ CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE AND NEED PLANNING ISSUES AND CRITERIA FOR THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLAN area, and all authorizations would be suspended until the proper response action is completed, this program is dropped from further analysis in this document. 3. Prime Farmland — No public land within the planning area meets the criteria for prime farmland.^ 4. Water Quantity — Flows in the Rio Grande are governed by international treaty and interstate compact. Within the state of New Mexico, the Rio Grande Compact is administered by the Interstate Stream Commission. Within Colorado, the Division Engineer, an employee of the Colorado Division of Water Resources, is responsible for that control. The international treaty with Mexico is managed by the State Department’s International Boundary and Water Commission in cooperation with the Rio Grande Compact administrators. 5. Wild Horses and Burros — ^No wild horse or burro herds exist in the planning area. 6. Wilderness Review — The BLM in Colorado and New Mexico has completed its review of public lands for their wilderness suitability and developed recommendations for wilderness as required by Section 603(a) of FLPMA. The Congress has not acted on these recommendations. The San Luis Hills Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is the only part of the planning area that is under consideration for wilderness designation; it is recommended as "not suitable" for this designation in the Canon City District Wilderness Final EIS (USDI, BLM 1987). No additional review or recommendations for wilderness will be made in this planning effort. Pending a decision by the Congress on designation, the San Luis Hills WSA is being managed under the BLM's Interim Management Policy for Lands Under Wilderness Review {USDI, BLM 1995). PLANNING ISSUES AND CRITERIA FOR THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLAN As shown on Figure 1-1, issue identification is the first step in the planning process. After all tentative issues have been identified, the District/Field Office Manager(s) select(s) the topics to be addressed as issues for the plan. These issues become the center or focal point of the plan. Planning issues include the following characteristics: • They represent significant decisions that must be made. • They are controversial (problems or opportunities) and demand management attention. • They raise choices to which alternative management responses can be made. • They can be dealt with under BLM authority and jurisdiction. • They lead to an action (i.e., protection, designation, or special management). • They do not pertain to a subject already resolved in a previous plan or EIS unless new information shows that the previous decision is no longer accurate. Planning criteria are factors the BLM evaluates when developing answers to (decisions about) the issues. These criteria direct the preparation of the plan, establishing limits on the analysis needed to resolve the issues. They determine how the planning team approaches the development of alternatives and, ultimately, the selection of a proposed plan. Planning criteria consist of discretionary (optional) and non-discretionary (required) standards. Examples of non-discretionary criteria are various applicable laws (such as FLPMA and the Endangered Species Act), regulations, policies, and Executive Orders. (These non-discretionary criteria are included in Chapter 2 and in the Taos and San Luis RMPs.) Discretionary criteria are reflected in the following section that describes the issues that were addressed in this planning effort. The issues and criteria outlined in Table 1-2 were identified based on the public input received in the scoping meetings; the judgements of an interdisciplinary team of BLM resource specialists; review by BLM managers; interagency consultation; New Mexico state government input; and extensive discussions with individuals, industry representatives, and public interest groups. 1-8 CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE AND NEED PLANNING ISSUES AND CRITERIA FOR THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLAN Some issues raised during the scoping meetings are not addressed because they are outside the BLM's jurisdiction, are covered by previous plans, or can be better handled through day-to-day standard operating procedures. Examples of issues outside the BLM's control include grazing fees, water rights or other matters detemiined by law or regulation, or those matters controlled by other agencies. Emergency services were originally listed as an issue. However, BLM managers have determined that this concern can be adequately resolved administratively through cooperative agreements with interested parties. The issues addressed in this plan represent resource or program areas for which the BLM anticipates changes in management direction within the Rio Grande Corridor as a result of the planning process. The issues are not arranged in any order of priority. 1-9 MAr 1 tK 1 PLANNING ISSUES AND CRITERIA PURPOSE AND NEED FOR THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLAN MO z < -1 D- ai O Q 5 CCJ ^ o 0^ UJ 5 u Q z < D CO CO uu Q Z a 2 z o z z < -J cu O 5 m z H Qi o Cu Q w cu Z Q Z < 0^ cu W CO H CL < X U O 0- 0^ D cu L 1 tK 1 PLANNING ISSUES AND CRITERIA PURPOSE AND NEED FOR THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLAN I-I2 < 2 w H 5 u Q < < -J Q, o Q 5 ocj w ^ D (73 S2 o u Q a o < -j Ou tu DC H ai O Q W w Z Q - < QC LQ u c/5 e- o a, < X u cu D a. \ 1-13 CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE AND NEED PLANNING ISSUES AND CRITERIA FOR THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLAN NOTES 1 . A Coordinated Resource Management Plan or CRMP is an activity plan that addresses two or more resources and involves a high level of coordination between resource specialists and with user groups. 2. An RMP is a general land use plan as prescribed by FLPMA. An RMP Amendment is a modification of a portion of the original RMP. An RMP or RMP Amendment is always accompanied by an Environmental Assessment (EA) or EIS. An Activity Plan is a more detailed and specific plan for managing a single resource program or special management unit; this plan is undertaken to implement the more general RMP decisions. Examples include cultural resource management plans for particular sites, wildlife habitat management plans, ACEC plans, WSR plans, and transportation management plans. An Activity Plan is usually accompanied by an EA, and occasionally an EIS for more complex activity plans. A Project Plan is a very detailed, site- specific plan for developing a particular project, such as an interpretive kiosk, a wildlife guzzler, or a campground. Project Plans identify the specific location of facilities within the site and provide the survey and design requirements. They are usually accompanied by an EA. 3. Prime Farmland is of major importance in meeting the nation's needs for food and fiber. It is defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as "that land best suited to food, feed forage, fiber, and oilseed crops." In general, prime farmland has the soil quality with few or no rocks, an adequate and dependable water supply from precipitation or irrigation to meet moisture requirements 8 out of 10 years, and favorable soil temperature and growing season needed to economically produce high yield crops when treated and managed. 4. Eligibility is the qualification of a river for inclusion into the National WSR System through determination that it is free flowing, and with its adjacent land area, possesses at least one river-related value considered to be outstandingly remarkable. Classification is the process whereby rivers are segmented according to the criteria and classes established in Section 2(b) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (“Wild”, “Scenic”, and/or “Recreational” river areas). Each eligible river segment is further evaluated in the RMP process to assess whether or not it would be suitable for inclusion in the national system. 1-14 •Si ' J ■ “1 \ . - ■' ’'K'< 'Hi iJC i^iirrtAJO ' j •' « I A ? ^ » AH . rw‘^ ■*- ■ ^vV '' ’V>'’ A' i ■ .? •! ■!• vv; >- *• ‘ v^* V 4n .1 ■ ■ ■ — ' ■ " 1 i >i 4 ■ . '. ... : . ■ VfT <. .At/’ .. -'i I»Ktfe^ t tl tt/*. 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V ti^u^ iSH th^- w .r'*' X ■ isr i, •y / <■>( lii ' 4- t’ * > ■5. hi. \A>' 'M ‘r. ^ r^t-. ii Mh jf? x'?;.y » ri;/ ?- J) ■* . ■ r -' , ■• '" ■'■' y^iJSbh^a i'n.T»Uc ‘ '1 a/m . ^ ■* ^ * il •• t* *V . ,A>''i,t |>^fl^I|^^ ifij L »-;. -■i* *0 ?5fcj‘ouj.wr^ .A ^nm jnoiorii ]Ht^^iii ^rtir4(h klL^tz:fU') 7-T f --5 ''-ft V-V'V'vff-' ;rHVv-rn& t»i.,. . ^•'^. . A bctu' jj?idi^4’Sd- ■ * fe ' - _^a* 1 % ^ ^ ^ ^ k ^ r fr. — ' >iie» i M V. r* rBH ^ ' V??'* * ■ ' H *f jflT? !ipattf ^ sji? tiutiin i(lw ^ -.It® ?r.-i^ $ C? l»'4K>Vr.pi O >. i-itxuWR^l . *fl V^ ii_ u,«U»vT5 '*ir ' VVJr^.’tr. , * ii^* w - . .. ■‘■ ' ^ 'i .')Ji *- * 'f’^''r ^ , :/ 'l^';;!f*^. mm {iv S ^ ' •i' . ‘ ’ ■ - • J ? '^i™ / ■’ \y V , ■ ; ^.-V C-t, ' t|HT. t '^CwC ^-f.‘ ■ ; L ■^,; :\i*4 A« *• ,' ■\-s • MB m": ’■■ ‘Zs^ ‘ > .*33 . * 4 ¥ r ■ } V. . i '.^t, 0 'ii 3 “ 4B» CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 1 Activity-Level Proposals Issue 1: WSR Recommendations The WSR designations on 64 miles of the Rio Grande and 4 miles of the Red River would not change. Under the Proposed Plan, the BLM would recommend an additional 12.6 miles of river for designation by Congress, as described below. In Colorado, 41 miles of the Rio Grande (including 22 miles in the planning area) would remain under interim protection. Another 10.1 miles on five stream segments in New Mexico would be under interim protection to preserve the resources that made them eligible. (These segments would be studied for their suitability at a later time.) Within the planning area, 108.7 miles of rivers or streams would be protected for these values, either as designated WSRs or under interim protection (refer to Table 2-1). The BLM would work with Taos and Rio Arriba counties to develop local land use plans to meet the objectives of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Upper Gorge Unit — Colorado In the Colorado portion of this unit, the BLM has recommended a 22-mile segment of the Rio Grande from the La Sauses Cemetery to the New Mexico state line as suitable for designation, with 14 miles from the cemetery to the Lobatos Bridge as scenic, and 8 miles from the bridge to the state line as wild. Until Congress designates these river stretches, the BLM is managing this segment under interim management restrictions to protect their wild and scenic values beyond the turn of the century. (The interim boundaries are 0.25 mile from the ordinary high-water mark on each side of the river.) Upper Gorge Unit — New Mexico In New Mexico, the Rio Grande between the state line and the Taos Junction Bridge (48 miles) and 4 miles of the Red River were among the first rivers designated in 1968. These segments would continue to be managed for their wild and scenic values. The BLM would continue to Jointly manage the Carson National Forest portion of the WSR. Lower Gorge Unit The BLM would manage the 12-mile segment of the Rio Grande designated as scenic in 1994 to maintain its recognized values. A permanent boundary would be established, as shown on Map 5. Under the Proposed Plan, the WSR boundary between T.23, N. R.IO, E., Section 15, SWl/4, NEl/4, and the west boundary of Section 20, would be moved to the north side of the highway right-of-way, accommodating future highway expansion without compromising WSR values. The 7.6-mile-long study segment identified in the 1994 legislation would be recommended for recreational classification. Copper Hill Unit The BLM would recommend a 5-mile segment of the Rio Embudo and Embudo Box for designation as a wild component of the WSR System. Proposed boundaries are shown on Map 5, and management prescriptions would be those discussed throughout the description of this Proposed Plan. The BLM would complete suitability studies with the Carson National Forest on their adjoining portions of the following 10.1 miles of streams and river segments (tentative classifications are shown in parentheses): Arroyo Hondo (scenic), Tierra Amarilla Canyon (scenic), Agua Caliente Canyon (scenic/wild), Cafiada de OJo Sarco (scenic), and Rio de las Trampas (scenic). The BLM would manage these segments for protection of their wild and scenic values until the Congress determines their status. The interim boundaries would be 0.25 mile beyond the ordinary high water line. (Refer to Map 5 for segment locations and the portions of each that would be afforded this status, and to Appendix B for more information on the suitability studies.) 2-16 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE I TABLE 2-1 RIVER SEGMENTS MANAGED FOR WILD AND SCENIC VALUES (designated and eligible segments) Unit/River Segment (Y ear Designated) River Miles, Acreage Classification Suitability Recommendation Under Proposed Plan UoDcr Goree Rio Grande - Colorado 22 miles 1,280 acres public 3,200 acres private Wild (8 miles) Scenic (14 miles, tentative) Suitable, as previously determined in the San Luis RMP. Rio Grande/ Red River (1968) 56 miles 13,516 acres public 1,306 acres USES 340 acres state 1 28 acres private Wild (53 miles) Recreational (3 miles) N/A Lower Goree Rio Grande - Extension (1994) 12 miles 3,990 acres public 590 acres private Scenic Refer to Map 5 for proposed boundary. Rio Grande - Bosque 7.6 miles 1,100 acres public 1,087 acres private Recreational (tentative) Suitable - Recreational Arroyo Hondo 1.2 miles 380 acres public Scenic (tentative) Suitability analysis deferred. Conner Hill Rio Embudo Box 5 miles 990 acres public 550 acres state Wild (tentative) Suitable - Wild Tierra Amarilla Canyon 2.3 miles 390 acres public 2 1 0 acres state Scenic (tentative) Suitability analysis deferred. Agua Caliente Canyon 2.9 miles 790 acres public 40 acres private 40 acres state Wild (1.9 miles) Scenic (1.0 miles) (tentative) Suitability analysis deferred. Cafiada de Ojo Sarco 2.4 miles 450 acres public 40 acres state 90 acres private Scenic (tentative) Suitability analysis deferred. Rio de las Trampas 1.3 miles 210 acres public Scenic (tentative) Suitability analysis deferred. Miles designated: 64 [13,516 acres public (BLM); 1,306 U.S. Forest Service; 340 state; 128 private) Miles recommended as suitable (New Mexico): 22 (1,280 acres public; 3,200 private) Miles recommended as suitable: 12.6 (2,086 acres public; 550 state; 1,087 private) Total 3,723 Miles eligible, with deferred suitability recommendation: 10. 1 (2,220 acres public; 290 state; 130 nrivate) 2-17 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 2 Issue 2: Riparian Resources A total of 344 acres of public land with (or with potential for) riparian vegetation would continue to exist in the planning area, 127 acres in Colorado and 217 acres in New Mexico. The BLM would continue the withdrawal of these areas from mineral entry and would keep them closed to mineral and geothermal leasing. Under the Proposed Plan, grazing would be eliminated from all riparian areas in New Mexico with the exception of Cuestecita Allotment; over the long term, grazing would be excluded from this allotment and in Colorado except at water gaps, until proper functioning condition was achieved. Vehicle access, where practical, would not be allowed within 25 feet of perennial streams, unless mitigating measures are applied. Vegetation removal, with the exception of exotic species, would continue to be prohibited. Monitoring of riparian areas usually varies in intensity and complexity, but is used as a means of guiding progress towards identified objectives. In most cases, the lower intensity of monitoring would occur on areas that are at potential, are not deteriorated, or that have little likelihood of producing resource benefits. Following are the proposed monitoring methods necessary for measuring the achievement of objectives in the Proposed Plan. Riparian Monitoring 1 Type Frequency Photo points at key areas every year Ecological site inventory (Colorado) 3 years Aerial photography interpretation every 5 years or as needed Woody species density every 5 years or as needed Woody species form, vigor, and utilization class every 5 years or as needed Woody species age class every 5 years or as needed Stream channel cross sections every 5 years or as needed (Note: In New Mexico, riparian areas would be included in new or enlarged ACECs or recreation areas to provide for special management and protection of these resources. Refer to the proposed Taos RMP amendments described for the Proposed Plan.) To further protect these areas or reestablish riparian vegetation, the agency would take the following actions. Upper Gorge Unit — Colorado The BLM would manage the 22 miles of the Rio Grande in Colorado for riparian protection. The agency's goal would be to improve a total of 124.5 acres or 98 percent of the riparian habitat to properly functioning condition within 10 years. The BLM would take the following actions if the Proposed Plan is adopted: • Continue to work with local private and public groups to eliminate unauthorized livestock grazing in riparian areas by cattle moving from private lands on the east side of the Rio Grande. • Continue to allow grazing in the riparian areas of the La Sauses (#4255), Pifion Hills (#4249), Mesa Common (#4251), Pifion (#4245 A and B), and Flat Top (#4253) allotments at small water gaps (about 2.5 acres total). The remainder of the riparian area in these allotments would be allowed to rest until the standards for a properly functioning riparian area were met on 124.5 acres. Once the standards were met, grazing would be allowed as long as a 4-inch stubble height on herbaceous species was maintained through the May to June high-water season, no more than 20 percent of the annual growth of woody riparian species was used by livestock, and the area’s ecological health was maintained. 2-19 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 2 • Designate all routes within riparian areas between the La Sauses Cemetery and the Lobatos Bridge (on the west side) as closed to vehicle use. In addition, the agency would treat closed routes to enhance riparian vegetation (on 0.5 acre). • Plant 10 acres with willows and 3 acres with cottonwoods over the first 5 years following plan approval to restore native species. Additional plantings will be undertaken as additional funding and partnerships become available. Upper Gorge Unit — New Mexico The BLM would manage 48 miles of the Rio Grande and 4 miles of the Red River to conserve the riparian vegetation that is considered to be in properly functioning condition. The BLM would take the following specific action: • Enhance a portion of the riparian area at the John Dunn Bridge (0. 1 acre) by restricting turnaround and parking space to an area sufficient for 5 cars at the east-side beach. The launch site on the river's west side at the John Dunn Bridge would be expanded by .05 acre. These actions would provide a net gain of .05 acre of riparian vegetation. Lower Gorge Unit Riparian habitat in this unit would be maintained by improving roads and trails with the goal of minimizing sedimentation and improving water quality. The BLM's goal of improving riparian condition on 9 acres would be achieved through the following actions: • Close several sites to vehicles including the river access road at the Arroyo Hondo Campground, public lands at the confluence of the Rio Grande and Rio Embudo, a vehicle pullout located 0.5 mile south of Embudo Station on the east shore, and the pullout located just upstream from the Velarde Diversion Dam (also on the east shore). The public land at Lover's Lane would be closed to vehicles, as well as most of the adjacent private lands that were acquired. (Parking would only be available on a 0.5-acre area between NM 68 and the cottonwoods.) • Attempt to acquire 2,5 1 0 acres of private land adjacent to the Taos Junction Bridge and manage the 1 .5 miles of shoreline for riparian habitat by closing selected areas (totaling 1 .4 acres) to vehicle use. A .2-acre area east of the Taos Junction Bridge would remain open to shoreline uses. • Continue the salt cedar removal project at the Orilla Verde Recreation Area to improve riparian vegetation diversity on an additional 2 acres. • Exclude grazing from all riparian areas in the new Lower Gorge ACEC. [Refer to the actions proposed for the Pajarito Allotment (#636) in Table 2-2 in the discussion on livestock management.] Copper Hill Unit The BLM would manage 7 miles located along five short stream segments to improve their current riparian classification of functioning at risk. The BLM would take the following specific action: • Closely monitor grazing within the Rio de las Trampas and Cafiada de Ojo Sarco riparian areas (in the Cuestecita Allotment, #521) to ensure properly functioning riparian condition. Only the current permittees would retain their grazing privileges. Grazing would be excluded upon relinquishment of the permit. No permit transfers would be allowed. All other areas within the unit would be excluded from grazing. 2-20 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 Issue 3: Vegetation^ Soils^ Water Quality, Livestock Management, and Wildlife Habitat Vegetation, Soils, and Water Quality The BLM would treat 13,703 acres, primarily by conducting prescribed bums, following a "let bum" policy for naturally caused fires or mechanically thinning selected plant species. Herbicides would be used only if the other efforts were unsuccessful. These actions, when implemented, would be expected to provide more forage, which would be allocated in part to wildlife and improving watershed conditions, and in part to livestock. (Refer to Appendix E and Table 2-2 for more information on the allotments proposed to undergo these improvements.) To improve watershed and wildlife habitat conditions, approximately 76.3 miles of roads would be closed to motorized vehicles. The Taos Field Office and San Luis Resource Area would work closely with the BLM’s National Applied Resource Science Center to study stream channel morphology. The agency would complete fire management plans for the Taos Field Office and San Luis Resource Area to implement many of the actions discussed under the Proposed Plan. Projects would be developed as needed to control exotic and noxious weeds. In the New Mexico portion of the planning area, actions would be directed by the Weed Prevention Plan 1996). Actions would include stipulating the use of weed-free seed mixes and feed or straw bedding, reseeding of all areas disturbed by planned actions, and extra care to keep human activities in weed-infested areas from spreading the infestation. Upper Gorge Unit — Colorado Sparse Shrub/Grassland The BLM would develop three test plots in the sandy bench range type. On one plot native cool- season seed (such as Western wheatgrass or Indian ricegrass) would be broadcast. Another plot would be reseeded with the same species, but by drilling instead of by broadcast. The third plot would be a control plot where no treatment would be applied. If these tests were successful, up to 4 percent of the range sites (1,124 acres) would be reseeded by the best method over the life of the plan, as funding became available. Treated areas would be rested from livestock grazing for 2 years to ensure greater success. If the tests were unsuccessful, the BLM would develop partnerships with universities or colleges for graduate studies to determine other methods for successfully reestablishing desirable species on these sites. The best available methods would be used until desired species were reestablished on 4 percent of the range sites. In the Flat Top Mountain WSA, only native species would be reestablished using broadcast seeding by hand. All Units — ^New Mexico Oakbrush Woodland Through planned and natural ignition, the BLM would bum 184 acres in New Mexico to create a diverse growth structure and restore habitat. Bums would only take place on lands with a 0 to 20 percent slope. Savanna Woodland The BLM would treat 4,236 acres in areas where stand expansion has occurred using mechanical thinning methods or planned/natural burning. Bums would only take place on lands with no more than 33 percent slopes. The public would be allowed to harvest a minimum of 75 percent of the wood treated under the Proposed Plan. Pihon-Juniper Woodland The BLM would mechanically thin or bum (by planned or natural ignition) 2,994 acres of pifion-Juniper woodland. Areas selected for treatment 2-21 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 would have slopes of less than 20 percent and would not be on ridges or north slopes. To create a mosaic pattern only 20 percent of a particular area would be treated, and treated sites would not be replanted. In mechanically thinned areas, prescribed bums would be scheduled 3 to 5 years later to remove seedlings. Each area treated would have one or two snags left per acre for wildlife. The public would be allowed to harvest a minimum of 75 percent of the wood treated under the Proposed Plan. Mixed Conifer Woodland Approximately 9,744 acres in the New Mexico portion of the planning area are covered by mixed conifer woodland. About 20 percent of this area (1,642 acres) would be mechanically thinned to improve the competitive advantage for ponderosa pine, reduce the potential for catastrophic fire, and allow the natural fire process to be reestablished. The total square footage of remaining trunks (of all species) would average 40 to 80 square feet per acre treated. The areas to be treated would be selected where slopes were less than 20 percent avoiding ridges and north slopes. To maintain these treated stands, the BLM would carry out bums (planned or natural) at 3- to 5-year intervals to keep seedlings under control and would not replant them. A minimum of five snags per acre would be left as wildlife habitat. The public would be allowed to harvest a minimum of 75 percent of the wood treated under the Proposed Plan. Shrub/Grassland Through planned or natural ignition the BLM would bum 3,523 acres to improve ecological condition and species composition. If needed to ensure enough fuel for a proper controlled bum, areas would be rested from livestock grazing for a year. To create a mosaic pattern, bum plans would be tailored to ensure that 50 to 75 percent of the shmbs were killed. The BLM would limit treatment to sites with slopes less than 20 percent and no more than 33 percent of any site with this type of vegetation. Burned areas would be reseeded with native species where the potential existed for invasion by noxious weeds, cheatgrass, or other undesirable species. The agency would rest treated areas from livestock grazing for at least 2 years to allow reestablishment of grasses. If burning was unsuccessful in meeting vegetation objectives, sites would be treated with herbicides. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines require that no herbicides be applied within 0.5 mile of a residence, developed recreation site, or perennial stream. Livestock Management Of the planning area's 123,750 public land acres, 73,105 would be in 25 allotments that would remain under permit for seasonal grazing by sheep and cattle. The BLM in both states has standards for rangeland health and grazing guidelines to help the agency and allottees meet those standards. These standards and guidelines direct livestock management on public lands (see page 2-3). Under the Proposed Plan, allotment boundaries established in the San Luis and Taos RMPs would remain in effect on all but two allotments (521 and 636) in New Mexico. Under the Proposed Plan, in New Mexico allotments #603 and #641 are only partially in the planning area. For this reason, information for these allotments was not included in the tables for the plan. However, the vegetative treatments proposed for these allotments were included in the plan and the analysis. One allotment in Colorado (#4245, Pinon) would be split into two allotments. In New Mexico, vegetative inventories and monitoring studies would be conducted in accordance with the Taos Monitoring Plan (USDI, BLM 1988) as required to establish the existing condition, estimate resource potential, evaluate changes in resource condition over time, and evaluate the effectiveness of management actions. If grazing preference AUMs become available in the Rio Grande Corridor, the grazing use of these AUMs would be at the discretion of the Authorized Officer and would be prescribed to meet vegetation management objectives. The type, class (i.e., cattle. 2-22 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 sheep, goats, horses, or other livestock) of grazing, and season of use would be determined and then a grazing schedule applied to the area where the AUMs are permitted. Table 2-2 contains a description of the basic management guidelines for each allotment under the Proposed Plan. Table 2-3 provides an overview of the AUMs that would be allowed for each allotment. (Refer to Chapter 3, Table 3-8 for additional information on these allotments.) The following terms are used to describe grazing management in Table 2-2: (1) deferment - involves delay of grazing in a pasture until the seed maturity (ripening) of the key forage species; (2) rest - is distinguished from deferment in that the range receives nonuse for a full year rather than just during the growth period; (3) rotation - involves the movement of livestock from one pasture to another on a scheduled basis. Systems with deferment and rest typically involve livestock rotations. - TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - Colorado 4243 River Allotment Grazing System: Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: Each Year One pasture with deferred rotation (deferred until after seed ripe) Cattle; 200 allowable animal unit months (AUMs) October 1 to November 12 Graze October 1 to November 12 Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned None planned Inventory and monitor range condition on 627 acres (50 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend every three years after growing season. 4244 South Valley Allotment Grazing System: Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 One pasture with deferred rotation (deferred until after seed ripe) every fourth year Cattle; 136 allowable AUMs December 1 to February 8 Graze December 1 to February 8 Graze December 1 to February 8 Graze December 1 to February 8 Rest Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned None planned; livestock water at river on narrow rocky natural water gap Inventory and monitor range condition on 738 acres (25 percent of the uninventoried area) over next 15 years. Monitor trend every fourth year when allotment is rested. 2-23 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 GRAZING TABLE 2-2 ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - Colorado (continued) 4245A North Pinon Allotment Grazing System: Allotment would be split into two; one-pasture deferred rotation system would be developed on each with rest every third year Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 168 AUMs Seasons of Use: May 20 to June 24 and November 6 to November 30 Year 1 Graze May 20 to June 24 Year 2 Graze November 6, to November 30 Year 3 Rest This grazing plan allows for complete rest every third year for both allotments in the spring and fall. Vegetation Treatment: Reseed 2 1 5 acres of sandy bench range site w/mix of native cool-season grasses and forbs. The BUM would work w/private landowner to improve riparian condition. Allocate expected forage increase of 4 AUMs to wildlife/watershed (3 AUMs) and livestock (1 AUM). Range Improvements: Develop well and 2 miles pipeline to water this, Pinon Hills and Kiowa Hill Allotments. Permittee would haul water to livestock w/change in location every 10 days. Monitoring: Inventory and monitor range condition on 500 acres (50 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend in Year 3 when rested and repeated every three years. 4245B South Pinon Allotment Grazing System: One pasture deferred rotation with rest every third year Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 114 AUMs Seasons of Use May 20 to June 24 and November 6 to November 30 Year 1 Graze November 6 to November 30 Year 2 Graze May 20 to June 24 Year 3 Rest This grazing plan allows for complete rest every third year for both allotments in the spring and fall. Vegetation Treatment: None planned Range Improvements: Haul water to livestock w/change in location every 10 days Monitoring: Inventory and monitor range condition on 500 acres (50 percent of uninventoried area) over next 15 years. Monitor trend in Year 3 when rested and repeated every three years. 4247 Braiden Allotment Grazing System: Develop grazing system with full year's rest (deferred until after seed rest) every fourth year Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 40 allowable AUMs Season of Use: November 1 to November 20 Year 1 Graze November 1 to November 20 Year 2 Graze November 1 to November 20 Year 3 Graze November 1 to November 20 Year 4 Rest Vegetation Treatment: None planned Range Improvements: None planned Monitoring: Inventory and monitor range condition on 960 acres (100 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend every fourth year when allotment is rested. 2-24 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - Colorado (cont'd) 4248 Kiowa Hill Allotment Grazing System: Three pasture rest rotation with rest every three years Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 209 allowable AUMs Seasons of Use: May 16 to June 15 and October 10 to November 9 fVesf Pasture North Pasture East Pasture Year 1 Graze May 16 to June 1 5 Graze October 1 0 to November 9 Rest Year 2 Rest Graze May 16 to June 15 Graze October 10 to November 9 Year 3 Graze October 10 to November 9 Rest Graze May 1 5 to June 1 5 This plan allows for complete rest every one pasture every year. Deferring livestock grazing until after seed ripe occurs in one pasture every year. Vegetation Treatment: None planned Range Improvements: Develop well and 2 miles pipeline to water this, Piflon Hills and North Piflon Allotments for improved livestock distribution Monitoring: Inventory and monitor range condition on 1,373 acres (50 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend in year shown when pastures are rested and reread again as sequence repeats itself; trend is read every third year in a pasture. 4249 Pihon Hills Allotment Grazing System: Animals and AUMs: Seasons of Use: Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 One pasture with full year's rest every three years (deferred until after seed ripe is second year) Cattle; 502 allowable AUMs May 16 to June 15 and October 1 1 to December 24 Graze May 16 to June 15 Graze October 1 1 to December 24 Rest Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: Reseed 359 acres sandy bench range site with cool-season native grasses and forbs. Improve riparian condition by developing additional water gaps along river. Allocate expected forage increase of six AUMs to wildlife/watershed (four AUMs) and livestock (two AUMs). Develop new well to water Piflon Hills, Eight Mile, and Mesa Allotments, and pipe water 1 mile to Flat Top and San Luis Hills Allotments. Second well and 2 miles pipeline would water this, Kiowa Hills and North Piflon Allotments. Develop permanent water gaps on river to improve livestock distribution and riparian condition. Inventory and monitor range condition on 1,723 acres (25 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend every three years when allotment is rested. 2-25 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - Colorado (cont'd) 4250 Eight Mile Allotment Grazing System: Two pasture rest-rotation with rest every fourth year Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 213 allowable AUMs Seasons of Use: May 1 5 to May 30 and November 24 to December 1 5 East Pasture Year 1 Graze May 15 to May 30 Year 2 Graze November 24 to December 1 5 Year 3 Graze May 1 5 to May 30 Year 4 Graze November 24 to December 1 5 Years Rest West Pasture Graze November 24 to December Graze May 15 to May 30 Graze November 24 to December Graze May 15 to May 30 Rest This grazing system allows complete rest every fifth year on the entire allotment. 15 15 Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: Reseed 1 02 acres sandy bench range site with cool-season native grasses and forbs. Allocate expected increase of three AUMs to wildlife/watershed (two AUMs) and livestock (one AUM). Develop well to water Eight-Mile, Pinon Hills, and Mesa Allotments; pipe water 1 mile to Flat Top and San Luis Hills Allotments. Inventory and monitor range condition on 1,322 acres (50 percent of the uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend every fifth year when rested. 4251 Mesa Common Allotment Grazing System: Three pasture deferred rest-rotation with rest every three years Animals and AUMs: Sheep; 270 allowable AUMs Season of Use: January 1 to January 23 and September 15 to October 6 East Pasture Year 1 Graze September 15 to October 6 Year 2 Graze January 1 to January 23 Year 3 Rest Middle Pasture Graze January 1 to January 23 Rest Graze September 1 5 to October 6 West Pasture Rest Graze September 1 5 to October 6 Graze January 1 to January 23 Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned Develop well to water Mesa, Eight-Mile, and Pinon Hills Allotments; pipe water 1 mile to Flat Top and San Luis Hills Allotments. Develop permanent water gaps on river. Inventory and monitor range condition on 1,043 acres (50 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend in year shown when pastures are rested and reread again as sequence repeats itself 2-26 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - Colorado (cont'd) 4252 San Luis Hills Allotment Grazing System: One pasture deferred grazing with rest every third year Animals and AUMs; Season of Use: Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Sheep; 1 10 allowable AUMs February 1 to February 18 Graze February 1 to February 18 Graze February 1 to February 18 Rest Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: None planned Develop well to water Eight Mile, Pifion Hills and Mesa Allotments; pipe water 1 mile to this and Flat Top Allotments Monitoring: Inventory and monitor range condition on 905 acres (100 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend every third year when allotment is rested. 4253 Flat Top Allotment Grazing System: Three pasture deferred grazing (deferred until after seed ripe in all pastures) with rest every three Animals and AUMs: Seasons of Use: years Sheep; 175 allowable AUMs September 15 to September 30 and February 1 to February 14 East Pasture West Pasture Middle Pasture Year 1 Graze September 15 to September 30 Graze February 1 Rest to February 14 Year 2 Graze February 1 to February 14 Rest Graze September 15 to September 30 Year 3 Rest Rest Rest Vegetation Treatment: Reseed 151 acres sandy bench range site with cool-season native grasses and forbs. Improve riparian area by excluding cattle from along river. Allocate expected forage increase of three AUMs to wildlife/watershed (two AUMs) and livestock (one AUM). Range Improvements: Develop permanent water gaps on river to improve livestock distribution and riparian condition. Develop well to water Eight-Mile, Pifion Hills and Mesa Allotments; pipe water 1 mile to this and San Luis Hills Allotment. Monitoring: Inventory and monitor range condition on 790 acres (25 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend every third year when allotment is rested. 2-27 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - Colorado (cont’d) 4255 La Sauses Allotment Grazing System; Three pasture rest-rotation with rest every third year Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 138 allowable AUMs Seasons of Use; May 15 to June 15 and October 30 to November 10 Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 North Pasture Graze May 1 5 to June 1 5 Rest Graze October 30 to November 10 West Pasture Rest East Pasture Graze October 30 to November 10 Graze May 15 to June 15 . ^ Rest This grazing plan allows for complete year of rest in one pasture every year. Pastures are not grazed again in spring until the following third year of the cycle. Deferring grazing until after seed ripe occurs in one pasture every year. Year four repeats the cycle. Graze October 30 to November 10 Graze May 15 to June 15 Vegetation Treatment; Range Improvements; Monitoring; Reseed 180 acres sandy bench range site with cool-season native grasses and forbs. Allocate expected forage increase of three AUMs to wildlife/watershed (two AUMs) and livestock (one AUM). Equip existing well to water livestock, and develop new well to supply water to this and East Bend Allotment to improve livestock distribution. Install permanent water gaps along river to protect riparian zone. Inventory and monitor range condition on 1,560 acres (50 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend in year shown when pastures are rested and reread again as sequence repeats itself Trend is read every third year in a pasture. 4256 East Bend Allotment Grazing System; Animals and AUMs; Seasons of Use; Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Deferred until after seed ripe. One pasture deferred grazing (deferred until after seed ripe) with rest every third year Sheep; 150 allowable AUMs March 1 to March 13 and November 7 to November 18 Graze March 1 to March 13 and November 7 to November 18 Graze March 1 to March 13 and November 7 to November 18 Rest Vegetation Treatment; Range Improvements; Monitoring; Reseed 125 acres sandy bench range site with cool-season native grasses and forbs. (Refer to proposed actions for Riparian Resources and Sparse Shrub/Grassland Association.) Allocate expected forage increase of 2 AUMs to wildlife (1 AUM) and livestock (1 AUM). Develop new well to supply water to this and La Sauses Allotments to improve livestock distribution. Inventory and monitor range condition on 607 acres (50 percent of uninventoried area) over next 1 5 years. Monitor trend every third year during allotment rest. 2-28 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - New Mexico 606 Wild River Allotment Grazing System: Four pasture deferred rotation system (includes Allotment #64 1 ); use excluded during most cool- Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: season growth periods Cattle; 404 AUMS (275 in planning area) May 1 to November 1 64 1 Pasture West Pasture East Pasture South Pasture (Loop) Year 1 Graze May 1 to June 29 Graze June 30 to Graze August 16 Graze October 1 to August 15 to September 30 November 1 Year 2 Graze August 2 Graze May 1 to Graze June 17 Graze October 1 to to September 30 June 16 to August 1 November 1 Year 3 Graze June 16 Graze August 15 Graze May 1 to Graze October 1 to to August 14 to September 30 June 15 November 1 Vegetation Treatment: Mechanically thin or bum 295 acres woodland, and bum 163 acres shmb/grassland to reduce soil erosion, increase stmctural diversity and cool-season grass component. Allocate expected forage increase of eight AUMs to wildlife/watershed. Range Improvements: Monitoring: Note: None planned. Monitor range condition at least once every three years. Grazing in the South Pasture (loop) would be eliminated upon completion of vegetative projects proposed in a settlement agreement, dated 1991. 608 Guadalupe Allotment Grazing System: No system in place; one pasture allotment with no fence, allowing cattle to graze 2,060 acres of Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: unleased public and state land Cattle; 210 AUMs May 1 to July 30 (each year) Partial cool season rest prior to May 1 Partial warm season rest after July 30 Vegetation Treatment: Mechanically thin or bum 458 acres woodland, and bum 61 acres shmb/grassland to reduce soil erosion, increase stmctural diversity and cool-season grass component. Allocate expected forage increase of six AUMs to wildlife/watershed. Range Improvements: None planned; permittee would haul water to various parts of allotment to improve livestock distribution Monitoring: Monitor range condition at least once every five years 624 Carson Road Allotment Grazing System: No system in place; one pasture allotment with no fence, allowing cattle to graze additional Animals & AUMs: Season of Use: 14,544 acres unleased public and private land. Grazing deferred until after cool season seed material Cattle; 19 AUMs (approximate) June 15 to October 10 (each year) Vegetation Treatment: Bum 322 acres shmb/grassland to reduce soil erosion, increase stmctural diversity and cool- Range Improvements: Monitoring: season grass component None planned. Monitor range condition at least once every 10 years. 2-29 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Upper Gorge Unit - New Mexico (cont’d) 626 Carson Allotment Grazing System: Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: Each Year No system in place; one pasture allotment with no fence, allowing cattle to graze 13,210 acres unleased public and private land. Cattle; 154 AUMs May 1 to October 10 Graze from May 1 to October 10 (each year partial cool season rest prior to May 1) Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned None planned Monitor range condition at least once every five years 640 Guadalupe Mountain Allotment Grazing System: Two pasture deferred rotation (one pasture in this allotment, other in #641) Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 145 AUMs Seasons of Use: May 1 to June 20 and September 1 to October 20 (warm season rest and partial cool season rest prior to May 1) 640 Pasture 641 Pasture Year 1 Graze May 1 to June 20 Graze September 1 to October 20 Year 2 Graze September 1 to October 20 Graze May 1 to July 1 Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: Mechanically thin or bum 410 acres woodland, and bum 107 acres shmb/grassland to reduce soil erosion, increase stmctural diversity and cool-season grass component. Allocate expected forage increase of eight AUMs to wildlife/watershed. None planned Monitor range condition at least once every three years Lower Gorge Unit 503 Embudo Allotment Grazing System: Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: None proposed; one pasture system with approved non-use since 1993 Cattle; 17 AUMs Febmary 8 to Febmary 28 (each year - dormant season grazing) Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned None planned Monitor range condition at least once every three years 2-30 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Lower Gorge Unit (cont'd) 514 Cerro Azul Allotment Grazing System: None proposed; one pasture allotment Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: Cattle; 23 AUMs (approximate) October 1 5 to October 3 1 (each year - dormant season grazing) Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: Bum 222 acres shrub/grassland to reduce soil erosion, increase structural diversity and cool- season grass component. No actions planned to treat allotment's woodland because of unstable soils and increased potential for erosion. Allocate expected forage increase of two AUMs to wildlife/watershed. None planned Monitor range condition at least once every five years 515 Glen Woody Allotment Grazing System: None proposed; one pasture allotment with voluntary non-use approved since 1992 Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: Cattle; 25 AUMs (approximate) December 1 to February 28 (each year - dormant season grazing) Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned because of steep slopes and concern for increased erosion. Constmct 2 miles boundary fence between public and private land, develop one permanent water source. Monitor range condition at least once every five years 516 Pilar Allotment Grazing System: Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: None proposed; one pasture allotment Cattle; 8 AUMs September 15 to November 19 (each year - dormant season grazing) Vegetation Treatment: Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned None planned Monitor range condition at least once every 10 years 2-31 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Lower Gorge Unit (cont’d) 517 Hondo Allotment Grazing System: Animals and AUMs: Season of Use: Three pasture allotment (one private, two BLM) with deferred rotation Cattle; 64 AUMs June 15 to December 1 North Pasture South Pasture Private Pasture Year 1 Graze June 1 5 to August 22 Graze August 23 to Graze October 25 to December 1 to October 24 Year 2 Graze September 24 to December 1 Graze June 15 to August 16 Graze August 17 to September 23 Year 3 Graze July 23 to September 29 Graze September 30 to December 1 Graze June 15 to July 2 Defer grazing until after cool season maturity. When crops are grown on the private pasture, the permit would be adjusted. Vegetation Treatment: Bum 546 acres shrub/grassland to reduce soil erosion, increase stmctural diversity and amount of cool-season grasses. No actions planned to treat woodland because of unstable soils and increased potential for erosion. Allocate expected forage increase of five AUMs to wildlife/watershed. Range Improvements: Monitoring: None planned Monitor range condition at least once every 1 0 years 636 Pajarito Allotment Grazing System: Develop three pasture rest-rotation system to exclude livestock grazing from one BLM pasture each year. Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 1 86 AUMs (approximate) Season of Use: November 1 to February 28 (dormant season grazing) North Pasture West Pasture East Pasture Year 1 Rest Graze November 1 Graze December 31 to February 28 to December 30 Year 2 Graze January 23 to February 28 Rest Graze November 1 to January 22 Year 3 Graze November 1 1 to December 7 Graze December 8 to February 28 Rest Vegetation Treatment: Bum 539 acres shmb/grassland to increase stmctural diversity and cool-season grass component. No actions planned for woodland because of unstable soils and increased potential for erosion. Allocate expected forage increase of 13 AUMs to wildlife/watershed. Range Improvements: Adjust allotment boundary to exclude Comanche Spring area, constmct 4.5 miles allotment boundary fence. These actions would reduce authorized AUMs by 24 to 38. To improve livestock distribution, constmct 1.8 miles pasture fence and provide 2 or 3 water sources. (These actions may increase AUMs for grazing, but reallocation would be made only when monitoring studies indicated that additional AUMs were available.) Monitoring: Monitor range condition at least once every two years. 2-32 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-2 GRAZING ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT PLANS UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Copper Hill Unit 521 Cuestecita Allotment Grazing System: None proposed; two pasture allotment. Animals and AUMs: Cattle; 34 AUMs short term. Grazing privileges retained only for current permittee; grazing to be excluded upon relinquishment of permit, with no permit transfers allowed. Season of Use: June 15 to September 30 North Pasture Private Pasture Year 1 Graze June 1 5 to August 3 1 Graze September 1 to September 30 Year 2 Graze July 15 to September 30 Graze June 15 to July 14 Defer grazing until after cool season seed maturity. When crops are grown on the private pasture, the permit would be adjusted. Vegetation Treatment: Bum 586 acres shmb/grassland to reduce soil erosion, increase stmctural diversity and cool- season grass component. Allocate expected forage increase of 4 AUMs to wildlife/watershed. Range Improvements: None planned. Monitoring: Monitor range condition at least once every five years. 2-33 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 TABLE 2-3 ALLOWABLE ANIMAL UNIT MONTHS (AUMS) FOR LIVESTOCK USE Unit, Grazing Allotment Number and Name AUMs Under Proposed Plan Unner Goree - Colorado 4243 River 200 4244 South Valley 136 4245 A. North Pifion 168 4245B South Pinon 114 4247 Braiden 40 4248 Kiowa Hill 209 4249 Pinon Hills 502 4250 Eight Mile 213 425 1 Mesa Common 263 4252 San Luis Hills no 4253 Flat Top 175 4255 La Sauses 138 4256 East Bend 150 Unit Subtotal 2,418 Uooer Gorge - New Mexico 404 606 Wild River 608 Guadalupe 210 624 Carson Road 19 626 Carson 154 640 Guadalupe Mountain 145 Unit Subtotal 932 Lower Gorge 503 Embudo 17 5 1 4 Cerro Azul 23 515 Glen Woody 25 516 Pilar 8 517 Hondo 64 636 Pajarito 186 Unit Totals 323 CoDoer Hill 521 Cuestecita 0 Unit Total 0 Planning Area Total 3,673 2-34 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 Monitoring means the orderly collection, analysis, and interpretation of resource data to evaluate progress in meeting objectives. BLM monitors the range resource for condition, trend, utilization, actual use, precipitation, and rangeland health (see Glossary for definitions). SCHEDULE FOR ALLOTMENT MONITORING Element Frequency Condition 10 years Trend 3 to 5 years Utilization 1 to 2 years/as needed Actual Use annually Climate annually Upper Gorge Unit — Colorado The 1 3 grazing allotments in Colorado would provide 2,4 1 8 AUMs of forage for sheep and cattle under the Proposed Plan. Changes would be made in grazing management practices, acreage of vegetative treatments, kinds and numbers of range improvements, and levels of inventory and monitoring. These changes would be expected to result in increased forage production that would be assigned in part to wildlife and watershed protection and in part to livestock uses. These changes are as follows: • Grazing Systems: Nine allotments would have one year of rest every third year, two allotments would have one year of rest every fourth year, and two allotments would not be rested for a full year. • Vegetation Treatments: A total of 1 , 1 24 acres would be seeded. • Seasons of Use: Seven allotments would be grazed in the dormant season, and six would be grazed in the growing season after plants had adequate root reserves for regrowth. • Range Improvements: Six wells would be developed to water 1 1 allotments. Permanent water gaps would be constructed on five allotments. All Units — ^New Mexico The 12 allotments in New Mexico would initially provide 1,289 AUMs of forage for cattle grazing. One allotment would be retired leaving 1 1 allotments providing 1,255 AUMs of livestock forage. In addition to the 24,446 acres excluded by the Taos RMP, all unallotted and unpermitted areas (32,327 acres) and 600 acres within the Pajarito Allotment (#636) would be excluded from livestock grazing over the long term for a total of 57,373 acres. Grazing privileges on the Cuestecita Allotment (#521 — 1,392 acres) would be retained only for the current permittee. Grazing would be excluded upon relinquishment of the permit and no permit transfer would be allowed. The following would apply for all units in New Mexico: • Grazing Systems: Would be implemented on four allotments; no system would be in place for the remaining eight. • Vegetation Treatments: On seven allotments, the BLM would treat 3,066 acres of the shrub/ grassland and woodland associations. • Seasons of Use: Would range from 20 to 1 85 days. On four allotments, grazing would begin in mid-May, five would have fall/winter use seasons, and three would begin use in mid-June. • Range Improvements: Would be planned on three allotments. On two allotments, the improvements would be designed to improve riparian conditions, and on the other, to improve livestock forage and reduce unauthorized use of nonfederal land. 2-35 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat— All Units • By closing duplicate and dead-end roads on fragile soils and within crucial wildlife habitats, maintain road densities (miles of road per square mile) as follows: Upper Gorge Unit (Colorado) — 0.8 or less, Upper Gorge Unit (New Mexico) — 0.6 or less. Lower Gorge Unit — 0.7 or less. Copper Hill Unit — 0.5 or less (refer to Table 2-4.) TABLE 2-4 MILES OF ROAD AND PUBLIC LAND ROAD DENSITY FOR EACH PLANNING UNIT UNDER THE PROPOSED PLAN Planning Unit Existing Routes Alternative (miles open/density) Upper Gorge - Colorado 91.2 miles 57.2/0.8 Upper Gorge - New Mexico® 31.6 miles 31.6/0.6 Lower Gorge 33.6 miles 23.5/0.7 Copper Hill 45.4 miles 14.8/0.5 Planning Area Total/Average• ** 201.8 miles 127.1/0.7 Notes: “Designations for this unit were completed in 1994. '’This is a weighted average road density. • Prohibit actions (i.e., access, activity) during critical periods, such as breeding or wintering, to eliminate potential adverse affects to wildlife. • Recommend to the Federal Aviation Administration and Department of Defense that military and civilian aircraft be restricted to a minimum of 2,000 feet above ground level (AGL) in the vicinity of the Rio Grande Gorge from Lobatos Bridge to the Velarde Diversion Dam during the nesting season (April 1 to June 30) and to a minimum of 500 feet during the non-nesting season (July 1 to March 3 1) except as required for landings, takeoffs, and emergency operations. Ballooning (which is permitted through BLM as a result of using public land for launching and landing) would be allowed with the following constraints: (1) flights would be restricted to a minimum of 500 feet AGL in the vicinity of the Rio Grande Gorge from Lobatos Bridge to the Velarde Diversion Dam during nesting season (April 1 to June 30); (2) flights would only be allowed below the rim between John Dunn Bridge and the north boundary of Taos Pueblo’s Tract A outside of the nesting season (July 1 to March 31); (3) flights would be restricted to a minimum of 500 feet AGL year-round where Tract A parallels the Rio Grande except during takeoffs, landings, and emergency operations; (4) permission would be required prior to takeoffs and landings from Taos Pueblo’s Tract A or state and private land; and (5) flights would be allowed at rim level and above in the vicinity of the Rio Grande Gorge north of John Dunn Bridge to Lobatos Bridge and from the southern boundary of Tract A to the Velarde Diversion Dam outside of the nesting season (July 1 to March 31). Consider requests for removal of native vegetation on a case-by-case basis, except in designated recreation areas/sites and all riparian areas. These areas would be closed to such use to protect the nesting sites of the southwestern willow flycatcher and roosting sites for the bald eagle. Allow pack stock, such as llamas or horses, in the planning area except at developed campsites and on trails closed to such use (in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area). 2-36 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 3 • Construct cable grates on the mine entry at Black Rock Springs and at the El Poso Cave entrance to protect bats from human contact. The agency would allow scientific studies only; the caves would be closed to the general public. • Treat approximately 13,703 acres to improve biological diversity (refer to the "Vegetation, Soils and Water Quality" section above). • Acquire administrative access to Agua Caliente for fisheries management. • Protect southwestern willow flycatcher territories through implementation of the Southwest Willow Flycatcher Management Plan, 1998. In managing wildlife and their habitat, BLM is faced with identifying whether progress has been made in meeting desired objectives. As a means of tracking success or failure, and to provide a backdrop for evaluation, the BLM would implement the following monitoring methods: WILDLIFE MONITORING Type Survey Method Southwestern Willow Flycatcher • FWS Protocol Cowbirds • Level of parasitism • Identify foraging and distribution • Relative abundance Neotropical Migratory Birds • Breeding bird surveys Raptors • Active nest counts • Fledgling counts Big Game • Population counts • Sex and age ratios Upper Gorge Unit — Colorado and New Mexico • Modify 4.25 miles of net wire fence in Colorado along the state line to facilitate big game migration and movement. • Do not allow parking or overnight use (including camping) within 300 feet of existing trailheads or trail descent points, as appropriate, to protect wildlife migration corridors and access routes to water. The BLM would install appropriate signs to inform users of the restriction. Restrictions on overnight use would not apply to the Manby, Raven, or Powerline trailheads or to the trailheads on the east rim of the gorge within the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. • Introduce a reproducing population of river otter into the Upper Gorge Unit in coordination with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and Colorado Department of Wildlife. • Expand the Wild Rivers Recreation Area to include valuable wildlife habitat, and implement prescriptions to ensure protection of wildlife. (Refer to the section titled "New Mexico RMP- Level Decisions" above for a description of the expanded area and management prescriptions.) • Prohibit commercially guided fishing along the Rio Grande from Chiflo Trail to Big Arsenic Trail (year-round) and on the Ute Mountain Segment (from April 1 to May 31). • Close the West Rim Trail from the High Bridge to Chiflo from May 1 to July 3 1 for big game fawning and calving. Lower Gorge Unit • Restrict shoreline access in designated areas, and close selected side channels to boating use to protect bird habitat. • Acquire from willing sellers the water rights for springs in Arroyo Hondo Canyon, east of NM 68 near Horseshoe Curve. • Do not encourage human use on public land in the big-game migratory corridor within Arroyo Hondo Canyon (near Horseshoe Curve). 2-37 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUES 4 AND 5 Copper Hill Unit • The new Copper Hill ACEC would contain public lands with valuable wildlife habitat that is not protected. The ACEC would include the Warm Springs SMA, Agua Caliente and Embudo Canyon ACECs, and Lower Embudo SMA. (Refer to the above "New Mexico RMP-Level Decisions" for a description of the ACEC and management prescriptions designed in part to ensure improved wildlife habitat.) • Prohibit all surface-disturbing projects, vegetative removal, and mineral material sales to protect Mexican spotted owl critical habitat area NM-BLM-3 in the new Copper Hill ACEC. The habitat area would be withdrawn from public land and mining laws and closed to mineral leasing. • Continue the cooperative effort with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish for the reintroduction of Rio Grande cutthroat trout to Agua Caliente Canyon after the existing population of rainbow trout was removed. In addition, the BLM would designate the Rio Grande cutthroat trout as a BLM sensitive species in New Mexico. Issue 4: Prehistoric and Historic Resources Upper Gorge Unit In Colorado, the BLM would inventory 10 percent of this portion of the planning area by 2002, in addition to conducting inventories when ground- disturbing activities were proposed. Any location with heavy visitation would be inventoried and the monitoring frequency increased from current levels. Sites that were eligible for the National Register and able to withstand visitation would be interpreted. In New Mexico, the BLM would keep the Big Arsenic Springs site open to public use and monitor it on a regular basis. Guided hikes for visitors would be continued to provide some awareness and education to help visitors respect the values associated with the site. The BLM would interpret historic and prehistoric resources at the John Dunn Bridge and Manby Hot Springs for visitors. The Wild Rivers Recreation Area would be expanded to include public lands in the Guadalupe Mountains that contain cultural resource sites. Copper Hill Unit The Lower Embudo Special Management Area would become a part of the new Copper Hill ACEC, managed under the prescriptions listed above under "New Mexico RMP-Level Decisions." Issue 5: Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management The BLM would protect scenic quality through expanding the Wild Rivers Recreation Area and designating the Lower Gorge and Copper Hill ACECs. To set guidelines for projects that could change the appearance of local landscape or structures, all public lands would be assigned a VRM class (refer to Table 2-5). In existing disturbed areas or areas where roads have been closed, BLM would provide for reestablishment of vegetation through natural processes or by seeding to enhance scenic quality. Upper Gorge Unit — Colorado VRM Class II would continue to be assigned to 16,457 acres in the San Luis Hills WSA and the foreground of the Rio Grande Corridor ACEC (as seen from the river). VRM Class III guidelines would continue to apply to the remaining 3 1 ,323 acres in Colorado. Scenic and visual quality would be maintained through guidelines for existing special area designations. 2-38 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 5 TABLE 2-5 VISUAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CLASSES ASSIGNED TO THE PLANNING AREA Planning Unit VRM Class Proposed Plan (acres) Upper Gorge - Colorado I — 11 16,457 111 31,323 No assignment — Upper Gorge - New Mexico I 12,413 11 24,143 111 21 No assignment — Lower Gorge 1 — 11 22,090 111 24 No assignment — Copper Hill 1 1,775 11 4,789 111 10,716 No assignment — Planning Area Totals (rounded) 1 14,190 11 67,480 111 42,080 No assignment 0 Total 123,750 2-39 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 Upper Gorge Unit — New Mexico VRM Class I would be assigned to the 12,413 acres adjoining the wild segments of the Rio Grande and Red WSRs. VRM Class III would apply to 21 acres in developed recreation sites, including the BLM Visitor Center, Sheeps Crossing, Chiflo, Bear Crossing, Chawalauna, Big Arsenic, Little Arsenic, Montoso, La Junta, and El Aguaje. VRM Class II would be assigned to the remaining 24,143 acres in the New Mexico portion of this unit. To preserve scenic quality, the BLM would acquire state and private land in the unit (both surface and subsurface) when owners were willing to sell (refer to Appendix F for a list of these parcels). The Wild Rivers Recreation Area would be expanded and restrictions on use established, such as right-of-way exclusions and protective withdrawals (refer to the management prescriptions above under "New Mexico RMP-Level Decisions"). To limit where the river could be crossed, the BLM would maintain the right- of-way window near the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. Lower Gorge Unit VRM Class I would be assigned to those lands in the Orilla Verde Recreation Area above the rim that are bounded by NM 68, Arroyo Hondo, and the Rio Grande Gorge (if the lands were acquired). VRM Class II would be assigned to 5,743 acres of the Orilla Verde Recreation Area and 16,347 acres in the remainder of the unit. VRM Class III would be assigned to 24 acres of the unit's developed recreation sites. To protect the visual quality of the Lower Gorge Unit, the BLM would designate the public land south of the Orilla Verde Recreation Area as the Lower Gorge ACEC. Rights-of-way in the ACEC would be strictly limited and the area withdrawn from public land and mining laws. The BLM would acquire state and private land (both surface and subsurface) when owners were willing to sell with priority given to undeveloped land (refer to Appendix F). To improve scenic quality, the BLM would redesign and landscape the Pilar North Parking Area and developed recreation sites, revegetate closed roads, and rehabilitate the old mining site near the Taos Junction Campground. The agency would also develop partnerships with the New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department and Public Service Company of New Mexico to improve the appearance of the NM 68 and 570 rights-of-way and the gas line parallel to NM 68. Copper Hill Unit VRM Class I would be assigned to 1,775 acres of the Rio Embudo and Agua Caliente WSR study segments. VRM Class II would be assigned to 4,789 acres. VRM Class III would be assigned to 10,716 acres in the ACEC's Central Protection Zone. The BLM would protect the visual resources of the unit by designating all public lands as the Copper Hill ACEC. State and private lands in the ACEC would be acquired when owners were willing to sell. The ACEC would be managed to limit surface- disturbing activities. The Proposed Plan includes protective management prescriptions that are described in the section titled New Mexico RMP- Level Decisions on page 2-11. Issue 6: Recreation and Facility Development The Proposed Plan is designed to provide a balance between recreation use, protection of resources, and needs of local residents. Controls would be established for boating on most segments of the Rio Grande with an opportunity for a small increase in private or commercial use in the Upper Gorge Unit and a moderate amount of growth in the Lower Gorge Unit. Any new facilities or services would be located in areas already in use or would be provided when older facilities were scheduled for major repair or replacement. 2-40 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 Special Recreation Use Permits • Commercial Boating: The BLM would issue no new permits for use on the Rio Grande between the Lobatos Bridge and the Velarde Diversion Dam nor for use in the new Copper Hill ACEC. Existing Rio Grande boating permits could be transferred in their entirety to any qualified individual or company, but transfer of part of a permit (e.g., for use on one particular segment) would be allowed only to parties who already had a Rio Grande permit. If the number of permits for segments south of John Dunn Bridge was reduced to less than 10 (e.g., through attrition, cancellation), new permit(s) could be issued to maintain this number. Segments above John Dunn Bridge would be maintained at five permits. (Additional restrictions on the use of permits are described in the following Boating Management section.) • No commercial river outfitter could obtain more than 30 percent of the launches available on any one segment for which allocations have been made. • Commercial Fishing Guide Services: Permits for the use of streams in New Mexico would be considered after case-by-case review. Permittees would be limited to one trip per day in the planning area with up to four people per trip (including guides). To address wildlife concerns, commercially guided trips would be prohibited along the Rio Grande between the Chiflo Trail downstream to the Big Arsenic Trail and in the Ute Mountain segment from April 1 to May 3 1 . • Rock Climbing: Commercial permits would be considered on a case-by-case basis. Individuals would be required to have a permit only if they intended to permanently install hardware. • Other Commercial Uses and Special Events: The BLM would permit these on a case-by-case basis. The Mother’s Day event would be allowed to continue. Other requested uses would have to comply with restrictions in place for the area in which the use would occur. Boating Management Opportunities for boating, whether commercial or private, would be provided throughout the planning area with controls to address concerns of local residents and other shoreline users. These controls (i.e., limits on group size, restrictions during certain times of the day or seasons, closures at specific river flows) would also help ensure a high- quality experience for boaters. Controls would vary by segment, depending on the type of conflicts between users or resources. Figure 2-1 illustrates the river management segments. Boating would be regulated according to guidelines listed in the following columns. BLM would monitor this use throughout the season and work with outfitters, private boaters, residents, and other recreationists on a recurring basis to determine whether adjustments can/should be made to resolve new concerns or better meet the guidelines established for each segment. An annual meeting would be held with residents, private and commercial boaters, and other recreationists to assess the past season and recommend changes which could be made to resolve recurring conflicts, reduce congestion, assure equitable access, improve the quality of the environment, or address emerging issues. • No motorized craft would be allowed to use the Rio Grande from La Sauses Cemetery south to the Velarde Diversion Dam. • Each outfitted or private group would be required to self-register each trip. • All overnight parties, including solo kayakers, would be required to use a firepan and a human waste carry-out system, preferably a recreational vehicle dump station compatible portable toilet. • A toll-free number would be available for advance telephone reservations and to provide information on current boating conditions. Reservations for segments requiring them would be taken at the beginning of each calendar year for the upcoming season. 2-41 LA SAUSES SEGMENT 13 miles RAZORBLADES SEGMENT 6 miles LA JUNTA SEGMENT 9.5 miles ORILLA VERDE/PILAR SEGMENT 6.5 miles BOSQUE SEGMENT 9 miles Boating Management Segment Figure CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 Rio Grande - All Segments Boating would be regulated according to guidelines listed below. BLM would monitor this use throughout the season, and work with outfitters, private boaters, residents, and other recreationists on a recurring basis to determine whether adjustments can/should be made to resolve new concerns, or better meet the guidelines established for each segment. An annual meeting would be held with residents, private and commercial boaters, and othe recreationists to assess the past season, and recommend changes which could be made to resolve recurring conflicts, reduce congestion, assure equitable access, improve the quality of the environment, or address emerging issues. All Boaters No motorized craft would be allowed to use the Rio Grande from La Sauses Cemetery south to the Velarde Diversion Dam. Each outfitted or private group would be required to self-register each trip. All overnight parties, including solo kayakers, would be required to use a firepan and a human waste carry-out system, preverably an RV dump station compatible portable toilet. A toll-free number would be available for advance telephone reservations, and to provide information on current boating conditions. Reservations for segments requiring them would be taken at the beginning of each calendar year for the upcoming season. Commercial outfitters may be asked to verify a booking when making a reservation for a launch. Rio Grande -Upper Gorge All Boaters Facilities All Boaters Facilities La Sauses Segment (La Sauses Cemetery to Lobatos Bridge) • No restrictions would be placed on private or outfitted boaters. • At the La Sauses Recreation Site and Lobatos Bridge, BLM would define parking areas to control damage to riparian habitat. BLM would continue efforts to acquire public access rights at Lobatos Bridge. Ute Mountain Segment (Lobatos Bridge to Lee Trail) • Launch/takeout access would be provided at Lobatos Bridge and Stateline and Lee trails. • The segment would remain closed to all boating from April 1 through May 3 1 . • One launch would be allowed per day, whether private or outfitted; the trip can be overnight or day, and would be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Launches must be reserved in advance by telephone. • Groups would be limited to 16 passengers/guides. • Improvements at Lobatos Bridge, if access rights are acquired, would include a defined parking area and if use warrants, seasonal or permanent toilet facilities. 2-43 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 All Boaters Facilities All Boaters Facilities All Boaters Private Boaters Outfitted Boaters Facilities Razorblades Segment (Lee Trail to Chiflo Trail) • Launch/takeout access would be provided at Lee, Sunshine Valley, and Chiflo trails. • One launch for an overnight trip would be allowed per day, whether private or outfitted, on a first-come, first-served basis. Launches must be reserved in advance by telephone. • Group size would be limited to 16 passengers/guides. • No additional restrictions would be placed on private/outfitted boating until monitoring shows that day use is exceeding two groups per day for more than 20 days for two consecutive years, normally from mid-April through June in this segment. Once this threshold is exceeded, additional controls would be implemented. • No improvements are planned to facilities. Upper Box Segment (Chiflo Trail to Little Arsenic Trail) • Launch/takeout access would be provided at Chiflo, Big Arsenic and Little Arsenic trails. • One launch for an overnight trip would be allowed per day, whether private or outfitted, on a first-come, first-served basis. Launches must be reserved in advance by telephone. • Group size would be limited to 1 6 passengers/guides. • No additional restrictions would be placed on private/outfitted boating until monitoring shows that day use is exceeding two groups per day for more than 20 days for two consecutive years, normally from mid-April through June in this segment. Once this threshold is exceeded, additional controls would be implemented. • No facility changes are planned; restrooms and picnic tables will be maintained. La Junta Segment (Little Arsenic Trail to John Dunn Bridge) • Access would continue to be provided by several BLM/Forest Service trails. The takeout is located at John Dunn Bridge. • Groups would be limited to 16 passengers/guides. • Two launches would be allowed per day, whether overnight or day trips. • Launches must be reserved in advance by telephone. • Two launches would be allowed per day, whether overnight or day trips. Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holiday launches would be assigned based on historic use records; weekday launches would be available on a first-come, first-served basis by telephone. • Outfitted launches would not be able to pass or takeout at John Dunn Bridge before noon on weekends and holidays, to help relieve congestion at the bridge. • Primitive campsites and vault toilets are provided at the base of trails in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. Refer to the Taos Box section for facilities at the John Dunn Bridge takeout. 2-44 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 Taos Box Segment (John Dunn Bridge to Taos Junction Bridge) All Boaters • Launch access is provided at John Dunn Bridge, along the west shoreline north of the bridge. This site would be expanded by .05 acre. The east shoreline north of the bridge would be used for overflow on the busiest weekends. South of the bridge, both shorelines are closed to boaters. Taos Junction Bridge is the main takeout (see the Orilla Verde/Pilar section for access information). Parking is available along the access road from Arroyo Hondo and may be expanded if BLM acquires additional lands in the Arroyo Hondo Grant (north rim to south rim, including a 100-foot setback from rims in T. 27 N., R. 12 E., protracted Sections 30 and 31). Private Boaters • Up to 200 boaters would be allowed per day on weekends and holidays, and 1 50 would be allowed per day on weekdays. • Private boaters would be encouraged to launch before 1 ;00 p.m. to ensure completion of the run before twilight and minimize displacement of other users at John Dunn Bridge. Outfitted Boaters • All launches would take place between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. • Weekends and holidays: Up to eight launches would be allowed per day and size would be limited to 21 passengers per launch. • Weekdays: Up to eight launches would be allowed per day and size would be limited to 32 passengers per launch. • Pool system: All outfitters would have access to a pool system which would allow an outfitter to borrow unused slots from another outfitter who has a launch on the same day to increase a weekday launch size to 40 passengers and weekend/holiday launch size to 26. A launch calendar would be maintained to ensure limits are not exceeded and would be based on historic use records. • Over limit fees: To allow an outfitter to fill trips, BLM would allow up to four extra passengers to be booked, but an extra fee would be imposed to remove any profit incentive for doing so. Facilities • John Dunn Bridge: Permanent restrooms would be installed and the northwest shoreline area expanded slightly. If private lands are acquired, BLM would build permanent facilities, provide erosion control, and landscape the area at the Taos Junction Bridge takeout. Rio Grande - Lower Gorge Outfitted Boaters All Lower Gorge Segments • Over limit fees: To allow an outfitter to fill trips, BLM would allow up to four extra passengers to be booked on Lower Gorge trips, but an extra fee would be imposed to remove any profit incentive for doing so. 2-45 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 AH Boaters Private Boaters Outfitted Boaters Facilities Orilla Verde/Pilar Segment (Taos Junction Bridge to Quartzite Recreation Site) • Launch and takeout would be allowed at Taos Junction Bridge, the Cable Site (north of gauging station - kayak/canoe only), and Lone Juniper. Takeout only would be allowed at Orilla Verde Campground and kayak/canoe only at Karmic Wave. Other sites may be accessed from the river to use shoreline facilities - boats can be moored or partially dragged on shore. Emergency take out would be allowed on public lands at all times. • Until portage rights are granted at the Pilar Bridge, or the bridge is altered to allow safe passage at higher flows, all boaters would take out at Orilla Verde Campground when flows are 4,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) or higher. No public access is available in the village of Pilar except in emergencies. • A no stopping and quiet zone would be enforced from Pilar Campground downstream to the beginning of Karmic Wave. Sounds would be kept at conversational levels, except in emergencies. • No restrictions would initially be applied to private boaters. • When use levels reach 1 00 or more private boaters per day passing through the village of Pilar for 20 or more days for two consecutive years, BLM would implement measures to address the issues related to the increased use. Measures may include providing information at upstream launch sites to encourage private boaters to take out at Orilla Verde Campground; prohibiting boating past Orilla Verde Campground takeout after a specified time; or others which may be suggested at that time. • Group size would be limited to 40. • Trips originating north of Orilla Verde Campground must takeout at Orilla Verde Campground between November 1 and March 3 1 . Trips can continue past Orilla Verde Campground from April 1 through October 3 1 if these guidelines are followed; ► No passage allowed past Orilla Verde Campground before 9:00 a.m. or after 2:00 p.m. ► No more than 12 groups would be allowed per day from May 15 through July 15; a launch calendar would be developed to ensure limits are not exceeded. Desired passenger numbers are 225 per day on weekdays and 175 per day on weekends. If monitoring shows this threshold is being exceeded for more than 1 5 days for two consecutive years, BLM would consider additional restrictions, such as a lower group size limit, fewer groups allowed to pass through the village, or suggestions which would be made at that time. ► No more than two groups of 21 passengers each week would be allowed from April 1 through May 14 and from July 16 through October 3 1 ; launches would be available to all permittees on a first-come, first-served basis. • Taos Junction: BLM would work with private partners to provide management on the private lands between Taos Junction Bridge and the gauging station. If acquired, permanent facilities would be constructed at the Taos Junction boater takeout. If the private lands are not acquired, BLM would provide for boater access on the west side of the river. • Cable Site: The parking area at the gauging station just downstream would be relocated to the cable site. The vault toilet currently located across from the gauging station would be relocated to the new parking site. • Lone Juniper: The site would be redesigned to improve access. 2-46 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 All Boaters Private Boaters Outfitted Boaters Facilities • Orilla Verde Campground: The BLM would improve access and boater parking and separate boating activities from other uses. Racecourse Segment (Quartzite Recreation Site to County Line Recreation Site) • Quartzite, Souse Hole, and County Line are the main river access sites. • Locational boating would be available where desired, but vehicles must park in areas which have been approved by the Highway Department and/or through BLM permit stipulations (outfitters only). • At Quartzite during congested periods, the beach would be divided into two zones — one for rafts that are inflated and rigged or canoes/kayaks (express lane) and one for rafts that are not inflated and rigged. • No restrictions would be placed on this group until monitoring indicates that 300 or more private boaters are launching from Quartzite on 20 or more days during the May through September season for two consecutive years. At that time, BLM would consider these actions: assigning launch times, encouraging use at less congested times, or others which might be suggested by interested parties. • Launches would be allowed only from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. • A launch calendar would be developed to keep commercial boating use within these initial guidelines: ► Groups would be limited to 40 passengers or less, but allowance would be made for occasional larger groups through the use of a pool system. ► Launches would be scheduled to keep commercial use levels within a range of 1 00 to 150 per hour. ► Use would rarely exceed 600 commercial passengers per day. ► If thresholds are exceeded for 20 or more days for two consecutive years, BLM would consider adjustments to ensure private boaters are not displaced, control congestion, or provide equitable access to all users. If these concerns can be effectively addressed, use limits which are higher than these guidelines could be considered. » • Quartzite: The BLM would raise the level of the beach to allow use at higher flows, and improve flow of vehicles with signs and barriers. The BLM also would install a pay/emergency telephone. • Pilar North Parking Area: The BLM would redesign, landscape, and improve toilet facilities. • Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center: The BLM would expand the parking area to accommodate about 30 more vehicles. • Souse Hole: The BLM would build a permanent restroom and provide more space for parking. • County Line: The BLM would build permanent restrooms, improve access and parking, install a pay/emergency phone, use signs and barriers for vehicle controls, and landscape. • Other Sites: The BLM would provide portable or permanent vault toilets at additional sites if use/resource degradation/public safety warrant. The BLM also would work with 2-47 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 All Boaters Private Boaters Outfitted Boaters Facilities Rio Embudo Private Boaters the Highway Department to provide safe access points for sightseeing/parking, and improve trail access to river to control erosion and provide for user safety. Bosque Segment (County Line Recreation Site to Velarde Diversion Dam) • County Line, Lovers Lane, Embudo Station (if owner allows) and Embudo South are the main river access sites. There would be no landing on private lands except in emergencies. • A quiet zone would be enforced from County Line downstream to Embudo Station. Sounds would be kept at conversational levels. • No additional restrictions would be placed until a threshold of 50 or more private boaters launching or floating past County Line per day for 20 or more days over two consecutive years is reached between May and September. At that time, BLM would implement additional actions, which may include reducing group size, requiring call-in reservations, or other measures which may be proposed by residents, boaters, or BLM. • Trips originating north of County Line that wish to enter the Bosque can do so: ► only from May 1 5 through July 1 5, and must not exceed 40 passengers ► if there are more than 2 1 passengers, the group would be required to take out at Lover’s Lane - trips continuing past Lover’s Lane must not exceed 21 passengers in size • Outfitted trips launching from County Line would be limited to: ► 2 1 passengers each ► from May 1 5 through July 15,10 groups per week (maximum of two groups per day) ► from July 1 6 through October 3 1 , two groups per week • BLM would consider further restrictions if 50 or more commercial passengers float past Lover’s Lane for 20 or more days from May through September over two consecutive years. Restrictions the BLM would consider include reductions in the number of passengers or boats allowed per launch, further reducing the number of launches, or other actions proposed by residents, BLM, or boaters. • County Line: See the Racecourse section for description. • Lover’s Lane: If public access is acquired, a permanent restroom would be built, and a parking area would be established outside the riparian area. If access is not acquired, BLM would develop access and facilities on BLM lands. • Embudo Station: Private facilities may be available if boaters make arrangements with the owner. If the Embudo South site is developed, BLM would limit development to what is needed to provide for resource protection or public safety, such as a vault toilet or trash receptacle, a small parking area, and a trail to the river. Rio Embudo Box (west boundary of Picuris Pueblo to BLM road 146 access point) • Boaters would be required to register at put-ins. BLM would monitor activity and may propose actions if more than 200 boaters per year are making use of this segment. 2-48 CHAPTER 2 PLANNED ACTIONS PROPOSED PLAN ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 Outfitted Boaters • No commercial use permits would be issued for boating on the Rio Embudo. Facilities • Low key signing would be used to mark public land boundaries, and parking areas would be defined with landscape barriers. Other Segments All Boaters • BLM would cooperate with Picuris Pueblo in providing information to the public about their use restrictions. Downstream of Dixon, BLM would monitor use and propose actions to resolve any concerns related to boater use, such as unsafe parking, trespass, noise, or other issues. Facilities • No facilities are planned. 2-49 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 • Commercial outfitters may be asked to verify a booking when making a reservation for a launch. Casual Uses The public lands are used for a large variety of recreational pursuits that require little in the way of facilities or developments and, for the most part, do not need to be managed. Wildlife and bird watching, recreational rock collecting, rock climbing, and camping away from developed sites are a few of these pursuits. Casual recreation use has been considered during development of proposals for vehicle use (refer to Issue 8), because access is an important element in many of these activities. Non-motorized trails are also an important element in access and are described below under "Trails/Access." The following guidelines would apply to casual uses throughout the planning area: • When parking or camping within developed recreation areas or sites, visitors would have to keep vehicles within 25 feet of any designated route of travel. In the remainder of the planning area, vehicles would have to remain within 300 feet of designated routes. • In the vicinity of the Rio Grande Gorge, from Lobatos Bridge to the Velarde Diversion Dam, ballooning (which is permitted through BLM as a result of using public lands for launching and landing) would be allowed with the following constraints: ( 1 ) flights would be restricted to a minimum of 500 feet AGL during nesting season (April 1 to June 30); (2) flights would only be allowed below the rim between John Dunn Bridge and the north boundary of Taos Pueblo’s Tract A outside of the nesting season (July 1 to March 31); (3) flights would be restricted to a minimum of 500 feet AGL year-round where Tract A parallels the Rio Grande except during takeoffs, landings, and emergency operations; (4) permission would be required prior to takeoffs and landings from Taos Pueblo’s Tract A or state and private lands; and (5) flights would be allowed at rim level and above in the vicinity of the Rio Grande Gorge north of John Dunn Bridge to Lobatos Bridge and from the southern boundary of Tract A to the Velarde Diversion Dam outside of the nesting season (July 1 to March 31). Fishing Under the Proposed Plan, some actions are proposed to improve access to favored fishing sites, including steps to provide for universal access where terrain allows. The BLM proposes the following actions: • Close the Ute Mountain segment of the Rio Grande to commercially guided fishing trips from April 1 to May 3 1 to mitigate wildlife concerns. Commercial fishing access would be closed in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area from Chiflo downstream to Big Arsenic Trail. • Enhance fishing access by upgrading the trail from the Red River Fish Hatchery downstream along the Red River to its confluence with the Rio Grande. • Provide universal fishing access at one or two locations in the Orilla Verde Recreation Area, at the Quartzite and/or County Line Recreation Sites (away from the launch/takeout areas), and at Lover’s Lane in the Lower Gorge Unit. Improve trails to the river from parking areas along NM 68 and 570 to provide safer access. 2-50 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 Camping/Picnicking — All Units Camping could occur throughout the planning area except in areas signed or marked as closed or restricted as described below: • Require undeveloped campsites outside the two recreation areas to remain so, unless monitoring indicated a need for facilities (e.g., restrooms, trash containers, site designation, hardening) to mitigate resource damage. • Require human waste to be carried out by all overnight boating groups. • Campfires in the two recreation areas or at developed sites would be allowed only in grills or facilities provided. In undeveloped areas, campfires would be allowed, but the use of camp stoves would be encouraged instead. Dead and down wood could be collected for campfires. Boaters would have to use firepans for any campfires along the river and could only use driftwood. • Modify or replace facilities that were not universally accessible after considering physical and economic feasibility. Upper Gorge Unit • Close the John Dunn Bridge Recreation Site to camping. Additional sites could be closed if monitoring indicated that resource damage was occurring that could not be mitigated in other ways. • Do not allow overnight use within 300 yards of existing trailheads or trail descent points. An exception would be made for developed sites within the Wild Rivers Recreation Area and at the Raven and Powerline trailheads where camping would be allowed. • The BLM would coordinate with Taos County and the Hondo Mesa Neighborhood Association to determine a management strategy for the Manby Springs easement area. • Allow camping only at designated sites in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. • Add additional campsites if the Wild Rivers campgrounds were full 80 percent of the time in July and August. No more than 15 additional sites would be added on the rim. The group campsite at El Aguaje Campground would be expanded to accommodate 50 people. Three restrooms would be developed with showers if water rights could be obtained. • Do not designate or develop additional sites within the gorge. Sites visible from rim viewpoints would be removed as the shelters deteriorated, or the shelters would be repaired and relocated. Lower Gorge Unit • Close the Quartzite Recreation Site to camping. No camping would be allowed within 100 feet of the river between the County Line Recreation Site and the Velarde Diversion Dam, including the County Line and Lover's Lane sites. Additional sites could be closed if monitoring indicated that resource damage was occurring that could not be mitigated in other ways. • Provide day-use facilities at the south end of the County Line Recreation Site to accommodate fishing and picnicking and, if use warranted, install a universally accessible restroom. • Allow camping in the Orilla Verde Recreation Area only at developed or designated primitive sites at Lone Juniper and two sites on the west side of the river. • Provide a host/information facility with full hookups at each major campground in this recreation area. Consider host facilities at major river access sites. 2-51 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS • ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 6 • Add eight additional campsites at the Taos Junction Campground. Some sites could be supplied with electric or water hookups if demand warranted. The Orilla Verde Campground would be redesigned for improved traffic flow, restrooms rebuilt to include showers, and some sites relocated to separate boating from other uses such as fishing and camping. The Petaca and Pilar Campgrounds would be upgraded to include sites with electric and water hookups. The BLM would add four to eight campsites at the Pilar Campground and five to seven sites at the Petaca Campground. (At least one of these sites at each campground would be designed for use by groups of20.) • Build a fully developed campground with 9 to 13 sites including at least one group site near the historic stagecoach stop northeast of the bridge, if the private land adjacent to the Taos Junction Bridge was acquired. Copper Hill Unit Primitive camping would be allowed throughout this unit except within 100 feet of rivers or streams to protect riparian habitat. Trails/Access When proposed trails cross state or private property, an access easement would be acquired before public use was encouraged. If an easement could not be obtained, the trail would be rerouted to avoid the parcel. The BLM would take the following specific actions: Upper Gorge Unit • Acquire public access to the trailhead at Manby Springs. • Expand the West Rim Trail from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge north to Chiflo in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. (Close the segment between John Dunn Bridge and Cerro Chiflo from May 1 to July 3 1 to protect big game species.) • Coordinate with Taos Pueblo in locating an East Rim Trail between the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and the Taos Junction Bridge. • Construct the Pescado Trail from the Wild Rivers Visitor Center to the Red River Fish Hatchery, if trespass concerns of hatchery personnel could be mitigated. • Improve the Ute Mountain, East Rim, Lee, Chiflo, Sheeps Crossing, Miners, Red River, and Manby Springs Trails, the river trail between the John Dunn Bridge and Manby Springs, and the Powerline Trail. Sign at trailheads only. • Continue to allow pack stock only on Little Arsenic Trail, but no other trails below the rim at Wild Rivers Recreation Area. Lower Gorge and Copper Hill Units • Identify safe pullouts for sightseeing and parking along NM 68 and 570 in partnership with the New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department. The agency would also recommend road improvements to increase safety, such as marked driveway entrances, turning lanes, or road work to increase line of sight distances at dangerous hills or turns. • Conduct a feasibility study in cooperation with the New Mexico State Highway and Transporation Department for a pedestrian underpass or overpass between the Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center and the Quartzite Recreation Site. • Continue to improve foot trails from the NM 68 parking areas to river sites. Where terrain allowed, the BLM would provide a trail between parking sites to facilitate access. • Develop or improve the Rinconada Hill Trail, following old roads from the County Line 2-52 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 7 Recreation Site northeast to the Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center. • Develop the Cieneguilla Trail from Pilar to the Taos Junction Bridge, roughly paralleling the east side of NM 570. • Restrict shoreline access at selected locations in the Orilla Verde Recreation Area to protect bird habitat. Restrictions would be passive (e.g., by closing off adjacent parking areas or obliterating signs of trails). Issue 7: Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses The planning area would be available for various commercial and personal uses, some of which have already been described. Opportunities to use the public lands for the collection of forest products and for livestock grazing were described under Issue 3; commercial opportunities for recreation services have been described under Issue 6. This section describes other opportunities for commercial and personal uses such as mineral development, land ownership adjustments, and rights-of-way for access or utilities to private lands. This section also summarizes existing restrictions on these uses. TABLE 2-6 MINERAL WITHDRAWALS AND CLOSURES Item Status Proposed Plan (acres) Mineral Withdrawals Open 49,931 Closed 73,820 Mineral Withdrawals (if lands were acquired) Closed 14,122 Mineral Leasing Open 47,963 NSO" 25,615 Closed 50,173 Mineral Leasing NSO" 7,094 (if lands were acquired) Closed 7,648 Mineral Materials Open 58,337 Closed 65,414 Mineral Materials (if lands were acquired) Closed 9,482 Note: NSO“ - The No Surface Occupancy stipulation would be attached to oil and gas leases. Upper Gorge Unit An additional 804 acres of the expanded Wild Rivers Recreation Area would be withdrawn. Locatable Mining Under the Proposed Plan, the BLM would allow locatable mineral entry on 49,93 1 acres, primarily in the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit and in the Copper Hill Unit. To protect resources that could be affected by surface disturbance and/or facilities development, the BLM would withdraw 27,417 acres of public land from entry under land and mineral laws (refer to Table 2-6 for acres withdrawn). The additional withdrawals listed below would apply to all public lands in the area described, along with any parcels acquired by the BLM at a later date. Under the Proposed Plan, a total of 14,122 acres of private and state lands would be withdrawn if acquired by the BLM. Lower Gorge Unit All public lands within the proposed Lower Gorge ACEC would be withdrawn (1 1,707 acres in addition to the existing withdrawals). Copper Hill Unit All public lands within the new Copper Hill ACEC would be withdrawn. (Refer to the New Mexico RMP-Level Decisions above for a description of these areas). 2-53 CHAPTER 2 PROPOSED PLAN PLANNED ACTIONS ACTIVITY LEVEL - ISSUE 7 Leasable Minerals Upper Gorge Unit Existing mineral leasing closures or limits would continue, with an additional 14,906 acres subject to the No Surface Occupancy stipulation for oil and gas development. If acquired by the BLM, an additional 90 acres would be closed to mineral leasing. Lower Gorge Unit The entire unit would be closed to leasing activity (an additional 14,996 acres). Copper Hill Unit To protect Mexican spotted owl habitat and scenic quality, mineral and geothermal leasing would not be allowed in the Agua Caliente and Rio Embudo Protection Zones (an additional 4,550 acres). Leasing in the Lower Embudo Cultural Protection Zone would be authorized with a No Surface Occupancy stipulation. Mineral Materials Upper Gorge Unit No sales would be approved in the Rio Grande Corridor ACEC, the Flat Top Mountain (2,000-acre) portion of the San Luis Hills ACEC, the Rio Grande WSR, and the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. Lower Gorge Unit No sales would made in this unit, except at three sites that would remain open (the Rinconada, Dixon and La Mesita area pits) until the materials were exhausted. For mineral material site locations, see Map 6. Copper Hill Unit The Copper Hill ACEC would be closed, except for three existing sites at Piedra Lumbre, Hill Top, and Canada del Oso (refer to Map 6). Land Ownership Adjustments The planning area would remain a public land retention and acquisition zone. No sale or exchange of public land would be allowed except for color-of- title sales and disposal of the three parcels mentioned previously under "New Mexico RMP-Level Decisions." Under the Proposed Plan, no other lands would be available for disposal under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act. The BLM would acquire private and state lands in the planning area if owners were willing to sell and funds were available. Rights-of-Way New rights-of-way would be considered on a case-by-case basis except in exclusion areas. To protect scenic quality and habitat for the Mexican spotted owl and fisheries, rights-of-way would be excluded from the expanded Wild Rivers Recreation Area, entire Lower Gorge Unit, and Copper Hill ACEC's Agua Caliente and Rio Embudo Protection Zones. (Note; Rights-of-way would be excluded from the Lower Gorge Unit unless they were necessary to administer or improve access to recreation sites, or to provide access or utility service to private or state land where such access was otherwise not possible. Utilities would be underground only and would be collocated with roads.) The right of way window near the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge would continue in effect. Rights-of-way for acequias (irrigation ditches) are grandfathered through the legislation for WSRs, so they would remain in effect. Construction and rehabilitation of acequias would have to be done using historical materials and methods to protect wild and scenic river values (including scenic quality) and wildlife habitat. 2-54 Map 6 Mineral Material Sites •5. s i- I rf>- i t;- , ,}i >i» . X fwr^-tw. l (M h ' • *t. i i' t ♦ k .'^ T' Cjiklsf %vju;’vtii{! ■»- "rti ;:. •!» f*x1t . Mrt «rcji4 o 5 '•;. t ' v^ *r^ .1, I/ .-, J.I-, ^ . ■irt ?iOrH ^. >»(. jJrt4 I Hili I r K *» eacfudiJ ’ ■ ■-- • *>fei: 'i?!«ifr \#m . i ••r^ • ^ cit tw i^AO%r^vfc» h)' f f.-^- . '-.i^-v\iiJ# t* vA> tJi V Jj-. la;» Is j|jDtr>» ''«*4 pO( ^}' I U^i^‘i‘|■^t3©ltfbc -’ .1 : »A*>Ui» 11:^ CO’: "ff ' , ., o' w%' . » lim K'ar th^ |>) : {^i.lye \M-. .4^11 iftrls :'Ji 1 V' f nP%tf^30 percent CH o 26 35 48 1 136 Note: *UG-Upper Gorge Unit, LG-Lower Gorge Unit, CH-Copper Hill Unit. LG VO 302 139 198 (N 1 663 UG 144 264 969 126 06 1 1 (N 1,326 1 21-30 percent CH 89 196 oo 343 724 Ov 30 1,582 LG 44 1,193 813 263 t* (VH yinU » (1^ iLiul muNirlf • ' » f * ^\livA w#" -♦ r>.j 'MUi'T ■ • ’ • '-I ' - ’■■«■, a • ^ rtf VMtfi /t«KhlK? UvksT V9i/^(b *>^-i8 fiw>d Vinsi - i'c;c3»^a trni' f%kJ3^ ' vf^rtwcii i''" .’b'^ ■ .V'% f ,f I CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT BY PLANNING ISSUE Allotment Plant Association Number, Total Stocking Date of Type of Name, and BLM Ecological Class of Allowable Rate (ac/ Management Management Grazing State Association Acres Condition Trend Livestock Season of Use AUMs* AUM)‘ Category* Plan System Issues Comments 4249 * Riparian • Sparse shrub/ 40 Piflon Hills grassland (Colorado) sandy bench 3,592 Poor Apparent Cattle October 1 1 to 500 24 None One Riparian. • Allotment in nonuse for 7 out of last 10 years limy bench ” 1,092 Poor trend December 24 pasture Vegetation. * Changed season of use and class 1992 207 Fair static season- Water. • No data 6.855 long Fencing Total 11,786 4250 • Sparse shrub/ grassland Eight-Mile limy bench " 622 Fair Static Cattle May 15 to May 30, 212 26 1 Revised 1996 Rest every Water, • AMP revised 1996 to allow rest every fourth year (Colorado) " sandy 1,355 Poor November 24 to fourth year Vegetation bench 1,019 Fair December 15 ♦ No data 2.644 Total 5,640 4251 • Riparian • Sparse shrub/ 15 Mesa grassland (Colorado) limy bench 2,343 Fair Apparent Sheep September 15 to 263 19 I 1984 Three Water. • Possible Conservation Use area sandy bench 547 Poor trend up October 6, pasture Riparian. * Allotment in nonuse 6 out of last 1 1 years • No datfl 2.070 January 1 to deferred Vegetation January 23 rest- Total 4.975 rotation 4252 • Sparse shrub/ grassland San Luis Hills sandy bench 1,335 Fair Up Sheep February 1 to no 23 I 1984 One Water. (Colorado) limy bench 300 Fair February 18 pasture Vegetation ■ No data 905 deferred rest- Total 2.540 rotation 4253 • Riparian • Sparse shrub/ 10 Flat Top grassland (Colorado) sandy bench 197 Excellent Up Sheep September IS to 174 33 I 1986 Three Fencing. • North pasture of Flat Top added to La Sauses Allotment " " limy 1,819 Poor September 30, pasture Vegetation, • Permittee wants conversion from sheep to cattle bench 544 Poor February 1 to deferred Riparian • Sensitive plant species occur on steep slopes • No data 3.270 February 14 rotation Total 5.840 TABLE 3-8 INFORMATION FOR LIVESTOCK GRAZING ALLOTMENTS IN THE PLANNING AREA 3-24 * 1 * I i 1r. *''f'. ■ ■* m mjm :fc‘ f * Q> ^ •^'i1$l <• '» i ) 1 IP ■ '. m I f«"W»« >.-■>. mft' Ou^^rtl * *»jTi^’ rVtW ' vH» ♦ • r TK^-fI» vd€ '13 ^ »wi< r'' »^.*v ..V i 1 '^^-H tcft>t ,1 •»i ] '■'*■ >»* 4 4 >ii>^ 'Hji','! •v€ 1 ' f J U OJ'^I f h — l>£'*iK 1. *■ \( t J-> » ^XW'- ' ^ J \ I ,1. V» ' t » 3 9 ,i.i i^Jic-x., 4- f .1 > i t 1 r ;.v ; oft f ♦ » - ji fc.'*v ^fy,ru* ran^ | I". *■ * , » * t«ii *v;ku:4^tf * (fMKt £ iUiikltfi ■*’ k^f^t i f mnfi.H • -f N#jfni4i >..r*q^ * ’1 b^wiwru a^-i ^isii rif vMIM i 1 t**' . ff"vl ,r~S, ? > ■■# ifcl ’ I 1. «. * liK? I ’ ' t-l t-|^ {.V€ m ;iSntd vlK’ iiitj* i TT f. ■4' i i( * " ” - f ' f ..•t' ■' fc- I* ' ti' f • TUnii-* - ( t -:mr ’Vi |hf,^ •j. •«. r?i .f I tA m Jw>T to■!«»'; •< i t '. T ( CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT BY PLANNING ISSUE Allotment Plant Association Number, Total Stocking Date of Type of Name, and Association BLM Ecological Class of Allowable Rate (ac/ Management Management Grazing State Acres Condition Trend Livestock Season of Use AUMs* AUM)" Category* Plan System Issues Comments 4255 • Riparian • Sparse shrub/ 35 La Sauses grassland (Colorado) sandy bench 397 Fair Apparent Cattle April 15 to May 30, 137 24 1 None Three Vegetation. * Change in season of use, conversion from sheep to cattle, and " " limy Poor trend October 30 to pasture Riparian adjustment in allotment boundary to include Fairy Hills and part of bench " " 1,413 Fair static November 10 deferred Flat Top basalt hills 196 Poor rotation • Acreage reflects recent update to allotment • No da(^ 93 Poor 1.270 Total 2.226 5,630 4256 • Sparse shrub/ grassland East Bend sandy bench Poor Static Sheep March 1 to March 149 19 I Revised 1989 One Water. * Allotment in nonuse for 5 out of last 7 years (Colorado) limy bench 1.253 Poor 13. pasture Vegetation ♦ No 293 November 7 to deferred L214 November 1 8 Total 2.760 503 • Shrub/ grassland 128 Fair Apparent Cattle February 8 to 17 25 1 1993 One Wildlife. • Changed season of use 1 993 Embudo • Woodland JO Fair trend February 28 pasture Sagebrush • In conservation nonuse since 1993 (New Mexico) static season- Total 138 long 514 • Shrub/ grassland 222 Poor Apparent Canle October 15 to 36 8 M 1991 One Sagebrush, • Changed season of use 1991 Cerro Azul • Woodland Poor trend October 3 1 pasture Woodland. • Average 22 AUMs in conservation nonuse since 1991 (New Mexico) static season- Erosion Total 247 long 515 • Shrub/ grassland 168 Poor Apparent Cattle December 1 to 34 27 M None One Woodland. • In conservation nonuse 1992 to 1997 Glen Woody • Woodland m Poor trend February 28, pasture Erosion. ♦ Constructed 6 miles electric fence for riparian protection ( 1 994) (New Mexico) static May 1 to May 3 1 season- Suitability Total 905 long 516 • Shrub/ grassland 113 Fair Apparent Cattle September 15 to 8 61 C None One Woodland. * Decreased AUMs based on suitability study and changed season of Pilar • Woodland 451 Poor trend November 19 pasture Erosion use 1988 (New Mexico) static season- Total 566 long TABLE 3-8 INFORMATION FOR LIVESTOCK GRAZING ALLOTMENTS IN THE PLANNING AREA 3-25 H rjWtlAi i^nui>«wavi« UH1 ^ ^ M M» >• H i > » • w ''7 * IJK . % .*■ t ♦f **t ^^ 4# .' » 4» -V^X*., .i. V ^n'yOt\ 4p- i -“I I *-'V \ I ■; !• •■*’ **.*' ■ 4#« ~ ■ ii'"* . ■ ^ / I . . r t *- A -.T Jl ' - , I ’ 4ru 4 ?» tV 1 'M HUT!^ W'** I ff(:iO \iir I p* ■* -rr * i ... ^TtnfcrttjA . u.f .- I i . rc. «4 m -A T « 1 t I ‘ ' ?^ns ' I I:'* ['■ rnf^mm- “ ii» u 1 • r . »M4lC fk ''fn 'trht^ i •» ••> •MMltrii , - “J » . .-■ 1 ' . ^ r • i , 4»«n* I •wxjfi ( 1 » ^ • » ' »Af. 1 'JfOl-H JllKlilf 1 *■' J .^ ■ ■ k f" « I I vl it^i '■*■? :t? TU k,m m i!tu m \>.r ^ .-■■t *: T ict OL H. r *fiv?#T5 fbi»d yl^w.- * • i(cm!t Y>fl« iiakM laloT %vsiixaa% * i'jyiifnU "^( ■' rr UjiiXflfiff Jtt*1 »)sx»Mr * (rofanM iitt i : » I J .--^^ . VJkM^iS »V.| CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT BY PLANNING ISSUE Allotment Plant Association Number, Total Stocking Date of Type of Name, and BLM Ecological Class of Allowable Rate (ac/ Management Management Grazing State Association Acres Condition Trend Livestock Season of Use AUMs' AUM)* Category* Plan System Issues Comments 517 • Shrub/ grassland ” 546 Poor Apparent Cattle May 1 to December 64 18 C None Two Sagebrush. • Changed season of use 1996 Hondo " 186 Fair trend 1 pasture Woodland. ♦ One pasture on private land within allotment (New Mexico) • Woodland m Poor static deferred Erosion rotation Total 1.084 521 • Shrub/ grassland 586 Fair Apparent Cattle June 1 to 34 42 M None Two Riparian. • Contains intermittent stream rated Functional — At Risk Cucsiecita • Woodland 806 Fair trend September 30 pastures Woodland. (New Mexico) static season- Erosion Total 1.392 long 606 • Shrub/ grassland ” 523 Fair Apparent Cattle May 1 to November 275 16 1 1994 Four Wildlife. • Changed season of use 1 994 Wild River 1.302 Good trend 1 pasture Recreation. * Additional 129 AUMs lie outside planning area boundary (New Mexico) • Woodlanji 1.483 Fair static deferred Sagebrush. rotation Woodland Total 3,308 608 • Shrub/ grassland 198 Fair Apparent Cattle May 1 to July 30 210 22 M None One Wildlife. * Changed season of use 1986 Guadalupe • Woodland 2.328 Fair trend pasture Recreation. (New Mexico) static season- Sagebrush. Total 2.526 long Woodland. Erosion 624 • Shrub/ grassland 322 Fair Apparent Cattle May 1 to October 60 31 C None One Sagebrush. • Unfenced allotment grazed in conjunction with 14.544 acres private Carson Road trend 10 pasture Erosion land (New Mexico) static season- long 626 • Shrub/ grassland 1.090 Fair Apparent Cattle May 1 to October 154 31 M None One Sagebrush, * Unfenced allotment grazed in conjunction with 14.544 acres private Carson trend 10 pasture Erosion land (New Mexico) static season- long 636 • Shrub/ grassland " 1.464 Poor Apparent Cattle November 1 to May 328 16 1 None Two Riparian. * Proposed projects: riparian and allotment boundary fences 886 31 pasture Sagebrush. • Decreased AUMs due to base water adjustments. 1994 (New Mexico) • Woodland 2.752 Fair static deferred Woodland. rotation Erosion Total 5.102 TABLE 3-8 INFORMATION FOR LIVESTOCK GRAZING ALLOTMENTS IN THE PLANNING AREA 3-26 * r ■ ^ '* r,* ♦ i Ji T-.1 ■■ >»'» V* sj?^ ■ ; I _ ; ■t i 04WO4I f4yi4 ' 1 i t ! i i i I yif'4 * * i j>y'f‘ i !, ‘ f r*.^u ♦ ■> t •t.u j ' K^. ! *i4> i ' ■'v'^ i V3i||fn)b« ' ** •It s vHl% \} • -'■» ‘i I 1 ' 1 ' f c . " n.Ax') ! ;-’M ! OLi ' 1 idc.t. ** iiahwiii M k»cl ! 1 t ^ i < 4 1. b«Mi<£L9rs \U V ‘i hx' * 4 mi I V- -f j . >-i; bfiM fWULv ■Tl'* r i t ■< • 1 ^ j iu>n{? * V^1 ' m 1 ■ ;''' ':'i ^ -tmi , * i 1 * ^A-! » J _ . . \ * liil ,L • If 1 Ji tv CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT BY PLANNING ISSUE Allotment Number* Name, and State Plant Association Trend Class of Livestock Season of Use Allowable AUMs' Stocking Rate (ac/ AUM)** Management Category^ Date of Management Plan Type of Grazing System Issues Comments Association Total BLM Acres Ecological Condition 640 Guadalupe Mountain (New Mexico) • Shrub/ grassland • Woodland Total 454 2.064 2,518 Fair Fair Apparent trend static Cattle May 1 to June 20 or September 1 to October 20 145 26 I None Two pasture deferred rotation Wildlife. Recreation. Sagebrush. Woodland. Erosion * Changed season of use 1988 Notes: * AUM ■ animal unit month {amount of forage needed to support one cow. one horse, or five sheep for a month) ^ac/AUM - acres per AUM (amount of acreage needed to produce one AUM of forage). ‘ Management categories: 1 - Improve ecological condition, M - Maintain ecological condition. C - Custodial management to prevent resource degradation. TABLE 3-8 INFORMATION FOR LIVESTOCK GRAZING ALLOTMENTS IN THE PLANNING AREA 3-27 A V •k: V .V. i 1 iliH* ■ *^r,v^r V . 7Jj| « I u, • ..u^ li I * il ;'■'■’■ : : 1 j vpi --H 1- >. * 1 , •.; "*■ * ^ ' 1 » 1 ..r»4 ■ > 1 i ■ «* ' J - . 4 1 i «.»*••. ■'.fll.il' .. H;|^-^^t^!^/5i» .' :•'• *' O ^ . M"-'' ‘ t!T^»rr ts^rv J . ff»^ c« -4r^ * « t Jmatyj^^xM * J*; irv :«C'. . ^ rv't. ffv ;. I p t kz^y Sp? « jr*“* •* ■« • '> ■ :■ U ’ ..» » *-. *■•' ,• i . 4 A CHAPTERS affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 Wildlife Habitat The combination of a large perennial river partially enclosed by vertical cliffs and cutting through an arid, varied landscape provides an extremely rich, significant, and fragile home for wildlife in the planning area. Many diverse species are found in this narrow corridor, including various water birds, migrating perching birds and songbirds, raptors, big game, and a wide range of rodents and reptiles. Upper Gorge Unit The continental United States has four regions designated as flyways; these corridors provide for the movement of waterfowl between breeding and wintering areas. The San Luis Valley has been described as the southernmost major water bird production area in the Central Flyway and is also the most important water bird production area in Colorado. A significant portion of the water bird population, along with the majority of passerine and neotropical birds found in the Upper Rio Grande watershed, migrate through the Rio Grande Corridor. Important nesting waterfowl species include the Canada goose, mallard, gadwall, and cinnamon teal. Concentrations of 300 to 400 Canada geese can be found on the Rio Grande every spring. One of the most important migrating water birds is the greater sandhill crane, which uses the open sandbars and spits within the river and other off-river, nearby wetland sites. Flattop Wetlands, a 200-acre series of shallow intermittent playas, is designated as a crucial roosting site for sandhill cranes. Up to 20,000 of these birds migrate through this corridor each fall and spring. The upper Rio Grande is known for its concentrations of nesting raptors. A minimum of eight raptor nesting sites have been documented, including golden eagle aeries that exhibit 200 years of historical use. The 8 miles between the state line and the Lobatos Bridge have been designated through the RMP process as a crucial raptor nesting area. In New Mexico, 52 miles crucial to raptors lie between the state line and the Taos Junction Bridge. Golden eagle nesting territories are spaced at approximately 6-mile intervals throughout this part of the Upper Gorge Unit. Because of the birds' sensitivity to human presence, especially during breeding and nesting, the BLM closes the stretch of river between the Lobatos Bridge and Lee Trail to floatboating in April and May. The Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit is within State Game Management Unit 810; in New Mexico, this unit falls within State Game Management Units 50 and 53. Large ungulates including antelope, mule deer, and elk are year-round residents. Flat Top Mesa, a part of the San Luis Hills ACEC, is designated as a crucial winter habitat for mule deer. Approximately 150 mule deer inhabit all vegetation types found in the ACEC. Up to 100 antelope reside in the San Luis Hills. Approximately 50 elk live year-round in and adjacent to the riparian zone, but occasionally larger bands may be found in the area depending on the severity of winter. No crucial birthing or wintering areas have been documented for these species within the planning area in Colorado. Within the New Mexico portion of the Upper Gorge Unit, the numbers of mnle deer and elk can vary significantly. The average spring/summer count observed for mule deer is 16 and for elk the average is 3. The canyon population is supplemented by animals from adjacent habitats, requiring a capability for 49 mule deer and 300 elk. (These numbers reflect the highest numbers observed that, coincidentally, have had no detrimental impacts on corridor vegetation.) During severe winters, elk numbers along the rim increase to about 300. Numbers on Guadalupe Mountain during winter surveys vary depending on snow accumulation; the most recent 1995 count identified 4 mule deer and 41 elk, but the numbers have been as high as 65 mule deer and 200 elk (based on unpublished data from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish). The 16 trails into the gorge are all critical for big game migrating across the gorge, and provide access to perennial water. The common carp is the main fish species in the Upper Gorge Unit, ranging from 45 to 83 percent of the total, while brown trout represent the second-most abundant species, ranging from 0.5 to 8 percent (Hanson and Bristol 1994). Brown trout are 3-29 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 the most abundant salmon species from the confluence of the Red River north to the New Mexico-Colorado state line, while rainbow trout are most common from the Red River confluence to the John Dunn Bridge. The lower Red River and Rio Hondo are critical to the natural reproduction of brown and rainbow trout in this unit. The New Mexico Reach of the Rio Grande in the Upper Gorge Unit is managed as a Type I-B and II-A fishery by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDG&F 1987). [Type I-B describes a wild (reproducing) non-native trout fishery, while II-A describes a water capable of producing larger-than- average trout.] The NMDG&F plan includes stocking guidelines for rainbow and brown trout as well as a recommendation for survey of Rio Grande fish species. The Colorado portion of the Rio Grande in the Upper Gorge Unit is not intensively managed by the Colorado Division of Wildlife, nor is an ongoing stocking or fishery management program in place. The area has been surveyed and contains numerous species of both game and non-game fish species. Because non-game fish species dominate and fishing pressure is considered extremely low, the segment is not actively managed as a fishery. This unit possesses approximately 15 percent of the total 28 square miles of habitat suitable for bighorn sheep within the planning area (Dunn 1993) and 48 miles of suitable riverine habitat for river otter. The Rio Grande Gorge in northern New Mexico ranks second out of seven low-elevation areas as a habitat suitable for the wild sheep, but reintroduction is impractical because the area's private flocks of domestic sheep may carry diseases harmful to the bighorn. The Guadalupe Mountains possess habitat suitable for sage grouse, if wet meadow conditions were artificially constructed. Although not identified as such within the planning area, domestic pack stock and dairy cattle in other locations have been found to be carriers or hosts of diseases and parasites that may be transmitted to wild hoofed animals. Particularly of concern are Johne's disease in llamas and dairy cattle, and bronchopneumonia and scabies in domestic sheep. These diseases are considered a threat to mule deer, elk, and any introduced bighorn sheep. Lower Gorge Unit In this unit five primitive trails into the canyon are considered critical to big game migration and provide access to water. This unit also possesses habitats critical to raptor success. The species of primary concern is the golden eagle, whose most sensitive period is during early breeding and nesting (usually March 15 to June 30). A major displacement within this unit results when recreational hot air and gas balloons approach nesting birds, usually at distances of less than 200 meters. The fish species in this unit include brown trout, rainbow trout. Northern pike, small-mouth bass, white sucker, Rio Grande chub, and channel catfish (Sublette et al. 1990). Trout spawning occurs predominantly within the lower Rio Pueblo drainage and the Rio Embudo. The streams in the Lower Gorge Unit are managed by the NMDG&F as a Type I-B, II-A, III-A fishery. (Type III-A is a fishery capable of supporting supplemental trout populations year-round.) This unit provides 85 percent of the total habitat available to bighorn sheep within the Rio Grande Gorge (Dunn 1993). A total of 21 riverine miles are suitable for river otter, and the area serves as a stopover for migrating waterfowl. Caves and crevices within the unit provide for bat roosting and winter hibernation. The Bosque section of the Lower Gorge is characterized by a cottonwood-willow riparian community that is crucial to a significant number of migratory bird species. Approximately five bald eagles are known to winter within this unit, using multi-limbed mature cottonwoods for roosting and, to a lesser extent, ponderosa pines. The extent of this habitat on public lands is limited to 61 acres. The uplands in this section provide winter range that is crucial to mule deer, elk, and bald eagle. 3-30 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 Copper Hill Unit The Copper Hill Unit provides winter range that is crucial for mule deer, elk, and bald eagle foraging (based on a NMDF&F assessment). Part of this unit (1,768 acres) is designated as critical habitat for the Mexican spotted owl. Approximately 27 acres of riparian habitat exist within eight separate drainages in this unit. They are the Arroyo Hondo, Rito Cieneguilla, Piedra Lumbre Canyon, Tierra Amarilla Canyon, Agua Caliente Canyon, Rio Embudo, Rio de las Trampas, Canada del Agua, and Canada de Ojo Sarco. Fishery resources are known to exist only in Agua Caliente Canyon and the Rio Embudo. The Rio Embudo is managed by the NMDG&F as a Type III-A stream that is capable of supporting supplemental trout populations year-round. This unit contains the only perennial stream, Agua Caliente Canyon, that is suitable for Rio Grande cutthroat trout reintroduction within the planning area. This stream is approximately 5 miles long and originates on national forest lands. The USGS is taking biological inventories of invertebrates on portions of the Rio Grande as part of its National Water Quality Assessment. The reports should be available this year. Early indications are that the survey may have discovered a new species of caddis fly near the Rio Embudo. Special-Status Animal Species There are 13 mammals, 15 birds, 3 fish, 2 amphibians, and 2 mollusk species which were considered for analysis within the planning area as a result of a species list request to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) (refer to Table 3-9). * Black-footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes) This species is usually associated with prairie dog towns in grassland plains, semi-arid grasslands, and adjacent mountain basins. The black-footed ferret historically occurred over most of New Mexico (USDI, BUM 1984). The last confirmed sighting was in 1934 (USDI, BUM 1995). No black-footed ferrets are known to exist other than the captive and reintroduced populations in Wyoming, Montana, and South Dakota. However, remnant populations may still exist in portions of the former range (Hillman and Carpenter 1980). The decline in black-footed ferret populations was due mainly to historic extermination of prairie dogs, habitat alterations, and major plague outbreaks in the prairie dog populations (USDI, FWS 1988). The most recent information from the FWS (USDI, FWS 1989) indicates that prairie dog towns of the following sizes are necessary to maintain a black-footed ferret population: (a) 80 acres for black- tailed prairie dogs, and (b) 200 acres for Gunnison’s prairie dogs. No critical habitat has been identified for the black-footed ferret in the planning area. Information gathered from range management specialists, wildlife biologists, and other resource individuals who are continuously conducting fieldwork throughout the area have not identified any prairie dog towns the size necessary to support a black-footed ferret population. The largest known prairie dog town (Gunnison’s) is approximately 5 acres in size. Bat Species The bat species of concern include fringed myotis (Myotis thysanodes). Pale Townsend’s bat {Plecotus townsendii pallescens), big free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops macrotis), spotted bat (Euderma masculatum), Western small-footed myotis {Myotis ciliolabrum), long-eared myotis {Myotis evotis), Yuma myotis {Myotis yumanensis), long-legged myotis {Myotis volans), and occult little brown bat {Myotis lucifugus occultus). These species occupy various habitats that range generally through riparian areas, woodlands, canyons, and rocky areas. Habitat requirements typically include (1) a roost site or sites (cracks, crevices, cliffs, trees, caves, mines, buildings); (2) proximity to water, feeding near trees and over water; (3) an adequate prey base consisting mostly of insects; and (4) hibemacula (caves, tunnels, and buildings). 3-31 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 TABLE 3-9 ANIMALS OF CONCERN IN THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR BETWEEN LA SAUSES, COLORADO AND VELARDE, NEW MEXICO Common Name Status (Federal) Scientific Name Mammals black-footed Ferret endangered Mustela nigripes fringed myotis species of concern Myotis thysanodes Pale Townsend’s western big-eared bat species of concern Plecotus townsendii pallescens big free-tailed bat species of concern Nyctinomops macrotis spotted bat species of concern Euderma maculatum western small-footed myotis bat species of concern Myotis ciliolabrum long-eared myotis species of concern Myotis evotis Yuma myotis species of concern Myotis yumanensis long-legged myotis species of concern Myotis volans occult little brown bat species of concern Myotis lucifugus occultus Goat Peak pika species of concern Ochotona princeps nigrescens New Mexican meadow jumping mouse species of concern Zapus hudsonius luteus southwestern otter species of concern Lutra canadensis sonorae Birds American peregrine falcon endangered Falco peregrinus anatum Arctic peregrine falcon threatened Falco perefrinus tundrius Baird’s sparrow species of concern Ammodramus bairdii bald eagle threatened Haliaeetus leucocephalus black tern species of concern Chlidonias niger ferruginous hawk species of concern Buteo regalis Harlequin duck species of concern Histrionicus histrionicus interior Least tern endangered Sterna antillarum athalassos loggerhead shrike species of concern Lanius ludovicianus Mexican spotted owl threatened Strix occidentalis lucida mountain plover candidate Charadrius montanus 3-32 CHAPTER 3 affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 TABLE 3-9 ANIMALS OF CONCERN IN THE RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR BETWEEN LA SAUSES, COLORADO AND VELARDE, NEW MEXICO Common Name Status (Federal) Scientific Name northern goshawk species of concern Accipiter gentilis southwestern willow flycatcher endangered Empidonax trailii extimus white-faced ibis species of concern Plegadis chihi whooping crane experimental non-essential Grus americana Fish Colorado squawfish endangered Ptychocheilus Indus flathead chub species of concern Platygobio gradlis roundtail chub species of concern Gila robusta Amphibians boreal western toad species of concern Bufo boreas boreas Jemez Mountains salamander species of concern Mollusks Cockerell’s striate disc species of concern Discus shemeki cockerelli Sangre de Cristo pea clam species of concern Pisidium sanguinichristi Large cliffs and caves occur along the Rio Grande and other isolated rivers within the planning area. In addition, water and the associated prey base are found in numerous locations throughout the area. A bat survey was completed by the Taos Field Office between 1994 and 1996 at different locations in both Taos and Rio Arriba counties. A total of 14 species were captured. Two sites, Big Arsenic Springs and Ojo Caliente, were particularly high in abundance (Gannon 1 997). Goat Peak Pika (Ochotona princeps mgrescens) In New Mexico, goat peak pikas are confined to talus slides and boulder fields in alpine and subalpine areas. Other subspecies are common in the alpine area of the Sangre de Cristo Range, descending as low as 1 1,000 feet (Findley 1975). The historic range of this species includes only areas in New Mexico, and is not found beyond the state’s borders (Federal Register 1994). Nests are located at the deeper parts of the burrow system and consist of grasses and shredded paper when available. Burrows may be many feet long and three or more feet deep (NMDG&F 1967). New Mexican Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius luteus) The New Mexican meadow jumping mouse is usually found in marshes, moist meadows, and riparian habitats in open prairies. The preferred 3-33 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 habitat for the meadow jumping mouse contains permanent streams, moderate to high soil moisture, and dense and diverse streamside vegetation consisting of grasses, sedges, and forbs. The nearest reported locations for this species are in the Espaflola Valley of the Rio Grande (Hafher, personal communication 1996). Presently, the highest potential habitat for this species on BLM lands within the planning area is found from Taos Junction Bridge to Velarde, New Mexico. Southwestern Otter (Lutra canadensis sonorae) Otters are largely aquatic, doing most of their hunting and traveling in the water. They travel on land slowly and with considerable effort, unless there is soft snow, over which they slide with great rapidity. Their principal food consist of fish, crawfish, and other forms of animal life they can pick up in or under the water. In March 1953 an adult male river otter was trapped on the Gila River near Cliff, New Mexico (McClellan 1954). This animal, attributed to the southwestern subspecies, Lutra canadensis sonora, is the only specimen that is known to have been procured in New Mexico (Findley et. al. 1975). In Colorado efforts to establish self-sustaining populations of river otter in 1976 began by releasing wild otters from northern states and Canadian provinces into mountain rivers and lakes. No otters have as yet been introduced into the Rio Grande drainage. The closest release site to New Mexico was the Piedra River in southwestern Colorado releasing 24 between 1979 and 1982 (Beck, personal communication 1986). A river otter was reportedly seen on the Vermejo River in Colfax County, New Mexico in 1979. Two additional sightings of river otter were reported in Taos County during the summer of 1986. These sightings have renewed interest in the status of river otter in New Mexico, prompting further studies to be conducted. The BLM currently is conducting additional surveys for otters and other wetland furbearers in the area so that the presence of otter can be documented in order that the population can receive proper protection and management. The results of these ongoing surveys suggest that otter no longer inhabit the Rio Grande. American Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum) and Arctic Peregrine Falcon (Falco pereginus tundrius) - Migration Only Peregrine falcons historically nested (20 sites) in New Mexico (USDI, FWS 1984) and have been documented within the planning area. During the early 1970s a major decline occurred primarily due to the use of pesticides and their detrimental effect on the eggs of this species. The preferred habitats for the peregrine falcon are generally large cliff areas near water and with relatively dense avian prey species (e.g., passerine birds, shorebirds). Large cliffs occur along the Rio Grande within the planning area. In addition, water and the associated avian prey base are found in numerous locations throughout the area. Habitat requirements typically include (1) an inaccessible nest site, (2) an adequate prey base, (3) proximity to water, and (4) isolation from human disturbances (USDI, FWS 1984). Peregrine falcons typically forage along water sources (USDI, FWS 1984). The vast majority of peregrine falcon eyries in the Rocky Mountain/ Southwest Region are within 1 mile of a stream or river (USDI, FWS 1984). Peregrine falcons are known to migrate seasonally through the area and have historically nested in the area. There is one historical nesting site on the Upper Rio Grande that has been monitored annually since 1990, and intermittently since 1986. No activity has been observed at this historical site. The Arctic subspecies would only migrate through New Mexico. The main threat to peregrine falcons has been attributed to pesticide use, particularly dichloro diphebyl trichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites 3-34 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 (USDI, FWS 1984). The BLM uses some chemicals for noxious weed control and to remove sagebrush for desired plant community goals; however, none of the chemicals used by the BLM contain any DDT as a component. Baird's Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii) The Baird's sparrow forages on the ground. Reluctant to fly, it runs like a mouse through grass and eats seeds of grasses (e.g., brome, fescue, three- awn green foxtail), and weed seeds (e.g., pigweeds, mustards, ragweed), along with some insects grasshoppers, caterpillars, moths, and spiders. They build their nests on the ground in drier parts of prairie in tangled grass, sometimes under low shrubs often close together in a small community, and in slight cavities in the ground of interwoven grasses and weed stems lined with finer grasses. This type of habitat is found adjacent to and in the extreme northern end of the planning area, and migration through the corridor is possible. Baird's sparrows winter in New Mexico, arriving in small groups in February and at their main breeding grounds further north in April and May where the males establish territories. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) Bald eagles are generally associated with medium to large perennial streams, rivers, and other water bodies that provide an adequate prey base and appropriate nesting/roosting habitat. Within the area, the bald eagle is generally associated with the major reservoirs along the Rio Grande and its tributaries. This bird also frequents the mainstem sections between the reservoirs. The breeding population of bald eagles has historically been low, although New Mexico does provide habitats for wintering and migration. No bald eagle nesting use has been identified on BLM administered lands. Food availability is a major factor influencing bald eagle distribution, and fish is generally considered the preferred prey base. However, waterfowl (particularly dead or crippled individuals), dead livestock, rabbits, and small mammals could be utilized as a prey base for a wintering population. Bald eagles migrate seasonally through the area, and have been documented as roosting in one area along the Rio Grande. The area where bald eagles have been observed on roost sites during the winter is along the lower Rio Grande south of Pilar. The area is predominantly private lands with scattered tracts of riparian habitat managed by the BLM. Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) The black tern hovers over meadows and grassy marshes and with its bill snatches insects from the air; and darts down to pick others from tall grasses such as dragonflies, moths, grasshoppers, crickets, flies, beetles, and many others. It also eats crayfishes and small mollusks, spiders, and other invertebrates. It nests in small, loose colonies, sometimes in hollows in prostrate dead canes of marsh or on floating masses of dead plants, and on muskrat houses. Preferred tern habitat is associated with marshes and floating masses of dead plants where nests are built. Known distribution of the black tern in New Mexico is as a migrant within the Rio Grande corridor. The BLM administers no marsh habitat within the planning area. Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo re gal is) The ferruginous hawk may winter throughout its nesting range which includes New Mexico, and is on its northern part of summer range by March to early April. Summer range includes treeless plains and grassy prairies, where the ferruginous hawk sits quietly on low trees or fence posts or sometimes even on the ground or knoll watching for prey. The ferruginous hawk eats mainly prairie dogs and is also very fond of jackrabbits, cottontails, mice, gophers, and on occasion bats, bull snakes, lizards. 3-35 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 grouse, meadowlarks, grasshoppers, crickets, and beetles. The ferruginous hawk prefers nesting in tall trees when they are available, in timber belts along streams 6 to 55 feet above ground or on a ledge of a cliff. The nests are usually between 12 to 15 feet high, made of sticks, twigs, or old bones and lined with turf, dried grasses, cow or horse dung, and used year after year. Presently there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area. Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) In the summer the Harlequin duck lives on turbulent mountain streams or ponds and lakes and along rocky Arctic shores; in winter, in heavy surf along rugged rocky coasts with shelves, reefs, and jagged sunken rocks. Being such proficient divers, Harlequin ducks seem to prefer to feed in rough waters broken by rocks and surf in which they dive to the bottom using their feet and wings. The ducks poke their bill among the stones where they catch and eat nymphs and mayflies, stoneflies, and larvae of caddis flies. At sea, they eat mostly animal foods consisting mainly of crustaceans (crabs, amphipods, isopods, etc.) and mollusks (barnacles, limpets, snails, chitons, etc.) which they dislodge from rocks. Nesting occurs in a hollow in the ground under bushes usually lined with grasses and down, or in a hollow tree or cavity among the rocks. Presently there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area. Interior Least Tern (Sterna antillarum athalassos) The interior least tern is found mainly in southeast New Mexico, in and around Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge. It is an occasional migrant to other counties. However, presently the only known nesting population is in Chaves County along the Pecos River within the refuge. Within the area this bird would be considered only as an accidental migrant (David Leal, personal communication). No critical habitat has been designated within the planning area. This species is a colonial nesting shorebird. Although it is associated with water, it spends most of its time on sand bars, playas, or snatching its food from the surface of the water. It nests on the ground along the sandbars or playas. Channelization, irrigation, and the construction of reservoirs and pools have contributed to the elimination of much of the least tern’s nesting habitat. In addition, the increase of human recreation use of sand bars along rivers and lakes have caused disturbance to nesting birds. Presently there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area. Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) The loggerhead shrike prefers mainly open country, thinly wooded or scrubby land with clearings, meadows, pastures, thickets along roads and hedges. This species, because of its range, has a wide variety of foods which consist mainly of mice and birds in the winter and insects in the summer. It prefers habitats with thorny trees, shrubs, or barbed wire on which to impale all kinds of animal food; small birds, crayfishes, frogs, mice, and some small fishes. Presently there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area. Mexican Spotted Owl (Stirx occidentalis lucida) The Mexican spotted owl occupies mountainous areas with its preferred habitat consisting of dense, multi-storied forests with moderately closed to closed 3-36 CHAPTER 3 affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT- ISSUE 3 canopies. In addition, these owls have been found in canyon systems with little or no tree cover (USDI FWS 1993). These canyon systems appear to provide the same or similar microclimate as occurring within the dense multi-storied forests. Loss of preferred habitats mainly by timber harvesting has been the major impact causing the decline of the Mexican spotted owl. Historically the planning area contained forest stands that no longer occur today. From as early as the 1800s homesteaders, owners of land grants, and private logging companies removed most of large commercial timber within the planning area. Due these past forestry practices the area has no dense, old-growth forests and thus a very limited timber harvest program. The program basically consists of some fuelwood cutting in pinon-juniper woodlands, and small salvage cuts in ponderosa pine stands with mistletoe and other damage. The Mexican Spotted Owl Recovery Plan (USDI, FWS 1995) does not have specific guidelines for ponderosa pine and pinon-juniper habitats, which are considered as “Other Forest and Woodland Types” within the recovery plan. The BLM would follow the recovery plan quidelines in managing its timber and fuelwood programs in areas where spotted owls or their habitat is identified on BLM administered lands, or where BLM lands are adjacent to other lands that have been identified as spotted owl habitat. Critical habitat has been identified in one location by the FWS on BLM lands within the planning area (NM-BLM-3). Although the critical habitat designation has been recently rescinded the area would continue to be protected from any type of vegetative manipulation (e.g., timber harvesting). Mountain Plover (Charadrius montanus) The mountain plover prefers flat, short-grass prairie and tends to avoid taller grasses and hillsides (USDI, BLM 1995). Suitable habitat occurs in areas often grazed by livestock (USDI, BLM 1995). The bird prefers habitat composed of large areas of bare ground and short grass (less than 4-inch-tall stubble). Prairie dog towns and turf farms are likely areas of use. Outside the breeding season, this species occurs in flocks of up to several hundred, feeding in alkaline flats, plowed ground, sprouting grain fields, and grazed pastures (Terres 1991). Surveys conducted in 1995 by the BLM and NMDG&F located a population in the northern part of the resource area (Williams, personal communication 1995). This population is considered by the NMDG&F to be the largest concentration of mountain plovers yet identified within the state and is found in an area adjacent to the planning area. The mountain plover has not been identified within the planning area. Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) Goshawks are generally associated with northern forests preferring mixed hardwoods and conifers that provide an adequate prey base (e.g., hares, rabbits, gray squirrels, chipmunks, weasels, ducks, grouse, or quail). The northern goshawk winters over summer breeding range but irregularly migrates southward in fall when its staple prey of hares, lemmings, and grouse are scarce in the north. In its northern range thinning of eggshells is noted due to use of pesticides in the environment and in its prey. Within the planning area the Northern goshawk has not been found to occur. Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) The southwestern willow flycatcher is found along riparian habitats (e.g., rivers, streams and other wetlands) of the desert southwest where dense groves of willows (e.g., Salix, Baccharis spp.), arrowweed, buttonbrush, boxelder, and alder are present, often with a scattered overstory of cottonwood (Tibbitts et al. 1994). In some locations, exotic plants including tamarisk and Russian olive are also used for nesting. The bird is generally associated with multi-layered vegetation in proximity to water. The surrounding vegetation of the nesting areas generally range from 10 to 12 meters high. Willow flycatchers breed in riparian habitat where surface water is present. 3-37 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 Historically the Southwestern willow flycatcher has nested along the major river systems in northern New Mexico. However, as the result of riparian degradation, very few habitats still remain. Within the planning area, the BLM administers riparian habitat along the Rio Grande and other area water bodies. Many of these riparian areas are small (generally a few miles long) and very linear (less than 5 to 30 feet wide). However, few areas have been designated as critical habitat for the southwestern willow flycatcher (USDI, FWS 1997). In 1993 the BLM began surveying for the southwestern willow flycatcher along the Rio Grande in the most likely areas for the species to occur. The following are the results of the surveys for BLM- administered lands: 1993: Two nesting pairs of southwestern willow flycatchers were located along the Rio Grande south of Taos. 1994: One nesting pair of southwestern willow flycatchers was located at a previously identified site, as well as two singing males (unknown willow flycatcher) on the upper Rio Grande above Taos. The two singing males were identified two days before protocol would allow them to be counted as southwestern willow flycatchers. 1995: One nesting pair was located at a previously identified location, and two singing male Southwestern willow flycatchers were sighted on the upper Rio Grande above Taos. In 1994 and 1995 an additional pair of Southwestern willow flycatchers were identified on private lands along the lower Rio Grande by the BLM and FWS. This pair is located in an area where disturbance is infrequent. An adjacent area (about 5 acres) appears to be high-quality habitat, but is located closer to a main highway, so the disturbance from vehicular traffic may be impacting additional nest establishment in this area. 1996: Two nesting pairs of Southwestern willow flycatchers were located along the Rio Grande. 1997: One nesting pair of Southwestern willow flycatchers were located along the Rio Grande south of Taos, unfortunately the pair’s attempt to nest failed. In 1997 a survey was conducted south of Taos on the Rio Grande to determine whether or not active willow flycatcher nests were being parasitized by brown-headed cowbirds {Molothrus ater). The results concluded that on two separate occasions, five to six pairs of cowbirds and later three to four cowbirds were observed near the nesting site. Evidence of parasitism on other species of birds was noted. Also in 1 997, a cowbird distribution and behavior study was initiated. Potential cowbird foraging habitat was identified within 5 miles of known willow flycatcher nesting sites occurring within the area. Although the information is provisional there were no observations of foraging on public land sites. However, foraging by cowbirds was observed at downstream locations on private lands.. Monitoring and surveys would continue on an annual basis. The high-potential habitats for southwestern willow flycatcher have been identified and are currently inventoried on an annual basis. The pair south of Taos established their residency near an intensively used BLM campground, built in 1965 and actively used continuously since then. In addition, the nesting area is adjacent to a state highway, and has been used by recreational float-boaters along the Rio Grande since the late 1970s. In the mid-1980s the commercial floatboater use was approximately 8,000 user-days annually through this area. In 1993, the use had increased to approximately 39,000 user-days annually. The birds established their territory with these existing activities ongoing, and have apparently been able to exist within the area for the past three years. White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi) The white-faced ibis is generally associated with freshwater marshes where it eats insects, newts. 3-38 CHAPTER 3 affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 leeches, earthworms, some snails, crustaceans (especially crayfishes), frogs, and fishes. Within the planning area the white-faced ibis would be considered only as an accidental migrant. The white- faced ibis could migrate seasonally through the area, occasionally using the rivers and larger lakes and reservoirs. However, no known use of BLM lands by the white-faced ibis has been identified. Whooping Crane (Grus americana) The whooping crane breeds mainly at Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada. The Wood Buffalo population winters mainly along the gulf coast of Texas at the Arkansas National Wildlife Refuge. A few whooping cranes that were raised by foster parents (Sandhill Cranes), at Gray Lake, Idaho migrate with the sandhill cranes to the Rio Grande Valley, New Mexico. These birds (three to five in number) winter mainly in the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, located approximately 20 miles south of Socorro, New Mexico. Whooping cranes select an open expanse of shallow water in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and native wetlands for nightly roosting. These sites include stockponds, marshes, and flooded grain fields. Feeding sites include the same wetland types as those used during roosting. Within New Mexico, the whooping crane is associated with the agricultural fields and valley pastures, particularly where there is waste grain or sprouting crops. The whooping crane typically roosts on sand bars within the Rio Grande floodplain (NMDG&F 1988, BISON-M 1995). No whooping cranes have been observed using any BLM lands, and no critical habitat has been designated within the planning area. The lack of any suitable wetland/agricultural habitat on BLM- administered lands within the planning area generally accounts for the lack of whooping crane observations. Whooping cranes may move seasonally across the Rio Grande Corridor during their spring and fall migrations; however, they would be considered rare visitors to the area. No documented roost sites or feeding areas occur on BLM lands within this area. Colorado Squawfish (Ptychocheilus lucius) This species formerly inhabited the Colorado River Basin from south westernmost Wyoming southward to northwestern Sonora and adjacent Baja California; at present, natural populations are confined to the upper portion of the basin in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico (e.g., Holden 1980). In New Mexico, the Colorado squawfish currently occurs in the San Juan River, and it may also have entered the state in historic time in the Gila River Basin. Until recently, the last record of Colorado squawfish was in 1961 in the San Juan River near Bloomfield. However, in 1987 and 1988, adult and young-of-year squawfish were captured in the San Juan between Shiprock and the Four Comers area (NMDG&F files). At one time the Colorado squawfish was an abundant species, even to the point of serving as a significant food fish for early European settlers (Minckley 1973). Nonetheless, such settlement in the region soon saw a decline in the species, both in terms of range and numbers. The Colorado squawfish was first collected from the San Juan River of New Mexico in 1936 by Elliot S. Barker (USNM 118996). In 1959, two more specimens were taken from the San Juan River near Rosa, Rio Arriba County. Four squawfish were subsequently collected in the vicinity of Navajo Dam. There are other unconfirmed reports of the species from anglers from the San Juan River upstream from Bloomfield, New Mexico, including one as recently as 1987. This species is characterized as a “big river” fish, with adults (fish that are greater than 200 millimeters total length) occurring in turbid, deep, and strong- flowing water (Minckley 1973). In contrast, young- of-the-year, juveniles, and subaldults occupy shallow backwater areas, with little or no current and silty or sandy substrates. This shift in habitat preference may be associated with differences in the feeding habits of the two categories (Sublette 1990). The Colorado squawfish spawns from early July through about mid-August, after water temperatures have exceeded 18 degrees Celsius (°C) for about a month. Preferred spawning sites are apparently 3-39 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 3 gravel and cobble-bottomed riffles, where the interstitial spaces are free of organic matter and sediment. Typically in the vicinity of such spawning riffles are sand-bottomed pools with slow laminar flows (NMDG&F 1988). For spawning, this species selects white water riffles or rapids (Tyus 1986) with gravel and cobble substrate devoid of organic, silts, and clays (Sublette 1990). The larvae drift downstream until they reach a size where they can move into shoreline areas consisting of embayments, backwaters, and isolated backwater pools (Sublette 1990). Younger age classes of squawfish feed primarily upon insects and crustaceans, whereas older fish are obligate piscivores (NMDG&F 1988). Studies have shown that abnormally high water releases from upstream dams during the primary nursery period of August through September were detrimental to survival of larvae, and that surviving larvae showed a significantly lower growth rate (Sublette 1990). The species is endemic to the Colorado River Basin and is not known to have occurred within the planning area. Flathead Chub (Hybopsis gracilis) The flathead chub is native to the Rio Grande drainage and has been recently collected (1971 to 1980) within the planning area. This species is usually found in moderate to strong currents in rivers and larger streams above shifting sand bottoms, in highly turbid waters. Spawing usually occurs in summer when water temperatures range from 1 8 to 25 °C (Sublette et. al., 1990). Roundtail Chub (Gila robusta) This species occurs in the San Juan and Gila basins, and it was formerly also present in the Zuni and San Francisco drainages. In the San Juan Basin, this chub is currently found in the mainstem San Juan River from Navajo Reservoir downstream to the Four Comers area and in the Mancos, Navajo, and Animas rivers (San Juan and Rio Arriba counties). The roundtail chub occurs locally in the Gila Basin in the East and Middle forks, the confluence area of the West and Middle forks, Turkey Creek, and sporadically in the mainstem Gila River downstream to the Middle Box (NMDG&F 1988). The species is not known to occur within the planning area. The roundtail chub is generally associated with large rivers inhabiting pools with proximal overhead cover and rapids. They generally seek out pools 64 centimeters in depth whereas young chubs are frequently associated with more shallow habitats of 20 to 32 centimeters. All age groups prefer cobble-mbble, sand- cobble, or sand-gravel substrata in association with undercut banks, fallen logs, or other overhead cover. This species consumes a variety of invertebrates (including insects, gastropods, and crayfish), as well as algae and small fish (NMDG&F 1988). Boreal Western Toad (Bufo boreas boreas) The Boreal western toad has a very wide range from Alaska to New Mexico, which apparently is the extreme southeastern limit of its range. This species appears to be exclusively a high-mountain form in New Mexico, where it is restricted to the vicinities of rivers, creeks, lakes, and reservoirs. In the state it is known only from three lakes in the San Juan Mountains (Lagunitas, Trout and Canjilon). Within the planning area there are no public lands within the preferred habitat of this species. Jemez Mountains Salamander (Plethodon neomexicanus) This species is endemic to north-central New Mexico where it is found only in the Jemez Mountains in portions of Los Alamos, Sandoval, and Rio Arriba counties. It is locally common only in areas where essential microhabitat exists. 3-40 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 4 This salamander is generally found on loose rocky soils between 2,200 and 2,900 meters. They occur in and under rotting coniferous logs or under rocks on both flat areas and steep slopes. The habitat is coniferous forest dominated by Douglas fir, blue spruce, Engelmann spruce, ponderosa pine, and white fir with occasional aspen. Rocky Mountain maple, and various shrubby oaks. It is not known to occur within the planning area. Cockerell ’s Striate Disc (Discus shemeki cockerelli) This species of snail is typically found under stones, logs, and pieces of wood. They are often associated with woody debris of spruce, fir, and or aspen and are found at elevations between 7,000 and 12,000 feet. They appear to have a preference for spruce-fir woods, as six of the collections from a 1952 to 1954 study of central and north-central New Mexico were collected from this type of climax community. They are also considered "casual" in aspen and tundra habitats. This species has not been identified within the planning area. The preferred habitat and elevations for the species, however, may be found in the upper elevations of the Upper Gorge and Copper Hill units in the planning area. Sangre de Cristo Peaclam (Pisidium sanguinichristi) The Sangre de Cristo peaclam is endemic to northern New Mexico. The species is found only in Middle Fork Lake, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This is a typical alpine lake of the area, with no submergent aquatic vegetation, and emergent grasses are only in sheltered embayments. This mollusk occurs in the mud among these emergent grasses, as well as in that at the lake outlet (NMDG&F 1988). Distribution of the Sangre de Cristo peaclam occurs in high elevation alpine lakes that do not occur within the planning area. Fire Fire has played an integral role in the development of Rio Grande Corridor, which is made up of numerous vegetative plant communities that have developed as part of a fire-dependent ecosystem. Periodic burning of these plant communities allows their natural composition, structure, and function to continue. Historically, natural fires occurred frequently, at a low intensity and involving small acreage. The natural fire cycle resulted in open savanna-type stands of ponderosa pine and pinon- juniper. The low intensity of the fires caused little or no effect on soil structure or chemistry, while resulting in a fairly diverse non-woody layer. The decrease in natural fires that resulted from aggressive fire suppression caused these plant communities to change from more open grasslands to shrub grasslands and pinon-juniper woodlands. These latter communities do not produce the fine fuels needed to carry periodic natural fires, which also contributes to the change in vegetation. The practice of suppressing all natural fires has resulted in increased hazardous fuel loads, a change in ecosystem types, soil erosion, and a loss of ecosystem and biological diversity. To blend fire back into the natural process of a functioning ecosystem, the Taos Field Office has begun a program of prescribed fires. However, until completion of fire managements plans and detailed prescribed bum plans, the BUM will continue to suppress all fires in the planning area. Issue 4: Prehistoric and Historic Resources The Rio Grande and Colorado River are the two largest river systems in the Southwest. The Rio Grande has provided the natural resources, including water, animals, plants and fertile soils, needed to support human beings throughout their existence in the area. The story of human use of the area provides an excellent opportunity for public education, interpretation, and research. 3-41 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 4 Sites dating to the Paleoindian Period (9500- 5500 B.C.) are well documented in the San Luis Valley of southern Colorado, and the site from which the Folsom Complex was first defined is located within the Taos Field Office management area. Numerous Archaic Period sites (5500 B.C.-A.D. 600) have been recorded within the planning area. Archaic hunters and gatherers were drawn by the plentiful resources found within the Rio Grande Gorge, as well as the large game herds on the valley plains and surrounding mountains. The farmers of the Anasazi Culture (A.D. 600- 1600) flourished along the many tributaries of the Rio Grande. After the abandonment of the Four Comers area by A.D. 1300, a large portion of the Anasazi people relocated to the northern Rio Grande area. Descendants of these Pueblo people continue to play an important part in the cultural identity of northern New Mexico; the pueblos of Taos, Picuris, and San Juan are closest to the planning area boundaries. Don Juan de Onate led the Spanish into northern New Mexico in 1598 and set up the first colony near San Juan Pueblo on the banks of the Rio Grande. The colonists brought with them hundreds of cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and hogs, marking the start of large-scale livestock grazing in northern New Mexico. This colonization nearly 400 years ago also marked the beginning of the historic period in the area. Upper Gorge Unit A total of 61 cultural resource phenomena have been recorded in the Colorado portion of the planning area. Of these, 40 are prehistoric, 1 1 are historic, and 10 are isolated finds. Six have been determined to be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, and 13 are not eligible (refer to Table 3-10). The remainder have either not been assessed for eligibility, or more data are needed to make an eligibility determination. Only a very small percentage of the total cultural resources in the planning area are rep- resented in these totals, because most of the sites have not been inventoried or recorded. Prehistoric site types include locales of stone tool manufacture, open-air and sheltered camps and structural sites, and rock art panels. Historic sites range from individual foundations to plazas, a dance hall, and a turquoise mine. Only in the Wild Rivers and Guadalupe Mountain areas of the New Mexico portion of the Upper Gorge Unit have detailed inventories been completed. Eleven sites were located, recorded, and studied on Guadalupe Mountain as part of the Molycorp Tailings Facility proposal (Seaman and Chapman 1993). Study of these sites shows that the area was used over a long period of time (Paleoindian, Archaic, and Anasazi) for hunting, gathering of vegetal material, and obtaining stone for tool making. A large number of artifacts from Guadalupe Mountain have been collected and curated in the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology at the University of New Mexico. These artifacts are available for public education. In 1985 and 1986, the BLM performed archaeological inventories in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area with volunteers. The group located and recorded about 20 archaeological sites within and adjacent to the Rio Grande Gorge, including campsites, quarries, kill sites, and petroglyphs dating primarily to the Late Archaic and Anasazi Periods. Many of these sites have been and continue to be affected by the large numbers of people drawn to the recreation area; impacts include artifact collection, haphazard trails forming near petroglyphs, and general use. In the Taos Box, only a few archaeological sites have been recorded, including petroglyphs with associated artifacts and features, and historic features linked to the John Dunn Bridge and Manby Hot Springs. The petroglyphs tend to confirm the natural and sacred importance of the Rio Grande Gorge for the area's inhabitants. The historic sites date back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and have great potential for interpretation. 3-42 CHAPTER 3 affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 4 TABLE 3-10 NATIONAL REGISTER ELIGIBILITY REVIEW STATUS FOR CULTURAL RESOURCE SITES IN THE UPPER GORGE UNIT, COLORADO Type of Site Not Eligible Need Data Not Assessed Eligible Totals Open lithic 2 10 12 Sheltered Camp 5 5 Sheltered architectural 4 4 Open Architectural 8 3 1 12 Open camp 1 3 1 5 Rock art 2 2 Historic 2 6 2 10 Isolated find 10 10 Mine 1 1 Totals 13 23 19 6 61 Both John Dunn and Arthur Manby played key roles in the history of Taos in this era. The present John Dunn Bridge replaced an earlier bridge that Dunn built that was washed away in a flood. These bridges provided public conveyance to Taos from the Chili Line Railroad. Dunn collected tolls at the bridge, provided taxi service from the Chili Line to Taos, and had a hotel just east of the bridge (one wall of which remains). Manby Hot Springs was the cornerstone of Arthur Manby's plans to make a fortune developing the springs into a world-class spa. He is best remembered for his acquisition of lands from descendants of the Spanish people through purchase, trade, and chicanery. These Hispanic residents had lived on the land after Ofiate's entrance into New Mexico in the 1590s and could ill afford the taxes imposed by the United States. Manby's headless body was found in his home (now the Stables Art Gallery) on July 4, 1929. His mysterious death continues to be a topic of speculation. The ruins of a bath house, cabins, and an old bridge are located around the hot springs. Lower Gorge Unit In the Lower Gorge, known archaeological sites are dominated by petroglyphs with associated artifacts dating from the Late Archaic, Anasazi, and Historic Periods. Only about 10 sites have been formally recorded; it is anticipated that many additional, undocumented archaeological sites exist. Many of the petroglyph sites are located within the Orilla Verde Recreation Area where there is great potential for interpretation and public education. The Chili Line played a major part in the development of Taos, Espaftola, and Santa Fe. The railroad line was built by the Denver and Rio Grande Railway Company in the 1890s to link Antonito, Colorado with Santa Fe. Branch lines were built in the Tres Piedras, La Madera, Chama, Duke, and El Vado areas for logging purposes, and into the rich San Juan, Colorado mining country. The construction of the Chili Line to Santa Fe reestablished the New Mexico capital as a major trade center in the rapidly growing West. 3-43 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 4 The remaining railroad grade, along with the sidings, stations and stops, water towers, and other associated features is one of the more important historic resources within the Taos Field Office management area that should be protected and managed in the public interest. The Chili Line has great potential for public education and use; however, a few local residents are concerned that development of this resource would infringe upon their privacy. The privately owned Embudo Station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the only federally listed property in the planning area. Copper Hill Unit Very little archaeological inventory has been done in the Copper Hill Unit of the planning area. Known cultural sites include Anasazi and Historic Period petroglyphs; Anasazi artifact scatters; and historic copper, tungsten, and calcite mines in the mountains west of Picuris Pueblo. The Harding Mine, on private land, is on the New Mexico State Register of Historic Places, the only state listed property in the planning area. The Lower Embudo SMA is located within this unit. This SMA was designated to provide special management emphasis for three small pueblo sites and associated features located along the Rio Embudo near Dixon. These small pueblos date to the fhieblo II-III Periods (A.D. 900-1300) and are considered to be very important to the cultural past of the area. American Indian Traditional Uses The planning area has had a long history of American Indian use. The ancestors of modem Pueblo people have inhabited the area for about 1,000 years. This habitation includes the Tiwa Pueblos of Taos and Picuris located just east of the planning area, and the Tewa Pueblos located south of the planning area between San Juan on the north and Tesuque on the south. Northern portions of the area were also inhabited historically by Utes and Jicarilla Apaches. The ancestors of Taos Pueblo were known to be in the area by about A.D. 1000. The multi-storied buildings at the present location of the pueblo on the Rio Pueblo de Taos were well established when the Coronado expedition came through the area in 1 540. The Taos Pueblo people grew crops nearby, hunted the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and often crossed them to hunt buffalo on the plains. The Taos people used the planning area, including the Rio Grande Gorge, to hunt and gather plants for food and ritual purposes. According to Taos Pueblo, an inseparable part of Taos Pueblo life is the eagle. Since time immemorial, tribal members respected, utilized, and protected the eagle. Taos Pueblo has and will continue to be criticized for their staunch and enduring conservation effort of protecting wildlife habitat, to include that of the golden and bald eagles. Taos Pueblo seeks cooperative efforts with respective agencies and individuals to protect wildlife habitat. Picuris Pueblo is located Just outside and to the east of the Copper Hill Unit. These peoples' ancestors probably were occupying the site of the pueblo by the last half of the twelfth century, and were well established when the expedition of Caspar Castano de Sosa visited in 1591. As with the Taos Pueblo, the Picuris most likely used the planning area to hunt and gather plants useful as food and seasonings, as well as for medicinal and ceremonial reasons. The Tewa Pueblo of San Juan is located along the Rio Grande about 10 miles south of the planning area. The Tewas are known to have been in the Espafiola and Chama Valleys by about A.D. 1 150- 1200, and were well established when the Spanish entered the area in the sixteenth century. Ute Indians, who inhabited most of Colorado and Utah prehistorically, traditionally used the northern portion of the planning area. When Don Diego de Vargas entered the area in 1694, he confronted Utes hunting buffalo in the vicinity of the San Antonio River near present-day Antonito, Colorado (Espinosa 1942). Jicarilla Apaches had moved to the Rio Grande Valley and settled near Ranchos de Taos, where they 3-44 CHAPTER 3 affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 5 were reported in the mid- 1 700s by Bishop Tamaron. Visiting Jicarillas often camped near the pueblos of Taos and Picuris. Archaeological sites attributed to Apaches have been located in the Velarde-Pilar area (Gunnerson 1987). Certainly all of these American Indian groups have a long tradition of using the planning area, including for hunting and gathering of plants for food, medicine, and ceremony. It is also likely these people have used and continue to use the area for many other purposes. The BUM respects these traditional uses and the privacy they require. Issue 5: Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management (including for minerals) has the potential to impact the area's scenic quality. In the planning area, visual variety is created by the steep, enclosed basalt gorge as well as the panoramic views of adjacent mountain scenery across the plateau. Primary access through the planning area is by travel down the river or along state highways and county roads. NM 68, a major north- south route from Santa Fe to Taos, parallels the Rio Grande for approximately 12 miles. Along these routes and at recreational facilities and other access points, visitors have the opportunity to stop and enjoy the area's scenic qualities. Prized views of the Rio Grande Gorge exist at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, a pullout on NM 68 in the vicinity of the Horseshoe Curve 3 miles north of Pilar, and La Junta Point Overlook in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. The Rio Grande Gorge is a striking landform with cliffs, benches, and terraces cut by the river. The gorge is characterized by steep, layered basalt canyon walls rising as high as 800 feet above the river in some locations. Those who descend into the gorge experience a strong sense of enclosure and narrow, steep walls restrict their views. From the river to the gorge rim, the visual quality of the planning area is strongly influenced by the texture and color of the landscape and the canyon-slope vegetation. Visual changes in the Lower Gorge and Copper Hill units result as the dark basalt shifts to quartzite, schist, and gneiss with their more reddish colors. Also along stretches of the river, the white water contributes to the area's scenic appeal and is a focus of attention. From the vicinity of the Lobatos Bridge to the Taos Junction Bridge, the Upper Gorge remains relatively remote and undisturbed, surrounded by rangelands and woodlands. Cultural features are more predominant in the southern portion of the planning area (Lower Gorge and Copper Hill units). In these units, the natural scenic quality is influenced by cultural modifications such as recreational facilities, residential and commercial buildings, small agricultural fields, pastures, orchards, roads, bridges, rock catchments, and utility structures. Throughout the planning area are large, undeveloped parcels of state, private, and federal lands whose development The BLM has established a system for evaluating visual values, and uses four Visual Resource Management (VRM) classes to provide management direction. VRM Class I is assigned to areas where a management decision has been made to maintain a natural landscape. This includes areas such as national wilderness areas, the wild components of the National WSR System, and other congressionally and administratively designated areas where preservation of the natural landscape is emphasized. Classes II, III, and IV are assigned based on a combination of scenic quality, sensitivity level, and distance zones. Classes I and II contain the most valued visual resources. Class III contains those with moderate value, and Class IV contains the least- valued visual resources. Appendix C gives a more detailed description of these classes and their management objectives. Table 3-1 1 displays the existing VRM classes for the planning area. Upper Gorge Unit The characteristic landscape features of the Upper Gorge Unit range from the grasslands and rolling hills of the San Luis Valley to the Taos Box, a deep, narrow canyon. In the San Luis Valley, the land is semidesert with sparse vegetation, except for a narrow riparian zone extending along both sides of the river. Vertical rock walls up to 100 feet high exist in several places, creating an enclosed 3-45 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 5 TABLE 3-11 EXISTING VISUAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATIONS ON PUBLIC LANDS WITHIN THE PLANNING AREA ” (acres) Planning Units/Management Areas Class I Class II Class III Unassigned Totals Upper Gorge - Colorado San Luis Hills ACEC 0 0 24,080 0 24,080 San Luis Hills WSA 0 12,300 0 0 12,300 Rio Grande Corridor ACEC 0 4,157 0 0 4,157 Rio Grande Corridor SRMA ' 0 0 438 0 438 Remaining public lands 0 0 6,805 0 6,805 Total - Colorado 0 16,457 31,323 0 47,780 Upper Gorge - New Mexico Rio Grande & Red WSRs 13,516 0 0 0 13,516 Wild Rivers Recreation Area 0 12,060 0 0 12,060 Guadalupe Mountain ACEC 0 1,363 0 0 1,363 Remaining public lands 0 0 0 9,638 9,638 Subtotal 13,516 13,423 0 9,638 36,577 Lower Gorge - New Mexico Orilla Verde Recreation Area 0 5,743 20 0 5,763 Racecourse ACEC ® 0 1,355 0 0 1,355 Black Mesa ACEC ^ 0 34 0 629 663 Remaining public lands 0 0 0 14,333 14,333 Subtotal 0 7,132 20 14,962 22,114 Copper Hill - New Mexico Warm Springs SMA * 0 0 0 10,691 10,691 Embudo Canyon ACEC 0 1,212 0 0 1,212 Agua Caliente ACEC 0 0 0 664 664 Lower Embudo SMA 0 0 0 498 498 Remaining public lands 0 0 0 4,215 4,215 Subtotal 0 1,212 0 16,068 17,280 Total - New Mexico 13,516 21,767 20 40,668 75,971 3-46 CHAPTER 3 affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 5 TABLE 3-11 EXISTING VISUAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATIONS ON PUBLIC LANDS WITHIN THE PLANNING AREA * (acres) Planning Units/Management Areas Class I Class II Class III Unassigned Totals Grand Total 13,516 38,224 31,343 40,668 123,751 Notes: a No acreage within the planning area has been assigned VRM Class IV. b Excluded from the total acreage are 12,300 acres of the San Luis Hills WSA that overlap the ACEC. c Excluded from the total acreage are 4,157 acres of the Rio Grande Corridor ACEC that overlap the SRMA. d Excluded from the total acreage are 3,209 acres of the Wild and Scenic River. e Excluded from the total acreage are 34 acres of the Black Mesa ACEC that overlap the Racecourse ACEC. f Only that portion of the ACEC located within the planning area is shown in this table. g Excluded from the total acreage are 1,212 acres of the Embudo Canyon ACEC and 664 acres of the Agua Caliente ACEC that overlap the SMA. landscape for visitors on the river. On some river segments and other lands within the Colorado portion of the planning area, opportunities occur for more open and expansive unobstructed views. An undeveloped subdivision borders approximately 7 miles of the river on the east side, which could affect future views along this segment. In Colorado, the San Luis RMP mandates that the foreground area of the Rio Grande Corridor be managed as VRM Class II. The San Luis Hills WSA is also managed under VRM Class II (pending a Congressional decision on wilderness designation). VRM Class III has been assigned to the remainder of the public land within the planning area in the San Luis Resource Area. The 13,5 16 acres within the boundary of the Rio Grande WSR are managed under VRM Class I objectives. The BLM has purchased scenic easements along portions of the wild river segments to protect the scenic (visual resources) quality. Through its land use planning efforts, the USFS also has developed management objectives to retain the visual values on forest lands bordering the Rio Grande and Red River. The Wild Rivers Recreation Area and Guadalupe Mountain ACEC encompass approximately 13,423 acres that are managed under the objectives for VRM Class II, and 3,209 acres of VRM Class I land that overlaps the WSR. Lower Gorge Unit In the Lower Gorge Unit, the most conspicuous characteristic landscape features are the canyon and the seasonal variation provided by cottonwoods in the Bosque segment. The gorge begins to widen in this unit and cultural modifications have more influence on the natural landscape, creating a rural quality. With the passage of Public Law 103-242, Congress extended the Rio Grande WSR System in New Mexico, adding a 12-mile-long scenic component to the existing WSR. Most of this length falls within the Orilla Verde Recreation Area and the 1,355-acre Racecourse ACEC, which are being managed as VRM Class II areas. However, the final boundaries for this scenic component have not been set. Through its scenic quality management objectives for the Orilla Verde Recreation Area, the BLM is working to protect visual resources by designing and implementing management activities to blend with the area's landscape. Within Orilla Verde, the rim area bounded by NM 68, Arroyo Hondo, and the Rio Grande Gorge would be managed under VRM Class I objectives if acquired. Campgrounds and developed day-use areas are being managed under VRM Class III objectives, and the remainder of the area is managed under Class II objectives. 3-47 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 6 A small portion of the Black Mesa ACEC (663 acres) extends into the planning area. This portion consists of cliffs and steep slopes with woodland vegetation and basalt boulders. Though 629 acres are not assigned a VRM class, the area exhibits the same scenic qualities found along other portions of the gorge walls that form the western boundary of this unit. With its steep slopes, this portion of the Lower Gorge is within the viewshed of highway and river users, giving it high visual exposure. Copper Hill Unit The characteristic features of the Copper Hill Unit, which lies east of the river, range from broken terrain with slopes covered in pifion-juniper and mixed shrubs to Embudo Canyon, a deep box canyon. The elevation in this unit helps frame the view and direct attention up and down the gorge. The Embudo Canyon ACEC is assigned VRM Class II. This ACEC is a deep, narrow, and rugged canyon with a ribbon of vegetation lining the creek on both sides. The canyon walls of sandstone, basalt, and granite have been shaped by various natural forces to form a unique array of colors and forms. The views from the rim and canyon floor are spectacular. The Agua Caliente ACEC is currently unclassified. Issue 6: Recreation and Facility Development The Rio Grande Gorge is nationally recognized for its recreation opportunities, prized by local residents as a "backyard" treasure, and used as a destination point for many travelers from the region and overseas. The river is the area's main attraction for fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. While access to the Lower Gorge Unit is made relatively easy by paved roads and developed trails, much of the planning area still provides an opportunity for solitude and personal exploration. (Maps 9-a through 9-f show recreation sites in the planning area.) Upper Gorge Unit This unit is essentially primitive in character within the canyon, except at the key access points provided at four bridges — La Sauses, Lobatos, John Dunn, and Rio Grande Gorge — the powerline crossing, and the developed portion of the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. Opportunities for solitude exist in the corridor except during the high-use boating season (mid- April through July), and at the John Dunn Bridge, Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, and the confluence with the Rio Pueblo de Taos. With few exceptions, relatively little evidence of human activity or development exists in the Upper Gorge Unit's canyon. Along the rim, the BLM has provided limited development in support of recreation use at the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, but the number of users has remained low enough that contact between them is infrequent. Lower Gorge Unit The Lower Gorge Unit is more intensively developed and used than the Upper Gorge Unit because it is more easily accessed by vehicle. The Orilla Verde Recreation Area is located within a steep canyon with a narrow bottom where the majority of the use occurs. Opportunities for privacy within this area are limited because NM 68 and 570 run throughout the area's length. Intensive visitation from late spring through early fall also limits opportunities for privacy. Between the Orilla Verde Recreation Area and Quartzite Recreation Site, opportunities for privacy are limited. Factors diminishing privacy include a network of improved roads on both sides of the river, businesses, residences, and intensive recreational use of the river between about 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. during the high runoff period. Recreational use on this portion of the river was estimated at 9,000 3-48 Map 9-a RECREATION SITES Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, July 01, 1 990 No warranty it made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the reliability, or completenett of these data for ^drvidual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes ^ Nended by Bl M. Spatial Information may not meet National Map 8tar>dards. This information may be updated without notification. 4 miles Map 9-b RECREATION SITES 10 12 3 4 miles Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, June 26, 1998 No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM, Spatial information may r»t meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. Map 9-c RECREATION SITES ,o° Wild Rivers Recreation Area Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Managerrtent, June 26, 1996 No warranty ia made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the sccuracy, refiabiUy; or completeness of these data for f>drvidual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes txx intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Starvlards. This information may be updated without notification. 2 miles Map 9-d RECREATION SITES i 4 miles Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, June 26, 1998 No warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not Intended by BLM. Spatial Information may not meet Natlortal Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without rrotification. o Taos Junction Bridge Taos Junction River Access (Private) Orilla Verde Gaging Station Petaca Campground Lone Juniper Recreation Site Arroyo Hondo Campground Orilla Verde Campground Pilar Campground ■e RECREATION SITES Map 9 West Rim Trail (Proposed) \ <^1aos Junction j'' Campground, Pilar North Parking Area PILAR Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Larvf Management, June 26, 1998 No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Irxiividual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes rx)t interxfed by BLM, Spatial Information may rx)t meet National Map Accuracy Starxfards. This information may be updated without notification. Orilla Verde Recreation Area IS 2 nrdles CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 6 visitors in 1995, about 8,000 of whom traveled with a commercial outfitter. Cases of speeding and excessive noise from river users, trespassing, littering, and aggressive behavior on or near private lands have been reported, especially in the village of Pilar. Because the majority of this section is privately owned, opportunities for public recreation are limited to floatboating, and the public access points for this use lie outside this segment. The BLM has developed river access areas at the Quartzite and County Line recreation sites and several highway pullouts with unmaintained trails to the river. These sites accommodate a variety of recreational activities. Boating use is the predominant activity on the river's Racecourse section (a name that comes from a series of competitive boating events traditionally held on Mother's Day weekend by private boating enthusiasts). Vehicle parking along this stretch of river is extremely limited, and has been cited as a major safety concern by the New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department. Despite the higher use levels, opportunities for privacy in the summer are still available because many places along the river are not in sight of the highway, and boating use occurs in bursts for a few hours in the morning and again in the afternoon. Late afternoon and early evening hours are often better for fishing, contemplation, and other quiet forms of recreation. The Bosque section below the County Line Recreation Site is mostly privately owned. Public lands scattered throughout are usually not accessible to the casual visitor and until recently were not marked as publicly owned. The orchards, crops, and old stands of cottonwood give a pastoral cast to the landscape and screen many of the homes and outbuildings from view. As in Pilar, noise from river users is often cited by residents as an invasion of their privacy. Copper Hill Unit The Copper Hill Unit contains the village of Dixon and several smaller satellite communities. On public lands in this unit, access is limited by the steep, rugged terrain. Opportunities for solitude are good, with no developments provided for recreation. Floatboating In the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge, Class II floatboating opportunities exist during spring and early summer runoff; however, an April through May seasonal boating closure is in effect from the Lobatos Bridge to Lee Trail to protect wildlife. In Colorado, boaters may access the river at La Sauses, NM 142, the Lobatos Bridge, and the state line. In New Mexico's portion of the Upper Gorge Unit, boaters access the river primarily on the Cisneros, Lee, Chiflo, Little Arsenic, Miner's, and Cebolla Mesa trails, and at John Dunn Bridge. Use on the Upper Box between Chiflo Crossing and Little Arsenic is limited to expert kayakers with the skill to negotiate Class V-VI rapids. Class II-III floatboating opportunities can be found below the Little Arsenic Trail to the John Dunn Bridge in the La Junta section of the Rio Grande. (Refer to Appendix H for an explanation of the Swiftwater Rating System and Table 3-12 for floatboating use figures on the Rio Grande and in Rio Embudo Canyon.) At John Dunn Bridge, the Rio Grande is joined by the Rio Hondo and begins the 15-mile-long section known as the Taos Box. This section is a very popular Class III-IV nonmotorized whitewater run during spring and early summer when runoff provides adequate flows. Residents along access roads from NM 522 to the John Dunn Bridge have commented on the high level of vehicle traffic on spring and early summer weekends. Boaters make use of picnicking sites on both sides of the river, including Taos Pueblo land. The Lower Gorge Unit receives most of the planning area's floatboating use. Launching is limited to the Taos Junction Bridge (a privately owned site); Lone Juniper Recreation Site, Arroyo Hondo and Orilla Verde campgrounds within the Orilla Verde Recreation Area; and Quartzite and County Line recreation sites. A few additional sites — at the gauging station in Orilla Verde, Karmic Wave just south of Pilar, Roadside Rest, Albert's Falls, After Five, Sleeping Beauty, Souse Hole a mile north of the Taos County line, and Roadside Rest — are used by kayakers for locational boating (to test skills, avoid rapids above their ability level, or play at a specific site). Most boaters floating the Bosque segment of the river exit at the privately owned Embudo Station, but a few make use of 3-55 CHAPTER 3 DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT- ISSUE 6 irj O O o Tj- O o^ fO ON o NO «o (N ro m IT) o o ON O m o rf oo'' ro' — O (N O ON — ON rn n o oo o — O r-' o CO U CO 3 3 C/3 3 O T3 3 O U tj o‘C Sua. 04 60 ;o C CQ c 0 *-» 04 C 3 CO O 3 H 04 60 ."2 CQ 3 X o CQ to O 3 H 3 g ^ I « c c > o U a. 04 •o U. > 3 04 c _o '3 04 k. 04 04 DC 04 C c 3 O U o 04 60 .2 'kC CQ c — O 3 04 C _o 3 ■k^ 140 O •o 3 X) E w 04 C/5 c _o 3 04 k> 04 04 DC 04 C 3 3 04 04 E 3 B > - o -n « U cu H to O 04 3 O to O CQ c 3 04 B B o 04 3 > X o CQ o -a 3 X E UJ DC 04 cd > Notes; “ Commercial boating numbers are based on use reports submitted by outfitters. Private numbers are estimates based on monitoring and boater registration data. Boating numbers on some segments fluctuate dramatically from year to year, depending on waterflows and other factors. Boating numbers for trips that continue past John Dunn Bridge. CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 6 Lover's Lane near Rinconada, and a public land site south of Embudo Station. Below the County Line Recreation Site, the river is slower, with no rapids and very few sites available to the public for river access. The Bosque segment is popular for canoeists, beginning boaters, and commercial passengers who do not desire a Whitewater experience. In the Copper Hill Unit, the Embudo Box is known for its whitewater challenge, and attracts skilled kayakers during spring runoff. Reports have been made of kayakers beginning their trips at Picuris Pueblo, but most use occurs on the public land section between Picuris Pueblo and Dixon. Table 3-12 shows floatboating use figures for the Rio Grande and Rio Embudo between 1990 and 1995. Fishing and Hunting Fly, lure, or bait fishing, along with floatboating, are the most popular recreation uses of the Rio Grande and tributary streams. In the Upper Gorge Unit, the cold water species most prized by fishermen are the brown trout, and the more common rainbow trout and Northern pike; all are game species that were introduced starting in the 1930s. To acknowledge the outstanding fisheries of the New Mexico portion of the Upper Gorge Unit (the Rio Grande from the Colorado state line to the Taos Junction Bridge), the NMDG&F has designated this segment as a Special Trout Water, with stricter limits on trout fishing. In the warmer waters of the Lower Gorge Unit, catfish and small-mouth bass are also caught. Fishermen using lures or flies are as likely to be fishing from the shore as from the middle of the riv- er. This group is very dependent on water flows and water quality, generally preferring to fish when the flows are below 1,000 ftVs and the water runs clear. Bait fishing is more likely to involve families with children fishing from the shore, to supply food as well as for recreation. This group typically uses the river where vehicle access is available, and often prefers to have their vehicle immediately adjacent to their fishing site. As a consequence, they generally make use of sites that, because of the ease of access, also attract other users such as boaters, swimmers, and picnickers. This fishing group is less dependent on water levels, and can be found somewhere on the Rio Grande nearly every day of the year. Conflicts between river users occur mostly because of competition for shoreline access, noise, and (particularly in the Racecourse section) the narrowness of the river, which allows insufficient space for boaters to separate themselves from anglers. Intentional harassment of one group by another is rare, but can include floating over lines, casts at a boat, and verbal slights. Conflicts in the Upper Gorge Unit are relatively rare, compared to those in the more accessible and heavily used Lower Gorge Unit. The most likely time periods for conflicts are listed below. Upper Gorge Unit John Dunn Bridge Morning hours during high flowperiods (above 1 ,000 ft^/s) Hot Springs All day, with potential for conflicts between bathers, boaters, and anglers Lower Gorge Unit All day, primarily with boaters, but also with other shoreline users at the Orilla Verde Recreation Area, Quartzite and County Line recreation sites, and in the Bosque Taos Junction afternoon hours with bridge boaters, swimmers. Hunters pursue their sport on a limited basis throughout the planning area. In the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit, hunting opportunities are available for deer, antelope, and small game in the San Luis Hills. Along the river, waterfowl are hunted to a limited extent. No areas are closed to firearm use or hunting in the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit. 3-57 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 6 In the New Mexico section of the Upper Gorge Unit, hunting opportunities for deer, elk, antelope, and small game are available on public lands. The exception to this is the developed portion of Wild Rivers Recreation Area, which is closed to firearm use and hunting to provide for public safety in a heavily used area. In the Lower Gorge Unit, the Orilla Verde Recreation Area is also closed to firearm use and hunting because of safety concerns. No restrictions exist on hunting in the Copper Hill Unit other than state-imposed prohibitions against shooting near dwellings or across roads. Sightseeing The most frequently visited site in the entire planning area is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, which the BLM estimates attracts over 300,000 visits each year. The view of the gorge as seen from NM 68 in the vicinity of Horseshoe Curve, 3 miles north of Pilar, also has been identified as one of the most prized views in Taos County. Along NM 68 in the Racecourse section, as many as 50 cars at a time are parked along the roadway so visitors can view the gorge's scenery and the floatboaters negotiating the river's rapids. Some visitors or residents choose to see the Rio Grande Gorge from the air. Companies have established themselves in Taos, Santa Fe, and Albuquerque to provide fixed-wing airplane, helicopter, and hot-air balloon rides over the planning area. On occasion, low-level military and civilian overflights (less than 500 feet above ground level) have been noted. The Federal Aviation Administration is preparing an environmental impact statement to consider the addition of a runway at the Taos Airport that could accomodate small jet aircraft. Picnicking This day-use activity occurs at all sites where vehicle access is readily available, and often accompanies other activities such as sightseeing, fishing, or boating. All of the BLM's facilities at the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde recreation areas are used for this purpose. Only a few, such as at Wild Rivers La Junta Point Overlook, have been set aside specifically for this type of day-use activity. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, heavy competition occurs between summer picnickers and campers for the same developed sites. Picnic facilities below the Red River Fish Hatchery exist but are seldom used and are in dire need of replacement or removal. Camping Most camping in the planning area occurs in designated campsites at the Orilla Verde and Wild Rivers recreation areas. Camping on undeveloped lands along the Rio Grande is allowed outside of these two areas with the exception of a few sites such as the John Dunn Bridge and the Quartzite and County Line recreation sites, where camping would conflict with heavy day-use activities. No campsites have been developed in BLM Colorado's portion of the planning area. The demand for campsites along the Rio Grande has been steadily increasing over the past several years. In particular, the demand for group campsites has not been met; only two such sites are available at Orilla Verde and Wild Rivers. When these sites are filled, other groups wishing to camp are asked to split up, occupying several regular campsites. At present, facilities such as campgrounds, overlooks, picnic areas, and trailheads are often collocated, leading to user conflicts during the high-use season. Trail Uses Trail-oriented activities such as hiking and mountain biking are very popular in the Upper Gorge Unit. Several trails are found throughout the planning area, most having been created by game, cattle moving from one side of the river to the other, or anglers. Existing trails in the planning area are listed in Table 3-13. Several trails totaling 26.5 miles have been constructed in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. Nearly all of these start at the rim 3-58 CHAPTER 3 DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 6 and wind their way down to the river, ranging in length from several hundred feet to over 6 miles. Existing trails in the planning area are listed in Table 3-13 and shown on Maps 9-b through 9-f. TABLE 3-13 EXISTING TRAILS IN THE MO GRANDE CORMDOR PLANNING AREA Upper Gorge Unit Rinconda Loop State Line Gauging Station (Colorado) Red River Emery Orr (Colorado) Miner's East Rim“ Black Rock Spring Ute Mountain John Dunn Cisneros, East and West Manby Spring Sunshine Valley Raven, East & West Lee West Rim** Razorblades Yellowbank Sheeps Crossing** Powerline Chiflo, East and West** Bear Crossing Lower Gorge Unit Big Arsenic Springs La Vista Verde Little Arsenic Springs** West Rim La Junta** Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center Nature Trail La Junta Nature Trail El Aguaje** CoDoer Hill Unit Confluence Agua Caliente Guadalupe Mountain Rinconada Hill Red River Fault Loop Notes: Trom Sheep's Crossing to Sangre de Cristo Grant *TMational Recreation Trail “^From Rio Grande Gorge Bridge to Taos Junction Bridge Trails in the Lower Gorge Unit are limited to some primitive routes that access the river from nearby NM 68 or 570. La Vista Verde Trail is the only trail developed for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use; it travels for 1.5 miles across a plateau about 500 feet above the Rio Grande at the north end of the Orilla Verde Recreation Area. A need for a trail off NM 570 in Orilla Verde has been identified in meetings with the Pilar community. Some residents of the Dixon-Embudo-Rinconada area have expressed an interest in a series of trails that would connect these various communities together. The Chili Line, an abandoned railroad line that once ran from southern Colorado to Santa Fe, has been examined for its potential as a recreation trail. However, adjacent landowners have expressed strong concerns about the impact on their privacy if use were encouraged by people from outside the community. In particular, mountain biking is increasing in popularity nationwide and has become a predominant use in some locales. This activity occurs most commonly in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, where a system of old roads has been signed and mapped for this use. The paved access road and Rinconada Trail have also added to this area's attractiveness for this use. The BLM has assessed several existing rim tracks or roads for suitability for mountain biking. These routes are found on either side of the gorge, and are receiving increased attention from the mountain biking community, and little to no attention from back-country off-highway vehicle enthusiasts. Equestrian use has been very limited. It occurs on a few existing routes along the rim, on Miner's Trail and the Little Arsenic Trail in Wild Rivers, and 3-59 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 6 on the USFS’s Cebolla Mesa Trail. Horse use on these trails is primarily related to packing-in boats and equipment for floatboat trips on the La Junta section of the Rio Grande. Swimming In spite of the river's 65-degree temperature in the summer, wading and swimming are common uses at sites such as the John Dunn Bridge, Taos Junction Bridge, and Orilla Verde and Quartzite areas during the low flow period from mid- to late summer. Use at the two hot springs downstream from the John Dunn Bridge occurs mostly in spring, summer, and fall, except when the river is high enough to flood out the springs. They attract hikers as a destination year-round, particularly Manby Springs with its remnants of a nationally known health spa. Education and Interpretation Many visits to the Rio Grande Gorge have an educational component that is satisfied by individual nature study, or through an outing arranged as part of a school curriculum. The BLM also provides interpretive programs at the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde recreation areas on a variety of subjects related to the area's natural and social environment. Commercial trips such as floatboating or hiking that are offered by a variety of permittees usually include a strong emphasis on the Rio Grande's history and natural resources. The Wild Rivers Recreation Area has been formally designated as a Watchable Wildlife Area for its raptors, deer and elk. Birdwatching is frequently identified as the reason for a visit to the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde riparian habitat. These activities are often a key part of a hiker's, camper's or fisher's experience while visiting the Rio Grande Gorge. Interpretive programs are presented by BLM staff and volunteers from Memorial Day through Labor Day, including guided hikes and evening campfire programs at an outdoor amphitheater. Environmental education programs are conducted for local schoolchildren in September, October, April, and May. Other Recreational Opportunities Rock climbing, off-highway vehicle play, partying, and gold panning are additional recreation opportunities that occur in the Rio Grande Gorge. Recreational gold panning occurs primarily in the Lower Gorge Unit because of easy access and quiet water. The BLM allows this activity to occur so long as no shoreline disturbance results. Caving is a minor activity, restricted to explorations of a few volcanic crevices. Rock climbing is a popular activity at John's Wall at the John Dunn Bridge. Many isolated sites near the river or along the rim in the Upper Gorge Unit are popular meeting places for local youth. Conflicts with other users or nearby landowners occur from late-night noise, including occasional gunfire. Commercial/Permitted Recreation Uses The BLM issues permits for commercial and competitive uses on public land, and for special events such as art fairs, community gatherings, or other short-term events involving more than 50 individuals. In the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit, permitted commercial recreation use is very limited, with less than 100 visitors per year taking advantage of these services. However, with the increased population growth on the front range of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, the agency has received numerous inquiries for commercial rafting and canoeing permits. Below the Lobatos Bridge, 24 commercial use permits were in place for 1996 — 12 were for boating, 6 for fishing guides, 2 for biking, 1 for hiking, 2 for horse packing (for boat access), and 1 for rock climbing. In the Lower Gorge Unit, 28 commercial use permits were in effect — 1 8 were for boating, 6 for fishing, 1 for biking, and 3 for photography. Ten boating permits were in effect in the Bosque segment below the County Line Recreation Site. In the Copper Hill Unit, three permits for fishing guides were in effect for 1996. About 250 people are employed on a seasonal basis to provide these commercial services, mostly for boating. In 1994, the University of Arizona com- pleted a study on the economic impact in northern 3-60 CHAPTERS AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 6 New Mexico from commercial boating (Colby et al. 1994). The study showed that in 1992, $4.6 million were added in total industry output and $1.8 million in employee compensation (for 142 jobs). Facilities The BUM has provided facilities to accommodate or minimize the impacts from recreation use since the early 1960s. Table 3-14 provides an overview of the facilities provided by the agency in the planning area. Human waste disposal has been one focal point for improvement over the past three years. Providing adequate, safe parking for visitors also has been a concern, particularly in the Lower Gorge Unit. In visitor surveys conducted in 1994, hot-water showers and recreational vehicle dump stations were identified as the most desired facilities not currently available. In response to cutbacks in federal budgets, it is likely that the BUM may manage some existing facilities or create new ones through a concession, lease, or some form of partnership with other federal or state agencies and/or private owners. Use Levels/Trends Figure 3-1 provides a snapshot of recreation use in the planning area during 1990 and 1995. Trends in use over this period follow national trends closely. Water-based recreation, particularly floatboating, is undergoing significant increases in participation. Also on the rise is the use of recreational vehicles as a part of the recreation experience. This increase is leading to greater demand for campground improvements such as better access to accommodate the increasingly large recreational vehicles in current use, and hookups such as electricity and water. In the upper reaches of the planning area, human use is very limited. Fishing access along trails from the Sunshine Valley and the occasional floatboat trip between the Lobatos Bridge and Lee Trail account for about 250 visitors a year. The opportunity exists for increased use, particularly if planned private developments occur near the river in Colorado, and as the number of private homes grows in the Sunshine Valley. By far the most significant recreation use occurs in four main areas — Wild Rivers, Taos Box, Orilla Verde, and Racecourse. In the Wild Rivers Recreation Area and at the Red River Hatchery site (the BLM portion), the total annual visitor use in 1995 was approximately 52,000, with most of this concentrated between May and October. Visitor use has risen dramatically over the past 10 years, with a 60 percent increase in visitor use in the 6-year period from 1988 to 1994. Use figures for 1995 appear to be leveling off, with little change from 1994. About 85 percent of the annual visitation at the Wild Rivers Recreation Area is day use, mostly concentrated on weekends and holidays. Rim campsites are generally full on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day. River campsites (primitive) are not filled to capacity, and generally provide solitude, although backpacking use is increasing. Trail use is considered to be moderate on the La Junta, Little Arsenic, and Big Arsenic Trails, with the average hiker experiencing 10 to 15 encounters on a 3-hour hike during the summer months. Use of the other trails is considered to be light, with the average user experiencing less than 10 encounters on a similar hike during this same period. Visitation at the Orilla Verde Recreation Area has steadily increased since the BLM began managing the area in July 1989. Over the past six years, use has averaged between 80,000 and 90,000 visitors per year, concentrated between mid-April and late October. Visitors from the local area account for the majority of use during the colder months, but during the summer, a slight majority comes from outside the northern New Mexico region. The primary uses during this period are fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, and sightseeing, and the most heavily used site in the recreation area is the Orilla Verde Campground. During the winter, most services and facilities, including drinking water supplies and the visitor station, are shut down. All campgrounds except the one at Taos Junction remain open, and limited winter camping does occur. Some day-use activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and sightseeing occur year-round. 3-61 Figure 3-1 RECREATION USE IN THE PLANNING AREA BY UNIT Upper Gorge User Days Lower Gorge Copper Hill (C) = Commercial, (P) = Private Viewing includes participation in nature study, photography and spectating. Use in the Upper Gorge does not include viewing at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge site. Trail use is non-motorized. 3-62 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT BY PLANNING ISSUE Area or Site Facilities and Uses San Luis ACEC Lobatos Bridge (private land) Rio Grande Corridor ACEC andSRMA Rio Grande and Red Wild and Scenic Rivers Wild Rivers Recreation Area John Dunn Bridge Recreation Site Rio Grande Gorge Bridge Recreation Site Orilla Verde Recreation Area Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center Quartzite Recreation Site County Line Recreation Site Rio Grande Bosque Segment Lover's Lane Recreation Site (part private land) Visitor Information • • • • Restrooms • • A* • • • A' Drinking Water • • • • • Electric Hookups • Pay Telephones • • Group Camping/Picnicking • • • Developed Camping • • • Primitive Camping • • • • • Hiking Trails • • • • • • • Self-Guided Tours • • Interpretive Exhibits • • • • Cultural Sites • • • • • Swimming • • • • • • • • Nonmotorized Boating • • • • • • • • • • Boat Access • • • • • • • • • • Equestrian Traits • • • Biking Trails • • • • • Hunting • • • • Fishing Access • • • • • • • • • Winter Sports • Universal Access • • • • • Picnic Tables/Grills • • • • • • • Notes: • A • Portable toilets are available during the summer season. ^ • Restrooms and drinking water are provided by the New Mexico State Highway & Transportation Department. TABLE 3-14 BLM RECREATION FACILITIES AND TYPES OF USES IN THE PLANNING AREA 3-63 I • 53“ I -Tf.r.. •' ) . Sf 1- -j-. iM 4i3 ’ "Si »» ; •3 *■- CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 7 Recreation Demand Projections The National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (Sporting Goods Manufacturer's Association 1995) noted the following increases in the fastest-growing recreational activities between 1982 and 1995. These trends provide a general indication of what the BLM and users may expect over the next 1 5 years. Activity Percent Increase Birdwatching 155.2 Hiking 93.0 Backpacking 72.7 Camping (primitive) 58.2 Walking 42.7 Camping (developed) 38.3 Swimming (non-pool) 38.2 Picnicking 16.0 Sightseeing 9.5 Declining activities were hunting (-1 1.4 percent), horseback riding (-10.7 percent) and fishing (-3.0 percent). The New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Study (Clements et al. 1995) recorded the following levels of participation for recreation activities, based on responses from approximately 6,000 users at 74 recreation sites in New Mexico. Activity Level of Participation (percent) Relaxing 57 Sightseeing 47 Hiking/walking 45 Camping 41 Picnicking 37 Wildlife viewing 31 Bicycling 6* Jogging/running 5* Rafting 3* * Low participation is reflective of the small number of facilities surveyed that offer these activities. Floatboating demand is expected to increase slightly where access is limited or difficult, and in "flat-water" areas. Noncommercial use has been fairly steady in these areas, which are difficult for commercial outfitters to market. The demand for Whitewater boating has been increasing nationwide, and is expected to increase between 30 and 50 percent within the next 1 5 years. Also increasing on a national level is the demand for mountain biking. Issue 7: Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses The Rio Grande Corridor has been used by humankind for thousands of years as a source of water for crops, food from the fisheries it supports, wood products from the vegetation growing along its banks, sand and gravel, and as a location for homes and businesses. In more recent years, it has been a source of income to local communities as a setting for bed-and-breakfast lodgings, river tours, and as a scenic backdrop for tourists to the region. The BLM collects fees for certain personal recreational uses of public land, including camping 3-64 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 7 and day use in the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde recreation areas. Additional fees for personal recreational uses (such as private boating) are being considered nationally by the BLM. Such fees could affect personal uses in the planning area. Some personal and commercial uses are described elsewhere in this chapter. For commercial recreation, fishing, and hunting uses, refer to the "Recreation" section; for grazing activity or uses dependent on water, refer to the "Vegetation, Soils, and Water Quality" section. For an overview of the corridor's economic value to the area, refer to the "Socioeconomic Conditions" section. Land Ownership The BLM is the primary landowner within the planning area, managing 82 percent of the area's total acreage. Table 3-15 describes land ownership within the planning area. The San Luis and Taos RMPs and various activity plans call for acquisition of private lands, state lands, and minerals within the planning area. (Appendix F lists the lands and subsurface identified for acquisition.) In Colorado, the BLM has acquired a 2,500-acre parcel adjacent to the river and a 535- acre parcel in the San Luis Hills. Another potential acquisition along the river is in progress. The BLM in New Mexico has acquired approximately 1,175 acres within the corridor, mostly in the Upper Gorge Unit. TABLE 3-15 SURFACE OWNERSHIP WITHIN THE PLANNING AREA Landowner Upper Gorge- Colorado Upper Gorge- New Mexico Lower Gorge Copper Hill Totals Private 5,194 1,320 5,474 2,232 14,220 State 2,703 1,674 669 2,526 7,572 Forest Service 0 1,306 0 1 1,307 BLM 47,780 36,577 22,114 17,280 123,751 Totals 55,677 40,877 28,257 22,039 146,850 Easements The BLM acquires easements from private or state landowners for various public purposes, such as roads or trails used by the public, or conservation of natural resources. This method of acquiring only certain interests in private land allows the landowner to maintain most or all existing land uses but protects the land from incompatible uses (as with conservation easements), or allows for some level of public use (e.g., to access a public land site surrounded by private land). The BLM has acquired the following easements within the plaiming area: • NM- 1 8064 and NM-56579— Access easement from the State Land Commission for Wild Rivers Back-Country Byway, the main access route to Wild Rivers Recreation Area • NM-59105, NM-591 17 and NM- 71246 — Scenic easements from private owners in the vicinity of Manby Springs to protect WSR resources 3-65 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 7 • NM-43282 — Scenic easement on private land to protect WSR values along the Rio Grande adjacent to Ute Mountain Additional easement needs identified through this planning process include the following: • Manby Springs — Access to trailhead for recreational use • Lover's Lane — Road and beach use by the public • Agua Caliente — Administrative access for fisheries management The potential exists for property owners adjacent to the Rio Grande to obtain access to properties on the west side of the river between the County Line Recreation Site and Embudo Station. This could result in additional bridges across the river, as well as more roads on the west side in this segment. Recreation and Public Purposes Act Under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act, the BLM has the authority to lease or patent public land to governmental or nonprofit entities for recreational uses and public purpose sites, at less than fair market value. The agency has received two proposals from Taos County for use of public lands within the corridor. One site located in the Upper Gorge Unit north of Arroyo Hondo is a candidate site for a municipal landfill. The other is located in the Lower Gorge Unit near Pilar for use as a solid-waste transfer site. Color-of-Title Under the Color-of-Title Act, the BLM can issue a patent to any applicant who has satisfied all requirements for a claim (such as a 20-year chain of title, substantial improvements on the land, and payment of property taxes) and paid the purchase price. The agency has been processing such claims since the 1970s. From 1978 through 1995, 139 applications were approved, and approximately 387 acres were sold in the Dixon, Rinconada, Embudo, and Questa communities. The project is expected to continue for several more years. Rights-of-Way Within the planning area are several rights-of- way permitted by the BLM for access roads, utilities (telephone, electricity, and gas), microwave sites, water pipelines, mineral material sites, and acequias. Issuance of new rights-of-way is prohibited in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, and the Racecourse, Agua Caliente, and Embudo Canyon ACECs. This prohibition also applies to the Orilla Verde Recreation Area, except for rights-of-way used for the underground utilities that are needed to administer the area, or for highway maintenance. In addition, rights-of-way issued in the following two areas require special stipulations and restricted placement of structures to minimize visual impacts and protect scenic and natural resources — a scenic overlook of the Rio Grande off NM 68, and along the WSR from the state line to the Taos Junction Bridge. The right-of-way window 6 miles south of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is limited to the area between the northern boundary of right-of-way NM-30561 and the southern boundary of right-of-way NM- 011893. Minerals Limited interest has been expressed in mineral exploration and development in the planning area. Locatable minerals such as copper, tungsten, gold and silver, and saleable minerals such as sand, gravel, fill, volcanic cinders, and brick clay are the primary minerals of interest. No interest is known to exist in the area's federal leasable minerals (coal, oil and gas, carbon dioxide, and geothermal resources). A large portion of the Upper and Lower Gorge units is either withdrawn or proposed for withdrawal from the mining and mineral leasing laws, and is closed to the disposal of mineral materials. (Refer to Table 3-16.) 3-66 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 7 TABI LAND AND MINERAL RESTRICTIC .E 3-16 )NS IN THE PLANNING ^ ^REA (acres) Management Area Mining Laws* Mineral Leasing** Mineral Materials (Discretionary) Upper Gorge Unit San Luis Hills ACEC — 2 (2,000) Closed (2,000) Rio Grande Corridor ACEC B (4,157) 2(4,157) Closed (4,157) Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River (Wild and Scenic River 1968 designation) A (13,516) 1 (13,516) Closed (13,516) Wild Rivers Recreation Area, Guadalupe Mountain ACEC and adjacent lands (not including 3,209-acre overlap with Wild and Scenic River) A (9,959) B (4,694) 1 (9,959) 2 (4,694) Closed (9,959) Closed (4,694) Totals A (23,475) B (8,851) 1 (23,475) 2(10,851) Closed (34,326) (restrictions on nonfederal lands/minerals if acquired) C (2,925) 1 (771) 2(2,154) Closed (2,925) Lower Gorge Unit Orilla Verde Recreation Area A (5,763) 1 (5,763) Closed (5,763) Racecourse ACEC and adjacent lands within the corridor A (4,679) 1 (1,389) Closed (1,389) Totals A (10,442) 1 (7,152) Closed (7,152) (restrictions on nonfederal lands/minerals if acquired) C (5,447) 1 (5,447) Closed (5,447) Copper Hill Unit Warm Springs SMA ... 3 (10,691) Embudo Canyon ACEC/adjacent land A (2,058 2(1,212) Closed (1,212) Agua Caliente ACEC/adjacent land A (1,079) 2 (664) Closed (664) Lower Embudo SMA A (498) 2 (498) Closed (498) Totals A (3,635) 2 (2,374) 3 (10,691) Closed (2,374) (restrictions on nonfederal lands/minerals if acquired) C (940) 2 (620) 3 (2,740) Closed (620) Notes: “ Mining laws: A — Withdrawal — Permanent or temporary; B — With implemented; C — To be withdrawn if acquired. ’’Mineral leasing: 1 — Closed to leasing for oil and gas; 2 — Open to o 3— Open to oil and gas leasing with controlled surface use. drawal — Proposed 1 and gas leasing w 3y RMP, but not ith no surface occupancy; 3-67 CHAPTER 3 affected environment DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 8 I Ipper Gorge Unit Development within the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit has been almost exclusively for hard-rock minerals. The King Turquoise Mine located in the San Luis Hills is one of the most noted turquoise mines in the United States. It has existed for about 100 years and is credited with producing the largest single piece of turquoise found to date. Mining activity has slowed in the past few years but the possibility exists for finding additional turquoise at greater depths. The area around the mine is thought to have moderate potential for copper, but the economic feasibility of extraction is questionable. Other mining activity within the Upper Gorge Unit in Colorado has occurred mostly as exploratory work for bentonite, pumice, copper, gold, and other precious metals. Very little mineral development has occurred in the New Mexico portion of the Upper Gorge Unit. Because the mineral potential in this unit is low, nei- ther exploration nor development is expected. One mining claim is recorded in Colorado and none in New Mexico. The potential for oil and gas formation in the San Luis Valley exists but, based on known occurrences, the overall potential for development would optimistically be low to moderate. No oil and gas leases exist in the Upper Gorge Unit in Colorado or New Mexico. Lower Gorge Unit The Lower Gorge Unit has had some historic mining exploration with limited development. A small number of entrances and pits are located north and just east of Pilar. The workings were made in search of mica but never produced substantial amounts. Two miles downstream from Pilar, near the Glen Woody bridge, a 50-ton experimental, water- powered cyanide mill was built in 1902. The operation did not produce economical amounts of gold or silver and was soon abandoned. No federal mining claims are on record for the Lower Gorge Unit. Two areas in Arroyo Hondo are readily accessible for block quartzite and block granite. suitable for use as building stone. The area has had historic use of these materials and the potential exists for future leases or permits. The Lower Gorge Unit has been rated as having low potential for oil and gas (USDI, BLM 1991). No acreage is under oil and gas lease in the Lower Gorge Unit. Copper Hill Unit At least three major mineral operations have been situated along the historic access route from Dixon to Peflasco. The Harding Mine (for spodumene and lepidolite) ran intermittently from its discovery in 1910 until 1956. The Champion Mine was also active in the mid 1950s and produced copper with minor amounts of gold and silver. During the same time period, the Wichita Mine produced small amounts of tungsten ore. As of March 1996, over 200 federal mining claims were recorded in the area, all of which have had their annual assessment work (or payment in lieu of assessment work) completed. None of the claims has been developed as a producing mine, but could be if the price of precious metals continued to advance. Summo Minerals Corporation is conducting a multiyear exploratory drilling program on its claims in the area. The company may then file a Plan of Operations to mine the area. At three locations in the Copper Hill Unit, sand and gravel are mined for personal and commercial use. The BLM has rated the potential for oil and gas development in the Copper Hill area as low (USDI, BLM 1991). No acreage is under oil and gas lease in the unit. Issue 8: Public Access A variety of opportunities exist for accessing the public lands and their resources within the planning area. Routes of travel range from well-maintained, paved roads to two-track roads, hiking trails and game trails. In the San Luis and Taos RMPs, the BLM determined that off-road vehicle use in the planning area is limited to designated roads and trails. This 3-68 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ISSUE 9 determination allows vehicles to use all existing routes until the agency completes transportation plans and route designations. The agency has completed the North Unit Transportation Plan for the Upper Gorge Unit in New Mexico (USDI, BLM 1994). In this plan, decisions are recorded for which routes remain open to vehicle use, which are closed, and which are limited to a specific season of use or type of vehicle. Some routes closed to public use remain open for administrative use by the BLM, other government personnel, or permit holders such as ranchers or miners. The remainder of the planning area has now been inventoried and similar route designation decisions are included in the alternatives for this plan. (Refer to Map 7 in the map pocket.) Non- motorized uses have been factored into BLM decisions on route designation. Some routes have been closed to motorized use to provide for the safety of non-motorized users and to maintain an opportunity for a more primitive recreation experience. Approximately 203 miles of “other” roads and 4-wheel drive vehicle trails exist on public land in the planning area, with a density of 1 mile per square mile of public land. (Refer to Map 7 in the map pocket.) Within Colorado, maintained vehicular access is available via Colorado Highway 142, which is a part of the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic and Historic Byway, and County Road G that crosses the planning area at the Lobatos Bridge. Below this bridge, a primitive road accesses the rim and parallels the river on the east side. On the west side of the river, primitive roads access the rim in a few locations. A limited number of primitive trails access the river from these roads. Terrain conditions, the WSR designation, and private land limit access opportunities in the Upper and Lower Gorge units. In the Upper Gorge Unit (New Mexico portion) NM 378, 522, and U.S. 64 provide primary road access and contain several pullouts for sightseeing, notably at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. NM 378 connects with the 13- mile-long Wild Rivers Back Country Byway, which loops through the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. A total of 34 trails exist in the Upper Gorge Unit, including 2 in Colorado. A primary access need in this unit is for visitors to reach the river. The BLM provides river access at the John Dunn Bridge and the Taos Junction Bridge near the confluence with the Rio Pueblo, as well as at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, Manby Hot Springs, and the powerline right-of-way. (All three of these locations provide non-maintained access.) In the Lower Gorge Unit, NM 68 and 570 provide the primary access routes, paralleling the river for about 20 miles. Along these highways are many pullouts for sightseeing or river access, including three BLM-designated public access sites at the County Line, Quartzite, and Orilla Verde recreation sites. Four trails exist in the Lower Gorge Unit, including a nature trail at the BLM's newly constructed Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center. NM 75 provides the primary access to the Copper Hill Unit. One developed trail exists within this unit. The trails in the planning area are for hiking, mountain biking, or equestrian use. Most are within the Wild Rivers Recreation Area (Upper Gorge Unit). Many of the trails lead into the gorge and serve both recreationists and big game as migration routes and access to water. Barrier-free (universal) access for public land users, including those with disabilities is being addressed as facilities are constructed or maintained. Since 1994, the BLM has built two trails in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area to meet universal access guidelines. Issue 9: Interpretation and Public Education The BLM shares a great deal of information with public land visitors, users, and neighbors as a normal course of business. In the planning area this information is transmitted in the following ways: • signing along highways or at use sites giving information such as site names, directions. 3-69 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - FIRE AND EMERGENCY distances, and details on the history or significance of an area • brochures and booklets providing specific information on recreational opportunities and areas, commercial and personal uses that are allowed or controlled, application procedures for various uses, and the natural and cultural history of specific sites • field staff at high-use sites who are trained to provide visitor information and services • programs, primarily at the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde recreation areas, on a variety of subjects of interest to visitors, such as area geology, plants, cultural resources, and wildlife • programs in local schools or to visiting school/college groups on environmental issues and natural resources • programs in the outdoors provided to school and other groups that cover a variety of ecosystem- based topics • targeted programs to users on topics such as how to "Leave No Trace" while hiking, camping or boating, or to "Hug a Tree" when lost in the outdoors In Colorado, BLM staffers provides several pro- grams each year for local schools. In New Mexico, BLM Taos staff members present about 130 programs per year in the recreation areas, and 40 additional programs per year in schools and with individual groups and organizations. BLM staff members also conduct "Train the Trainer" sessions for teachers or interested volunteers to provide more environmental education programs in local communities. Some of these programs include Project Wild, Project Learning Tree, Project Aquatic, Leave No Trace, and Hug a Tree. A great opportunity exists to provide additional public education and interpretation throughout the planning area. Specific components could include development of a signing plan that treats the Rio Grande Gorge as a single unit; on-site information through signing and/or guided hikes; interpretive signs at key locations; displays that interpret natural and cultural history; updated brochures and other handouts, and more contact with school children, organized groups, and users of public lands. Fire and Emergency Services People living near or visiting the public lands sometimes require emergency services from local authorities. These include search-and-rescue operations, medical and ambulance services, law enforcement, and fire protection. BLM Law Enforcement Rangers and recreation staff are trained in basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as are many outfitter guides. Search-and-rescue services are provided by state or county agencies, volunteer organizations such as the Civil Air Patrol, and local fire departments. In the Colorado portion of the planning area, these ser- vices are provided by the Conejos and Costilla County Sheriffs' offices. The search-and-rescue function in New Mexico is coordinated by the New Mexico Department of Public Safety's State Police, with assistance as needed from the Taos County Search and Rescue Team and the Sangre de Cristo Search and Rescue Team (based in Espaflola). In both states, such efforts are usually initiated by a telephone call to the State Police or the local Sheriffs Office. Only the State Police can call for official search-and-rescue efforts. Medical and ambulance services are provided by the Conejos and Costilla Sheriffs' offices in Colorado. The Ambulance Service of Taos County has vehicles located in Questa, Taos, and Peflasco. In Rio Arriba County, ambulances are located in Espafiola. Additionally, the Costilla and Cerro volunteer fire departments and the Dixon Fire and Rescue have emergency medical technicians. All requests for medical attention, with the exception of basic first aid, must be called in to emergency dispatch centers using the 91 1 emergency telephone number. The Taos Field Office has made long-term loan of fire equipment to the volunteer fire departments in Cerro and Dixon to facilitate their response to emergencies within the Wild Rivers Recreation Area (near Cerro) and incidents along the Lower Gorge 3-70 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC (within the jurisdiction of the Dixon volunteers). An opportunity exists to expand the long-term loan program to ensure that these volunteers have the proper equipment to respond to the needs of public land users. The BLM employs two law enforcement rangers in the planning area. When federal laws and/or regulations are violated, these personnel have jurisdiction. Most BLM enforcement is directed to natural resource protection. For violations of state law such as motor vehicle infractions, the State Police and Sheriffs' offices have jurisdiction. In Colorado, the Conejos and Costilla County Sheriffs and the Colorado State Police respond to violations of state law. In New Mexico, all of the Upper Gorge, Lower Gorge south to the County Line Recreation Site, and western portion of the Copper Hill Units are under the jurisdiction of the New Mexico State Police (based in Taos) and the Taos County Sheriff. From the County Line Recreation Site to Velarde and in the remainder of the Copper Hill Unit, the State Police in Espanola and the Rio Arriba County Sheriff have primary responsibility for state law enforcement. Minor incidents occurring on public lands in the Colorado portion of the planning area have required response by the State Police or Sheriff. In New Mexico, burglary of parked vehicles and campers is a major concern. BLM Law Enforcement Officers coordinate with the State Police and local Sheriffs to keep each other informed of law enforcement issues, and cooperate in patrols on high-use weekends or when investigating crimes on public land. No need has been identified to develop a formal agreement between the BLM, the State Police, and/or the local Sheriff for law enforcement on public land. Under an agreement between the BLM and the USFS, first response to a public land fire in Colorado's portion of the planning area is provided by the USFS out of La Jara. In New Mexico the BLM operates under the Joint Powers Operating Plan with the USFS and Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). During the wildland fire season (April through September), the BLM is responsible for initial attack on all public land within the planning area in New Mexico, with the exception of one small area. The BIA has initial attack responsibility for the public land on the east side of the Rio Grande between the John Dunn Bridge Recreation Site and Tract A of Taos Pueblo, approximately 400 acres. Depending on the scope of the fire, additional fire- fighting personnel from the BLM, USFS, BIA, and local volunteer fire departments assist in controlling fires on public lands. During the rest of the year, the BLM depends on the local volunteer fire departments to provide initial attack resources on public land fires. Volunteer fire departments are located in Costilla, Cerro, Questa, Arroyo Hondo, Taos, Dixon, and Velarde. Some departments have identified a need for federal assistance and coordination in training and ensuring the availability of proper equipment, or financial assistance to cover the costs of responding to incidents on public land. Socioeconomic Conditions This section provides a perspective on the human dimension of the Rio Grande Corridor planning area. The main focuses include some of the immediate area’s socioeconomic characteristics, how area residents depend on the land, and the concerns residents have with the area's public land use and management. Past trends and future conditions* are based on demographic, economic, and social data from government and academic publications. Local attitudes and concerns about this management plan were obtained in part through conversations with local people and notes from public meetings. Four parts make up this social description. The first part explains the correlation between the planning area and the six counties selected for economic analysis. The second part is a partial demographic and statistical description of the counties. (Additional information can be found in Appendix I.) The third part is a discussion of local culture, attitudes and concerns, and how they relate to the planning area; and the fourth part is a summary. 3-71 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC Planning Area in Relation to County Land The social area directly related to the planning area is very complex. The BLM planning area occupies land in four counties across two states — Conejos and Costilla counties in Colorado (referred to as the Colorado counties), and Rio Arriba and Taos counties in New Mexico (referred to as the two New Mexico counties). Together, these four counties are referred to in this section as the two- state, four-county area. In addition to the above four counties, Santa Fe and Colfax counties in New Mexico have less direct but important social and economic links to the planning area. Santa Fe is home to a number of outfitters who serve the planning area. These two counties and the two previous New Mexico counties are referred to as the four New Mexico counties^ or the economic study area (ESA). Any economic effects resulting from implementation of plan alternatives are likely to be felt mainly in the four New Mexico counties, and to a much lesser extent in the Colorado counties. The ESA is incorporated in the input-output analysis in Chapter 4. Table 3-17 displays the percentage of planning area land that overlaps the counties. Most of the planning area lies within Taos County. Population Race and Origin According to the 1990 Census, the planning area’s population is predominantly white and of Hispanic origin^’'^ (refer to Table 3-18). American Indians make up a significant proportion of the population in the two New Mexico counties. TABLE 3-17 RELATION OF PLANNING AREA LAND TO COUNTY LAND (acres) Area County Land Planning Area Land Percent County Land in Planning Area Colorado Counties 1,608,960 47,780 3.0 Two New Mexico Counties 5,159,040 75,971 1.5 Two-State, Four-County Area 6,768,000 123,751 1.8 Sources; U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of Census 1990 and BLM Taos Field Office. TABLE 3-18 RACE AND PARTIAL ORIGIN DISTRIBUTION OF THE PLANNING AREA’S POPULATION, 1990“ (percent) Area White American Indian Black Asian/Paciflc Islander Hispanic Origin Colorado Counties 85.04 0.46 0.19 0.59 69.4 Two New Mexico Counties 71.66 11.82 0.35 0.25 68.8 Four New Mexico Counties (ESA) 77.5 5.7 0.5 0.4 56.2 Two-State, Four-County Area 73.75 10.05 0.32 0.42 68.6 Source: U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of the Census 1990. Note: ^Origin data is incomplete for groups other than Hispanic. 3-72 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC Upper Gorge Unit Development within the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit has been almost exclusively for hard-rock minerals. The King Turquoise Mine located in the San Luis Hills is one of the most noted turquoise mines in the United States. It has existed for about 100 years and is credited with producing the largest single piece of turquoise found to date. Mining activity has slowed in the past few years but the possibility exists for finding additional turquoise at greater depths. The area around the mine is thought to have moderate potential for copper, but the economic feasibility of extraction is questionable. Other mining activity within the Upper Gorge Unit in Colorado has occurred mostly as exploratory work for bentonite, pumice, copper, gold, and other precious metals. Very little mineral development has occurred in the New Mexico portion of the Upper Gorge Unit. Because the mineral potential in this unit is low, nei- ther exploration nor development is expected. One mining claim is recorded in Colorado and none in New Mexico. The potential for oil and gas formation in the San Luis Valley exists but, based on known occurrences, the overall potential for development would optimistically be low to moderate. No oil and gas leases exist in the Upper Gorge Unit in Colorado or New Mexico. Lower Gorge Unit The Lower Gorge Unit has had some historic mining exploration with limited development. A small number of entrances and pits are located north and just east of Pilar. The workings were made in search of mica but never produced substantial Civilian Labor Force Table 3-19 presents the labor force characteristics for the two-state, four-county area and ESA. Since 1980, the labor force has increased and unemployment has decreased in both areas. Between 1980 and 1994, the labor force grew at an average annual rate of 2.9 percent in the two-state, four- county area and 4.3 percent in the ESA. Employment by Industry Figure 3-2 shows a comparison between the two- state, four-county area and the ESA for the percentage of people working in 15 different industries. In the two-state, four-county area, about twice as many people are employed in the agricultural industry than in the ESA. Wholesale and retail trade; eating and drinking establishments; finance, insurance and real estate; professional and related services; and public administration are industries that employ a higher percentage in the ESA than in the two-state, four-county area. Earnings by Industry Figure 3-3 portrays the two-state, four-county area’s earnings by industry for 1988 and 1995. The largest industries include services,^ which accounted for 27.9 percent of the earnings in 1988 and 30.5 percent in 1995; state and local government, which accounted for 23 percent in 1988 and 21.7 percent in 1995; retail trade, which accounted for 13.9 percent in 1988 and 13.4 percent in 1995; transportation, which accounted for 9.9 percent in 1988 and 9.6 percent in 1995; construction, which accounted for 7.1 percent in 1988 and 6.8 percent in 1995; and federal civilian, which accounted for 5.8 percent in 1988 and 5.2 percent in 1995. The fastest-growing industry between 1988 and 1995 was finance, insurance, and real estate, which grew at an average annual rate of 4.5 percent. Agriculture grew at 4.2 percent, and both services and wholesale trade grew at 4 percent. The slowest- growing industry was federal military, which had no growth. The federal civilian category was the second slowest, growing at an average annual rate of 1 percent. 3-73 3-74 Percent of Total Area Employment Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, August 23, 1995. *=Subcategories to retail trade FIGURE 3-3 Comparison of 1988 and 1995 Earnings by Industry for the Two-State, Four County Area State and Local Gov’t Federal Gov’t, Military Federal Gov’t, Civilian Services Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate Retail Trade Wholesale Trade Transportation and Public Utilities Manufacturing Construction *Mining Agricultural Services, Forestry, Fisheries, and Other ■ 1988 B 1995 0 9 18 27 36 45 54 63 72 81 90 Millions of Dollars Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, August 23, 1995. 3-75 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC TABLE 3-19 NUMBER OF CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE PARTICIPANTS IN 1980, 1990 and 1994 Area/Characteristic 1980 1990 1994 Two-State, Four-County Area Civilian labor force 22,236.0 28,823.0 33,215.0 Employment rate 87.5 88.6 89.3 Unemployment rate 12.4 11.3 10.7 Four New Mexico Counties (ESA) Civilian labor force 59,979.0 82,471.0 108,545.0 Employment rate 91.5 92.7 94.1 Unemployment rate 8.3 7.1 5.9 Sources: U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of the Census 1983, 1984; Colorado Dept, of Labor and Employment 1983, 1984; New Mexico Dept, of Labor, Economic Research and Analysis 1995. The largest industries in the ESA were services, which accounted for 30.9 percent of the earnings in 1988 and 33.5 percent in 1995; state and local government, which accounted for 25.1 percent in 1988 and 23.5 percent in 1995; retail trade, which accounted for 14. 1 percent in 1988 and 13.7 percent in 1995; construction, which accounted for 7.7 percent in 1988 and 8 percent in 1995; and transportation and public utilities, which accounted for 5.6 percent in 1988 and 5.1 percent in 1995. The fastest-growing industry in the ESA between 1988 and 1995 was mining, which grew at an average annual rate of 9.3 percent. The slowest- growing industry was federal military at an average annual growth rate of .8 percent. Local Culture, Dependence on, and Concerns About Public Land Although the six counties of concern and their natural environments are contiguous from north to south across the Colorado-New Mexico border, the inhabitants’ social and economic links with the planning area differ. The area’s landscape of mesas, mountains, and rivers has presented physical barriers to transportation of people and goods throughout human habitation. In combination with modem bar- riers of land ownership, these natural barriers play an important role in how people interact with the Rio Grande Corridor. One of the more distinct dividing lines happens to coincide with the Colorado-New Mexico state line. Differences between the two areas include economic base, culture, and uses of the Rio Grande, as described below. Colorado Counties The Colorado counties have two distinct cultures. The first historical group to settle the area was the Spanish, who migrated up the Rio Grande Corridor into the San Luis Valley sometime in the 1 800s. Soon after, the Mormons settled in the area. People who move into the area now are establishing themselves in the mountain region, but not on agricultural lands; they are not changing the area’s predominantly agricultural lifestyle. Links Between the Colorado Counties and the Planning Area Local people use the Colorado counties to irrigate agricultural lands as well as to recreate. Access to the Rio Grande across federal lands is open. Fishing and canoeing are high-quality 3-76 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC recreation experiences because of the river’s calm waters and remote solitude, but not many tourists are attracted to the area. Residents of the Colorado counties are open to greater visitation and wish to encourage more tourism, as demonstrated by the construction of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. As more people are drawn to the area, the current high-quality, serene, river recreation experience is likely to decline. Four New Mexico Counties fESA) The four New Mexico counties have a great amount of cultural diversity. The area's main cultural groups include American Indian, Anglo-American, Hispanic,^ and Spanish. Residents of Colfax and Santa Fe counties have few direct cultural bonds with the planning area. Therefore, in this discussion the cultural makeup of Taos County is emphasized over the other New Mexico counties. Most of the planning area lies within Taos County's boundaries, and its residents have the highest potential to be affected socially and economically by any planning area decisions. The Pueblo Indians have been known to exist in the Taos County area since the 1 100s, the Spanish since the 1600s, and Anglo-Americans began moving into the area around the late 1800s. No firm dates are known as to when people of Hispanic origin began moving into the area. The four main cultural groups have inhabited the area together for many years. There is some intermingling between resident groups; however, each group has managed to create and sustain its own culture. Following are general descriptions of each culture's key traits as they relate to this planning effort. Pueblo Culture A significant number of American Indians live in Rio Arriba and Taos counties. Four Indian reservations are located near the Rio Grande Corridor planning area — Taos, Picuris, San Juan, and Santa Clara. The Taos Pueblo is a Tiwa-speaking village renowned for its beauty and cultural integrity. Historically, these Pueblo people farmed for subsistence, but today tourism is their economic base. Even with the constant presence of outside visitors. the Pueblo has maintained its traditional culture (Lujan 1993). This group lives apart from the Rio Grande, but views it in a spiritual sense and is primarily concerned about the health of and respect for the river. People of Hispanic Origin Today many residents in Taos identify themselves as Hispanic.^ People relating to this identifier represent an array of cultural backgrounds. Even though Spanish is included in the definition, many residents of Taos who are descendants of the colonists of the 1600s refer to themselves as Spanish and not Hispanic. Spanish Culture Historically the Spanish culture was based on agricultural subsistence. Although many Spanish do not farm or ranch today, the land passed from one generation to another that supported an agricultural lifestyle is still an important part of their cultural heritage. The Spanish have a strong community economy (barter system) based on established kinship and quasi-kinship relationships. These relationships support the area’s social network, and play a major role in contributing to a quality of life that is not measured by standards such as personal income. Historical events (the Treaty of Guadalupe and associated land issues), national trends (population movement to smaller communities), economics (service-based instead of agriculturally based), and time are pressuring this group to change from its traditional ways and seek jobs in industries other than agriculture. Many of the area's Spanish people feel their culture is at risk and fear future generations will lose their long heritage in a short timespan. Tourism was one of the pressures cited in interviews with local residents. Some area residents are feeling displaced, and see more costs than benefits from attracting people to the area, while many other residents feel their community is being changed by the influx of new residents with different values. 3-77 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC Anglo-American Culture The Anglo-American community in Taos is in part made up of entrepreneurs, artists, practicioners of nontraditional healing, environmentalists, and people seeking a small-town, healthy lifestyle. People of the Anglo-American culture in Taos have created a social network and value many of the same cultural characteristics as the area's other residents. Conversations with some local Anglo-American residents and storekeepers make it clear that many look positively on tourism, the businesses and services it helps support and the money it brings to the area. It is also clear that as much as they want tourists to visit the area and spend money, they want them to return home after their visits. Links Between the ESA and the Planning Area Residents of all four counties in New Mexico (the ESA) have some links to the planning area. Residents of Colfax and Santa Fe counties travel to Taos and the planning area for recreation and (sometimes) work. Residents of Taos County and the southeastemmost comer of Rio Arriba County have two primary links with the planning area. One has to do with land ties and the other with use. A number of direct land ties with the planning area exist, resulting from private land adjacent to the area's boundary. Some of these private land plots have been occupied and passed on by Spanish families since Spanish colonization. This link is important in light of the Spanish culture's current viewpoint on tourism and river use. Some landowners who have property adjacent to the planning area, as well as people who live near or along river access roads, are experiencing unquantifiable costs such as increased noise, road congestion, littering, and trespassing. These social costs extend out from the Rio Grande Corridor as well as from roads leading to river access points. Residents also have direct links with the planning area based on use. Families who have lived in the valley for several generations have historically used particular river access points for spiritual rituals, peace, relaxation, agriculture, and recreation. These historical uses have decreased over the years because of increasing tourism and initiation of use fees at some locations. Some residents cannot readily afford to pay the use fees, and perceive the areas as overcrowded. They sense that tourists are the preferred users and feel pushed out. However, some area residents benefit directly from uses occurring within the planning area. Active and passive river-based uses help to attract some tourists to the area and keep others for longer periods of time. Residents who benefit the most are generally those who work in the tourist industry. Summary Geographically, the planning area covers four counties across two states. Based on each county's socioeconomic and cultural characteristics, Colorado’s two counties are unlikely to be affected either socially or economically by implementation of the Proposed Plan. In New Mexico, most of the planning area lies within Taos County, where the majority of social issues have been identified. Concerns ranging from competing uses and congestion at access points to cultural integrity have been raised. Taos, Colfax, Rio Arriba, and Santa Fe counties, have the potential to be influenced economically by implementation of the Proposed Plan. Overall, outdoor recreation is in demand by a growing number of citizens across the nation who have more time and money to pursue it. The segment of the Rio Grande Corridor that runs through Taos County is one of few locations where people can enjoy floatboating in New Mexico. The corridor is not only subject to national demands, but also conveniently located near the large metropolitan populations of Santa Fe and Albuquerque, and is subject to those cities' increasing demands. The area's multicultural makeup plays a significant role in the way people relate and view uses in the Rio Grande Corridor. Some residents understand the demand for the scarce river resource. They do not propose prohibition of uses, but they do want their traditional lands and places respected. They feel this could be achieved through less tourism than at present, and through more public awareness 3-78 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC of the area's history so tourists will behave more As previously mentioned, the ESA includes only respectfully. Some residents perceive that Colfax, Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, and Taos counties in governments and municipalities in the area cater to New Mexico. The input-output analysis documented tourist demands and disregard local residents' desires, in Chapter 4 is limited to these four counties, while some admit they want more tourist dollars to filter into the area; however, they also say they want the tourists to return home when their vacations are over. 3-79 CHAPTER 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SOCIOECONOMIC NOTES 1 . Future conditions are based on previously collected data and assume that everything else remains the same. The Input-Output Model is the only tool used to project changes based on the four management alternatives (refer to Chapter 4). 2. Santa Fe is the only county of the four that is part of a metropolitan area. When its data points are averaged with data points from the other three New Mexico counties (Colfax, Rio Arriba, and Taos), the results are skewed. For example, 1989 per-capita income for the three counties was $10,570, but including Santa Fe’s data it was $12,097. (More information on per-capita income is given in Appendix I.) 3. The U.S. Census Bureau has recently recognized problems with these race and origin classifications; however, no official adjustments or corrections have been made. At this point these are the best available, consistently collected descriptors of race and origin; they are included to help describe the population diversity of the planning area. 4. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s data, race and origin are not mutually exclusive. People who claim to be any of the census-defined races such as white, black, American Indian, Eskimo, Aleut, Asian, and Pacific Islander can be of Hispanic origin. 5. This category includes business, repair, personal, entertainment, recreation, professional health, professional education, and other professional and related services. 6. The term "Hispanic," as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, refers to people who were originally from Mexico, Puerto Rico, or Cuba as well as those who indicate that they are of "other Spanish/Hispanic" origin. Persons of "other Spanish/Hispanic" origin are those whose ancestors came from Spain, the Spanish-speaking countries of Central or South America, or the Dominican Republic, or they are persons of Hispanic origin identifying themselves generally as Spanish, Spanish-American, Hispanic, Hispano, Latino, and so on. 3-80 ■ «>n * a ;^!>r>,Ma CM • t V.^ V : 1 : •-— r * - -'•■«■ — - A>« . # fia » . f li- ■ .% •« I**’. 1 41^ V ■ 4^ ^ f •'■m 1 3»:>i c -I-'w., •'..'^ Aj»I a* » ■ 4^ ^ f •'■m J»'ifi. a>‘Utf4i‘i Ui ■ • .M/ • 5flV 'i' :r. ft ^ ■ '• ,, , VC- > ’ irffU by^iKJea^asda loaiaififm *.. 1' i-T ^%**v " ' •-■ ,( ; r •< ui,-* 4P st» )» V? 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  • sfuhb-««i«>o ^ . « • ' aJiHQ oinuq^tHlo 5id fw' iu. HI ^■»iiIlc^:. .M Juatrm^srrt^n^ ,Ii;«or»q .linqai y»rtj bon^ah a *,:wcesq2Hr' orw arl dj 'U \ *.f>n -y^ .jiidhc^ itfito” \o ■.»?« ifsH’ Jfidi ateo^beti orf«^ ozodi sa tfi t^t J lo .o^tTl C£p5*ti'^^ '1*1 rsiHi'U'r tTtfeil a^o«3 na)2!»nfi 5£f>dw 3£oHi 3TI*, mjilo •'3^ocq*llf‘d«ine 10 ,3iiduq3)i ncQf/vimoO 9iU to ^ha!t • ^5 > - ■> 'osirM 'i' ' '■ -"JL: • . .4- ' V • -* " ■‘^ * ■i ;C -; ■ 'v r"';';,>l \ ;■:. -.•^- . . V-’. im ^-..’^•..^JL '*1.^ 1 ,„■■ ' ?■'!' ^ ' ' Vjp ' ’ ■■ ’’ '' ' . ■ .-. . .V->.'<.{' ffi CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS INTRODUCTION This chapter contains analyses of the physical, biological, cultural, and economic impacts of implementing the Proposed Plan. Both adverse and beneficial consequences are discussed. Mitigating measures designed to avoid or reduce environmental consequences have been incorporated in the Proposed Plan. This chapter also contains analyses of the cumulative impacts resulting from continuing management guidance and planned actions. Only the major impacts that would occur through implementation of the Proposed Plan are analyzed. Impacts that would not occur or would be negligible are not discussed. The following critical elements would not be affected: floodplains, prime and unique farmlands, hazardous and solid waste, and wilderness. Air quality would be minimally affected and therefore is not included. Assumptions for Analysis In this document, impacts referred to as long- term are those that would occur over a 5- to 15-year period, while short-term impacts are those that would occur within a 5-year period following plan implementation. The life of the Rio Grande CRMP is expected to be 15 years. This analysis is based on the assumption that adequate finances and personnel will be available to implement plan decisions. The unavoidable impacts will be monitored and continually evaluated during the life of this plan. Based on the monitoring and evaluation, actions will be adjusted to minimize impacts. Impacts from actions not addressed in this plan will be analyzed as needed through plan amendments or project plans with environmental assessments. This additional analysis will be done in accordance with the BLM's planning and environmental guidance before an action is considered for approval. Implementation of the Proposed Plan would provide for management of the segments of the Rio Grande and Red River designated in 1968 and 1994 consistent with their classifications as wild, scenic, or recreational. Expansion of the Wild Rivers Recreation Area to include Guadalupe Mountain, incorporation of the former Racecourse Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) into the much larger Lower Gorge ACEC, and designation of the Copper Hill ACEC to consolidate several previously designated areas would provide more protection of resources adjacent to, or included in, the 1968 and 1994 Wild and Scenic River (WSR) designations, as well as segments under study or eligible for designation. The Proposed Plan also addresses social concerns regarding the levels of use through a wider range of controls on boating and other recreational activities. The resolution of Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed in this alternative would have no impacts on WSR recommendations. Rio Grande 1994 Designated Segment This 12-mile designated segment would continue to be managed as a Scenic component of the National WSR System. Within existing management guidelines for scenic components, the shoreline would remain relatively undeveloped. However, the guidelines do not preclude practices or structures that can be carried out in a manner that do not create a substantial adverse effect on the river or its immediate environment. Recreation facilities and user access would be actively managed, decreasing the likelihood of uses that would diminish the scenic, recreational, and fish and wildlife values of the river. Though development would be visible from the river, it would be directed to appropriate areas to reduce physical impacts. Vehicle use would be restricted to 4-1 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS designated routes and parking areas, reducing the amount of indiscriminate use of the shoreline and riparian areas. A reduction in disturbance of vegetation and soil by indiscriminate use would decrease the potential for erosion and improve river resources. Unmarked highway pullout access sites and trails along New Mexico Highway 68 (NM 68) at Karmic Wave, Roadside Rest Area, Albert's Falls, After Five, Sleeping Beauty, and Souse Hole would be upgraded and improved in cooperation with the New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department. These upgrades would benefit users accessing the river from these points as well as reduce erosion. Acquisition of nonfederal lands would benefit this segment of the river through proposed riparian restoration efforts on 1 .4 acres. No new rights-of-way would be granted unless necessary to administer or improve access to recreation sites, or to provide access or utility service to nonfederal lands where such access is not otherwise possible. Utilities would be underground only, and would be located adjacent to roads. These restrictions would benefit the natural river setting. Rio Grande Bosque Segment (7.6 miles^ The 7.6-mile Rio Grande Bosque segment would be recommended to Congress as suitable as a recreational component in the National WSR System. Within existing management guidelines for recreational components, the river would continue to be readily accessible and would continue to have development along the shoreline. In comparison with wild and scenic components, management as a recreational component would provide for existing structures such as recreational facilities, bridge crossings, and roads and trails in proximity to the river, if compatible with recreational river values and recreation opportunities of the river and its immediate environment. Acquisition of 1,087 acres of private lands from willing sellers, especially undeveloped lands, would increase user enjoyment of the river by preserving the natural setting. It would also eliminate the potential of future development that may diminish the scenic quality. Closure of the confluence of the Rio Grande and Rio Embudo to vehicle use would allow for the restoration of about 1 acre to a more natural appearance. Limiting shoreline and riparian disturbance to 0.5 acre at Lover's Lane by moving vehicle access away from the river would benefit natural scenic values. With the parking area screened, the shoreline would regain a more natural appearance as viewed from the river. No new rights-of-way would be granted unless necessary to administer or improve access to recreation sites, or to provide access or utility service to nonfederal lands where such access is not otherwise possible. Utilities would be underground only, and would be located adjacent to roads. These restrictions would benefit the natural river setting. Mitigation of the visual scars left by rock-catching fences along NM 68 would improve scenic values along the river. The proposed boundary in the vicinity of Rinconada would allow for expansion of NM 68, without compromising scenic, recreational, riparian, or cultural values identified in the suitability recommendation. Rio Embudo Box Segment (5 miles) The 5-mile Rio Embudo Box segment would be recommended to Congress as suitable as a wild component in the National WSR System. Under a wild designation, this section of river would remain free of impoundments, generally inaccessible except by trail, its shorelines essentially primitive, and waters unpolluted. Emphasis would be placed on maintaining the existing scenic values and geologic and vegetation features associated with the canyon. Exclusion of grazing from the riparian areas would reduce erosion and improve the health of the riparian vegetation, enhancing scenic quality. Assignment of Visual Resource Management (VRM) Class I management objectives to this wild river segment would help maintain the existing scenic values. With Embudo Canyon remaining closed to mineral material disposal and withdrawn from the mining laws, no adverse impacts from this type of surface disturbing activity would affect the scenic or wild values of this river segment. Application of the 4-2 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON RIPARIAN RESOURCES No Surface Occupancy stipulation to oil and gas and geothermal leases would also prevent adverse impacts to the scenic values of the river. All existing recreation opportunities within the boundaries of the area would continue except off- highway vehicle use. Restriction of vehicle use to designated roads and trails would protect vegetation and scenic values. IMPACTS ON RIPARIAN RESOURCES Positive impacts on riparian resources would result from controls on livestock use in riparian areas, controls on recreational use and vehicle access, and restoration work in the Upper and Lower Gorge units. Localized negative impacts would occur in areas which would be developed for livestock access to water. Some recreation sites would remain open to recreation use in areas with riparian potential. Resolution of Issue 1 - WSR Recommendations; Issue 3 - Vegetation, Soils, Water Quality, and Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat; Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources; Issue 5 - Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management; Issue 7 - Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses; and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed would have no impacts on riparian resources. Upper Gorge Unit — Colorado Construction of water gaps on the La Sauses, Flat Top, Mesa Common, Pinon Hills, and Pifion Allotments would adversely impact 2.5 acres of riparian habitat. However, resting riparian areas from grazing until the classification of Proper Functioning Condition is met would allow native riparian vegetation to reestablish and would have a positive impact on 124.5 acres. Managing for a 4-inch stubble height on herbaceous species and 20 percent use of current annual growth on woody species after grazing resumed would stabilize soils in riparian areas. Continuation of the cooperative agreements with local, private, and public entities and the partnership with the Rio Grande Riparian Corridor Advisory Committee would be a positive step in finding meaningful solutions for unauthorized grazing and actions for continued movement of riparian health toward the classification of Proper Functioning Condition. Limiting vehicle access to designated routes, closing vehicle access into riparian areas, and establishing parking areas outside of riparian habitat along this section of river would enable natural riparian vegetation to reestablish on 0.5 acre. Planting 10 acres of willows and 3 acres of cottonwoods over the next five years would allow a much faster recovery of riparian vegetation in denuded areas. Prohibiting the removal of native vegetation from riparian areas in Colorado would protect 124.5 acres from disturbance. Acquisition of private lands adjacent to the river between the La Sauses Cemetery and Lobatos Bridge from willing sellers would allow the BLM to restore and protect approximately 30 additional acres of riparian habitat. Recreation and facility development in this area would limit disturbance to an additional 0.05 acre of riparian vegetation. Upper Gorge Unit — New Mexico Restrictions on vehicle access and parking on the east side of John Dunn Bridge would restore 0.1 acre of riparian vegetation. Expansion of the launch site on the west side of John Dunn Bridge would negatively impact 0.05 acre of riparian habitat. The net result of the proposed actions would be improvement of 0.05 acre. Lower Gorge Unit Closure of the following recreation sites, together with vehicle access, would positively impact 1 .55 acres of riparian habitat: Arroyo Hondo Campground, the confluence of the Rio Grande and Rio Embudo, the vehicle pullout on the east bank of the Rio Grande 0.5 mile south of Embudo Station, and the Velarde Diversion Dam. Closure of 1.5 acres at Lover's Lane and the 1 acre of private land, if acquired, would allow reestablishment of riparian vegetation on 2.5 acres. Acquisition of private land adjacent to Taos Junction Bridge would allow the 4-3 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON VEGETATION BLM to restore 1 .2 acres of riparian habitat, while riparian vegetation at the Taos Junction River Access (0.2 acre) would continue to be negatively impacted. Exclusion of grazing on riparian areas adjacent to springs would allow restoration of 4 acres of riparian habitat, and continued eradication of saltcedar (a noxious introduced species) at Orilla Verde Recreation Area would result in reestablishment of an additional 2 acres of native riparian vegetation. Copper Hill Unit Eighteen acres of riparian habitat within the proposed Copper Hill ACEC would remain classified as Functional — At Risk. Elimination of grazing on the Rio de las Trampas and Canada OJo Sarco would allow enhancement of 9 acres of riparian habitat in the long term and facilitate movement of the vegetative communities from the classification of Functional — At Risk to Proper Functioning Condition. IMPACTS ON VEGETATION Positive impacts on vegetation would result from an aggressive program of mechanical treatments, natural bums through a selective "let bum" policy and prescribed bums, and adjustments to the livestock management program. Seeding in Colorado would have positive impacts by providing a seed source. There would be positive impacts to species diversity through implementation of the vegetative treatment programs. The resolution of Issue 1 - WSR Recommendations, Issue 2 - Riparian Resources, Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources, Issue 5 - Scenic Quality, Issue 6 - Recreation and Facility Development, Issue 7 - Commercial and Personal Uses, Issue 8 - Public Access, and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed would have no impacts on woodlands or grasslands. Woodlands Oakbrush Association Oakbmsh is a fire-adapted species which sprouts profusely after a fire. Prescribed burning of 1 84 acres of oakbmsh would reduce the potential for cat- astrophic wildfires by decreasing the amount of old, decadent, and dense oakbmsh. Over the next 1 5 years, prescribed burning would create a mosaic pattern of uneven age stands. Savanna Association Fire and thinning treatments would maintain the savanna association and provide a competitive advantage for herbaceous species because increased nutrients, moisture, and space would be available to them, while the spread of dense pinon-juniper woodlands on 4,236 acres would be reversed. Treatment would result in an upward ecological trend. Treatment would facilitate establishment of a diverse mosaic of vegetative patterns with uneven age stands and varying community stmctures. Reestablishment of a more natural community stmcture and composition would allow natural processes to occur (i.e., natural fires with low flame intensities that meet prescribed burning criteria) and would enhance ecosystem functionality. Pinon-Juniper Association Mechanical thinning and prescribed burning of 2,994 acres of the pinon-juniper association would result in an acceptable canopy cover. Reducing the number of pinon and juniper stems per acre would provide a competitive advantage to herbaceous species because increased nutrients, moisture, and space would be available to them. In addition, thinning and burning would help limit the spread of dense piflon-juniper woodlands. Post-treatment prescribed burning consisting of a low flame intensity controlled fire to minimize new woody growth (seedlings and saplings) would have minimal ecological impact on the area. Such burning would drastically retard the reinvasion of pifion-juniper. 4-4 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON VEGETATION Treatment would facilitate reestablishment of a diverse mosaic of vegetative patterns with uneven age stands and varying community structures. Re- establishment of a more natural community structure and composition while allowing natural processes to occur (i.e., natural fires with low flame intensities that meet prescribed burning criteria) would enhance natural process functionality. Mixed Conifer Association Mechanical thinning of 1,642 acres of the mixed conifer association would reduce tree density (stems per acre) in areas with extremely dense and unproductive stands of small ponderosa pine. Thinning the mixed conifer association would reduce the invasion of pinon-juniper into ponderosa pine stands and create a more park-like structure with increased species abundance and diversity within the understory as well as the overstory. Thinning would result in an upward ecological trend. Allowing natural regeneration of herbaceous species instead of seeding the treated areas would delay understory development, but would permit regeneration of floral species better adapted to the specific site and more resilient to drought and other natural disturbances. Thinning the association also would reduce the probability of catastrophic wildfires by removing ladder fuels. Opening the forest canopy and creating uneven age stands would increase the number of natural fire breaks, reducing the potential for catastrophic wildfire spread. Prescribed burning at three- to five-year intervals following mechanical treatment would greatly reduce the establishment of seedlings and saplings. Through time, this would allow the treated ponderosa sites to maintain a natural park-like appearance. Since grasses and forbs are predominantly fire tolerant species, the herbaceous vegetation would not be negatively impacted by burning at three- to five-year intervals. Treatment would facilitate reestablishment of a diverse mosaic of vegetative patterns with uneven age stands and varying community structures. In general, the treated areas would increase in ecological condition class. Grasslands Shrub/Grassland Association Grazing during dormancy would have a positive long-term effect on the shrub/grassland association that is in good to excellent condition. On 4 of 12 allotments in New Mexico (Wild River, Guadalupe, Carson, and Guadalupe Mountain), a May 1 beginning date for grazing would allow growth of cool season grasses before livestock grazing begins. However, this type of grazing could result in reduced and delayed seed production and over the long term could lead to domination of this vegetative association by sagebrush in these allotments. Improving ecological conditions and upward trends would occur on the 3,523 acres of the shrub/ grassland association that would be treated with fire or herbicide. Fire is a significant agent in maintaining the balance of competition between sagebrush and perennial grasses. Prescribed burning would be used to control sagebrush, resulting in an increase in bunchgrasses. Perennial bunchgrass production would increase approximately 25 percent during the first growing season (Uresk et al. 1976) and would more than double in three to five years (Hamiss and Murray 1973; Peek et al. 1979). The benefits from treatment would diminish over the long term as big sagebrush reestablished itself, unless treatments are repeated. Tebuthiuron herbicide treatments would significantly increase herbaceous production after sagebrush was completely defoliated, typically in the second or third growing season after treatment (McDaniel and Balliette 1986). Expected sagebrush mortality rates of 50 to 75 percent would reduce competition between sagebrush and perennial grasses. Grass production would be expected to double three to seven years following herbicide treatment, and this increase would last over 20 years on most soil types and microclimates (Hamiss and Murray 1973; Peek et al. 1979). Positive impacts resulting from treatment would diminish over the long term because of early season 4-5 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON VEGETATION grazing on 877 acres of the Wild River, Guadalupe, and Guadalupe Mountain Allotments. Elimination of livestock grazing for the two years following treatment would permit establishment of perennial grasses and increased plant health and vigor. Sparse Shrub/Grassland Association The Proposed Plan calls for grazing systems on 13 allotments which prescribe livestock grazing in designated pastures during designated periods. On all 13 allotments there would be a prescription for rest within one pasture or short-term deferment from use. These actions would have positive impacts, providing for optimum root stores and improved plant vigor prior to dormancy. Plants would have the opportunity to initiate new growth subsequent to livestock grazing or would be able to attain full growth prior to grazing. Grazing during dormancy on 7 of 13 allotments would allow plants to rest in the growing season and would result in beneficial impacts to the sparse shrub/grassland association since the plants could reproduce, build root stores, and photosynthesize without grazing pressure. determinations. The species shown in the table below resulted from a species list request and were identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) in a memorandum dated April 29, 1997 (Cons: #2-22-95-1-230). PLANT SPECIES OF CONCERN Species Classification Determination of Effect Arizona willow Species of Concern No effect Ripley’s milkvetch Species of Concern Beneficial effect Ripley’s Milkvetch {Astragalus ripleyi) Specific vegetative proposals within the planning area have been designed to re-establish the natural fire cycle within habitats preferred by Ripley’s milkvetch. Although this species has not been identified within the planning area it is expected that positive conditions would result from the vegetative actions proposed. Vegetation treatment through seeding, if successful, would improve the ecological condition of 1,124 acres of Sandy Bench Range Site. Range improvements, including water wells and associated pipelines, would improve livestock distribution on 1 1 allotments. The effects of this action would be positive, resulting in more even distributions of grazing animals over the sparse shrub/grassland association. Over the long term, however, 16 acres of this vegetative association would be negatively impacted as a result of livestock concentration at water sources. Plants of Concern The BLM has determined that the continued implementation of the programs identified under the Proposed Plan would result in the following Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have a beneficial effect on Ripley’s milkvetch. Arizona Willow {Salix arizonica) Optimum habitat for this species, also referred to as manzanita willow, is found along riparian corridors between 10,000 and 10,800 feet in elevation in unshaded or partially shaded wet meadows, streamsides, and cienegas. It is typically found in or adjacent to perennial water. There is no habitat within the planning area for this species. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the Arizona willow. 4-6 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON SOILS AND WATER QUALITY IMPACTS ON SOILS AND WATER QUALITY Implementation of the Proposed Plan would result in overall positive impacts on soils and water quality through elimination of livestock grazing in riparian areas, vegetation treatments in areas best suited for manipulation, and limits on surface disturbing activities (mineral development, vehicle access, and upland range management). Some short- term negative impacts would result as these actions were implemented. The resolution of Issue 1 - WSR Recommendations, Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources, Issue 5 - Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management, and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed would have no impacts on soils and water quality. Developing permanent water gaps on the La Sauses, Flat Top, Mesa Common, Pinon Hills, and Pinon Allotments would negatively impact water quality by exposing 2.5 acres of riparian vegetation to erosion and sedimentation, stream bank destruction, and bacteriological pollution of the river from animal waste. However, by excluding livestock from 124.5 acres until the classification of Proper Functioning Condition was achieved, and then managing for a 4-inch stubble height on herbaceous species and no more than 20 percent use of current annual growth on woody species, the net result would be a long-term positive impact on water quality. Vegetation would become established and a substantial portion would remain ungrazed, thereby promoting floodplain development through the capture of sediment and organic debris, and the stabilization of streambanks. Long-term positive impacts on water quality would be exhibited on approximately 124.5 acres in Colorado. Actions that call for coordination with local private and public entities to find solutions to unauthorized grazing would positively impact water quality through the protection of 104 acres of riparian area in Colorado. In New Mexico, positive impacts on water quality on 13 acres would result from exclusion of livestock from riparian vegetation on two allotments. Short-term positive impacts on water quality would result from the enhancement of 1,124 acres of sparse shrub/grassland association in fair and poor range condition through reseeding treatments on up- lands in Colorado and long-term positive impacts on 3,523 acres of shrub grasslands in fair and poor range condition after treatment with either fire or Tebuthiuron herbicide in New Mexico. Over the long term, range conditions would remain static or show an upward trend as a result of periodic rest during early season growing periods, which would result in a gradual increase in cool season plant diversity and reproduction on 4 of 13 allotments in Colorado (Pinon, Eight-Mile, Flat Top, and La Sauses) and 4 of 12 allotments in New Mexico (Wild River, Guadalupe, Carson, and Guadalupe Mountain), with corresponding long-term positive impacts on soils and water quality. Soils and water quality would improve on all allotments. Exclusion of vehicles from riparian areas would result in long-term positive impacts on water quality as a result of increased vegetation, elimination of potential petroleum pollution sources, and reduced erosion from revegetated road surfaces on 0.5 acre of riparian area in Colorado. In New Mexico, 3 acres and an additional 2.2 acres of proposed riparian acquisition would be enhanced by prohibiting recreational development and camping within riparian areas and either installing restroom facilities or imposing a requirement to carry out human waste, also resulting in long-term positive impacts on soils and water quality. Other uses, such as boat launching, would not affect water quality because sites would be stabilized or hardened using Best Management Practices. Actions proposed would restore or rehabilitate 1 15.6 acres of riparian vegetation. Soils would be negatively affected in the long term by non-motorized trail construction. However, impacts on water quality and adjacent soils during construction and use would be minimized by implementing Best Management Practices. Mineral material removal areas are usually small and the impacts are to soils confined to the pit and immediate area. The total area available for mineral materials disposal would be approximately 58,337 acres. Actions associated with mining claim and oil and gas development could potentially impact soils on approximately 49,93 1 acres and 47,963 acres, respectively. Impacts on water quality from mineral development can be reduced or avoided by using 4-7 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT Best Management Practices. Since the Proposed Plan prohibits mineral exploration and development within riparian areas and designated special management areas, impacts on soils and water quality in these areas would be avoided. Approximately 65,414 acres would be closed to discretionary mineral material removal, 73,820 acres closed to mining claim development, and 50,173 acres closed to oil and gas lease development, with an additional 25,615 acres protected by a No Surface Occupancy stipulation. Proposed acquisitions of nonfederal surface and subsurface interests could result in additional protection through the closure of 9,482 acres to sand and gravel removal; withdrawal of 14,122 acres from mineral claim and exploration; and closure 7,648 acres to oil and gas development, with application of a No Surface Occupancy stipulation to an additional 7,094 acres. IMPACTS ON LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT The resolution of Issue I - WSR Recommendations, Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources, Issue 5 - Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management, Issue 6 - Recreation and Facility Development, Issue 7 - Commercial and Personal Uses, Issue 8 - Public Access, and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed would have no impacts on grazing uses. A minimum of 95 percent of the riparian association (124.5 acres in Colorado and 217 acres in New Mexico) would be restored to the classification of Proper Functioning Condition. This vegetation association would not be available for grazing until it achieved Proper Functioning Condition. Grazing would be used as a tool in managing riparian areas. In New Mexico, grazing would be eliminated in the long term on 1 3 acres of riparian vegetation and 1,980 acres of upland vegetation. New restrictions on the kinds of livestock that could be grazed, their numbers, and the timing of their use would result in long-term negative impacts on livestock operators from limitations on economic returns from livestock. Other actions that propose to maintain traditional seasons of use on 20 allotments would have positive effects because forage would not have to be purchased to accommodate a changed season of use. Grazing permittees on four allotments would be negatively impacted by actions that propose to change seasons of use to later dates than the traditional use periods, requiring them to purchase pasture or hay until the new beginning date — 100 animal unit months (AUMs) in Colorado and 492 AUMs in New Mexico. An AUM is the amount of forage needed to support one cow, one horse, or five sheep for a month. The maximum number of AUMs authorized within the planning area would be 2,418 AUMs in Colorado and 1,255 AUMs in New Mexico, a decrease from current levels. A total of 58,765 acres would be unavailable for grazing in the long term. Vegetative improvements would be expected from the treatment of 1 , 1 24 acres of sparse shrub/ grassland association and 3,066 acres of shrub/ grassland association and woodlands within the planning area. In New Mexico, these treatments would result in no net gain in AUMs allocated to livestock because the increase would be allocated to wildlife and watershed protection. In Colorado these treatments would result in a negligible change in AUMs for allocation to livestock, wildlife, and watershed. Requirements for a minimum of two years rest from grazing after vegetative treatments would negatively impact grazing users in the short term. The Proposed Plan proposes development of water sources on 1 1 allotments in Colorado and 3 sources on 2 allotments in New Mexico, and construction of permanent water gaps on 5 allotments on the Rio Grande in Colorado. These actions would result in an overall reduction of costs to grazing operators associated with water hauling, a positive economic impact. IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT Wildlife would benefit from actions taken to control or eliminate activities which could harm habitat, such as mineral development, excessive recreational use in sensitive areas, and high road densities. Some proposed actions, such as human use 4-8 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT during breeding season along some trails or river segments, could cause localized negative impacts. The resolution of Issue 1 - WSR Recommendations, Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources, Issue 5 - Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management, and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education would have no impacts on wildlife and fisheries habitat. Riparian Resources Rehabilitation, restoration, and maintenance efforts on 341.5 acres of riparian habitat would have long-term positive impacts on riparian obligate nesting species. Conversion of approximately 8.5 acres to native riparian habitat by plantings and saltcedar eradication would have long-term positive impacts on wildlife. Vegetation treatments resulting in willow heights of 13 feet (Tibbitts et al. 1994) and patch sizes exceeding 0.5 acre (Sogge et al. 1993) would create approximately 1 5 acres of new southwestern willow flycatcher habitat. Long-term negative impacts on riparian obligate species would result from the conversion of riparian habitat to other uses on 2.5 acres. Vegetation. Soils, and Water Quality The oakbrush association is well adapted to periodic fire, sprouting vigorously from root crowns (Pase and Pond 1964; Pase and Lindenmuth 1978). Treatment of 1 84 acres of this habitat type in New Mexico would result in short-term positive impacts on forage productivity for big game two years after burning, diminishing to pre-bum conditions by the fifth year (Cable 1973). Prescriptions for treatment recommended by Lechenby (1977), Terrel and Spillet (1975), and Clary (1972) within the savanna, pifion-juniper and mixed conifer associations would result in positive long-term benefits for big game, small mammals and avian species on 8,872 acres. Prescribed burning or herbicide treatment on 3,523 acres of shmb/grass- land association and seeding treatments on 1,124 acres of the sparse shrub/grassland association on uplands in Colorado would result in long-term positive impacts for wildlife due to improved watershed and vegetative conditions. Cavity nesting species would benefit from the proposal to maintain a minimum of five snags per acre, well above the minimum of three suggested by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (1993). Livestock Grazing In general, grazing prescriptions that provide for moderate levels of use by livestock during periods of the year when plants are either dormant or are actively photosynthesizing (rather than relying on energy stored in roots) would result in long-term enhancement of cool season grasses, forbs, and shrubs. These vegetation types are necessary habitat components for a variety of upland wildlife species (Severson et al. 1978). In addition, riparian grazing restrictions to limit the consumption of native riparian vegetation by livestock would result in long- term positive benefits to migratory avian species (Tibbitts et al. 1994). Limiting grazing would facilitate the use of riparian habitats by migratory avian species for foraging, cover, and nesting. Long-term negative impacts to big game, small mammals, and avian species would result on 7 of 13 allotments in Colorado (North and South Pinon, Braiden, Pinon Hills, Eight-Mile, La Sauses, and East Bend) and 4 of 12 allotments in New Mexico (Wild River, Guadalupe, Carson, and Guadalupe Mountain). Negative impacts would be due to recurring early season grazing on cool season plant species and a gradual reduction of cool season plants and plant diversity. Grazing during the antelope fawning season on the La Sauses, Pinon Hills, Pinon, Kiowa Hill, and Eight-Mile Allotments in Colorado would result in displacement of antelope does and potential long-tenn reductions in reproductive success and vigor (Autenreith 1984). Grazing-related improvements which would result in the addition of water sources to relatively dry habitats would provide benefits to wildlife, primarily big game (Knipe 1977). 4-9 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat Actions that would restrict aircraft or balloon flights in the vicinity of the Rio Grande would result in positive impacts to big game species, migratory bird species, and raptors. Pack stock, specifically llamas, have been documented in other areas as carrying Johne's disease, an intestinal tract and lymphoid tissue disease which is transmittable to elk and bighorn sheep (Spraker 1994). With no restrictions on pack stock use, it is possible that the disease could be introduced into the planning area. However, the likelihood is low because transmission can occur only with a high dose of the contagion and in situations where the contact between animals is of an extended duration (Johnson 1996; Moon 1996; Williams 1996). The likelihood is further reduced since only four cases of this disease have been confirmed in llamas in the United States (Belknap 1996; Johnson 1996). Wildlife would respond favorably to prohibiting removal of vegetation within riparian areas. Long- term positive impacts would result for riparian obligate species, one to five wintering bald eagles, and one to two southwestern willow flycatcher pairs. Long-term positive impacts on six species of bats would result from the protection of El Poso Cave and the Black Rock Mine entrance. Actions that preclude the modification of wildlife habitat by surface and subsurface development would result in long-term positive impacts on big game, small mammals, reptiles, and avian species (Lyon 1984). Prohibitions on parking and overnight use at trailheads in the Upper Gorge Unit would result in long-term positive impacts on big game by protecting their access to limited sources of water and cover, as well as allowing unrestricted movement of elk and mule deer across the Rio Grande Gorge. Overnight use at the Manby, Raven, and Powerline trailheads and the east rim trails within the Wild Rivers Recreation Area would not significantly impact wildlife use and migration. The proposal to modify of 4.25 miles of net wire fencing would result in long-term positive impacts on 300 antelope by permitting access to 5,120 acres of suitable habitat near the New Mexico-Colorado border. Proposed actions that provide for reestablishment of such extirpated native species as river otter and Rio Grande cutthroat trout would result in long-term positive impacts on riparian obligate species diversity. However, reintroduction of river otters would result in negative impacts to Upper Gorge non-game fisheries, primarily Rio Grande chub, white sucker, and Rio Grande sucker, due to river otter predation. Cutthroat trout reintroductions would in most cases require the removal of competing non-native fish with an Antimycin treatment, resulting in short-term reductions of benthic macro-invertebrate species populations. However, these populations would be expected to return to pretreatment levels within three months. Designation of the Rio Grande cutthroat trout as a New Mexico BLM sensitive species would provide long-term protection for streams with existing populations, and for those streams with a reasonable potential to support populations of Rio Grande cutthroat trout. Species of Concern The BLM has determined that the continued implementation of the programs identified under the Proposed Plan would result in the following determinations. The species shown in Table 4-1 resulted from a species list request and were identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) in a memorandum dated April 29, 1997 (cons. #2-22-95-1-230). Species Evaluations Black-footed Ferret {Mustela nigripes) The most recent information from the FWS (USDI, FWS 1989) indicates that prairie dog towns of the following sizes are necessary to maintain black-footed ferret population: (a) 80 acres for black- tailed prairie dogs, and (b) 200 acres for Gunnison’s 4-10 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT TABLE 4-1 ANIMAL SPECIES OF CONCERN Species Status Determination of EBect Mammals Black-footed ferret Endangered No effect Big free-tailed bat Species of Concern Beneficial effect Fringed myotis Species of Concern Beneficial effect Long-eared myotis Species of Concern Beneficial effect Long-legged myotis Species of Concern Beneficial effect Occult little brown bat Species of Concern Beneficial effect Pale Townsend’s western big-eared bat Species of Concern Beneficial effect Western small-footed myotis Species of Concern Beneficial effect Spotted bat Species of Concern Beneficial effect Yuma myotis Species of Concern Beneficial effect Goat Peak pika Species of Concern No effect New Mexico meadow jumping mouse Species of Concern May affect, not likely to adversely affect Southwestern otter Species of Concern Beneficial effect Birds American peregrine falcon Endangered May affect, not likely to adversely affect Arctic peregrine falcon Threatened May affect, not likely to adversely affect Baird’s sparrow Species of Concern May affect, not likely to adversely affect Bald eagle Threatened May affect, not likely to adversely affect Black tern Species of Concern No effect Ferruginous hawk Species of Concern May affect, not likely to adversely affect Harlequin duck Species of Concern No effect Interior least tern Endangered No effect Loggerhead shrike Species of Concern No effect Mexican spotted owl Threatened May affect, not likely to adversely affect Mountain plover Candidate May affect, not likely to adversely affect Northern goshawk Species of Concern No effect Southwestern willow flycatcher Endangered May affect, not likely to adversely affect 4-11 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT TABLE 4-1 ANIMAL SPECIES OF CONCERN Species Status Determination of Effect White-faced ibis Species of Concern No effect Whooping crane Experimental Non-essential May affect, not likely to adversely affect Fish Colorado squawfish Endangered No effect Flathead chub Species of Concern May affect, not likely to adversely affect Roundtail chub Species of Concern No effect Amphibians Boreal western toad Candidate No effect Jemez Mountains salamander Species of Concern No effect Mollusks Cockerell’s striate disc Species of Concern May affect, not likely to adversely affect Sangre de Cristo peaclam Species of Concern No effect prairie dogs. The habitat necessary to support a reproducing population of black- footed ferret does not occur within the planning area and there are no actions proposed that result in threats to existing prairie dog towns within the corridor. Based on this assessment, it has been determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the black-footed ferret. Bat Species Bat species of concern include fringed myotis {My Otis thysanodes). Pale Townsend's bat {Plecotus townsendii pallescens), big free-tailed bat {Nyctinomops macrotis), spotted bat {Euderma maculatum), small footed myotis {Myotis ciliolabrum), long-eared myotis {Myotis evotis), Yuma myotis {Myotis yumanens is), long-legged myotis {Myotis volans), and occult little brown bat {Myotis lucifugus occultus). The Proposed Plan proposes protection (e.g., constructing grates, allowing scientific access only) and enhancing (e.g.. fencing, planting) the riparian habitats that occur along the Rio Grande, and in other riparian areas. It is the BLM's goal to restore these vital habitats to functional condition, not only for the myotis species but for many other wildlife species and other resource values (e.g., limiting soil erosion). In addition, roosting sites are normally located on vertical cliff faces and caves that are inaccessible and generally away from human activities while pursuing recreational activities. Based on this assessment, it has been determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have a beneficial effect on the myotis species. Goat Peak Pika (Ochotona princeps nigrescens) No tracts of BLM-administered lands with a potential for occupation by the goat peak pika occur within the Rio Grande Corridor. Based on this assessment, it has been determined that continued 4-12 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the Goat Peak pika. New Mexican Meadow Jumping Mouse {Zap us hudsonius lute us) There is a potential that actions in the Proposed Plan, such as recreational permits, right-of-way grants, vegetative treatments, water and fence projects, and fuelwood permits may result in site- specific impacts to this species. However, because all permitted site-specific actions are analyzed through the environmental assessment process, it is anticipated that these permitted activities would cause only an insignificant/discountable effect on the New Mexican meadow jumping mouse. Based on this assessment, it has been determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the New Mexico meadow jumping mouse. Southwestern Otter {Lutra canadensis sonorae) The Proposed Plan proposes protection (e.g., fencing) and enhancing the riparian habitats that occur along the Rio Grande and other riparian areas. It is the BLM's goal to restore these vital habitats to functional condition, not only for the otter but for many other wildlife species. Presently the highest potential riparian habitat on BLM-administered lands within the planning area are fenced or proposed for fencing and riparian restoration (e.g., planting of cottonwoods, willows), is occurring or planned. Functioning riparian areas support numerous fish species that may provide a prey base for otters. Additionally, intensive surveys for otters in the highest potential areas (e.g., Rio Grande Gorge) have determined the species to be absent. Reintroduction efforts within the Rio Grande corridor are also planned. Based on this assessment, it has been determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have a beneficial effect on the Southwestern river otter. American Peregrine Falcon {Falco peregrinus anatum) and Arctic Peregrine Falcon {Falco pereginus tundrius) - Migration Only Peregrine falcon eyries are normally located on inaccessible vertical cliff faces that are generally away from human activities. Migrating birds also move through the area fairly rapidly, which limits their exposure to any potential effects. Inventory and monitoring surveys for raptors (including peregrine falcons) annually in the highest potential areas (e.g., Rio Grande Gorge) expect to determine the presence or absence of this species. Presently the highest potential riparian habitat on BLM-administered lands in the planning area are fenced, and riparian restoration (e.g., planting of cottonwoods, willows) is occurring. Functioning riparian areas support numerous wildlife species including waterfowl, shorebirds, and migratory passerine birds that provide a prey base for nesting and migratory peregrine falcons. Proposed actions in the planning area call for expanding riparian habitats; either excluding livestock entirely or where riparian pastures have been established for grazing during established seasons; and fencing, planting (e.g., willows, cottonwoods) and other riparian zone restorations (e.g., salt cedar removal). All of these actions are positive for this species. There is a potential that actions in the Proposed Plan, such as recreational permits, right-of-way grants, vegetative treatments, water and fence projects, and fuelwood permits may result in site- specific impacts on this species. It is also possible that one or more of these actions have the potential of creating some disturbance on nesting and migrating peregrine falcons. However, because all permitted actions are analyzed through the environmental assessment process, it is anticipated that these permitted activities would cause only an insignificant/discountable effect on the peregrine falcon. 4-13 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the peregrine falcon. Baird's Sparrow {Ammodramus bairdii) Preferred habitat for the Baird’s sparrow is associated with open prairies with the primary food source being seeds of grasses and where nests are built on the ground. Habitat associated with short- grass areas are not found within the planning area. This type of habitat, however, is found adjacent to the corridor in the extreme northern end of the planning area and migration through the corridor is possible. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the Baird's sparrow. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) The Proposed Plan addressed human uses including river activities (floatboating), hiking, and other day uses. However, due to the fact that the pedestrian and recreational activity in the area is limited during the season when bald eagles are present (winter), potential threats are anticipated to be an insignificant impact on this species. The Proposed Plan includes protection and enhancement (e.g., fencing, planting) of riparian habitats that occur along the Rio Grande and other riparian areas. It is the BLM's goal to restore these vital habitats to functional condition, not only for bald eagles, but for many other wildlife species and other resource values (e.g., limiting soil erosion). In riparian areas, livestock are either excluded entirely by fences or a riparian pasture has been set up for grazing only during established seasons. In addition to fencing, yearly plantings (e.g., willows, cottonwoods) and other riparian zone restorations (e.g., salt cedar removal) are proposed. Bald eagles have been observed migrating seasonally through the planning area, but the number of birds are considered to be low. Migrating bald eagles, excluding roosting birds south of Pilar, are not known to spend any significant amount of time within the area. Based on inventories of riparian habitats on BLM-administered lands within the area, limited habitat has been identified to support this species. The BLM is proposing the closure of existing roads in riparian areas and is not allowing new roads to be built on BLM administered lands that will affect any roost areas for the bald eagle. All standing (live or dead) cottonwood trees within the Pilar roosting area will be maintained for use by bald eagles and other wildlife species. No potential roost trees would be removed. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the bald eagle. Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) The known distribution of the black tern in New Mexico is as a migrant within the Rio Grande corridor. There is no habitat for the black tern found on BLM-administered lands within the planning area. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan (including existing BLM actions) would have no effect on the black tern. Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) Although there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area, the public lands along all rivers that have the highest potential for this species have management actions proposed which would protect and/or restore the associated riaprian habitats. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the 4-14 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT Proposed Plan would have no effect on the ferruginous hawk. Harlequin Duck {Histrionicus histrionicus) Although there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area, the public lands along all rivers that have the highest potential for this species have management actions proposed which would protect and/or restore the associated riaprian habitats. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the Harlequin duck. Interior Least Tern {Sterna antillarum athalassos) Known distribution of the interior least tern in New Mexico is as an accidental migrant within the Rio Grande corridor. Although there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area, the public lands along all rivers that have the highest potential for this species have management actions proposed which would protect and/or restore the associated riparian habitats. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the interior least tern. Loggerhead Shrike {Lanius ludovicianus) Although there are no known nesting or use areas for this species within the planning area, the public lands along all rivers that have the highest potential for this species have management actions proposed which would protect and/or restore the associated riaprian habitats. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the loggerhead shrike. Mexican Spotted Owl {Stirx occidentalis lucida) Historic forest stands no longer occur today. From as early as the 1 800s homesteaders, owners of land grants, and private logging companies removed most of large commercial timber within the planning area. The proposed forestry program consists of thinnings in pinon-juniper woodlands, and small salvage cuts in ponderosa pine stands with mistletoe and other damage. Continuing management guidance provides for the continuation of (protocol) surveys within the critical habitat areas, to determine the presence or absence of the Mexican spotted owl. To protect Mexican spotted owl critical habitat area NM-BLM-3 in the new Copper Hill ACEC, the BLM would prohibit all surface-disturbing projects, vegetative removal, and mineral material sales. The habitat area would be withdrawn from public land and mining laws, and closed to mineral leasing. There is a potential that actions in the proposed plan, such as recreational permits and water and fence projects may result in site-specific impacts on this species. It is also possible that one or more of these actions have the potential of creating some disturbance. However, because all permitted actions are analyzed through the environmental assessment process, it is anticipated that these permitted activities would cause only an insignificant/discountable effect. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the Mexican spotted owl. Mountain Plover {Charadrius montanus) Grazing practices under the Proposed Plan are intended to stabilize resource use in the area and 4-15 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT maintain appropriate ground cover to limit erosion and maintain wildlife habitats. Maintaining ground cover to the greatest extent possible could decrease preferred plover habitat, especially in the rest pastures. These grazing practices may be potentially disruptive to mountain plovers because of the potential effect on their preferred habitat. Mountain plovers appear to be successful in using areas grazed by livestock, as long as livestock levels are not high enough to cause nest trampling and associated disturbance effects. However, because the mountain plover is mobile and can move to other more suitable locations, it is anticipated that implementing conservative grazing practices would cause only an insignificant or discountable effect on this bird. There is a potential that actions in the Proposed Plan, such as recreational permits, grazing permits, vegetative projects, and water and fence projects may result in site-specific impacts to this species. It is also possible that one or more of these actions have the potential of creating some disturbance. However, it is anticipated that these permitted activities would cause only an insignificant or discountable effect. Based on this assessment, it has been judged that implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect mountain plovers. Northern Goshawk {Accepiter gentilis) Within the planning area the northern goshawk has not been found to occur. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the northern goshawk. Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) The Proposed Plan proposes the protection and enhancement (e.g., fencing, planting) of riparian habitats that occur along the Rio Grande, and other riparian areas. It is the BLM’s goal to restore these vital habitats to functional condition, not only for the southwestern willow flycatcher but for many other wildlife species and other resource values (e.g., limiting soil erosion). Under the Proposed Plan, grazing would be eliminated from all riparian areas in New Mexico and j Colorado until the classification of Proper Functioning Condition is achieved. Commercial or personal use of woody riparian vegetation removal would be prohibited. Yearly plantings (e.g., willows, cottonwoods) and other riparian zone restorations are planned. Presently the highest potential riparian habitat on BLM-administered lands in the planning area is where the area is fenced and riparian restoration (e.g., planting of cottonwoods, willows) is planned. Functioning riparian areas support diverse vegetative communities of willows and cottonwoods that are considered prime habitat for the southwestern willow flycatcher. The Proposed Plan also plans for the issuance of permits for actions including grazing permits, recreational permits, right-of-way grants, vegetative treatments, water and fence projects, and fuelwood permits. It is possible that one or more of these actions have the potential of creating some j disturbance on migrating or nesting southwestern , willow flycatchers. However, it is anticipated that these permitted activities would cause only an insignificant/discountable effect on the southwestern willow flycatchers as the following measures are implemented: • Continue to survey the highest potential areas annually to determine the presence or abundance of the southwestern willow flycatcher. • Exclude all occupied, short-term and long-term southwestern willow flycatcher habitat within the Rio Grande Corridor from livestock grazing, except water gaps in Colorado. • Discourage fishermen's access to the area by placing natural barriers (e.g., boulders) to help eliminate human visitation and require that all floatboating traffic stay in the main channel and that stopping be allowed only at designated locations. 4-16 CHAPTER 4 fnvirQNMENtal consequences IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT . Through education, encourage visitors to the campground to maintain a clean camping area by placing garbage in bear-proof containers. . Reduce highway traffic volumes, by working with Taos County to develop alternative access away from the riparian corridor. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the southwestern willow flycatcher. White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi) Within the planning area the white-faced ibis would be considered only as an accidental migrant. The white-faced ibis could migrate seasonally through the planning area, occasionally using the rivers and larger lakes and reservoirs. However, no known use of BLM lands by the white-faced ibis has been identified. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the preferred alternative the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the white-faced ibis. Whooping Crane {Grus americana) Whooping cranes would be considered rare migrants to the planning area during the spring and fall migration. In addition, there are a very limited number of whooping cranes; less than five are known to migrate through the Rio Grande valley of New Mexico. There is also a lack of any suitable wetland or agricultural habitat on BLM-administered lands within the planning area. However, there may be occasions when whooping cranes may migrate through the area and potential displacement from various permitted activity may occur. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the whooping crane. Colorado Squawfish {Ptychocheilus lucius) In New Mexico, the Colorado squawfish currently occurs in the San Juan River, and it may also have entered the state historically in the Gila River Basin. Until recently, the last record of Colorado squawfish was in 1961 in the San Juan River near Bloomfield. However, in 1987 and 1988, adult and young-of-year squawfish were captured in the San Juan between Shiprock and the Four Comers area. There is no known use of BLM lands, and the species is also not known to exist within the Rio Grande Basin. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the Colorado squawfish. Flathead Chub {Hybopsis gracilis) Although there are no actions proposed that may directly affect the flathead chub, the Proposed Plan includes actions including grazing permits, recreational permits, right-of-way grants, vegetative treatments, water and fence projects, and fuelwood permits. It is possible that one or more of these actions have the potential of indirectly impacting this species. However, because all permitted actions are analyzed through the environmental assessment process, and it is anticipated that these permitted activities would cause only an insignificant/ discountable effects on the flathead chub. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the preferred alternative in the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the flathead chub. Roundtail Chub {Gila robustd) This species occurs in the San Juan and Gila basins, and it was formerly also present in the Zuni and San Francisco drainages. This species is not known to occur within the planning area. 4-17 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the roundtail chub. Boreal Western Toad (Bufo boreas boreas) Known distribution of the boreal western toad in New Mexico is only in areas not associated with BLM-administered lands within the planning area. In addition, measures have been proposed to protect and restore riparian habitats within the planning area. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the boreal western toad. Jemez Mountains Salamander (Plethodon neomexican us) This species is endemic to north-central New Mexico where it is found only in the Jemez Mountains in portions of Los Alamos, Sandoval, and Rio Arriba counties. It is not known to occur within the planning area. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the Jemez Mountains salamander. Cockerell’s Striate Disc (Discus shemeki cockerelli) Actions proposed that may directly affect the Cockerell’s striate disc may include grazing permits, recreational permits, right-of-way grants, vegetative treatments, water and fence projects, and fuel wood permits. It is possible that one or more of these actions have the potential of impacting this species. However, because all permitted actions are analyzed through the environmental assessment process, and it is anticipated that these permitted activities would cause only an insignificant/discountable effects on the Cockerell’s striate disc snail. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan may affect, but would not likely adversely affect, the Cockerell’s striate disc snail. Sangre de Cristo Peaclam (Pisidium sanguinichristi) Distribution of the Sangre de Cristo peaclam occurs in high elevation alpine lakes which do not occur within the planning area. It is found only in Middle Fork Lake, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Based on this assessment, the BLM has determined that continued implementation of the Proposed Plan would have no effect on the Sangre de Cristo peaclam. Recreation and Facility Development In research reported by Bart (1977), investigators found an alteration of breeding behavior in neo-tropical migrants in response to repeated intrusion by a researcher walking through designated plots. Observations of southwestern willow flycatchers indicates need for a minimum buffer distance of 100 feet from territory cores. Requiring all boaters to remain in the main channel and restricting shoreline access in southwestern willow flycatcher territories would result in long-term positive impacts on one to three breeding pairs of southwestern willow flycatcher. Measures to prohibit motorized watercraft would result in long-term positive impacts to avifauna 4-18 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences IMPACTS ON PREHISTORIC AND HISTORIC RESOURCES resulting from elimination of noise- and wake-related impacts on 99 stream miles. Positive impacts to breeding and nesting raptors and waterfowl would result from continuation of the seasonal restriction of boating use from Lobatos Bridge, Colorado to Lee Trail, New Mexico. Miscellaneous dispersed recreational activity within the planning area, such as camping, climbing, hiking, and biking would result in site-specific short- term negative impacts on the microbiological, small mammal, and avian components of the localized fauna. Actions that prohibit camping within riparian areas, or which locate camping facilities away from these habitats, or from narrow confined areas like the Upper Gorge, would eliminate impacts to wildlife resulting from displacement or from use in campfires of woody material necessary for nesting and cover. Restrictions on non-motorized trail use between John Dunn Bridge and Cerro Chiflo during May, June, and July would result in long-term beneficial impacts to reproductive success. Limiting other actions that convert wildlife habitat to other uses would result in long-term positive impacts on wildlife. Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses Designation of the proposed Copper Hill ACEC would require submission of Plans of Operation for all proposed mineral exploration and development, thereby providing opportunity for National Environmental Policy Act review and application of wildlife protection measures prior to surface disturbance. In addition, prescriptions proposed for Mexican spotted owl critical habitat area NM-BLM-3 which would prohibit all surface disturbing projects, vegetative removal, and discretionary mineral material disposal, as well as withdrawing the critical habitat area from all lands and mineral laws and closing it to mineral leasing would result in positive long-term benefits for Mexican spotted owl habitat. Public Access Lyon (1983) suggests an optimum road density of 0.5 mile per square mile and a 50 percent effective habitat loss where densities approach or exceed 2 miles per square mile. Reducing road densities from 1.2 to 0.8 miles per square mile in the Upper Gorge Unit in Colorado, 1 .0 to 0.7 in the Lower Gorge Unit, and 1.7 to 0.5 in the Copper Hill Unit would result in improved habitat conditions for big game, small mammals, and avian species. Direct mortality from collisions would remain approximately five mule deer and two elk annually. IMPACTS ON PREHISTORIC AND HISTORIC RESOURCES Impacts on cultural resources from proposed range improvements, mineral material sales, development of recreation sites, and other earth- disturbing actions would be the subject of cultural resources clearance work and effects on cultural resources would be analyzed, avoided, or mitigated on a case-by-case basis. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) requires inventory, determinations of eligibility of sites to the National Register of Historic Places, and consultation with the New Mexico or Colorado State Historic Preservation Office and sometimes the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation when a federal undertaking is planned. Following Section 106 consultation, along with any necessary mitigation, resolution of Issue 1 - WSR Recommendations and Issue 2 - Riparian Resources would have no impacts on cultural resources. In compliance with NHPA and BLM policy, direct impacts from vegetative treatments (prescribed bums and mechanical and herbicide treatments) and construction of grazing improvements (fencing, wells, other water developments, and pipeline) would be avoided or mitigated. However, grazing has been shown to have a long-term adverse effect on cultural resources through destruction of features, artifact damage, and mixing of artifacts. Grazing would be excluded from 58,765 acres within the planning area. The majority of the known cultural sites in the planning area would be within the excluded acreage. 4-19 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON PREHISTORIC AND HISTORIC RESOURCES leaving 64,986 acres where grazing could impact cultural resources. Because all legal cultural resource protection requirements would be met when BLM actions were implemented, it is expected that the level of impacts from grazing would be low. Acquisition of approximately 14,122 acres of nonfederal land would reduce the potential for negative impacts on cultural resources since cultural resources on the newly acquired lands would gain the protection of federal law. Inventory, monitoring, mineral withdrawal, and the resolution of land ownership questions all have the potential to identify and/or protect cultural resources and provide education to bring greater public appreciation for cultural resources in the planning area. These actions are expected to reduce the level of short-term and long-term impacts on cultural resources. The proposed land acquisitions, mineral withdrawals, rights-of-way restrictions, and special area designations for scenic quality protection would reduce the area of potential surface disturbance and consequently would reduce the potential for negative impacts on cultural resources. Assignment and maintenance of VRM classes would discourage surface disturbance on some lands in the planning area and consequently reduce the level of impacts on cultural resources. Recreational visitor use is projected to be 765,000 to 905,000 visitors per year. Increased visitation would indirectly impact cultural resources through increased publicity about specific sites as well as increased visitation of unpublicized sites, resulting in potential increases in artifact collection, vandalism, and resource destruction. Compliance with NHPA in siting and development of recreation facilities on 9.2 acres would mitigate disturbance and/or destruction of cultural resources. The levels of impacts from recreational site development would be low. artifacts, and mixing of artifacts. Within the planning area, 73,820 acres would be under mineral withdrawal and as a result would not be disturbed by mineral development, leaving 49,93 1 acres subject to mineral entry. The combination of large areas with low mineral potential and reduced acreage available for mineral development because of withdrawals leads to low potential for impacts to cultural resources as a result of mineral development, except on the approximately 6,840 acres in the Copper Hill Unit with active mining claims. No American Indian religious concerns were identified during scoping meetings with these groups. It is recognized that resolution of the following is- sues could, on a case-by-case basis, cause conflicts with traditional American Indian uses: access (road closures), vegetative treatments (loss of plants for food or ritual purposes), and prehistoric and historic resources (interpretation of archaeological and other sites). It is not believed that the actions being proposed would adversely impact American Indian values. However, comments on the draft plan by Taos Pueblo address religious and cultural concerns. The primary concern is BLM’s oversight of the Pueblo’s ownership of the east side of the Rio Grande in Tract A. Taos Pueblo has designated sections of Tract A along the Rio Grande for ceremonial uses. The BLM is committed to continuing consultations and coordination with the Pueblo to ensure that their traditional and ceremonial uses of this area are protected. Also, during numerous meetings concerning mining in the Copper Hill area, Picuris Pueblo made clear concerns over their traditional and ceremonial sites in that area. BLM has supported those concerns and has made strong moves to protect these cultural resources in the plan. BLM is committed to ongoing coordination with Picuris Pueblo concerning the Copper Hill area. None of the actions in the Proposed Plan would have a negative impact on sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. \ \ Mining and mineral development would have the potential to cause cultural resource damage through accidental destruction of features, damage of 4-20 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON SCENIC QUALITY IMPACTS ON SCENIC QUALITY Emphasis would be placed on maintaining scenic quality on those lands more sensitive to adverse visual contrast by assigning the more restrictive VRM Class I (14,190 acres) and II (67,480 acres) management objectives to those lands. The remainder of the lands within the planning area would be assigned VRM Class III management objectives (42,080 acres). Scenic values would be protected through VRM Class I objectives on the wild segments of the Rio Grande and Rio Embudo. The Rio Grande Bosque segment and the 12-mile WSR-designated segment would be protected under VRM Class II objectives. The potential for actions which would impair scenic quality would be reduced through the VRM objectives set for these river segments. Acquisition of nonfederal lands where the BLM has no management authority would reduce the potential for activities that could create unacceptable modifications to landscape features, protecting scenic quality on adjacent public lands. The resolution of Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed would have no impacts on scenic quality. Riparian restoration and maintenance actions proposed on 341.5 acres would benefit the quality of scenic resources over the long term through reduction of soil and vegetation damage from recreation and vehicle use, as well as through vegetation treatments that would allow the riparian habitat to return to a more natural-appearing condition. These actions would create short-term visual impacts as a result of disturbances to soil and vegetation during the rehabilitation process. Alteration of the existing vegetative features by vegetative treatments on 13,703 acres would create adverse impacts on visual quality as a result of surface disturbance and changes in texture, color, and line. However, the level of visual impacts would be directly related to the design of the treatment project, method of treatment, and the amount of time the finished project has had to recover. Overall success of the treatment, size, location and edge effects are other variables that would influence the magnitude of impacts to scenic quality. Visual design considerations would be incorporated into these projects to help meet established VRM class objectives. Blackened areas created by prescribed burning through planned and natural ignitions to increase forage production and ponderosa pine community regeneration would create short-term impacts on scenic quality. The mosaics and rejuvenated plants resulting from the bums would appear more natural and improve scenic quality over the long term. Proposals to control vehicle access; reduce road- induced changes to the natural topography and vegetation; constmct fences; and install water pipelines, wells, and other water sources for control of livestock use would have a beneficial effect on vegetation and therefore scenic quality over the long term. Most of the proposed actions would cause localized visual impacts that would be greater initially; visual impacts would decrease over the long term as grasses, forbs, and shmbs became established. The projects would be located and constructed to minimize initial visual impacts. Under the Proposed Plan, new recreation facilities would be built, some would be upgraded, and others would be relocated. Relocation and removal of metal shelters located below the rim at Wild Rivers Recreation Area would help create a more natural- appearing landscape. New facilities would be designed to blend in with the natural character of the landscape. Recreation sites would be rehabilitated and upgraded in a way that would complement the natural environment and protect scenic resources. The new and upgraded facilities would retain continuity of site setting and appearance. Based on the assigned VRM classes in the areas where these projects are pro- posed, no long-term adverse impacts on scenic quality would be expected. Closure of additional lands to mineral disposal and mineral leasing would increase the acreage of protection of scenic quality within the planning area. The controls proposed on rights-of-way would also reduce the potential of adverse impacts on scenic quality. Closure of 76.3 miles of roads would have a beneficial impact on the scenic quality of the area. Rehabilitation of these linear visual scars would 4-21 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON RECREATION diminish the contrasts with the landform and vegetation features of the landscape. IMPACTS ON RECREATION Opportunities for use of the planning area's recreation resources would not meet projected demand for many uses (e.g., commercial boating, motorized recreation uses, and camping). The proposed restrictions would maintain a quality setting, and establish limits on use that would minimize conflicts between users, and between users and residents. Some ACEC and recreation area boundaries would be expanded and new ACECs would be designated, providing for additional protection to the landscape in which recreation use occurs. These actions would benefit nearly all recreation users. WSR Recommendations Recreational values of the 12-mile designated segment, Rio Grande Bosque segment, and Rio Embudo Box segment would receive greater protection. Designation by Congress of the Rio Grande Bosque segment as recreational and the Rio Embudo Box segment as wild would benefit recreation use by assuring that the river segments were preserved in a free-flowing state. However, the actions proposed could proceed even without designation by Congress. Measures proposed such as withdrawals from mineral entry, controls on public land uses, and ACEC designations would offer a substantial degree of protection when combined with actions already implemented. Riparian Resources Enhancement of riparian areas through elimination of certain uses, eradication of saltcedar, and the planting of cottonwoods and willows would have a positive effect on recreation opportunities by improving the recreational setting, scenic viewsheds, and watchable wildlife opportunities. Elimination of unauthorized livestock grazing in Colorado and exclusion of grazing from some riparian areas in New Mexico would reduce occasional conflicts with recreation users. Routes in riparian areas would be closed to vehicular access, making river access for fishing and boat launching more difficult for some users. This negative impact would be offset by the increased naturalness of the recreational setting. The physical setting for recreation would be improved at John Dunn Bridge by restoration of natural riparian vegetation. Proposals to acquire the private lands in the vicinity of Taos Junction Bridge and Lover's Lane would be of great benefit to recreation users by ensuring public access. Vegetation. Soils and Water Quality Vegetative treatments to increase species diversity and density in the uplands would have the potential to increase wildlife numbers, a positive effect to the recreational setting and watchable wildlife viewing opportunities. There could be some short-term negative impacts on the natural appearance of these areas, but over the long term, appearance would improve. The use of herbicides if other techniques fail to meet treatment objectives could drive some recreationists away from certain areas in the short term. Livestock Management Implementation of grazing management proposals would have a positive impact on the recreational setting by increasing ground cover, enhancing the natural setting, and increasing the chance for additional watchable wildlife opportunities by providing additional forage for wildlife. These proposals would have limited direct effects on recreation activities in the planning area. Some range improvements would be located adjacent to or across roads or trails, but gates, cattleguards or pass-throughs would be installed to accommodate recreation access. Exclusion of livestock grazing from the Wild Rivers Loop Road area would benefit recreation uses by eliminating conflicts between visitors and cattle. 4-22 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON RECREATION Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat Imposition by the Federal Aviation Administration of more restrictive advisories on aircraft use in the planning area would benefit recreationists in the long term. Those wishing to view the gorge from the air would still be able to do so, but would no longer be able to fly within the gorge or at close range to its features except in certain locations during non-nesting periods. The control on access into two caves in the planning area would have negligible impact on recreation users. Prohibiting the removal of native vegetation from riparian areas would have an overall positive impact on the recreational setting by contributing to preservation of the naturalness of the areas and affording greater watchable wildlife opportunities. Additional acquisitions of nonfederal lands, including minerals, would provide more protection to the physical setting, a benefit to all recreation uses. Overnight use and parking would continue at many of the trailheads in the Upper Gorge Unit. Recreation users would experience some minor inconveniences at other trailheads if they intend to stay longer than 30 minutes. Modifications of net wire fences to facilitate migration and movement of antelope would enhance wildlife viewing opportunities within the corridor. Reintroduction of river otter to the Upper Gorge would positively impact recreation use by providing an interesting species to observe in the wild. While otters could compete with anglers for fish, they tend to take slower fish such as carp, considered undesirable by many fishermen. Closure of a few side channels to boating in Orilla Verde Recreation Area would restrict boating opportunities only to a minor extent since most of the shoreline would still be available for exploration and landing. Prehistoric and Historic Resources In Colorado, the proposed 10 percent inventory of cultural resources could document sites of interest to visitors. Interpretive signing or programs at some of these sites would enhance recreation visits, but could result in increased vandalism at these sites. In New Mexico, additional sites would be interpreted, enhancing recreation opportunities. Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management Land acquisition, expansion of the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, mineral withdrawals, and definition of a right-of-way window near the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge would benefit recreation by protecting the natural setting from large-scale surface disturbances and improving or maintaining opportunities for access. Enlarging the Lower Gorge ACEC would provide more emphasis on maintaining the scenic quality of the area, a benefit to recreation since the setting would remain natural in character. Acquisition, particularly of undeveloped parcels, would further ensure maintenance of the natural character, and could limit the eventual need for more bridges across the Rio Grande. Landscaping the Pilar North parking area would enhance the experience of travelers along NM 68. Actions proposed to alter existing structures, particularly the rock catching fences and gas pipeline, would noticeably enhance the setting for many visitors. Designation of the proposed Copper Hill ACEC and land acquisition within the area would help pre- serve the visual quality of its watersheds, primarily benefitting anglers, hunters, and hikers. Managing areas of the Upper Gorge Unit developed for intensive recreation as VRM Class III would permit construction of well-designed structures that would blend in with the landscape. This would facilitate the intensive use that occurs along the river corridor. Applying the more restrictive VRM Class I and II management 4-23 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON RECREATION objectives to the undeveloped and less developed lands would preserve scenic values. Application of VRM Class III management objectives at developed and heavily used sites in the Lower Gorge Unit would permit construction of well-designed structures, a benefit to the majority of visitors. Application of the more restrictive VRM Class II management objectives to the less developed and undeveloped areas would help maintain the nat- ural setting enjoyed by recreationists in this unit. Recreation and Facility Development The Proposed Plan would maintain the differences in levels of management control between the Upper and Lower Gorge units. It would allow some increases in use but with some additional controls. Refer to Table 4-2 for recreation use projections. Commercial boating use would be more controlled than private boating to alleviate the user-resident conflicts identified during the 1995 scoping period for this plan. Other recreational uses would be enhanced, but not at the expense of wildlife or other natural resources that lend the area its appeal to residents and visitors. Special Recreation Use Permits Proposed guidelines on recreational permits would allow the BLM to maintain controls on commercial use. Selective controls on private uses such as rock climbing would enhance public safety and resource protection. The proposed limit on the share of business any one outfitter could have would help maintain competition among outfitters, benefitting customers in terms of price and service. Capping of commercial boating permits at current levels would make starting up a new business more difficult, since a new company would need to acquire an existing permit. It is likely that the value of these permitted businesses would increase due to the caps, as well as from the limits on use analyzed below. TABLE 4-2 RECREATION USE PROJECTIONS (thousands of visitors) Type of Use Use Levels 1993-1995 Proposed Plan (next 15 years) Boating 50-60 85-95 Fishing 15-25 20-30 Camping 15-25 25-35 Trails 20-30 35-45 Casual Use*’ 400-500 600-700 Overall Use 490-625 765-905 Notes; The Proposed Plan would impose restrictions which would limit the growth of recreation use to varying degrees. '’’’Casual Use” includes visits to the popular Rio Grande Gorge Bridge on U.S. Highway 64. Boating All Segments Projections for boating indicate that the Proposed Plan’s guidelines could accommodate 70,000 to 80,000 boaters per year in the Lower gorge, compared to 40,000 in 1995, a high water year. Boating use in the Upper Gorge would continue to be tightly controlled, ensuring visitors, whether boaters, anglers, or hikers, an opportunity for solitude. Projected use in the Upper Gorge would be 14,000 to 16,000 boaters. Private demand would be met over the long term, and outfitted boater opportunities would result in more efficient use of allocations of launch numbers or size of groups. The Proposed Plan changed the focus from seasonal caps to a combination of daily thresholds and seasonal variations in use. The adaptive management strategies outlined in Chapter 2 would allow quicker response to emerging issues. Outfitted boater needs would be met by accommodating some growth through more organized use of key access points, greater allowance for use during the time periods when river flows and public demand are most 4-24 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON RECREATION conducive to selling a trip, and increased flexibility for developing launch schedules for the Racecourse, the most marketable segment of the Rio Grande. Private boaters would continue to be less regulated than commercial users because of their lower numbers, but thresholds would be established to trigger additional controls if the need should arise. The proposal to provide an annual review of boating use will allow for prompt resolution of new issues, or changes in management controls that have proven less effective than desired. Other actions already initiated, such as the quiet zones through the Village of Pilar and the Bosque segment and proposed improvements in signing and facility design, would also moderate the impacts of increased use. Closure of all river segments to motorized craft would not affect any current use, but would eliminate residents’ concerns about future motorized activity and consequent noise and loss of privacy. Registration of trips along with a toll-free telephone line would provide the BLM with more accurate information on use, and would provide boaters with more information about social and safety concerns. Boaters on overnight trips would be required to carry out human waste, but this practice is already in place on many rivers, and would not impose an unreasonable burden on users. River access would be improved by acquisition of private lands or legal access for boat launching at Lobatos Bridge, Taos Junction Bridge, and Lover’s Lane. This would allow BLM to designate parking areas in locations where the least harm would result to riparian and other resources, a positive impact on the overall recreational experience. Fewer sites would be available for boater access than at present in Orilla Verde Recreation Area, benefitting other shoreline users by limiting competition but potentially leading to overcrowding at the Taos Junction River Access and the Lone Juniper Recreation Site during high flows. Some outfitters would have to make significant changes in their operating plans or use other segments. Closure of Orilla Verde Campground to launching would eliminate most boating activity at this popular site in the morning, since takeouts would occur for the most part after noon. Canoe and kayak river access would be improved by allowing for their access at the Cable Site north of Orilla Verde gauging station. Permanent restroom and changing facilities at John Dunn Bridge, County Line Recreation Site, and Lover’s Lane would improve health and safety at sites used extensively by the public. BLM maintenance costs would be reduced, and more desirable facilities would be available to the public. A slightly larger area for boat launching and other shoreline uses would be available to alleviate the weekend congestion at John Dunn Bridge. Facility improvements at Orilla Verde Recreation Area river access sites and Quartzite and County Line recreation sites would enhance boating use by reducing congestion and improving site conditions by improving traffic flow. Permanent restroom and changing facilities at John Dunn Bridge, County Line Recreations Site, and Lover’s Lane would improve health and safety at sites used extensively by the public. BLM maintenance costs would be reduced, and more desirable facilities would be available to the public. A slightly larger area for boat launching and other shoreline uses would be available to alleviate the weekend congestion at John Dunn Bridge. Facility improvements at Orilla Verde Recreation Area river access sites, and at Quartzite and County Line Recreation Sites would enhance boating use by reducing congestion and improving conditions at these sites by improving traffic flow. Upper Gorge Controls on segments of the Upper Gorge from Lobatos Bridge to John Dunn Bridge should accommodate most commercial and private boater demand while maintaining the opportunity for a float trip with minimal interaction with other users. Boaters who can only do trips on weekends will likely be the most affected by the limits on launches. The closure of the Ute Mountain segments during April and May will continue to eliminate most boaters from this segment during low water years, but the increase in weekly launch opportunities from present controls would improve the public’s opportunity to use this segment when flows are suitable. While boater use would be enhanced, opportunities for wildlife viewing, the experience of solitude, and using the river for other purposes would be slightly diminished. Since most boater use on the 4-25 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON RECREATION Razorblades and Upper Box segments occurs during the day, the proposal to strictly limit overnight use should not create an undue impact. Group size limits proposed on the La Junta segments (16 passengers/guides per group maximum) is one more than proposed for Alternative D, but less than currently allowed for outfitted groups. Since the historical average group size is well below 16, impacts to outfitters would be minimal. The restriction on floating past John Dunn Bridge before noon would limit flexibility of outfitters somewhat, but would reduce on-river congestion in the Taos Box. Use limits for the Taos Box would provide a balance between commercial and private use, and weekend versus weekday use. Increased commercial use proposed for weekdays would balance the loss of the super launches. A reduction in commercial weekend use would then allow the segment to accommodate more private boaters on weekends, mirroring current patterns of use since private boaters very seldom use the box on weekdays. Projected demand for commercial trips would still be accommodated for the next 5 to 10 years. Other users would notice very little change from the current situation. The Proposed Plan would allow for large outfitted groups of up to 40 on weekdays in the Taos Box, but only if passenger slots are available through the pool system. This allowance would replace the “super launches” in the Taos Box which have been allowed for some outfitters on a year-to-year basis, and give additional outfitters the opportunity to provide for this size of group, making it easier for such groups to book trips on the Taos Box. Lower Gorge The Lower Gorge would be more tightly controlled than at present to moderate the interaction between boaters and other shoreline users and residents. This would be accomplished by reducing the number of allowed launch/takeout sites, redesigning recreation sites to separate users, and implementing controls, primarily in outfitted boater use. These actions would address concerns of the residents in Pilar and Rinconada-Embudo and enhance the recreation experience of non-boaters. Proposed actions would encourage boaters to use the Racecourse segment, where user conflicts are the fewest of any in the Lower Gorge. To address concerns on highway congestion/safety, the proposal to improve highway access and temporary parking through a cooperative effort with the Highway Department should provide some relief within the next five years, and improve access opportunities for all users. Limits on boating use within Orilla Verde Recreation Area would accommodate anticipated demand over the life of the plan, while on Racecourse segment they would meet anticipated public demand only for the next five years. Controls on outfitted use would likely meet demand during average or low flow years for the next 1 0 to 15 years. Private boating use would likely not exceed the thresholds referred to in the Proposed Plan during the next 1 5 years. The limits on commercial boating would provide some degree of assurance to residents and other shoreline users that the river would be free of conflicts with boaters most of the year, particularly the significant cutbacks in boating activity after July 15 and before May 15. Most visitors and residents in the Village of Pilar would experience an overall decrease in impacts from boating activity from the 1990s levels since these controls would shift boating use downstream. The policy on floats past the Pilar Bridge at flows above 4,000 cubic feet per second has been modified from the Draft Plan to allow for the possibility that portage rights might be acquired, or that the Bridge could be replaced during the life of the plan. Limiting trips through Pilar in the early morning, late afternoons and weekends, would further reduce commercial passenger access to the river, a limitation which would provide the most benefit to residents. The limits would greatly reduce the outfitters’ capabilities to provide full-day trips at varying flows on this segment, and would likely increase commercial use in the Bosque segments between the County Line Recreation Site and Lover’s Lane, but only for the two months from May 15 through July 15. Due to the small size of most private groups, their interaction with other shoreline users would be minimal except for weekends during the most popular period of use (May to July). Although concerns were expressed that launch restrictions on the Racecourse would not allow sufficient time to “warm up” for Class III rapids, it is 4-26 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences IMPACTS ON RECREATION certainly within industry standards to encounter Class III rapids within the first mile of a trip. The reduction in commercial weekend group size would compensate for the projected higher private boater use. This would allow for high levels of commercial use on weekdays on the Racecourse segment, but would do more to accommodate private boaters and other river users who primarily make use of this segment on weekends. The proposed launch of groups of more than 40 passengers would accommodate large group would negatively impact the experience of other river users in the late afternoon. Launch calendars would be adjusted to mitigate this concern. The private boater limits would respond to the differences in use levels between weekends and weekdays, and would meet projected demand during the life of the plan. Commercial passenger demand would not be met on weekends, but proposed limits would come closer to doing so on weekdays. A commercial use season running from May 1 through Labor Day for trips through Pilar should have minimal impacts on commercial outfitters or their customers, but would respond to the requests of some residents for more restrictions on this segment. The cap on use at flows over 4,000 cubic feet per second and restrictions on use of islands would eliminate one of the major causes of boater trespass in Pilar. Access to the Racecourse segment’s locational boating sites (sites where kayakers test skills or play) and favored fishing spots would be safer and easier once proposed access trails were built or repaired. The proposed trails would limit erosion caused by users picking different routes down to the river. Continued use of three boater access sites on the Bosque segment would provide flexibility in planning a float trip into this section, and would particularly benefit commercial outfitters by enhancing their ability to provide half-day trips at high flows. The Embudo South River Access site downstream from Embudo Station would be available if an agreement could not be reached with the Embudo Station landowner for boater access. The site is located on public land downstream from Embudo Station and is used for fishing and picnicking. Acquisition of an easement for public access to Embudo Station for boating in the Bosque segment would accommodate the projected limited private boater demand while eliminating boater- landowner conflicts. Casual Uses Rock climbing would be allowed in areas suitable for this activity, but permanent bolts would require advance approval from the BLM, ensuring that the bolted route was safe, and minimizing the installation of permanent hardware in scenic areas. If restrictions on aircraft overflights in the vicinity of the Rio Grande Gorge are followed, it would positively affect recreation by reducing noise pollution and resultant disturbance to watchable wildlife within the canyon walls. Restrictions would also be applied to hot air ballooning, adversely impacting visitors who desire to float along or below the rim of the gorge. However, other visitors would be able to appreciate the gorge free of such unnatural objects. Other casual uses, including activities such as sightseeing, birding, and rock hounding, are not likely to be affected. Issuing commercial fishing permits on a case-by-case basis would accommodate projected demand in the planning area. Fishing use would continue to be unrestricted in the Upper Gorge Unit, with the exception of group size and trip limits on commercial fishing guide services. These limits would meet demand for such services over the long term, while minimizing displacement of private fishermen. The Rio Grande Corridor attracts some guided fishing, but mountain streams and lakes attract most of this business. Camping/Picnicking Camping in the Upper Gorge Unit outside of the Wild Rivers Recreation Area would be regulated in very minor ways by requiring firepans along the river, allowing use of dead and down wood only, and 4-27 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON RECREATION requiring river parties to haul out human waste. These actions would maintain the pristine environment of the Upper Gorge, a benefit to the majority of users who desire such a setting. Adding restrooms and up to 15 campsites suitable for recreational vehicle use in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area would accommodate expected increases in demand during the life of the plan. Expanding the group site at El Aguaje Campground would meet a long-standing need. Some of the existing shelters along the river would be retained, maintaining a facility enjoyed by many shoreline users. Eliminating the sites visible from popular rim viewpoints would enhance the natural setting for many visitors. Improved facilities and services in Orilla Verde Recreation Area would accommodate expected use over the life of the plan. The facilities would meet public desire for more recreational vehicle sites and increased services such as showers and hookups. Addition of sites would increase congestion in developed areas and reduce separation between sites. Landscaping with shrubs and trees would screen sites from each other. Users at the Arroyo Hondo and Lone Juniper recreation sites would be inconve- nienced by the lack of drinking water. The proposed camping area in the uplands above Taos Junction Bridge would accommodate overnight use in an area that has been popular for boaters on multiple-day trips, if the private property is acquired. This proposed camping area would accommodate users who would be displaced by the closure of riparian areas to camping. Allowing continued use of two primitive campsites on the west side of the river in Orilla Verde Recreation Area would not displace any additional riparian vegetation, but would allow for primitive camping opportunity. Picnic facilities would be provided at the southern end of the County Line Recreation Site in the Lower Gorge Unit, accommodating public demand, and creating a desirable setting for other day uses away from the boat launch/takeout area upstream. Undeveloped camping would be allowed throughout the Copper Hill Unit, except within 100 feet of rivers or streams to maintain the riparian environment which is the main attraction for many users. Trails/Access Development of the West Rim Trail from the High Bridge to Cerro Chiflo would help eliminate trespass, and provide recreation opportunities for the growing population of the region. Closure of this trail between John Dunn Bridge and Cerro Chiflo during the big game calving and fawning period (May through July) would reduce opportunities for trail use. A loop trail using both the BLM and Taos Pueblo lands would expand opportunities for mountain biking, long distance running, hiking, and equestrian use. More people would be in backcountry areas currently receiving only occasional use, eliminating some opportunities for solitude. The proposed Pescado Trail would complete a loop trail circling Guadalupe Mountain, Questa, the Red River Hatchery, and Forest Service roads and trails off NM 522. The trail would increase recreation opportunities in the vicinity of the Red River, but is not anticipated to create any additional impacts, since the area is already easily accessible and used frequently by the public. Improving the trail from the fish hatchery along the Red River to the Rio Grande would accommodate existing use, and would allow anglers to more safely and easily access the river. Signing on other trails in the Upper Gorge Unit would benefit anglers and others who want to access the river and would likely lead to increased use be- cause of improved information. Construction of additional trails in the Lower Gorge Unit would better accommodate use that is already occurring, such as from parking areas along NM 68 to the Rio Grande, and along the NM 570 corridor through Orilla Verde Recreation Area. These trails would increase public safety by keeping people away from the roads, and would provide more secure footing in steep terrain, as well as enhance opportunities for access. 4-28 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences IMPACTS ON RECREATION Barrier-free access points at several locations along the Lower Gorge would benefit visitors who have difficulty walking or who require some form of assistance. The west-side trail (adjacent to the river) between Taos Junction and Petaca Arroyo would not be built. The shoreline would still be accessible but other users would likely appreciate the continued natural appearance of an undeveloped west shoreline. Construction of an underpass on NM 68 would enable provide safe access from the Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center to the Quartzite Trail, provide an opportunity for visitors to leave their vehicles in a more secure parking area, and relieve traffic congestion at the Quartzite Recreation Site. Opportunities for Commercial and Personal Uses Withdrawing additional public lands from public land and mining law disposal would assure their retention in federal ownership, and their long-term availability for use by the public. Implementation of the Proposed Plan would ensure that activities such as mining exploration would not take place in areas of high scenic quality. Designating additional areas where rights-of- way would be excluded would eliminate the potential for future developments that could degrade the high quality setting of these areas for recreation use. The transfer of a site for a landfill to Taos County that is within a mile of the Rio Grande WSR would impact scenic quality as viewed from the west side of the gorge. Users of the proposed mountain bike trail, and those camping above John Dunn Bridge, would be affected by impairment of the physical setting by this landfill. Elimination of mineral material disposal within the entire Upper Gorge Unit would positively affect the recreational setting. Point source pollution within the corridor resulting from such actions would be eliminated as would visual scarring. The proposed material sale site in Arroyo Hondo would affect scenic quality of the area, a minor impact on a limited number of users. Continued use of the pits in the Copper Hill Unit which have already been altered by material removal would have no further effect on recreation users. No areas in the Lower Gorge Unit, and fewer in the Copper Hill Unit would be open to leasing, eliminating the concern that areas of high value to recreation would be altered by exploration or development of leasable minerals. Public Access Designation of 57.2 miles of existing routes as open and 34.0 miles as closed in the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit would have mixed impacts to recreation. Less dense motorized access to areas within the Rio Grande Corridor would protect the recreational setting and watchable wildlife opportunities, but would somewhat limit motorized opportunities. The 23.5 miles of routes that would be designated as open to vehicle use in the Lower Gorge Unit would meet the access needs of the majority of public land users. The recreation users most affected by the numerous route closures would be those wishing to explore the public lands by vehicle and the challenge of driving on primitive roads and trails. Since the routes would still be open to non-motorized uses, access would be maintained. The off-highway vehicle designations, when implemented, would help maintain or improve the current high quality setting for a wide variety of recreation uses. About a third of the existing roads and trails (about 15 miles) in the Copper Hill Unit would be designated open to vehicle use. The opportunity to explore the unit by vehicle would be reduced, but most of the closed routes would still be available for non-motorized access. The designations would help maintain the physical setting. 4-29 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON PUBLIC ACCESS Interpretation and Public Education Increases in interpretation and public education would benefit most recreation users of the corridor. Recreational users along the Rio Grande Corridor who do not speak English would benefit from signing and written information in Spanish. By setting standards for signing, a consistent message and appearance to the public would be portrayed. Expansion of partnerships would allow the BLM to use untapped resources to provide useful information to users of recreation resources. Interpretive signing at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge would provide information at an area of high interest to the public. The New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department would continue to manage the site; other developments and services would remain at their current level. Increasing the number of sites in the Upper Gorge Unit where interpretive signing is provided, particularly at La Junta Point, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, and Manby Springs, and redirecting BLM staff efforts towards visitor contacts would provide a deeper understanding of human interaction with the environment and help limit impacts to resources. User conflicts would decrease due to the emphasis on explaining the rationale for rules of behavior. Such information would help visitors adjust their behavior to minimize conflicts with other users. As in the Upper Gorge Unit, increased emphasis in the Lower Gorge Unit on public information and education through visitor contacts and interpretive signing would help keep user conflicts under control, and would provide the basis for a more interesting experience for those attending programs or taking self-guided tours. IMPACTS ON MINERALS The resolution of Issue 8 - Public Access and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed would have no impacts on mineral development within the planning area. Mineral withdrawals would cover 73,820 acres (60 percent of the planning area) for the protection of WSR values, vegetation, wildlife and fisheries habitat, scenic resources, prehistoric and historic resources, and recreational resources. Withdrawals from mineral entry foreclose future opportunities for mineral development, although administrative withdrawals must be reviewed every 20 years to determine the need for continuing the withdrawals. Interest in locatable and leasable mineral development has been low in much of the planning area. This lack of interest is believed to indicate low mineral potential. However, in the Copper Hill Unit 6,840 acres are held under mining claims and recently there have been discussions about developing a copper mine. This interest is believed to indicate high mineral potential in the area. The impacts on mineral resource use from the withdrawals result from economic opportunities foregone (employment and income). Although mineral potential has not been fiilly assessed, the BLM has assumed that the low level of interest in most areas suggests low potential for the withdrawals to cause measurable impacts on locatable or leasable mineral development. A Plan of Operations and environmental analysis would be required for mineral operations exceeding five acres and for operations of any size within an ACEC prior to any approval of mining. By law, mining would be approved if it could be accomplished without undue and unnecessary degradation. Under the Proposed Plan, mineral materials would be available at six sites, and disposal would be discretionary on 58,337 acres. Supplies of sand, gravel, basalt block, and carving stone from these pits would meet expected demand for mineral materials that are affordable and convenient to local users. IMPACTS ON PUBLIC ACCESS The resolution of Issue 1 - WSR Recommendations, Issue 4 - Prehistoric and Historic Resources, Issue 5 - Scenic Quality and Visual Resource Management, Issue 6 - Recreation and Facility Development, Issue 7 - Opportunities for 4-30 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences IMPACTS ON SOCIOECONOMIC CONDITIONS Commercial and Personal Uses, and Issue 9 - Interpretation and Public Education as proposed would have no impacts on access and transportation. Under the Proposed Plan, vehicle use would be limited to designated roads and trails. Accessibility to public lands by off-highway vehicles would be reduced, as would the amount of land available for users to participate in motorized recreation activities. To help achieve the desired future conditions, the number of routes of travel remaining open for public, administrative, and authorized vehicle use would be reduced. Of the 171 .8 miles of inventoried roads and 4-wheel drive vehicle trails under the BLM’s jurisdiction within the planning area but outside the North Unit Transportation Plan boundary, 76.3 miles or 44 percent would be closed and 95.5 miles or 56 percent would remain open for recreation, access, and transportation purposes. Designation of the 95.5 miles of roads and trails along with the 3 1 .6 miles of previously designated routes in the North Unit Transportation Plan area as open would result in a total of 127.1 miles of open routes within the planning area. In the Colorado portion of the Upper Gorge Unit, 57.2 miles of designated routes of travel, as shown on Map 9, would be available for vehicle use and 34.0 miles would be closed. In the New Mexico portion of the Upper Gorge Unit, vehicle use already has been restricted to designated vehicle routes by the North Unit Transportation Plan. In the Lower Gorge Unit, 23.5 miles of existing routes of travel would remain open as designated routes for motorized vehicle use and 10.1 miles would be closed. In the Copper Hill Unit, 14.8 miles of existing roads would remain open as designated routes of travel, and 32.2 miles of existing roads would be closed. The reduction in roads would decrease maintenance costs and optimize the transportation system by eliminating duplicate roads, dead-end roads, roads that have created trespass problems, and roads that are difficult to maintain. Closure of existing roads and the elimination of off-road travel in the wild river area of the Rio Embudo Box and Agua Caliente Canyon would result in loss of access to 1,780 acres of public land by motor vehicles. However, rugged terrain and the lack of travel routes already limit vehicle use in this area. Closure and restriction of vehicle use within approximately 4.4 acres of riparian area from the La Sauses Cemetery to Lobatos Bridge, and in the John Dunn Bridge, Orilla Verde, Lover's Lane, and Taos Junction areas would eliminate vehicle access previously enjoyed by users of these areas, a minor inconvenience to recreational users. Vehicle use currently taking place on the private parcel near Taos Junction Bridge would be limited if the parcel were acquired, aiding in the restoration of 0.12 acre of riparian habitat, but placing limits on vehicle use where it had been previously uncontrolled. Vehicles also would be restricted from parking within 300 yards of many trailheads to prevent disrupting wildlife migrating up and down trails along the gorge, creating an inconvenience to users who had previously enjoyed more convenient access to trailheads and the river. IMPACTS ON SOCIOECONOMIC CONDITIONS In this CRMP/environmental impact statement (EIS), the four New Mexico counties (Taos, Santa Fe, Colfax, and Rio Arriba) form the economic study area (ESA), the area where most of the economic impacts would occur. The two Colorado counties (Conejos and Costilla) would not experience many changes in resource use that would affect their economies. For instance, the changes in grazing management would affect less than 1 percent of the two Colorado counties' employment. The U.S. Forest Service's IMPLAN (Impact Analysis For Planning), a regional input-output model, was used to estimate the economic impacts in the ESA. The study. River Recreation and the Economy of Northern New Mexico (Colby et al. 1994), was used for data on the percentage of non- resident users who represent "new" money into the ESA (85 percent) and on visitor expenditures for rafting. For this analysis, moderately significant economic impacts are defined as a change in 4-31 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON SOCIAL VALUES employment of more than 10 percent from the current situation. One limitation to this analysis is that the impacts to employment are for the ESA as a whole, and are not allocated to each county. The resource activities in the ESA for 1 994 affected less than 1 percent of the ESA's total employment. Table 4-3 illustrates the contribution of resource- related activities to the economy of the ESA. Table 4-4 illustrates the change in employment that would result from the Proposed Plan. Based on the above criteria, implementation of the Proposed Plan would cause no moderately significant or greater impacts. TABLE 4-3 CONTRIBUTION OF RESOURCE-RELATED ACTIVITIES TO THE ECONOMY OF THE ESA Resource Activity Total Jobs Generated Percent of Total ESA Employment Boating 209 .20 Other recreation 89 .09 Livestock grazing 127 .12 BLM expenditures 37 .04 Totals 462 .45 TABLE 4-4 CHANGE IN ESA EMPLOYMENT AS THE RESULT OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROPOSED PLAN Existing Proposed Management Plan Jobs generated 797 766 Change from Existing Management — -31 Percent Change from Existing Management Total Employment -3.9 Cumulative Impact Change from 1994 Baseline 335 304 Table 4-5 presents the economic impacts to Taos County, under the assumption that all impacts predicted by the IMPLAN model would occur in that county. However, some outfitters operate out of Santa Fe and Rio Arriba counties, so their expenditures would affect those counties. Even if all economic impacts were concentrated in Taos County, they would not be significant. TABLE 4-5 PROJECTED ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF PROPOSED PLAN IMPLEMENTATION ON TAOS COUNTY Management Plan Percent of Taos Employment Generated by Plan ^ Change in Percent from Existing Management Total Employment Existing Management 7.5 — Proposed Plan 7.2 .3 4-32 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES IMPACTS ON SOCIAL VALUES Assuming all employment impacts resulting from implementation of the Proposed Plan occurred in Taos County, the 766 jobs would be approximately 3.9 percent less than might be expected if current management continued. This does not meet the criteria for moderately significant or greater impacts. Table 4-6 shows the projected impacts of boating expenditures, in terms of output, earnings, and employment. IMPACTS ON SOCIAL VALUES The social impacts created by the resource decisions and actions proposed in this plan would occur primarily in Taos and Rio Arriba counties. New Mexico, but also to a lesser degree in Conejos and Costilla counties, Colorado. The planning area has a multi-ethnic population. Each ethnic group retains some of its own cultural values, though the groups have intermingled for many years. Considerable diversity regarding cultural values and practices is found within each ethnic group. This diversity adds to the uniqueness and attractiveness of the area, but also adds to the challenge of balancing the area's resource use. As required by Executive Order 12898, the BLM has reviewed the Department of Interior's Environmental Justice Policy as it applies to this EIS. The social impacts of implementing any of the four alternatives would occur to private landowners in Taos, Rio Arriba, Conejos, and Costilla counties whose property adjoins public lands, as well as to persons who use public land resources, particularly for recreation. These impacts are not expected to occur disproportionately to low-income groups, minorities, or Indian tribes. TABLE 4-6 IMPACTS OF BOATING EXPENDITURES IN THE ECONOMIC STUDY AREA Tourist-Related Industry Change in Final Demand Impacts Output* Earnings* Employment*’ 1994 Figures — Transportation 262,855 515,301 158,239 10 Wholesale Trade 4,598 9,016 3,232 0 Retail Trade 36,401 87,111 30,584 2 Hotel (Lodging and Amusements) 2,719,741 6,024,498 2,318,307 159 Eating and Drinking Establishments 536,438 1,181,076 341,014 37 . Totals 3.560.033 7 817.002 2.851.376 208 Proposed Plan — Transportation 617,297 1,210,148 371,612 24 Wholesale Trade 106,796 209,406 75,067 4 Retail Trade 85,406 204,386 71,759 6 Hotel (Lodging and Amusements) 6,388,200 14,150,502 5,445,301 373 Eating and Drinking Establishments 1,260,000 2,774,142 800,982 86 Totals 8,457,699 18,548,584 6,764,721 493 Notes: “Output multiplier is 2 and earnings multiplier is 1 for all entries, which are expressed in dollars. ‘’Employment multipliers are as follows: Transportation-39, Wholesale Trade-36, Retail Trade-64, Hotel-58, Eating and Drinking Establishments-69. Employment is expressed in number of jobs. 4-33 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES CUMULATIVE IMPACTS There would be varying degrees of social conflict that would primarily affect areas in which recreational use of public land resources has been in conflict with private landowners' customary use of their own lands and sometimes adjoining public lands. The BLM is increasing its efforts to help recreation users understand the need to consider others' desires in the area and is making changes in developed facilities and interpretation to separate some uses, while making others more compatible. The sights, sounds, and interactions associated with diverse visitor uses of the corridor would increase in frequency and intensity, causing landowners to feel that they have less control over their lives and privacy. Actions proposed would result in some protection of landowner privacy, reduction of crowding at river access points, and reduced conflicts between users. Opportunities for vegetation and mineral material removal for personal uses would be reduced from current levels. Boating restrictions would limit opportunities for people who desire a commercially provided recreation experience or who desire to establish a tourism-related business. Some communities or groups of users would be more affected by planned actions than others. Residents of Hondo Mesa (the mesa south of Arroyo Hondo) and Pilar are most affected by recreation- based traffic; other communities are affected to a lesser extent, or indirectly. Some efforts to resolve these impacts, such as enforcement of speed limits and safety-related road improvements, are outside the scope of this plan. Recreation-based traffic would be expected to increase. A public education campaign would lead to greater compliance with rules and promote behavior that would reduce conflicts (obeying speed limits, awareness of private/public land boundaries to avoid trespass and awareness of effects of noise on residents and other users). CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Within the planning area, there would be 64 miles of wild and scenic designated river, 34.6 miles of river recommended for designation, and 10.1 miles determined eligible. Outside the planning area but within the area administered by San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office, there are no foreseeable recommendations for designations. The potential for additional designations in the adjacent Carson and Rio Grande National Forests exists; however, no estimates of river mileage are available. Riparian resources would be enhanced through the actions proposed in this plan on 341.5 acres. Through actions taken by BLM previously (primarily exclusion of grazing) within the area administered under the San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office, 2,903 acres have been enhanced and are in or approaching fully functional condition. An additional 25 1 acres has been identified for treatment under current management plans. Some enhancement work has been done within the area by private landowners and other agencies, but quantification is not available. The cumulative riparian enhancement throughout the field/resource areas exceeds 3,495 acres. Two and one-half acres of potential riparian resources would be dedicated to other resources through the actions proposed in this plan. Through actions taken by BLM previously within the area administered under the San Luis Resource Area and the Taos Field Office, 0.5 acre has been used to benefit other resources, such as camping and boat launching, and are no longer functional as riparian resources. Cumulatively, 3 acres of riparian resource would be converted for other uses. Nearly 38 percent of the planning area would exhibit improved plant diversity, health, and vigor over the long term from vegetative treatment (13,700 acres), road closures (35 acres), and grazing exclusions (32,900 acres). Cumulatively, improved plant diversity, health, and vigor would occur on over 72,000 acres within the area administered under the San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office. Improvements to wildlife habitat and diversity would occur on the corresponding acreages. No figures are available for improvements on the adjacent Carson or Rio Grande National Forests. Impacts on wildlife are directly and indirectly related to a variety of factors which influence the species or the habitats they rely on for their survival. 4-34 CHAPTER 4 environmental consequences CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The implementation of actions in the Proposed Plan would have positive influences on wildlife habitat, overall. Individual site specific actions may, however, result in the displacement of individual species, which would not have overall effects on their extant populations. Other actions which occur on lands which are not under BLM’s management authority have the opportunity to affect some species to a greater degree when these actions are undertaken without regard to wildlife. Other agencies, such as the Carson National Forest, adjacent to the planning area, are also proposing actions and activities which, as a whole, would be considered beneficial to wildlife. As a result of mandates by the BLM and other agencies relative to wildlife protection and enhancement, and because of the combined land holdings in the greater area, it is expected that the cumulative impacts on wildlife, when balanced against the holdings in other than federal ownership, are expected to be positive through the life of this plan. Grazing use within the planning area has been reduced in recent years to accommodate recreational use and riparian resource protection. Since 1985 approximately 24,400 acres have been removed from grazing use, not including 32,900 acres proposed in this plan. Positive water quality impacts are expected, though they are not quantified, as a result of additional and improved riparian resource protection on more than 3,154 acres and more than 72,000 acres where plant diversity, health, and vigor would improve ground cover and reduce soil erosion. Impacts on cultural resources would be negligible as a result of BLM actions because of compliance with the policy to avoid and/or mitigate impacts to this resource. Some cumulative impacts could occur as a result of actions on non-BLM lands within the area administered under the San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office. Scenic quality would improve or be maintained through more restrictive management as more acres are assigned to higher visual resource management classes. VRM classes would increase on nearly a third of the acres (40,668 acres) within the planning area. Cumulatively approximately 47,670 acres within the area administered under the San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office would be managed for improved levels of scenic quality. Boating limits would reduce displacement of anglers and other day users, and would limit crowding on the river, traffic congestion, noise, and trespassing. Since BLM lands provide the primary floatboating opportunities in the area, opportunities for commercial outfitters to serve the public and increase revenues within Taos, Rio Arriba, and Santa Fe counties would be reduced. The quality of the experience would be maintained at current levels. Under the Proposed Plan the potential exists to develop an additional 51 developed campsites (individual family units) in Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde recreation areas, adding to the 55 existing developed sites at these recreation areas. In the remainder of the area administered by San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office, there are 43 developed recreation campsites and 15 campsites under construction. Cumulatively there would be a potential of 164 campsites within the area administered by San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office. The addition of 51 sites in the Proposed Plan should meet the expected increases in public demand, however, demand in Rio Grande and Carson National Forests is not expected to be met. Over the long term, the developed BLM recreation sites within the planning area would provide some form of universal access. Cumulatively within the area administered by San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office over 90 percent of the developed recreation sites would provide some form of universal access over the long term. There would be approximately 34 miles of new nonmotorized trails constructed under the Proposed Plan, adding to the existing 89 miles in the planning area. Cumulatively there would be over 125 miles of nonmotorized trails within the area administered by San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office. Closure of 76.3 miles of roads would foreclose new opportunities for motorized recreation within the 4-35 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES CUMULATIVE IMPACTS planning area; however, opportunities are very limited due to landscape characteristics, and demand is not expected to increase in this area. Although there are no new motorized trails proposed within the planning area, opportunities exist on approximately 150 miles of roads and trails just to the south in the Arroyo del Palacio area. Cumulatively there would be over 330 miles of roads closed within the area administered by San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office. Restrictions on locatable, saleable and leasable minerals would have negligible impacts on mineral development, and therefore cumulative impacts would be low. Long-term surface disturbance would be created by construction of roads, trails, campgrounds, and other permanent facility development as proposed in this plan, when added to other development within the planning area and within the area administered by San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office the total acres impacted would be approximately 20, less than 0.002 percent of the area administered by the San Luis Resource Area and Taos Field Office. Quality of life within the planning area, Taos County, and nearby areas of Rio Arriba County are being affected. The longtime residents are aware of the increased use of the area by nonresidents to a greater degree than short-term residents. These new residents have come to the area for the values the long-term residents have appreciated but are losing. The longtime residents have expressed a greater sense of loss. 4-36 Chapter 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION INTRODUCTION This chapter describes the consultation and coordination efforts the BLM has carried out during preparation of this Proposed Coordinated Resource Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement (CRMP/EIS). Work on this draft document began in 1994, when the BLM undertook a complex process of data gathering and other preparatory activities such as resource inventory, public participation, interagency coordination, and review of previous planning documents. Comments and responses on the Draft Plan have been included in this final document. Consultation and coordination have occurred in a variety of ways throughout eight steps of the BLM planning process (refer to Figure 1-1 in Chapter 1 to review these steps). Formal and informal efforts have been made to involve the public; interest groups; other federal agencies; and tribal, state, and local governments. This public involvement is required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. (Documentation of these efforts is on file at the Taos Field Office.) FORMAL CONSULTATION Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 is required before the BLM undertakes an action that may affect and is likely to adversely affect any federal special-status wildlife or plant species or its designated habitat. Informal consultation was initiated on the Rio Grande CRMP/ EIS on March 22, 1995, for special-status species. At this time the southwestern willow flycatcher has been determined to be the only species that is likely to be adversely affected by actions in this plan. Consultation has been completed, and measures necessary to protect special status-species have been incorporated. Future consultations on this plan will be initiated as new species and their habitats are designated by the FWS. (Letters are on file at the Taos Field Office.) The BLM has contacted the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and Colorado Division of Wildlife about existing wildlife populations, and state-listed threatened and endangered animal and plant species. The Proposed Plan is consistent with legislation protecting these species. Coordination and consultation with these state agencies will continue. CONSISTENCY WITH OTHER PLANS BLM planning regulations require that Resource Management Plans (RMPs) be ". . . consistent with officially approved or adopted resource-related plans, and the policies and procedures contained therein, of other Federal agencies, American Indian tribes, and State and local governments, so long as the guidance and management plans are also consistent with the purposes, policies and programs of Federal laws and regulations applicable to public lands. . ." (43 CFR 1610.3-2). To ensure such consistency, the BLM has sent letters to all federal, state, and tribal governments and local agencies listed in Table 5-1. No inconsistencies are known to exist between the plan and officially approved and adopted resource plans of these other entities. The BLM will continue coordination and consultation with federal, state, and local agencies and tribal governments. 5-1 CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION CONSISTENCY WITH OTHER PLANS TABLE 5-1 PARTIAL LIST OF DOCUMENT RECIPIENTS Federal Government Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service U.S. Forest Service Department of the Army Corps of Engineers Department of Energy Department of the Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs Eight Northern Pueblos Bureau of Mines Bureau of Reclamation Environmental Policy and Compliance Minerals Management Service National Park Service Fish & Wildlife Service Geological Survey Department of Transportation Environmental Protection Agency, Regional Project Manager Federal Aviation Administration Los Alamos National Lab U.S. Air Force U.S. Congressional Delegation State Governments Air National Guard (New Mexico) Colorado Division of Water Resources Interstate Stream Engineer Colorado Division of Wildlife Colorado State Historic Preservation Officer Museum of New Mexico Laboratory of Anthropology New Mexico and Colorado State Governors' Offices New Mexico Department of Game and Fish New Mexico Department of Parks and Recreation New Mexico Department of Tourism New Mexico Environment Department New Mexico Soil and Water Conservation Division New Mexico State Energy and Resources Department New Mexico State Engineer Interstate Stream Commission New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department New Mexico State Historic Preservation Officer New Mexico State Land Commissioner New Mexico State Police New Mexico State University Northern New Mexico Community College State Congressional Delegations University of New Mexico Tribal Governments Eight Northern Pueblo Indian Council Jicarilla Apache Tribe Nambe Pueblo Picuris Pueblo Pojoaque Pueblo San Juan Pueblo San Felipe Pueblo Santa Clara Pueblo Taos Pueblo Tesuque Pueblo Local Governments Coalition of AZ/NM Counties County Commissioners, Managers and Planning Offices Colfax County, New Mexico Conejos County, Colorado Costilla County, Colorado Rio Arriba County, New Mexico Santa Fe County, New Mexico Taos County, New Mexico Neighborhood Associations Hondo Mesa Pilar 5-2 CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION CONSISTENCY WITH OTHER PLANS TABLE 5-1 PARTIAL LIST OF DOCUMENT RECIPIENTS Neighborhood Associations (continued) Arroyo Hondo Carson Cerro City of Santa Fe, New Mexico Town of Red River, New Mexico Town of Taos, New Mexico Village of Cimarron, New Mexico Village of Eagle Nest, New Mexico Village of Questa, New Mexico Water Conservancy Districts Conejos Rio Grande Middle Rio Grande Special Interest Groups Acequia Associations Adobe Whitewater Club America Outdoors American Rivers Amigos Bravos Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico Colorado Environmental Coalition Colorado Historical Society Colorado Whitewater Association Committee to Save the Rio Hondo El Bosque Preservation Action Committee Forest Guardians Grazing Permittees Independent Petroleum Association Land Grant Association Las Trampas Land Grant Association Long Island Off-Road Club, Inc. Lower Gorge Property Owners Mineral Policy Institute MolyCorp Mine National Audubon Society National Organization for River Sports Natural Resources Defense Council New Mexico Archaeological Society New Mexico Cattle Growers Association New Mexico Environmental Law Center New Mexico 4- Wheelers New Mexico Natural History Institute New Mexico River Outfitters Association New Mexico Wildlife Federation Northern New Mexico Stockmans Association People for the West Pilar Action Committee Public Lands Action Network Rails to Trails Conservancy Recreation Permittees Rio Embudo/Pueblo Watershed Coalition Rio Grande Alliance, TNRCC Rio Grande Restoration Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Forest Guardians Sandia Jeep Club San Luis Valley Audubon Society San Luis Valley Ecosystem Council San Luis Valley Trout Unlimited Sierra Club Southern Rockies Ecosystem Project Southwest Center for Biological Diversity Southwest Organizing Project Taos Archaeological Society Taos Chamber of Commerce Taos County Historical Society Taos County Search «fe Rescue Taos Land Trust Taos Outdoor Recreation Association The Conservation Fund The Nature Conservancy The Spiritual Life Institute Trout Unlimited Tuff Riders Access Committee Western Environmental Law Center Wilderness Society 5-3 CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Public participation in this planning effort is a continual process that occurs throughout the development of the plan and beyond. In addition to formal public participation, informal contacts occur frequently with public land users and interested persons through meetings, field trips, telephone calls, and letters. All applicable public participation is documented, analyzed and kept on file at the Taos Field Office. The BLM published a notice in the Federal Register on November 14, 1994 (Vol. 59, No. 218, pp. 56528-9), announcing the formal start of this planning process. A second Federal Register notice was published on February 20, 1996 (Vol. 61, No. 34, pp. 6383-4), advising the public that changes in designated Areas of Critical Environmental Concern and Special Management Areas also would be addressed in this planning effort. The agency held several meetings to determine the scope of the Rio Grande CRMP/EIS, develop planning issues and review planning criteria, as well as two public workshops (in April 1995) to develop consensus on a desired future vision for the Rio Grande Corridor (refer to Table 5-2 for a list of meetings). Before these meetings, the BLM sent a letter to numerous individuals and groups, inviting them to participate by attending the meetings and/or providing written comments. Summaries of the scoping meetings and workshop were issued on April 14 and December 16, 1994 (for a follow-up meeting in Dixon), and on March 13, April 10 and April 25, 1995. The BLM published a Rio Grande Planning Update which was issued in October 1995, followed by a wild and scenic river informational mailing to Lower Gorge property owners on February 12, 1996. Two citizens' groups submitted proposals for analysis by the BLM; the agency has considered these proposals and has incorporated elements of them into the plan. The Colorado Environmental Coalition submitted a Citizens' Management Alternative and the Rio Grande Restoration group developed a Proposed Streamflow Enhancement Amendment. A Notice of Availability of the Draft CRMP/EIS was published in the Federal Register on June 27, 1997 (Vol. 62, No. 124, pp. 34771-2), identifying the end of the comment period as October 8, 1997. The Notice was amended in the Federal Register on July 29, 1997 (Vol. 62, No. 145, pp. 40540), extending the comment period to October 20, 1997. In response to numerous requests from the public, the comment period was extended to December 20, 1997 in the Federal Register on October 2, 1997 (Vol. 62, No. 1 9 1 , pp. 5 1 682), allowing for a total of 1 77 days to review the document. Oral hearings were conducted at the following locations to gather public input for the Draft CRMP/EIS: Alamosa, Colorado - August 19, 1997 Taos, New Mexico - August 20, 1997 Santa Fe, New Mexico - August 21, 1997 Dixon, New Mexico - September 3, 1997 After completing the Rio Grande Plan, the BLM will report the progress made in implementing the plan, along with projects or activity plans anticipated in the upcoming year, in the annual Taos RMP Update and San Luis RMP Update. The BLM hopes that this will enable the public to be involved in the specific land-management actions implemented in accordance with this plan. 5-4 CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TABLE 5-2 PUBLIC MEETINGS ■* Meeting/G rou p(s) 1 Location Date WSR Study Group “ Dixon, New Mexico April 14, 1994 WSR Study Group Dixon, New Mexico June 16, 1994 Government Agencies (New Mexico) Santa Fe, New Mexico December 5, 1994 Santa Fe Interest Groups Santa Fe, New Mexico December 5, 1994 Santa Fe Community Santa Fe, New Mexico December 5, 1994 San Juan Pueblo San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico December 6, 1994 Rio Arriba County Espafiola, New Mexico December 6, 1994 Dixon Community Dixon, New Mexico December 6, 1994 Taos Environmental Groups Taos, New Mexico December 7, 1994 Taos Town & County Gov'ts Taos, New Mexico December 7, 1994 Taos User Groups Taos, New Mexico December 7, 1994 Taos Community Taos, New Mexico December 7, 1994 Taos Pueblo Taos Pueblo, New Mexico December 8, 1994 Questa Community Questa, New Mexico December 8, 1 994 Alamosa Interest Groups Alamosa, Colorado January 17, 1995 Alamosa Water Groups Alamosa, Colorado January 17, 1995 Alamosa Community Alamosa, Colorado January 17, 1995 Antonito Community Antonito, Colorado January 18, 1995 Dixon Community and WSR Study Group Dixon, New Mexico January 19. 1995 Picuris Pueblo Peflasco, New Mexico January 24, 1995 Carson National Forest Taos, New Mexico January 27, 1995 "Desired Future" Workshop Taos, New Mexico April 1, 1995 "Desired Future" Workshop Alcalde, New Mexico April 22, 1995 Note: “ WSR - Wild and Scenic River 5-5 CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION PREPARERS OF THE PLAN PREPARERS OF THE PLAN This document was prepared by an interdisciplinary team of resource specialists from BLM New Mexico's Albuquerque District (Taos Field Office), Colorado’s Cafion City District (San Luis Resource Area), and the BLM New Mexico and Colorado State Offices. Table 5-3 lists the names and qualifications of the planning team members. 5-6 I »T) CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION PREPARERS OF THE PLAN oo I in CHAPTER 5 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION I f Z < J Oh UJ X H Uh 0 00 01 UJ < Oh X 0^ Oh f 0 T3 CJ l-H "o u 1 o u .iT oo Uh oo X Q o TD C3 Ui "o U CO Oh z o' o ’>< u (U z o Q U c (U e 0) 00 P3 C CO S T3 C c« 3 03 l-i 3 CQ 4> O ’E CO - mtional \w^s. [iabitat Wild- life tural Water Onality Riparian Rio Grande Upper Box (1968 designation) 1 1 2 1 3 2 3 4 Rio Grande Taos Box (1968 designation) 1 1 1 1 3 1 3 4 Rio Grande 12-mile Segment (1994 designation) 2 2 1 1 2 1 3 1 Rio Grande Bosque 2 4 3 1 3 2 3 2 Rio Embudo Box 1 2 1 2 1 3 3 3 Arroyo Hondo 1 2 2 4 2 4 2 2 Rito Cieneguilla 4 4 4 4 3 3 4 4 Piedra Lumbre Canyon 2 2 3 4 3 2 4 3 Tierra Amarilla Canyon 2 2 2 4 3 2 2 1 Agua Caliente Canyon 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 Canada de Ojo Sarco 3 2 3 4 3 3 4 3 Rio de las Trampas 1 2 4 4 1 3 4 4 Notes: No outstandingly remarkable values were found for Rito Cieneguilla, Piedra Lumbre Canyon, Canada de Piedra Lumbre, Arroyo del Plomo, Canada Comanche, Canada del Agua, or Canada de las Marias. Key to Ratings: 1 - Exemplary, one of the better examples of that type of resource at a national level. 2 - Unique, a resource or combination of resources that is one of a kind at a regional level. 3 - High quality at a regional and/or local level. 4 - A common resource at the regional and/or local level. B-3 APPENDIX B RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY SUMMARY 1 TABLE B-2 ' OF RIVER SEGMENT ELIGIBILITY AND ENTATIVE CLASSIFICATIONS '.w '.yy.: yy • • - • River Segment BLM Miles Comments " ' • •. Rio Grande Bosque 7.6 Found eligible for cultural, fish habitat, riparian and scenic values; tentative classification of Recreational. Rio Embudo Box 5 Found eligible for geologic, recreational, fish habitat, wildlife and scenic values; tentative classification of Wild. Arroyo Hondo 3 Found 1.2 miles free flowing and eligible for unique geologic value; tentative classification of Scenic. Rito Cieneguilla 4.2 Not eligible — ^no outstandingly remarkable values found. Piedra Lumbre Canyon 3.5 Not eligible — no outstandingly remarkable values found. Tierra Amarilla Canyon 2.3 Found eligible for geologic, recreational, cultural, water quality, riparian and scenic values; tentative classification of Scenic. Agua Caliente Canyon 2.9 Found eligible for geologic value; tentative classifications of Scenic (1 mile) and Wild (1.9 miles). Canada de Ojo Sarco 2.4 Found eligible for unique geologic values; tentative classification of Scenic. Rio de las Trampas 1.3 Found eligible for geologic, wildlife and scenic values; tentative classification of Scenic. Canada de Piedra Lumbre 5.5 Not ehgible — no outstandingly remarkable values found; dry wash. Arroyo del Plomo 3.1 Not eligible — no outstandingly remarkable values found; dry wash. Canada Comanche 5.2 Not eligible — no outstandingly remarkable values found; dry wash. Canada del Agua 1.4 Not eligible — ^no outstandingly remarkable values found; dry wash. Canada de las Marias 0.7 Not eligible — no outstandingly remarkable values found; dry wash. B-4 APPENDIX B RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING ARI-A WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY In considering the uniqueness of the Bosque segment, one might envision the transition from the designated wild section of the Rio Grande that runs from tlie Colorado border south through the Rio Grande Gorge. This segment, which ends at Taos Junction Bridge at tlie north end of the BLM’s Orilla Verde Recreation Area, is pristine, rugged, rocky, narrow and steep. South to Pilar, a mostly residential community, the gorge tlien opens up to high rocky hills with a green belt of riparian vegetation on both sides of the river. From Pilar, the river canyon takes on a rocky character and continues south to the Rio Arriba-Taos County Line where the riparian vegetation zone is limited. The section of the river from the north end of the Orilla Verde Recreation Area to a mile below the County Line Recreation Site has been designated as scenic. Recreation facilities are interspersed along the two paved state highways that run the length of this river section. South of the County Line Recreation Site, large cottonwoods and w ide stretches of riparian cover begin to appear in what is known as the "Bosque" section. The floodplain broadens to support orchard and farming activities associated with small rural communities. Human modification to the environment is noticeable from the river. The scenic resources of the Bosque section are contrastingly different from other sections of river in the region because of the pastoral setting. The scenic and cultural values of the Rio Grande Bosque segment are considered unique in the region, with no other river segment containing the free- flowing character in a pastoral setting. The opportunities for game fishing also set the Bosque segment apart from other river sections in the region (refer to Table B-1). It is determined that the Rio Grande Bosque segment meets the criteria of being free flowing and possessing outstandingly remarkable cultural, fish habitat, riparian and scenic values. It thus meets the minimum eligibility requirements to be considered for addition to the national system. Rio Embudo Box The Rio Embudo Box is free flowing; no structures, diversions, or other developments were found to exist. This section of river also possesses a number of clnnacteristics that are unique and exemplary in the region. The Taos RMP describes the Embudo Canyon ACEC as "an area where scenic values are exceptional . . . offers outstanding scenic and recreational opportunities ... is important to wildlife . . . contains riparian habitat and a perennial stream . . . [an] ecosystem of high value due to its vegetative variety and year-round flowing water." The Rio Embudo Box is a deep and narrow, incised canyon with rugged walls of sandstone, basalt, and granite that have been sculpted and shaped by natural forces to form an array of colors and form. The aquatic habitat contains brown and rainbow trout and Rio Grande .sucker. Big-game species found on the rim and in the canyon include elk, deer, mountain lion, bear, and wild turkey. The vegetation represented is a complex type, lying between the Great Basin shrublands and the Great Basin shortgrass region. This segment is considered unique in the region because of its pristine variety' of geologic and vegetative features, and associated scenic values (refer to Table B-1). It is determined that the Rio Embudo Box meets the criteria of being free flowing and possessing out- standingly remarkable geologic, recreational, fish habitat, wildlife and scenic values. It thus meets the minimum eligibility requirements to be considered for addition to the national system. Arroyo Hondo The Arroyo Hondo is a free-flowing stream for about 1.2 miles above a diversion, a 10-inch steel pipe located approximately 3 miles upstream from the Arroyo Hondo's confluence with the Rio Grande. This diversion effectively dewaters the final 3 miles of this small stream during the .summer months. The Arroyo Hondo is a steep-walled canyon with a primitive road paralleling the stream for most of its length. The v-shaped canyon is cut first into basalt, then metamorphic rock as it ascends to the ea.st. The B-5 APPENDIX B RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING ARI:A WILD AND SCENIC RIVI:RS STUDY aquatic habitat is limited because the stream is diverted in summer months, and is degraded by erosion from the road nearby. Riparian vegetation is limited but healthy. Vegetation in general is healthy and varies from pinon-juniper-oak to pine-spruce-tir- aspen. Big game species found in the area include elk, deer, mountain lion and wild turkey. This area is also a migratory corridor for elk and mule deer. The area is internationally known for the occurrence ol the mineral staurolite as crucil'omi twimied crystals, or "fair>' crosses." It is determined that tlie Arroyo Hondo above the diversion meets the criteria of being free flowing and possessing outstandingly remarkable geologic, scenic, recreational, wildlife, water quality and riparian values. It thus meets the minimum eligibility requirements to be considered for addition to the national system. Rito Cieneguilla The Rito Cieneguilla consists of two segments. The segment on BLM land in Sections 25 and 26 (T. 24 N., R. 1 1 E.) consists of an intermittent, dry streambed with no impoundments. During periods of high precipitation, the river serves as a channel for runoff, as evidenced by the wide river bed and large granite river boulders and stones. Historic photos indicate that the canyon was incised or cut because of a change in the vegetation at the head of the canyon and the historic road that runs near the river. This road served as the historic road to Taos before New Mexico Highway 68 (NM 68) was constructed. The vegetation consists of pinon and juniper w oodlands and the terrain is gentle rolling hills with scattered granite outcrops. Evidence of elk and mule deer exists. The second segment parallels NM 68 in Sections 27 and 33 (T. 24 N., R. 1 1 E.). This segment contains human-made structures, including two bridges and three roads that cross the river. These access routes lead to residences on the eastern side of the river channel. A small power line that crosses the river provides electricity to two homes, and pipeline following the channel empties into a pond constructed next to the riverbed. NM 68 contains a large pullout with a solid waste transfer station and restrooms. The portion of the river that enters private land in Section 27 contains several springs. The springs and channels are lined with watercress, cottonwoods and willow trees. The area with springs historically was called “Cieneguilla” or marsh. Apache Indians built wattle-and-daub (stick and mud) encampments in the area. Continuing southwest along the highway, the river water continues to be supplied from numerous springs. It appears that a portion of the spring water is diverted at a constructed pond with an irrigation gate. It is determined that the Rito Cieneguilla does not meet the criteria of being free flowing and possessing one or more outstandingly remarkable values. It thus does not meet the minimum requirements to be considered eligible for consideration as a Wild and Scenic River. Piedra Lumbre Canyon Piedra Lumbre Canyon contains an arroyo that has evidence of intermittent water flows. No structures, diversions or other developments exist. This arroyo does not have characteristics that are unique or exemplar)'. Piedra Lumbre Canyon is a deep and narrow box canyon with steep walls of exposed bedrock. No aquatic species are evident in the dry arroyo. Big game species in the canyon include deer and elk. Vegetation in the area is common to this part of New Mexico — pinon-juniper stands interspersed with sagebrush and grasses. It is determined that Piedra Lumbre Canyon does not meet the criterion of possessing one or more outstandingly remarkable values. It thus does not meet the minimum requirements to be considered eligible for consideration as a Wild and Scenic River. B-6 appendix b RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY Tierra Amarilla Canyon Tierra Amarilla Canyon is free flowing with no structures, diversions or other developments existing along the drainage. At the time of the field inspection water was flowing in the drainage. The stream originates on U.S. Forest Service lands approximately 2 miles above the BLM boundary. This is a deep and narrow box canyon with steep walls of exposed bedrock. Aquatic species are not evident even though water exists in the drainage. Big game species in the canyon include deer and elk. Vegetation ranges from pinon-juniper woodlands to ponderosa pine and aspen forests as elevation is gained. Willows and thick vegetation are abundant along the river banks. Tierra Amarilla Canyon is considered to be a unique river segment containing a pristine variety of box canyon geologic and riparian vegetative features associated with scenic values (refer to Table B-1). It is determined that Tierra Amarilla Canyon meets the criteria of being free flowing and possessing outstandingly remarkable geologic, recreational, cultural, water quality, riparian and scenic values. It thus meets the minimum eligibility requirements to be considered for addition to the national system. Agua Caliente Canyon Agua Caliente Canyon is free flowing as no structures, diversions or other developments exist. The stream begins on U.S. Forest Service lands approximately .2 miles above the BLM boundary. The 2.5 miles of stream located on BLM and state lands possess a number of characteristics that are unique to the region. The stream is situated off NM 68 about a half mile northeast of the Village of Pilar. The river flows northwest and enters private land approximately .2 miles southeast of NM 68. The stream flows into the dry Rito Cieneguilla just before the river travels under the highway. The Rito Cieneguilla then crosses about a half mile of private land before it enters the Rio Grande. The lower portion of Agua Caliente Canyon has been used for irrigation since the eighteenth century. The majority of this stream segment lies within the Agua Caliente ACEC, which was established because of the stream's potential for cutthroat trout reintroduction. Agua Caliente Canyon is a perennial stream containing waterfalls and pools. A jeep trail begins on the private land off NM 68 and parallels the stream for a mile, where it terminates at an open meadow. No indication of livestock grazing is evident. The stream traverses cottonwoods and pinon- juniper woodlands, and as the elevation increases from 6,200 feet to 6,600 feet, the river enters ponderosa pine and aspen forests. Willows and thick vegetation are abundant along the streambed. Evidence exists of a small fire that scorched and destroyed several ponderosa pines, along with axe cutting of a small aspen stand. Elk and deer are found in the canyon. Historically, beavers thrived and built lodges that trapped sediment; however, the beaver population has disappeared. Currently, the sediment is being deposited into an irrigation reservoir located on private land near the confluence of the Rito Cieneguilla and the Rio Grande. Historically the stream contained Rio Grande cutthroat trout, but some time after 1958 these fish disappeared. Rainbow trout are currently found in Agua Caliente Canyon, and it is still potential habitat for the native cutthroat trout. Along tlie entire stream is riparian habitat that consists of cottonwoods and willows. As noted above for the Rito Cieneguilla, the area around Pilar was historically called “Cieneguilla" or marsh. Apache Indians built wattle-and-daub (stick and mud) encampments here. Agua Caliente Canyon is considered an excellent example of a stream segment containing several waterfalls and pools. The streambed cuts through a deep granite canyon and winds to the south before flowing northwest to the Rito Cieneguilla, which flows into the Rio Grande. The broken undulating outcrops in Section 3 (T. 23 N., R. 1 1 E.) rise to about 400 feet in elevation with outstanding geologic resources (refer to Table B-1). B-7 APPENDIX B RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING ARIiA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY It is detcniiiiicd that Agua Caliente Canyon meets the eriteria of being free flowing and possessmg a variety of outstandingly rennu-kable values. It thus meets the mmimum eligibility requirements to be eonsidered for addition to the national system. Canada de Ojo Sarco Canada de Ojo Sarco is free flowing; no structures, diversions, or other developments exist within the study segment. This 2-miIe-Iong stream section (Section 6, T. 22 N., R. 1 1 E.; Section I, T. 22 N., R. 10 E; Section 36, T. 23 N., R. 10 E.) is located just south of the Warm Springs Special Management Area and the Embudo Canyon ACEC, north of County Road (CR) 75. The confluence of the Ojo Sarco and the Rio Embudo is on private land in Section 36 (T. 23 N., R. 10 E.), about a quarter mile north of the BLM boundary. The Ojo Sarco is a perennial stream that contains a waterfall flanked with granite walls. The vegetation represented is a complex type, lying between the Great Basin shrublands and Great Basin shortgrass region. Cottonwoods line portions of the streambed. Many small mammals and species of birds are associated with the riparian zone. Big game species found on the rim along the stream include elk, deer, and wild turkey. The Canada de Ojo Sarco originates on U.S. Forest Service lands approximately 13 miles above the BLM boundary. Small communities upstream from the study area use the water for irrigation, during which the stream can be entirely diverted before it reaches the Rio Embudo. The Picuris Pueblo Indians were probably early visitors to this area. The 2-mile-long segment of Canada de Ojo Sarco possesses a number of characteristics unique to the region (refer to Table B-1). It is considered the best example of a stream segment containing a 50-foot- long waterfall flowing over granite blocks, a north- facing granite cliff, a small granite canyon near the confluence with Embudo Creek and arroyo-style bank cutting. It is determined that the Canada de Ojo Sarco meets the criteria ol being free flowing and possessing outstandingly remarkable geologic values. It thus meets the minimum eligibility requirements to be considered for addition to the national system. Rio de las Trampas The Rio de las Trampas is a stream that passes through three small communities where water is removed for irrigation. In dry years the stream may be completely diverted for this purpose. The Trampas has its source in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on U.S. Forest Service lands, flows through several parcels of private land, then onto BLM lands where it enters a granite canyon in the final mile above its confluence with the Rio Embudo (the “Lower Trampas”). The aquatic habitat is at risk because the entire streamflow could be diverted for irrigation. The Rio de las Trampas flows in a steep-walled granite canyon. A primitive road is nearby in one location. Big game species found in the area include elk, deer, mountain lion, and wild turkey. Vegetation is healthy and is of the pinon-juniper-ponderosa pine type. The final mile of the Rio de las Trampas is a good example of an upland stream containing outstanding geologic features and associated scenic values (refer to Table B-1). It is determined that the Rio de las Trampas meets the criteria of being free flowing and possessing outstandingly remarkable geologic, wildlife and scenic values. It thus meets the mmimum eligibility requirements to be eonsidered for addition to the national system. Canada de Piedra Lumbre, Arroyo del Plomo, Canada Comanche, Canada del Agua and Canada de las Marias These waterways are dry washes that contam water only during wet weather, including floods. They contain no resource values that are unique in tlie region. It is detennined that these waterways do not meet the eriteria of being free flowing and possessing one or more outstandingly remarkable values. Thus, B-8 appendix b RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY tliey do not meet tlie minimum eligibility requirements to be considered for addition to the national system. PHASE TWO: THE CLASSIFICATION ANALYSIS The classification analysis determines whether a river should be tentatively classified as recreational, scenic, or wild. This determination is based on the level of development present in the river corridor as it exists at the time of the study. The determining factors include waterway development, shoreline modification and vehicular access. The three classification categories for eligible rivers are defined as follows. Wild River Areas Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments and generally inaccessible except by trail, with watersheds or shorelines essentially primitive and waters unpolluted. These represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic River Areas Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments with shorelines or watersheds still largely primitive and shorelines largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational River Areas Those rivers or sections of rivers that are readily accessible by road or railroad, that may have some development along their shorelines, and that may have undergone some impoundment or diversion in the past. A wild river would be an undeveloped river with very limited access. A scenic classification would be applied to a river or river segment that is more developed than a wild river and less developed than a recreational river. A recreational classification would be appropriate in developed areas, such as a river rumiing parallel to roads or raihoads with adjacent lands that have agricultural, forestry, conunercial or other developments, provided that the waterway remains generally natural and riverine in appearance. Attributes of each category are listed in Table B-3. It is a common misunderstanding that rivers designated as scenic are managed primarily for scenery, and that recreational rivers are managed to promote recreation use. These labels can be misleading — regardless of the classification, management is designed to maintain or enhance the river-related values and character of the river. Rio Grande Bosque The Rio Grande Bosque segment best matches the classification category of recreational, compared to the classification of other designated wild and scenic river segments in the region. The river corridor contains an adjacent highway, highway turnoffs, residential housing, bridges across the river, and pipelines, similar to the scenic section of the Lower Gorge immediately to the north. However, the character of the developments differs in the Bosque because shoreline modification is intensified and more visible from the river and the highway, wateiway development includes diversions but not modifications to natural water flow, increased levels of vehicular access exist, and commercial businesses occur in the river corridor. In addition, numerous utility lines cross the river, household and commercial trash is present, mechanized noise levels are somewhat increased, and human-made structures and modifications to the natural enviromnent are more visible. The BLM recommends a tentative classification of recreational for the Rio Grande Bosque. Rio Embudo Box The Rio Embudo Box best matches the classification category of wild, compared to tlie classifications of other designated wild and scenic rivers in the region. The river is free of impoundments and is currently inaccessible by B-9 APPENDIX B RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RlVIiRS STUDY vehicle. Hie lew vehicular trails that do appear on the rim within a quarter mile of the river become single- track hikmg trails that allow access into the box canyon and the river. No other human developments exist within a quarter mile of the river. The BLM recommends a tentative classification of wild for the Rio Embudo Box. Arroyo Hondo The Arroyo Hondo best matches the classification category of scenic, compared to the classifications of other designated wild and scenic rivers in the region. The river is predominantly free of diversions and accessible by vehicle. No other human developments exist within a quarter mile of the river. The BLM recommends a tentative classification of scenic for the Arroyo Hondo. Tierra Amarilla Canyon Tierra Amarilla Canyon best matches the classification category of scenic, compared to the classifications of other designated wild and scenic rivers in the region. The river is free of impoundments and contains an existing trail network that has not been used for a number of years. No human development occurs along the drainage other than an unauthorized cabin that is uninhabitable. The BLM tentatively recommends a classification of scenic for Tierra Amarilla Canyon. Agua Caliente Canyon Agua Caliente Canyon best matches the classification categories of scenic and wild, compared to the classifications of other designated wild and scenic rivers in the region. The stream is free of impoundments. From U.S. Highw ay 68, the two-track road parallels the stream enters private land and continues onto BLM land for approximately a mile southeast, ending at a riverside trailhead in an open meadow. This segment of the river contains arroyo-type banks and two small wooden logs serving as foot bridges across the river. The BLM tentatively recommends a classification of scenic for this portion of the Agua Caliente Canyon. Beyond the meadow, a small game/foot trail continues up the stream but disappears as the canyon narrows. This portion is considered wild. The setting is ponderosa pine and aspen forests. Small dry tributaries enter north and south of the stream. The stream ravine takes on a rocky character and contains a green belt of riparian vegetation. Numerous small pools and ripples provide a desirable habitat for fish. The BLM recommends a tentative classification of wild for the portion of Agua Caliente Canyon that flows through Sections 2 (state) and 3 (BLM; T. 23 N., R. 1 1 E.) to the riverside trailhead in Section 3. Canada de Ojo Sarco Canada de Ojo Sarco best matches the classification category of scenic, compared to the designations of other designated wild and scenic rivers in the region. CR 75 parallels the Ojo Sarco on the south, although it crosses the river in two places. A few vehicular trails/roads leave CR 75 within a quarter mile of the river. These trails/roads allow access to the river. The Ojo Sarco flows into Embudo Creek near the Village of Canoncito. The 2-mile-long study segment of the stream crosses two sections of BLM land, one section of state land, and near the confluence with Embudo Creek enters private land. No other developments exist within a quarter mile of the stream. Household and commercial trash is present along the bank and in the streambed, and noise levels are somewhat increased due to the proximity of CR 75. The BLM recommends a tentative classification of scenic for the 2-mile-long segment above the confluence with Embudo Creek. B-IO appeni^ix b RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY TABLE B-3 ATTRIBUTES OF THE THREE RIVER CLASSIFICATIONS FOR INCLUSION IN THE NATIONAL WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS SYSTEM ■ ' Wild' T: Scenic Recreational Free flowing. Low dams, diversion works, or other minor structures that do not cause flooding of the natural riverbank may not bar consideration. Future construction is restricted. Free flowing. Low dams, diversion works, or other minor structures that do not cause flooding of the natural riverbank may not bar consideration. Future construction is restricted. May have undergone some impoundment or diversion in the past. Water should not have characteristics of an impoundment for any significant distance. Future construction is restricted. Generally inaccessible by road. One or two inconspicuous roads to the area may be permissible. Accessible by roads that may occasionally bridge the river area. Short stretches of inconspicuous and well- screened roads or railroads paralleling the river area may be permitted. Readily accessible with likelihood of paralleling roads or raihoads along riverbanks and bridge crossings. Shoreline is essentially primitive. One or two inconspicuous dwellings and land devoted to production of hay may be permitted. Watershed is natural in appearance. Shoreline is largely primitive. Small communities are limited to short reaches of the total area. Agricultural practices that do not adversely affect the river area may be permitted. Shoreline may be extensively developed. Water quahty meets minimum criteria for primary contact recreation, except where such criteria would be exceeded by natural background conditions and esthetics. Capable of supporting propagation of aquatic life normally adapted to the habitat of the stream. Water quality should meet minimum criteria for desired types of recreation, except where such criteria would be exceeded by natural background conditions and esthetics. Capable of supporting propagation of aquatic life normally adapted to the habitat of the stream, or capable and being restored to that quality. Water quality should meet minimum criteria for desired types of recreation, except where such criteria would be exceeded by natural background conditions and esthetics. Capable of supporting propagation of aquatic life normally adapted to the habitat of the stream, or capable and being restored to that quality. B-Il APPENDIX B RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING ARIiA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY Rio de las Trampas The final mile of the Rio de las Trampas best matches the classification category of scenic, compared to other designated wild and scenic rivers in the region. The river is tree of diversions in this section and accessible by vehicle in one area. An old, shallow (10-foot-deep) mine shaft lies within a quarter mile of the river. The BLM recommends a tentative classification of scenic for the Rio de las Trampas. PHASE THREE: THE SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT The third component of a WSR study is the suitability assessment. It is designed to identify the impacts of designation and manageability of eligible rivers. The portion of the suitability assessment contained in this report identifies issues to be considered in the environmental consequences section (Chapter 4). In addition, the willingness of county, state and local landowners to participate in river corridor management is considered. These aspects of the suitability assessment are also considered in Chapter 4. Criteria for Determining Suitability In considering suitability, the criteria specified in Section 4a of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (listed below) provide a basis for asses.sment. • Characteristics that do or do not make the river corridor a worthy addition to the WSR system • Current status of land ownership and uses in the area • Reasonably foreseeable potential uses of the land and water that would be enhanced, foreclosed or curtailed if the river were designated • Public, state, local or other interests in designation or nondesignation of the river • Estimated costs of acquiring necessary lands and interests in lands, and of administering the river if designated • Ability of the agency to manage the river and protect identified values • Historical or existing rights that would be adversely affected by designation • Other issues and concerns identified in the land- use planning process Rio Grande Bosque River Values/Characteristics The Rio Grande Bosque segment provides an unusual fishing opportunity and outstanding scenic values. Fishing use is year-round; game fish include rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, catfish, and small-mouth bass. The scenic and cultural values of the Rio Grande Bosque are considered unique in the region, with no other river segment containing its free-flowing character in a pastoral setting. The opportunities for game fishing also set the Bosque apart from other river sections in the region. Land Ownership and Uses Land ownership is approximately 50 percent private and 50 percent BLM (public). Private land is associated with the communities of Rinconada, La Bolsa, La Junta, La Cienega, and Embudo. The predominant use of private land w ithin the river corridor is residential and agricultural, including orchards. Major uses of the public lands within the corridor are river access, fishing, river boating, sightseeing and general dispersed recreation activities. Potential Uses of Land and Water Resources Hydroelectric power facilities would not be allowed and designation could preclude new diversions or structures. Other potential surt'ace- disturbing uses of the public land and water resources in the river corridor would be constrained by designation to protect scenic qualiW. Designation could impact private development indirectly by influencing local planning ;md zoning. B-12 apphndix b RIO GRANDE CORR1130R PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY Interest in Designation During public scoping, the local communities mill river conservation organizations expressed posith e interest in designating the Bosque segment as an addition to tlie Rio Grande WSR. Estimated Costs of Acquisition and Administration Tlie mitial cost associated with designation would be limited to mapping and printing documentation of the wild and scenic river process. Future costs would depend on the level of threats to river-related values and are foreseen to result from the need for regulatory and educational signing, improved access, road closures/barriers, patrol and enl'orcement. biological and social inventories, and use permitting systems. In addition, approximately 1,165 acres of private land could be acquired if the owners were willing to sell. Ability to Manage/Protect River Values Recognition as a wild and scenic river would aid the BLM in managing and protecting the river- related values should development or other threats to the recognized values be proposed in the future. Adverse Effects on Historical/Existing Rights No adverse effects on historical and valid existing rights are expected as the result of designation of the Rio Grande Bosque as wild and scenic. Other Issues and Concerns The intent of designation would be to preserve the exi.sting river-related values. This would benefit traditional uses of the Rio Grande Bosque such as fi.shing and boating in a pastoral setting. Rio Embudo Box River Values/Characteristics The scenic values in the area of the Rio Embudo Box are exceptional. The area offers outstanding scenic and recreational opportunities. It is important to wildlife, contains riparian habitat and a perennial stream, and the ecosystem is of high value because of its vegetative variety and year-round flowing water. The stream lies in a deep and narrow box canyon with rugged walls of sandstone, basalt, and granite that were sculpted and shaped by natural forces to form an array of colors and forms. The aquatic habitat contains brown and rainbow trout and Rio Grande sucker. Big game species found on the rim and in the canyon include elk, deer, mountain lion, bear, and wild turkey. The vegetation represented is complex, lying between the Great Basin shrublands and Great Basin shortgrass types. Land Ownership and Uses Land ownership is estimated to be 64 percent BLM and 36 percent state. No developments exist within the river corridor, and land use is considered to be in a primitive natural state. Hiking and fishing are the known predominant uses. Potential Uses of Land and Water Resources Designation would preclude hydroelectric power facilities, new diversions or structures, mining, and mineral leasing. Other potential .surface-disturbing uses of the river corridor's land and water resources would be precluded by designation, where needed to protect scenic quality. Interest in Designation During scoping, local communities showed a positive interest in designating the Rio Embudo Box as a WSR. B-13 APPENDIX B RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING ARIiA WILD AND SCENIC RIVliRS STUDY Estimated Costs of Acquisition and Administration Initial costs associated with designation would be limited to mapping and printing documentation ol the wild and scenic river process. Future costs may result from regulatory and educational signing as well as the acquisition of about 550 acres of state land. Ability to Manage/Protect the River Values Recognition of the Rio Embudo Box as a WSR would aid the BLM in managing and protecting the river-related values should development or other threats be proposed in the future. Adverse Effects on Historical/Existing Rights No known or foreseen adverse effects on historical and valid existing rights would occur as the result of designation. Other Issues and Concerns The intent of designation would be to preserve the existing river-related values. This would benefit traditional uses of the Rio Embudo Box such as fishing, backcountry uses that rely on a natural setting, and the local cultural activities that depend on them. SUITABILITY SUMMARY Arroyo Hondo« Tierra Amarilla Canyon. Agua Caliente Canyon. Canada de Ojo Sarco, and the Rio de las Trampas These five streams originate on U.S. Forest Service lands. The BLM will complete suitability assessments for these stream segments within the next few years in coordination with the Carson National Forest. Rio Grande Bosque The foreseen impacts of designating this segment as a WSR depend on one’s point of view. Preserving the existing and sensitive natural and cultural values would require a cautious approach to any proposed development or use that w ould negatively affect the fabric of the adjacent community and/or ecosy.stem. On the other hand, limiting high-impact uses and developments would negatively impact users who seek developments and uses that are not compatible with preserving existing values. For those uses that are compatible with preserving existing values, the designation would be beneficial. An increase in river-related uses such as boating and fishing could be expected, as trends show overall river use has been and will continue to increase, both regionally and nationally. Designation in and of itself is not to cause a significant increase in river use, because better known, accessible opportunities also exist upstream. The degree of protection provided for under the leg- isolation would call greater attention to management of the river, as the result of the Bosque segment being acknowledged as nationally significant. Overall, designation is well suited to the existing river-related uses and cultural values of the local communities. These communities are definitely interested in participating in river corridor management. Rio Embudo Box The foreseen impact of designating this segment as a WSR is minimal. The ruggedness of this landscape would naturally dissuade most people from considering any developments not compatible with the wild nature of the environment, because such ventures would be costly. B-14 appendix b RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STUDY Designation is not expected to cause mi increase in river-related visitor use. The rugged countryside and character of waterllovv in this segment of the ri\ er channel are natural deterrents to most existmg uses. The degree of protection provided for under the legislation would enhance preservation of the existing resource values and compatible uses. Overall, the designation is w'ell suited to the existing natural and cultural enviromnent, and complimentary to public comments received over the last few years. Suitability Findings The above analyses of river suitability criteria are based on current knowledge of resource issues and public involvement. Chapter 2 of the Proposed Plan provides suitability recommendations. Comments on the Draft Plan were considered in arriving at a recommendation on whether these river segments are suitable for inclusion in the National WSR System. No opposition to recommending the Rio Embudo Box as wild was expressed through either written or oral comment during the public comment period on the preliminary recommendations. The primary topics of concern raised during the comment period on the preliminary recommendation for the Rio Grande Bosque segment were its tentative classification as recreational and condemnation of private lands within the boundary of t his river area. Classification categories for various river segments were completed as per direction of the BLM Manual 8351. The Bosque segment was classified based on the type and degree of human developments associated with the river and adjacent lands that existed at the time the evaluation w as performed. In response to the other concern about condemnation of private land, as outline in the Proposed Plan, BLM would seek to acquire selected lands by purchase, easement, or donation if the landowners were willing. In addition, if 50 percent or more of the entire acreage is owned in fee title by the United States, BLM would not be authorized to acquire fee title to any lands by condemnation under the authority of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Currently 50 percent (1,100 acres of the total 2,187 acres) of the acreage in the Bosque segment is owned in fee title by the United States. This report fmds the Rio Grande Bosque and the Rio Embudo Box suitable to be considered for inclusion in the National WSR System. The Rio Grande Bosque is tentatively classified as recreational and the Rio Embudo Box as wild. Until Congress decides whether to add these river sections to the system, the BLM will manage them to preserve the river-related values identified in this report. PROPOSED ACTIONS FOR SUITABLE RIVER SEGMENTS The following is a general summary of the proposed BLM management direction to be taken for the Rio Grande Bosque and the Rio Embudo Box. (Refer to Chapter 2 for specific actions proposed.) The BLM would work with Taos and Rio Arriba counties to develop local land use plans to meet the objectives of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Rio Grande Bosque Under the Proposed Plan, the WSR corridor would be managed under a W SR recreational classification and according to the following prescriptions. • Withdraw the area from the public land laws and mineral entry, and close it to mineral material disposal • Close the area to mineral leasing • Fully suppress any unplanned fires • VRM Class II designation would be applied • Acquire selected private lands, if landowners are willing to sell • Grazing would be excluded from the ripariMi and wetland areas • Exclude new rights-of-way unless necessary for administration of recreation sites to improve access to these sites, or to provide access/utility service to private or state lands where such access was otherwise not possible; utilities would be underground only, and would be collocated with roads B-15 APPENDIX B RJO GRANDE CORRIDOR PLANING AREA WILD AND SCENIC RIVE:RS STUDY • Limit OMV use to designated roads nch toilets liovolopod for uso by hiickcountry visitors for stays lasting 14 days or loss. All holes, trenches or pits must he a miniinuin of 100 foot from any permanent water source. • Dump or dispose of sewage or ■ sewage treatment chemicals from solf- . contained or containerized toilets i except at facilities provided for that • purpose. IS Occupancy and Use I • Camp or occupy any site on public lands for a period longer than 14 days within any period of 28 consecutive days. Exceptions, which will be posted, include areas closed to camping and areas or sites with other designated camping stay limits. The 28-day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public land. The 14-day limit may be reached either, through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous, occupation. After the 14th day of occupation, campers must move beyond a 25-mile radius from the previous location, and must not retium to a location within this radius for 30 days or longer. • Park any motor vehicle for longer than 30 minutes or camp within 300 yards of any spring, manmade water hole, water well, or watering tank used by wildlife or domestic stoc^. • Park or leave a vehicle,'or camp at trailheads in violation of posted instructions. • Dispose of any burning or smoldering material except at sites or facilities provided for that purpose. • Violate the terms, stipulations, or conditions of any permit or use authorization. • Fail to show a permit or use authorization to any Bureau of Land Management employee upon request. • Camp or occupy, or build any fire on or in any historic or prehistoric structure or ruin site. Vehicles • Operate an off-road vehicle without full-time use of an approved spark arrester and muffler. • Operate, park or leave a motorized vehicle in violation of posted restrictions or in such a manner or location as to: 1. Create a safety hazard, 2. Interfere with other authorized users or uses, 3. Obstruct or impede normal or emergency traffic movement, 4. Interfere with or impede administrative activities, 5. Interfere with the parking of other vehicles, 6, Park more than 300 feet from an •existing or designated route, subject to any superseding requirements for such uso along designated or existing routes, or • Operate a vehicle in violation of state motor vehicle laws or regulotions. Public Health and Safety • Possess or use fireworks. • Sell or make a gift of an alcoholic beverage to a person under 21 years of age. • Possess an alcoholic beverage if under 21 years of age. • Ignite or burn any material containing or producing toxic or hazardous material. • Carry concealed weapons in violation of state law. • Discharge a firearm or any other implement capable of taking human life, causing injury, or damaging property: 1. In or within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area, or 2. On, from or across a developed road; from within a fenced right-of-way; within 40 feet of a road if no fence exists; across a body of water adjaceni thereto; or recklessly or carelessly; whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. • Conduct themselves in a disorderly fashion. • Fail to prevent a pet from harassing, molesting, injuring, or killing humans, domesticated animals, wildlife or livestock. • Failure to comply with all applicable State of New Mexico regulations for boating safety, equipment, and registration. • Entering a cave without each person wearing a safety helmet (hard hat) with chin strap and carrying at least three sources of light. • Possess glass containers where prohibited. Property and Resources • Cut, remove, or transport woody materials, including (but not limited to): 1. Any type or variety of vegetation, 2. Fuelwood or firewood (either green or standing deadwood), and 3. Live plants, except as authorized by 43 CFR 8365.1-5 (b) and (c) (which allow the collection of commonly available renewable resources such as flowers, berries, nuts, seeds, cones and leaves; and the collection of forest products for use in campfires on the public lands). • Remove or transport any mineral resources, including but not limited to rock, sand, gravel, other mineral materials, or decorative landscaping materials on or from public lands without written consent, proof of purchase, ora valid ponnit. • Annoy qr disturi) bats, raptors, reptiles or other protected species, including nesting sites or areas, • Violate any state laws or regulations concerning conservation or protection of natural resources or the environment, including but not limited to those resources relating to air and water quality,- and the protection of fish, wildlife and plants. Supplementary Rules — Developed Recreation Sites/Areas, Special Recreation Management Areas In addition to the regulations contained in 43 CFR 8356.1, 8365.2 and those listed above, the following rules will be applied in accordance with 43 CFR 8365.2. Unless authorized by written permit, no person shall: Occupancy and Use • Reserve camping space, except at group facilities. Camping space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. • Camp at one area or site within a developed campground for longer than 7 days in any 28-consecutive-day period unless extended by the authorized officer. After the 7th day, campers must move to a public land site at least 25 miles from the previous location, and must not return to the previous location for 30 days or longer. • Park more than two 4-wheeled motorized vehicles or five 2- or 3- wheeled motorized vehicles and/or cause cm approved site to be used by more than 15 individuals, unless the site is posted otherwise or designated for group use, (Groups exceeding these limits may occupy additional sites and/ or additional designated parking areas.) • Camp or occupy, between 10 pm and 6 am, the Black Rock Spring, County Line, John Dunn Bridge, Lover’s Lane, Manby Hot Springs, Quartzite, La Ventema Natural Arch, Tent Rocks, Bluewater Canyon, Canon Tapia, Guadalupe Ruin and Community, and Ward Ranch Recreation Areas/Sites: Wild Rivers Recreation Area’s Bear Crossing and Chawalauna Overlooks: or Orilla Verde Recreation Area’s Gauging Station picnic site. • Engage in noncommercial floatboating without, at a minimum, the following items for each person, boat or group: 1. An approved U.S. Coast Guard Type I, III or V life preserver for each individual, which must be worn at all times while on the rivers; 2. A first aid kit for each group; and 3. Other items that are required to secure a permit for u.so of a river 21482 Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 92 / Friday, May 10, 1996 / Notices segment (including but not limited to fire pans, patching and repair equipment, bailing buckets, extra oars or paddles, air pumps, throw ropes and human waste containers). • Build, tend, or use a campfire except in a stove, grill, fireplace or ring provided for such purpose in developed recreations areas or sites. • Build, tend, or use a campfire in the Tent Rocks Recreation Area. • Ride a horse or bicycle in areas or on trails posted as closed to such use. • Launch or take out boats, except for emergencies, at any site in the Orilla Verde Recreation Area not designated for such use. Vehicles • Use a motorized craft, including inboard or outboard motors, jet skis, personal watercraft or hovercraft on the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River, and the Lower Gorge Special Recreation Management area between the County ■ Line Recreation Site and the Velarde Diversion Dam; and on the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River. • Operate non-street-legal motorized vehicles within the boundaries of all recreation areas or sites. • Operate motor vehicles within the Ignacio Chavez Grant or Elk Springs during seasonal closures. • Operate motor vehicles within the San Ysidro Trails Limited Area except as authorized by special use permit. • Park a vehicle other than in areas established for such use; or further than 25 feet from designated roads, subject to any superseding requirements of such use along wilderness area boundaries, or to restrictions that may be in place along designated roads. Property and Resources • Cut or gather green trees or their parts, or remove down or standing dead wood for any purpose, including use in campfires. • Climb or walk on the “Tent Rock Formation” in the Tent Rocks Recreation Area. • Participate in technical rock climbing within the La Ventana Natural Arch area. • Use mechanized equipment or create bank disturbance in association with recreational gold panning. (Panning with hand tools below the water line is allowed.) Public Health, Safety and Comfort • Fail to immediately remove, and dispose of in a sanitary manner, all pet fecal material, trash, garbage or waste created. • Bring a pet on any nature or interpretive trails, caves, and freshwater springs that are signed as prohibited to pets. Animals trained to assist handicapped persons are exempt from this ride. • Fail to maintain quiet between the hours of 10 pm to 6 am, or other hours as posted. During this period no person shall create noise that disturbs other visitors. • Post or distribute any signs, posters, printed material or commercial advertisements without written approval by the Authorized Officer. • Use, display or carry weapons within developed campsites or picnic areas. • Bring equine stock, llamas, cattle or other livestock within campgrounds or picnic areas unless facilities have been specifically provided for such use. • Discharge firearms or other weapons, or hunt or trap within a developed recreation area, or within V2 mile of a developed recreation site. • Be publicly nude at Wild Rivers, Orilla Verde or Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Areas; Lower Gorge Special Recreation Management Area; or John Dunn Bridge Recreation Site. • Shower or bathe at any improved or developed water source, outdoor hydrant pump, faucet or fountain, or restroom water faucet unless such water source is designated for that purpose. List of Developed Recreation Sites/ Areas and Special Recreation Management Areas in Rio Puerco Resource Area 1. Tent Rocks T. 16 N., R. 5 E., secs. 3, 4, 5 T. 17 N., R. 5 E., secs. 27-34 2. El Malpais National Conservation Area a. La Ventana Natural Arch Special Management Area T. 8 N., R. 10 W„ secs. 33, 34 T. 7 N., R. 10 W., secs. 3, 4 b. South Narrows Recreation Area. T. 7 N., R. 10 W., sec. 17 c. El Malpais Ranger Station T. 9 N., R. 9 W., sec. 32 3. Elk Springs T. 18 N., R. 1 W., secs. 1-4 T. 19 N., R. 1 W., secs. 10, 11, 14, 15, 21- 23. 26-29, 33-35 4. Pronoun Cave Complex T. 6 N., R. 5 W., secs. 10, 14 5. Guadalupe Ruin and Community T. 15 N., R. 3 W., secs. 14. 15, 22. 23 6. Canon Tapia (applies only to lands within the canyon) T. 15 N.. R. 3 W.. sec. 20, 21, 22, 29. 31 7. Ignacio Chavez Grant T. 15 N.. R. 3 W. T. 15 N., R. 4 W. T. 15 N.. R. 5 W. T. 15 N., R. 6 W. T. 16 N., R. 4 W.. secs. 19, 20. 21. 22. 27. 28, 29. 30 T. 16 N.. R. 5 W.. secs. 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25. 26. 27, 28. 29, 30 T. 16 N.. R. 6 W. 8. San Ysidro Trials Area T. 15 N.. R. 1 E.. secs. 3, 4, 9. 10 T. 16 N.. R. 1 E. 9. Bluewatcr Canyon a. Canyon Entrance T. 12 N., R. 11 W.. sec. 5 b. Lands Within Canyon T. 12 N.. R. 11 W.. secs. 5, 6 Taos Resource Area 1. Lower Gorge Special Recreation Management Area T. 26 N., R. 11 E., sec. 31, river section to T. 23 N., R. 9 E., sec. 34, including: a. Quartzite Recreation Site T. 24 N.. R. 11 E., sec. 32 b. County Line Recreation Site T. 23 N., R. 11- E., secs. 14, 15 c. Lover’s Lane Recreation Site T. 23 N.. R. 10 E.. sec. 20 2. Orilla Verde Recreation Area T. 24 N., R. 11 E., secs. 2. 10, 11, 14-16, 20-22, 28, 29 3. Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River T. 24 N., R. 2 E.. sec. 1; T. 24 N., R. 3 E., secs. 5, 6, 8-10, 13-15; T. 25 N., R. 2 E., secs. 2, 3, 11, 13, 14, 23, 24, 25, 36; T. 25 N., R. 3 E., sec. 31; T. 26 N., R. 2 E., secs. 3, 4, 9, 10, 15, 16. 21, 22, 26, 27, 34; T. 27 N.. R. 2 E., secs. 9, 10, 15, 16, 21, 22. 27, 28, 33, 34 a. Ward Ranch Recreation Site T. 27 N., R. 2 E., sec. 27 4. Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River T. 23 N., R. 10 E., secs. 1, 11-16, 22; T. 23 N., R. 11 E., secs. 5-7; T. 24 N., R. 11 E„ secs. 2, 10. 11, 15, 16, 20, 21, 28, 29. 31-33; T. 25 N., R. 11 E., secs. 1. 12, 13, 23-26, 35, 36; T. 26 N., R. 11 E., secs. 1, 12-14, 23-26,'35, 36; T. 27 N., R. 11 E., sec. 36; T. 27 N.. R. 12 E., secs. 5. 7, 8. 17-19, 30, 31; T. 28 N., R. 12 E., secs. 5-10, 16-20, 29-30; T. 29 N., R. 12 E., secs. 4, 5, 8, 9, 16, 17, 20, 29-32; T. 30 N., R. 12 E., secs. 6, 7, 17-20, 29, 30, 32; T. 31 N., R. 11 E., secs. 1, 2, 11, 14, 23- 26; T. 31 N., R. 12 E., secs. 30, 31; and T. 32 N., R. 11 E., secs. 24. 25, 36. a. John Dunn Bridge Recreation Site T. 27 N.. R. 12 E., sec. 31 b. Manby Hot Springs Recreation Site T. 26 N., R. 11 E.. sec. 12 a Black Rock Spring Recreation Site T. 26 N., R. 11 E., sec. 1 5. Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Area T. 20 N.. R. 10 E.. secs. 7, 18 6. Wild Rivers Recreation Area T. 29 N.. R. 12 E.. secs. 16, 17. 20, 29. 31, 32 T. 28 N.. R. 12 E.. secs. 4, 5, 6. 8, 9. 16. 17 DATES: The rules are effective on May 10, 1996. ADDRESSES: Any inquires or suggestions should be addressed to District Manager, BLM, Albuquerque District Office, 435 Montano Rd. NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107— 4935. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Bristol, Resource Program Manager, BLM, Albuquerque District Office, 435 Montano Rd. NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107— 4935, Telephone (505)761-8755. Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 92 / Friday, May 10, 1996 / Notices 21483 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The New Mexico State Director is establishing these supplementary rules for the Albuquerque District, which are needed to protect persons, property and public lands and resources currently under the BLM's administration. These rules also apply to those lands acquired for inclusion within the administrative jurisdiction of the BLM, as provided for in 43 CFR 8365.1-6. These supplementary rules apply to all persons using public lands. Violations of these rules are punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000 and/or imprisonment not to exceed 12 months. Exceptions to these supplementary rules may be allowed by the Authorized Officer under the limits and restrictions of applicable federal and state laws. People granted use exemptions must possess written authorization from the BLM office that has jurisdiction over the area. Users must hirther comply with the zoning and permitting rules or regulatory requirements of other agencies, where these apply. So the BLM Albuquerque District can implement these final rules before the beginning of the 1996 siunmer use season, which starts on Memorial Day weekend, they must be effective on the date of publication. In accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 531 et seq.), the BLM has determined that delaying implementation of these rules for 30 days could impair the protection of persons, property and public lands and resources under the agency’s administration. The 30-day delay would be contrary to the public interest and the intended purpose of the rules. The BLM has given interested parties an opportunity to participate in the rulemaking, and has considered public comments in preparing the final rules. Therefore, under the “good cause’’ exception of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3)) and as discussed above, the BLM has determined that these final rules are excepted from the 30-day delay of their effective date, and are effective on May 10, 1996. Dated: April 24, 1996. Lynn Engdahl, Acting State Director, New Mexico. 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J44,* -W fit «»!,f W . .M VdJhi, ■ .^T.w < & >-■ 1-1 w I EXISTINS PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE ^ DEVELOPED WELL Y/ ////?[ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL -g- DEVELOPED SPRING g PROPOSED SPRING “w- WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER GAP Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic ScietKet Team, Bureau of Land Management. Auguet 04. 1996 No warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management ae to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data tor Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards This Information may be updated without notification. South Valley (4244) Allotment miles ■V PUBLI C LAN D SURVEY SYSTE M — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — RIVERS -X existing fence — Y PROPOSED FENCE H I EXISTING PIPELINE PROPOSED PIPELINE ^ DEVELOPED WELL A PROPOSED WELL •g- DEVELOPED SPRING 5 PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH [£l PROPOSED WATER GAP Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 04, 1998 \//////\ PROPOSED VEGETATION iMPROVEMENT No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reiiability. or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM Spatiai information may not meet Nationai Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification Pinon (4245) Allotment 03 0 13 miles PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM — — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — — RIVERS ■X K existing fence -y y PROPOSED FENCE i-t w I EXISTING PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE PROPOSED ALLOTMENT SPLIT ^ DEVELOPED WELL Y/////?\ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL •g- DEVELOPED SPRING g PROPOSED SPRING ■w- WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER GAP Produced by the New Mexloo State Office Geographic Sciences Team. Bureau of Land Management. August 05. 1998 No warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not Intended by BLM. Spatial Information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This Information may be updated without notification. Braiden (4247) Allotment 0.2 0 0.2 a4 miles — — PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM — — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY RIVERS ■X X existing fence -y y PROPOSED FENCE 1-1 W hh I existing pipeline — — PROPOSED PIPELINE ^ DEVELOPED WELL Y/////7\ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL "S' DEVELOPED SPRING 5 PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH [iJ PROPOSED WATER GAP Produced by the New Mexico State Office GeoBraphic Sciences Team. Bureau of Land Management, August 04. 1996 No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards This information may be updated without notIfiMtion Kiowa Hill (4248) Allotment as 0 _ as 1 miles DEVELOPED WELL '{/////A PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER GAP Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 04. 1998 No warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. — PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — RIVERS -X EXISTING FENCE “Y PROPOSED FENCE ■> I EXISTING PIPELINE PROPOSED PIPELINE Pinon Hills (4249) Allotment miles PUBLI C LAN D SURVEY SYSTE M — — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY RIVERS ■X X EXISTINa FENCE -y y PROPOSED FENCE i-i M M I EXISTING PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE A DEVELOPED WELL Y/////~A PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING S PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH L?lI proposed water gap Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team Bureau of Land Management, August 04, 1998 No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reilabiiity, orcompieteness of these data tor Individuai use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification Eight Mile (4250) Aliotment OJ 0 OS 1 miles — PUBLI C LAN D SURVEY SYSTE M — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — RIVERS ^ X existins fence -y y PROPOSED FENCE M I EXISTING PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE ^ DEVELOPED WELL Y/////^ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING J PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER GAP No warranty ie made by the Bureau of Land Management aa to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. Produced by the Hew Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Ijind Management, August 04. 1996 Mesa Common (4251) Allotment San Luis Hills (4252) Allotment 05 miles 1 PUBLI C LAN D SURVEY 8YSTE M — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY RIVERS ^ X EXISTINS FENCE -y y PROPOSED FENCE M w w I EXISTINS PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE ^ DEVELOPED WELL V// ///A PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING 5 PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER GAP Mo warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness ot those data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM, Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification Produced by the Hew Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 04, 1996 Flat Top (4253) Allotment La Sauses (4255) Allotment miles PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM h DEVELOPED WELL RIVERS A PROPOSED WELL NV EXISTING FENCE DEVELOPED SPRING PROPOSED FENCE V V PROPOSED SPRING J— 4 t— 1 1— t 1 EXISTING PIPELINE - PROPOSED PIPELINE ■Ur WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER GAP Produced by the New Mexico State Office Seographlc Sciences Team. Bureau of Land Management, August 04. 199B X/////7\ proposed vegetation improvement No warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM, Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This Information may be updated without notification. East Bend (4256) Allotment 05 0 05 1 miles PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM — — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY - RIVERS •X X EXISTING FENCE -y y PROPOSED FENCE i-i i-( h-i I EXISTING PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE A DEVELOPED WELL Y/////?\ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL "S' DEVELOPED SPRING 5 PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH H PROPOSED WATER GAP Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management. August 04. 1996 No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliabiiity. or compieteness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards This information may be updated without notification Embudo (503) Allotment 0.1 0 0.1 0.2 miles 0.3 0.4 PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM A DEVELOPED WELL Y/////X PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT — RIVERS A PROPOSED WELL X EXISTING FENCE A DEVELOPED SPRING > > PROPOSED FENCE 5 PROPOSED SPRING >-<4 »-l >— 1 1 EXISTING PIPELINE PROPOSED PIPELINE 'W WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER TROUGH - WATER TANK O PROPOSED WATER TANK 6 EARTHEN DAM No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or tor purposes not intended by BLM, Spatial intormation may not meet National Map /Vxuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team. Bureau of Land Management. August 04, 1996 Cerro Azul (514) Allotment 0.2 0 0.2 a4 miles — PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM A DEVELOPED WELL ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — — RIVERS A PROPOSED WELL EXISTING FENCE DEVELOPED SPRING PROPOSED FENCE V V PROPOSED SPRING >— 1 l-H » EXISTING PIPELINE — ■ PROPOSED PIPELINE WATER TROUGH \y PROPOSED WATER TROUGH • WATER TANK o PROPOSED WATER TANK EARTHEN DAM Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 04, 1998 y/////^ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposea not intended by BLM Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification Glen Woody (515) Allotment miles — PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM A DEVELOPED WELL — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY A PROPOSED WELL — RIVERS X EXISTING FENCE DEVELOPED SPRING > > PROPOSED FENCE z PROPOSED SPRING l-H »— 1 1 EXISTING PIPELINE 'W' WATER TROUGH PROPOSED PIPELINE vy PROPOSED WATER TROUGH m WATER TANK O PROPOSED WATER TANK EARTHEN DAM y / / / //)^ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT No warranty la made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for not intended by BLM. Spatial Information may not meet National Map Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team. Bureau of Land Management. August 04. 1996 Pilar (516) Allotment 0.2 a2 a4 miles — PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM A DEVELOPED WELL ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — — RIVERS A PROPOSED WELL -X- — X EXISTIN0 FENCE A DEVELOPED SPRING PROPOSED FENCE V V z PROPOSED SPRING h-l 1—1 1— 1 1 EXISTING PIPELINE — ■ PROPOSED PIPELINE w WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER TROUGH - WATER TANK o PROPOSED WATER TANK © EARTHEN DAM Produced by the New Mexico State Office aeographic Sciencea Team. Bureau of Land Management, August 04, 1996 Y/////)^ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM Spatial Information may not meet National Map Accuracy Stan^rds This information may be updated without notification Hondo (517) Allotment miles DEVELOPED WELL V/////} PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER TROUGH WATER TANK PROPOSED WATER TANK EARTHEN DAM Produced by the tJew Mexico State Office Geographic Science! Team, Bureau of Laruf Management. Auguit 04, 1996 No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not Intended by BLM Spatial Information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This Information may be updated without notification. ¥r ■V — PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — RIVERS ■Ys existing fence PROPOSED FENCE -I ■ EXISTING PIPELINE PROPOSED PIPELINE A A 'w- O © Cuestecita (521) Allotment Wild River (606) Allotment miles V t-H *-H t— t t - PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM - ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY - RIVERS X EXISTING FENCE PROPOSED FENCE EXISTING PIPELINE PROPOSED PIPELINE A A A 'w' VI/ m o e> DEVELOPED WELL PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER TROUGH WATER TANK PROPOSED WATER TANK earthen DAM v///m PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT No warranty la made by the Bureau ot Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data tor Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not Intended by BLM Spatial information may not meet National Map * - I.. . lAla A ■ aW as, Produced by the New Mexico StaU Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Managenient, August 04, 1996 — 1 Guadalupe (608) Allotment miles PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY RIVERS ^ X EXISTING FENCE PROPOSED FENCE V i-i w I EXISTING PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team Bureau of Land Managemerrt, August 04, 1998 A DEVELOPED WELL A PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING 5 PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH VV PROPOSED WATER TROUGH • WATER TANK O PROPOSED WATER TANK © EARTHEN DAM \//////\ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not Intended by BLM Spatial Information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards This Information may be updated without notification Carson Road (624) Allotment T I i (no improvements) (no treatments) I I i j 0.1 miles 0^ 04 PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM A DEVELOPED WELL V/////A PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT RIVERS A PROPOSED WELL ^ X EXISTING FENCE A DEVELOPED SPRING > > PROPOSED FENCE Z PROPOSED SPRING 8— t h-r 1 EXISTING PIPELINE PROPOSED PIPELINE WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER TROUGH - WATER TANK o PROPOSED WATER TANK -otupm nans No warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the tAKinciv UAM accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or (or purposes not Intended by BLM. Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification. Produced by the New Mexico State Office Qeographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 04. 1998 Carson (626) Allotment ^ — X ■'V V miles PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM A DEVELOPED WELL ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY RIVERS A PROPOSED WELL EXISTING FENCE DEVELOPED SPRING PROPOSED FENCE _ 6 PROPOSED SPRING EXISTING PIPELINE PROPOSED PIPELINE WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER TROUGH m WATER TANK O PROPOSED WATER TANK EARTHEN DAM Produced by the New Mexico SUte Office Geographic Sciences Team Bureau of Land Management, August 04, 1996 Y/////)^ PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards This information may be updated without notlfrcation Pajarito (636) Allotment os miles 1 PUBLI C LAN D SURVEY SYSTE M — ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY RIVERS •X X EXISTIN3 FENCE y PROPOSED FENCE •->>->>-11 EXISTING PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE ^ DEVELOPED WELL V/////}, PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT A PROPOSED WELL •g- DEVELOPED SPRING 5 PROPOSED SPRING 'w- WATER TROUGH PROPOSED WATER TROUGH • WATER TANK O PROPOSED WATER TANK © EARTHEN DAM No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for Individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM, Spatial information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards. This information may be updated without notification Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 04. f998 Guadalupe Mountain (640) Allotment 03 0 03 1 miles PUBLI C LAN D SURVEY SYSTE M ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY — RIVERS ^ X EXISTINS FENCE -y y PROPOSED FENCE >-H >-i I-' I EXISTING PIPELINE — — PROPOSED PIPELINE Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geooraphic Sciences Team Bureau of Land Management. August 04, 1998 ^ DEVELOPED WELL A PROPOSED WELL DEVELOPED SPRING Z PROPOSED SPRING WATER TROUGH W PROPOSED WATER TROUGH • WATER TANK O PROPOSED WATER TANK © EARTHEN DAM ]//////} PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT No warranty Is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or compieteness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes not intended by BLM. Spatiai information may not meet National Map Accuracy Standards This information may be updated wittwut notftiMtion Common Use Area (641) Allotment miles PUBLIC LAND SURVEY SYSTEM ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY ^ DEVELOPED WELL PROPOSED WELL PROPOSED VEGETATION IMPROVEMENT RIVERS ■X X EXISTING FENCE ^ PROPOSED FENCE I EXISTING PIPEUNE — — proposed PIPELINE -g- DEVELOPED SPRING g PROPOSED SPRING -w WATER TROUGH proposed WATER TROUGH • WATER TANK O PROPOSED WATER TANK © EARTHEN DAM warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the iracv reliability, or completeness of these data for S use or aggregate use with other data, or for purposes intended by BLM, Spatial Produced by the New Mexico State Office Geographic Sciences Team, Bureau of Land Management, August 05, 1998 I 1 ..... ^ '--‘r ,, -V *- - — .'Sf' ‘1 . • ^ v*u»*>^ i-^sv^ 4< >v (« *.►* I. ^ •«.m/.-»'ie«?^ s Pn Q H < H c/3 P^ < a g 2 < u M H ;z: Resource Values Recreation, Wildlife Wildlife Recreation, Wildlife Wildlife Riparian, Recreation Scenic, Recreation Riparian, Recreation Riparian, Recreation Riparian, Recreation Access, Wildlife Surface or Subsurface Both Both Both Both Both Both Both Both Both Both Number o Acres 640 640 640 640 2,560 64 240 345 c^ 59 0 00 a o ♦3 u 4> EA Xi 3 C/} rn t/T GO w rn o 33N 33N 33N 33N 1 33N 34N o H ■3 Q, O b. Unit & SMA 4> W) O o. o 1m o *3 3 k. "o U ^3 CM -3 3 3 4> •<-* 3 -fcrf C/) 3 <*— 3 0 z UoDer Goree u. STATE AND PRIVATE LANDS AND MINERALS PROPOSED FOR APPENDIX F ACQUISITION IN THE PLANNING AREA 0> 15 > U La 3 O Access, Wildlife c .2 'C cd 5 c .2 'C 3 .& 5 M— 2 .1 Riparian, Wildlife _o ic. Wildlife, 3 O 3 0) VI V ce; 5 2 5 2 2 2 3 .2“ S C 1) u C/D 2 5 c O C/D k> o (U OC U V ® 3 x: JZ j= x: JZ 2 o o o o o o o o o o o CQ S CQ 03 CQ 03 03 03 03 CQ 03 CQ 03 i: -o o V5 o o o O o o o o r- O o o >0 oo o •3" oo CN 3- o VO oo oo oo (N (N oo m E ^ 3-" 3 z 3 C/D u V U3 C/D C/D C/D Z - :dv 3 (/i C/D UQ U w C/D 3n U3 z u C/D pj C/D :d^*' C/D pp PP C/D PP C/D 3n PP :> vN k s C/D Z C/D Z C/D C/D z z PP C/D 1^ a. B •S 5 U~t 00 o^ o •» * 29* V B 4^ .3 C/D , cn fN P (N c ,o "-C3 CN * (j C/5 a o 3 u u B < « W U U _o PJ PQ PP PP PP _o PP PP w bi) O o O O 1— B (N (N B 3 ac _V3 ‘s O' T3 0> VJ o %■* *S < Ula o 3 cr Z Z Z Lm Z z z z z cu o ■o (j < tm z z z B >n in lo m cd o o o m o m m m m XJ m H a. o V. o u 4> V) O cu c o. ♦ ^ o o C/5 im ■o "O CU 3 B h. Cd O C/D "© o -p 2 at •D z > 5 _o o 3 o O Z B c < 4>l QJ (J OX) "3 OX 1 T> ox u« C/D • - C/D o O )-i &H 0> ■o 4> o O k. Cd •4— » o JD 2 C/D B 3 o o k. 2 ’S d> D. a. B O lU o D 1 1 3 C/D 2 o 0> •<-» 3 0> D o ! ^ = : D z D H 5d Z) STATE AND PRIVATE LANDS AND MINERALS PROPOSED FOR ACQUISITION IN THE PLANNING AREA Resource Values Scenic, Wildlife, Recreation Scenic, Recreation Scenic Scenic, Recreation Scenic, Recreation Scenic Scenic Wildlife, Scenic Wildlife, Scenic Wildlife, Scenic Wildlife, Scenic, Recreation Wildlife, Scenic Surface or Subsurface Both Both Both Both Both ! Both Both Both Both Both Both Both Number of Acres 320 560 o oo 617 267 o oo 320 640 329 640 300 469 Subsection ^ Z [jg UJ S z oo > ^ ^ ^ ^ < o -J on < y if ZTl C/0 > cu Z Z z Z < i?:! Z < All state lands < Section (* - in RMP) 32* * VO * o 32* * (N (N m 32* (N VO * VO * VO Range 12E 12E 12E 12E s o u e 311 W 301 HE HE 311 301 311 Township 30N 29N 29N 29N s cr u < u a •o V CA o 24N 24N 23N 23N 23N 23N 23N 1 24N Unit & SMA r Wild Rivers Recreation Area r o. o b. 0. o w 0> o> Z i/i -o e CQ a> •*<* (n Lower Gorge West of Taos Junction Bridge West of Pilar North of Rinconada Copper Hill Warm Springs SMA Subtotal 4,862 a: o Uh Q < w OcJ < u o ^0 ’"7’ o ^ CL, O CeJ CL, C/D -) < Qi U Z Q < C/D Q < -J w H < > cu Q Z < u H < H GO < mJ CL, w X H 5 2: o p So 3 a u < l-u X 5 ;z u a. o, < CM 4> 03 > V u li. 3 O V oe; L. 4> ® ^ 4> «M u u 3 V 3 3 C« O E ^ 3 z 3 ,o w V 3 (Z! » .E C/3 . &* OD 3 3 o: CM 3 O H < s {Z5 3 ■tmt is *3 or w < u a •a 0> Z CM •o 3 3 4> -3 a 3 O z c _o 3 1) k, O (L> DSj c o CQ o VO UJ C/D :dn Z ^ :/ w w Z z ^ Z C/D ■)(• * VO CN CN PJ Z •Ti (N (U bi O a u. 3 H) i— u o CQ o Os o c I a fc < c 3 ■4— > 3 O CM c o C o a. O B o "O c o X ■d o c CM o 3 X) ■4-J (U CM O o O m T3 0/ ■4—* u 3 i: o PJ (N z (N o ■3 C o X o bO c o 3 O s*.' 3 • M f/i '3 cr u < c2 ■3 0> CM o a o k. eu o '5 4/ 4> z CM ■3 3 3 "3 I. 4/ "3 c2i 3 o Z c ,0 c3 4> l-i u 1) dC 3 (L> O C/D (U CJ 4-1 3 C/D 00 O m * PQ O oC o ^ 'W CM A \ 4) D o O D, 5i qC (N (N (N PJ z '3' (N (Ul CJi o a (U o -J 3 U 3 O '■4-4 3 (U O (U oC (U T3 a3 > 3 3 ,0 ■4—4 3 lU u u (U C2 3 a> o C/D ■4—4 o m ■3- «rD ■3-^ fN 3 _o ■4—4 o 0/ CM J= o 3 o Od CN m W z ■3- fN 3 0 ■4-^ 3 b, u (U C2 3 (U u C/D ■4—4 o m fN w C/D < H ^ ^ C/D o S w H Z * m fN W ON Z fN u PQ U < tu CM b- 3 O o (U o 3 C2 3 3 0> b, U o ’3 u o C/D ■*-4 O X ■3- z u C/D < t- ::n*^ C/D W C/D ■» ■3- CN X as Z ro CN •3’ I u« STATE AND PRIVATE LANDS AND MINERALS PROPOSED FOR APPENDIX F ACQUISITION IN THE PLANNING AREA u. STATE AND PRIVATE LANDS AND MINERALS PROPOSED FOR APPENDIX F ACQUISITION IN THE PLANNING AREA 4> S "eS > o 9 0 VI 01 CC ® « 4> O U V) = i o V5 s 9 z 9 ,o w it Vi 9 (/3 4^ ei) 9 CQ oi xs Vi 9 O H c/1 *9 9 O 9 O CT u < a "O Vi O o, o o w ’J5 4> at Z ^9 Vi •o 9 9 .J "w u at ■o *♦« 9 O Z c ,o CS at L. u at 0:^ o ‘5 at at C/D J= O CQ ON VO (N u VO ro c/5 •4—* O o (N VO m OO H >-<' H 15 t— 1 •rt ov o o u U l a, c/5 01 O O at o -) 3 0 at at at 9 01 c _o 9 at u. at at c at at c/5 J= O QQ o ^ \o — VO — Ov a: ^ X c/5 c/5 VO U ^ c/3 OO (N O „ OO U (N ^ :: c/5 h- w VO Tj- Ov m U u X c/5 m o ■9- ■9' U X c/5 t- o u. u» H o W« at E o r/ t- 9 U X c/5 u OO • «v at OX) • «N «/^ X 00 ■9‘ E E o OO at t: (N c/5 O u H oC oC O 1-3 H IT) X o U vo >/^ c/5 00 ov CO X OO VO m • c\ ■9' VO c/5 '9‘ Ov U m U u VO VO •9- u X c/5 (N O '9‘ ■9- X c/5 X c/5 VO 1-3 t- X c/5 o -J VO * (N W o Z m CN STATE AND PRIVATE LANDS AND MINERALS PROPOSED FOR APPENDIX F ACQUISITION IN THE PLANNING AREA 00 I u. Appendix G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS APPENDIX G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS* Route # Proposed Designation Rationale New Mexico 100 Open Grazing permittee/recreational access to rim of Petaca, and access to state land. lOOA Closed No destination. lOOB Open Private land access. lOOC Open Grazing permittee access. 101 Closed Watershed/migratory big game protection. 102 A, B, Closed' Watershed/migratory big game protection. 103 A, B, O'* Closed' Watershed/migratory big game protection. 104 A, B*’ Closed' Watershed/migratory big game protection. 105 A Open Pipeline/private land access. 106 Open Private land access. Closed beyond private land for watershed protection. 106A Closed Watershed/migratory big game protection. 107 Open Gas line access. 107A Closed No destination. 107B Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 108 A Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 109 Closed Watershed protection, no legal public access. IlOA, C" Closed Watershed protection. 111 Closed Watershed protection. 112A, B'’ Closed Watershed protection. Mica Mine trail. 113 Open Gravel pit access. 114 Open Forest/private land access. 114A Closed No public access. 114B Open Private land access. 114C Closed Watershed protection, no destination. G-l APPENDIX G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS® Route # Proposed Designation Rationale New Mexico 100 Open Grazing permittee/recreational access to rim of Petaca, and access to state land. 100 A Closed No destination. lOOB Open Private land access. lOOC Open Grazing permittee access. 101 Closed Watershed/migratory big game protection. 102A, B, C*’ Closed‘S Watershed/migratory big game protection. 103 A, B,C^ Closed‘S Watershed/migratory big game protection. 104 A, B'’ Closed‘S Watershed/migratory big game protection. 105 A Open Pipeline/private land access. 106 Open Private land access. Closed beyond private land for watershed protection. 106A Closed Watershed/migratory big game protection. 107 Open Gas line access. 107A Closed No destination. 107B Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 108A Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 109 Closed Watershed protection, no legal public access. IlOA, e Closed Watershed protection. 111 Closed Watershed protection. 112A, B*> Closed Watershed protection. Mica Mine trail. 113 Open Gravel pit access. 114 Open Forest/private land access. 114A Closed No public access. 114B Open Private land access. 114C Closed Watershed protection, no destination. G-l APPENDIX G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS Route # Proposed Designation Rationale 114D Open This route would remain open to provide for access to private land and management of the natural gas pipeline. 115 Open Forest/state land access. 115B Open Forest/state land/range improvement access. 115F Open Grazing permittee/range improvement access. 116A Open Private land access. 117 Open Powerline access. 118 Open Private land access. 119 Open Private land access. 119B Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 119C Open Grazing permittee/private land access. 120*= Open/Closed Lover's Lane - private land access from highway. If access acquired, river access would be provided, w/no vehicles allowed in riparian zone. 121 Open Private land access. 122 Open Private land access. 123 Closed Watershed protection (Rinconada Overlook area). 124 Open County Line Recreation Site (access to recreation facilities). 125 Open Mineral material site access. 125A Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 125B, C, D** Closed Crucial winter range/watershed protection. 125E Closed Watershed/wildlife protection. 125F Closed Cultural, archaeological resources protection. 125G Closed Watershed protection. 125H Closed Cultural, archaeological resources protection. 1251 Closed Pipeline route, watershed protection. 126 Open Private land access. 126A Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 126B, C Closed Protection of crucial winter range. 126D, E Closed Watershed protection. G-2 APPENDIX G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS Route # Proposed Designation Rationale 126P Open If the private property to the south is acquired, this route would remain open due to its scenic potential. A seasonal closure would also be implemented from December through April for winter range wildlife protection. 126G= Open If lands are acquired this route would remain open for challenging 4-wheel drive (4WD) opportunities without impacting other resource values. 126H, V Closed If lands are acquired, these routes would be closed because they occur in an area of high soil erosion potential. 126J Closed Duplicate of 126. 126K Closed Prone to erosion. 126L Closed Wildlife Values. The portions of 126L on private land if acquired would also be closed. 126D, M, N' Closed If lands are acquired these routes would be closed to protect crucial fawning and calving for big game species of wildlife. 1260 Open To afford access to the historic Champion Mine. 126P,Q Closed Hazard of water erosion is high. 127 Open Private land access. 127A, B, C* Closed Watershed/crucial winter range protection. Highly erodible soils. 127D, E, F” Closed Watershed protection. 128 Open Access to private land. 128 A Closed Watershed/crucial winter range protection. 1288*= Closed If lands are acquired this route would be closed because it duplicates the access provided by Route 1 26. 128C= Closed If lands are acquired this route would be closed because it dead ends and does not provide for scenic views or 4WD opportunities. 128D‘= Open If lands are acquired this route would remain open to provide access to historic mine workings for interpretive purposes. 129 Closed Watershed/crucial winter range protection. 130 Open Mineral material site access. 130A Open Mining claim access. 130B Closed This route would be closed north of the intersection with 130F; the primary entrance to this route is 130F. 130C, D,E Closed These routes consist of short spurs that do not provide access to specific locations or scenic vistas nor do they provide for any measurable 4WD opportunities. G-3 APPENDIX G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS Route # Proposed Designation Rationale 130F Open Under the proposed plan this route would be open to provide access along 130B. 130G Closed Watershed protection, duplicate routes. 130H Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 1301 Closed Previously closed by New Mexico State Highway & Transportation Department mineral material site security 131 Closed This route would remain closed to all but authorized users such as mining claimants. 131A Closed Mining claim access. 132 A, B, C, D, E, F Open Mining claim access. 132C east' Open If Section 32 was acquired, then this route would remain open to the boundary of the proposed wild and scenic corridor (north line of Section 32). 132G Closed Watershed/riparian protection. 132H' Closed If Section 32 would be acquired, this route would be closed due to its eroded condition. 1321' Open If Section 32 would be acquired, this route would remain open to a scenic overlook. 133 Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 134 Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 135 Closed Mining claim/recreation access. Closed from junction with 135C to the east. 135A Open This route would remain open to form a loop with 136. 135B, C* Closed Watershed/crucial winter range protection. 136 Open Closed at parking area near wild and scenic boundary for watershed/crucial winter range protection. 137 Open Mining claim/recreation access. 137A, B, C** Closed Watershed protection, duplicate routes. 137D Closed Watershed protection. 138 Closed 4WD use is considered incompatible with on-site soil conditions and resource protection objectives for riparian habitats. 138A Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route, no destination. 139A, B^* Closed Watershed/crucial winter range protection. 140A, B, Closed Watershed/crucial winter range protection. 141 Closed Watershed protection. G-4 APPENDIX G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS Route # Proposed Designation Rationale 142 A Closed Watershed protection. 143 A, B, C, D Closed Watershed protection. 144 Open Recreation trail access. 145 A, B, C, D Closed Watershed protection. Not Shown #P Closed If acquired this route would remain open, providing for challenging 4WD opportunities without impacting other resource values. Not Shown #2 Closed Deep soil accumulations occur throughout the arroyo and are prone to erosion. 146 Open Recreational access to river, closed near state land boundary 147 Closed Watershed protection. 148 Closed Watershed protection. 149 Open Private land access. 150 Open Forest access (Carson National Forest). FR606 Open Forest access (Carson National Forest) Colorado 4998 Closed Watershed protection; grazing permittee access. 4999 Closed Watershed protection, no destination; grazing permittee access. 5000A Open Grazing permittee access. 5001 Closed Private property access; provide closed to protect wetland and water bird populations. 5001 A Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 5002 Open Grazing permittee access. 5002A Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5003 Open River access. 5003A, B Open Private land access. 5003C Closed Watershed protection. 5003D Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5003E Open Canyon rim access. 5004 Open River access. 5004A, B, C, D, E Closed Watershed protection. G-5 APPENDIX G RIO GRANDE CORRIDOR ROUTE DESIGNATIONS Route # Proposed Designation Rationale 5005 Open Recreation/grazing permittee access. 5005A Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5005B, C Closed Wilderness Study Area. 5006 Open Recreation access. 5006A Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5006B Closed Wilderness Study Area, watershed protection. 5007 Open Recreation/grazing permittee access. 5007A Closed Watershed protection. Wilderness Study Area. 5009A, B*" Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5009C Closed Private land access; grazing permittee access provided. Closed to maintain ACEC values. 5010 Open River/grazing permittee access. 5010A Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5010B, C Closed Watershed protection, duplicate route. 5014A Closed Wilderness Study Area, watershed protection. 5014B Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5015 Open Grazing permittee access. 501 5A, B Closed Watershed protection, no destination. 5015C Open Water well access. 5016 Closed Watershed protection. Wilderness Study Area. 5017A Open Grazing permittee access. 5020 Open River access. 5020A Closed Watershed protection. 5020B Closed Watershed protection, wildlife habitat. 5021 A Closed Watershed protection, wildlife habitat. Private land access provided. Notes: “ These routes are shown on Map 9 (in the map pocket). This entry refers to three separate routes (refer to Map 9). These routes would be designated only if acquired by the BLM. This entry refers to four separate routes (refer to Map 9). G-6 Appendix H SWIFTWATER RATING SYSTEM APPENDIX H Class I Class n Class III Class IV SWIFTWATER RATING SYSTEM Moving water with a few riffles and small waves. Few or no obstructions. Easy rapids with waves up to 3 feet high and wide. Clear channels that are obvious without scouting. Some maneuvering is required. Rapids with high, irregular waves often capable of swamping an open canoe. Narrow passages that often require complex maneuvering. May require scouting from shore. Long, difficult rapids with constricted passages that often require precise maneuvering in very turbulent waters. Scouting from shore is necessary and conditions make rescue difficult. Generally not possible for open canoes. Boaters in covered canoes and kayaks should have the ability to Eskimo roll. Class V Extremely difficult, long and violent rapids with highly congested routes. Scouting from shore is always necessary. Rescue conditions are difficult, and there is significant hazard to life in the event of a mishap. Abihty to Eskimo roll is essential for boaters in kayaks and decked canoes. Unsuitable for open canoes. Class VI Difficulties of Class V carried to the extreme of navigabihty. Nearly impossible and very dangerous. For teams of experts only, after close smdy has been made and all precautions have been taken. Unsuitable for open canoes. H-1 . V. I ■ ' ti. M3nr. ^9 .wi A^ JijtTA w •C -• , ii. *ivi A : .*■ ■■•-■;»♦ >‘-.ao'j ■ y* JM,'! iyo^r-'t^n ‘fcta^c *r ui' V ‘‘if4 Knt^ i'♦^,’’^^ ' ^> , .a' vu» *o p -»li ^ u', in, m. ■-. uv' fti m f «. ' iorvv fe, 4>;"> 1 iit v «,4 ml '. / -, -,r> i« •• ft ..^«3 V -.. - ■Jli;;. • ‘y^f '*nu' '»(dii<^e^aUii ■ ’ •" ■ - *T»p ■ ^?- *.*(T'''' . .■<%i»>A4,;u4‘ t '.' 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"5 rt ' '•9, ^--- r, ■ ^4fc .' ^-.- •■ r c“ ' • ' - .- -■■* a . ■- ' - ’, V. ;srd'' '5ft. , Appendix I ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE SIX COUNTIES CONSIDERED IN THE SOCIOECONOMIC ANALYSIS APPENDIX I ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE SIX COUNTIES CONSIDERED IN THE SOCIOECONOMIC ANALYSIS POPULATION The Two-State, Four-County Area’s population in 1992 was approximately 69,746. Adding Colfax and Santa Fe numbers, the population was 1 87,892. (The population more than doubled because Santa Fe is a growing metropolitan area.) POPULATION GROWTH Between 1970 and 1990, the Four New Mexico Counties had a 2.3 1 percent average annual growth rate. According to Bureau of Economic Analysis projections (USDC, BEA 1995), the Economic Study Area's (ESA's) annual growth rate is expected to slow to .42 percent between 1995 and 2040. The Two-State, Four-County Area population had an average annual growth rate of 1 .5 percent between 1970 and 1990, due mainly to growth in the Two New Mexico Counties. The larger area’s growth is expected to slow to a quarter of a percent between 1995 and 2040 (USDC, BEA 1995). Between 1970 and 1990, the Colorado counties experienced an average annual population decrease of .28 percent. The Colorado Counties' population is projected to begin growing at an average annual rate of .08 percent for the 45 years beginning in 1995. POPULATION DENSITY Conejos and Costilla Counties have a low pop- ulation density (4.2 people per square mile), espe- cially when compared to Colorado’s average of 33 people per square mile. When Conejos and Costilla are included with Rio Arriba and Taos, the density is still a low 6.6 people per square mile. The Four New Mexico counties' population density of 12.9 is very close to the average density for the state (13 people per square mile), because the area includes the city of Santa Fe. POPULATION AGE Table I-l shows the distribution of population based on three age categories. Since 1980, the Two- State, Four-County Area’s population has grown older (an average age of 27.6 in 1980 increased to 32.8 in 1990). The percentage of the population in the age groups of 0 to 9, 10 to 19, 20 to 29, and 50 to 59 has declined since 1980. At the same time, the percentage of the population in the age groups of 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 60 to 69, and 70 and above has increased. In 1 990, people in the age groups of 0 to 9, 10 to 19, and 30 to 39 made up the largest percentage of the total population. PER-CAPITA INCOME Table 1-2 presents per-capita income and aver- age annual growth rates in 1989 and 1993 for the four different study areas, plus Colorado and New Mexico. Because of the inclusion of Santa Fe, the Four New Mexico counties' per-capita income was higher than that of New Mexico in 1989; however, the Two-State, Four-County Area’s per-capita income was lower than both state averages. The Two New Mexico Counties have the lowest per-capita income in the six-county area. Table 1-3 presents the breakdown of per-capita income in 1993. Out of the four different area representations, the Colorado counties' per-capita income had the highest percentage of transfer payments (35 percent) and the Four New Mexico counties had the lowest percentage (2 1 percent). Transfer payments equaled 3 1 percent of the per- capita income in the Two-State, Four-County Area. (Note; "Transfer payments" are those that allow people to maintain an income, including unemployment insurance and retirement benefits.) I-l APPENDIX I ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE SIX COUNTIES CONSIDERED IN THE SOCIOECONOMIC ANALYSIS Tables 1-4 and 1-5 show local government taxes and finances, respectively, for the years 1986 and 1987. TABLE I-l AGE DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATION, 1990 Population Age Colorado Counties Two New Mexico Counties Four New Mexico Counties (ESA) Two-State, Four- County Area Dependent (0-15) 3,149 15,265 33,092 18,414 Working age (16-64) 5,931 35,759 121,278 41,690 Retirement age (65+) 1,563 5,853 14,360 7,416 Source: U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of the Census 1990. TABLE 1-2 PER-CAPITA INCOME WITH AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE, 1989 AND 1993 Item Colorado Counties Two New Mexico Counties Four New Mexico Counties (ESA) Two-State, Four-County Area Colorado New Mexico P-C income, 1993 ($) 12,644 11,778 15,144 12,211 — — P-C income, 1989 ($) 10,238 9,455 12,097 9,845 14,821 11,246 Average annual growth rate (%) 5.3 5.3 5.9 5.3 Source: U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis 1995, & Bureau of the Census 1994. TABLE 1-3 BREAKDOWN OF PER-CAPITA INCOME, 1993 (whole dollars) Per-Capita Income Colorado Counties Two New Mexico Counties Four New Mexico Counties (ESA) Two-State, Four-County Area Earnings 6,971 6,973 9,310 6,972 Income maintenance 898 542 340 720 Unemployment insurance 90 134 115 112 Retirement & other 3,451 2,483 2,660 2,967 Dividends, interest 1,234 1,646 2,719 1,440 Totals 12,644 11,778 15,144 12,211 Source: U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis 1995. 1-2 LOCAL TAXES TABLE 1-4 LOCAL GOVERNMENT TAXES, 1986-87 Type of Tax Colorado Counties Two New Mexico Counties Four New Mexico Counties (ESA) Two-State, Four-County Area Total taxes (mils) 5.6 12.9 43.6 18.5 Per-capita taxes ($) 665.50 231.50 274.75 448.50 Property tax as % of total tax 87.75 52.5 47.6 70.125 Source: U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of the Census 1994. GOVERNMENT REVENUE & EXPENDITURES TABLE 1-5 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCES, 1986-87 Source Colorado Counties Two New Mexico Counties Four New Mexico Counties (ESA) Two-State, Four-County Area Total Revenue (mils) 24.5 79.2 201.9 103.7 Total Direct Revenue 14.3 82.3 214.5 96.6 Source: U.S. Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of the Census 1994. 1-3 *5 Mr '.r. • ^W*» • « - ■ >y y. .-! < ^ ' rr'i.v.|J rK’ntp^«ioi . -T . i Mil i:xto*Oi ‘'l!Li!l5J£&SSa Trii'. V** “ ' ^ ' f t«k*V (V % - _ • # • t r4'i < ; -t H ’'M10-” tH/^ 4?- t' f>!.‘;V3lf-’l i .. u ' 9?jy ksi » • ♦ » m * ^ r iV ' ( -.< ^-•:<’vivv j ^ jpiruji^O - s. .Tiir . . V :.c . J=4iafc. . .gaSL r 9t> 1 - I j I / l4loT Si -rr:..ajrfe— • f I ill Bcrisrv^ 'oaifOatooT 4- rn4m ^vfnaO »r:’ |o uBwvfiP -#j’C>m^6':>Vi ,KpalE U .«rw«5^S -j , ^r-p. 1 . } ,’f -TJ •jfrt'.-. ■ •'IfJ^ ■ lOvI, * " T Abbreviations and Acronyms ' ■ =1 ' T ■ ^ '-i t u -1 •i .*1 ' ; \ ' -.1 Ji . 9 ■y ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ACHP Advisorv’ Council on Historic Preservation ADC Animal Damage Control (federal agency) ACEC Area of Critical Environmental Concern AGL above ground level AIRFA American Indian Religious Freedom Act AMP Allotment Management Plan APHIS Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service ARPA Archeological Resources Protection Act AUM animal unit month (grazing) BLM Bureau of Land Management BMP Best Management Practice CDOW Colorado Division of Wildlife CEC Colorado Environmental Coalition CFR Code of Federal Regulations CO Colorado CR County Road CRMP Coordinated Resource Management Plan CWQCC Colorado Water Quality Control Commission DOD Department of Defense EA Environmental Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement EPA Environmental Protection Agency ESA Economic Study Area AA-l ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS FAA Federal Aviation Administration FLPMA Federal Land Policy & Management Act (1976) ftVs cubic feet per second (waterflow) HMP Habitat Management Plan I "Improve" category for grazing allotments LAC Limits of Acceptable Change (monitoring system) M "Maintain" category for grazing allotments MOU Memorandum of Understanding NCA National Conservation Area NEPA National Environmental Policy Act (1969) NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NM New Mexico, New Mexico State Highway NMDG&F New Mexico Department of Game & Fish NMED New Mexico Environment Department NMSH&TD New Mexico State Highway & Transportation Department NMSO New Mexico State Office (BLM) NMWQCC New Mexico Water Quality Control Commission NOI Notice of Intent NOL not open to leasing (for oil & gas) NPS National Park Service NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly SCS) NSO no surface occupancy (oil & gas leasing stipulation) ORV off-road vehicle OHV off-highway vehicle OVRA Orilla Verde Recreation Area AA-2 ABBRliVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS p primitive (recreation opportunity) P.L. Public Law P.L. 90-452 Wild & Scenic Rivers Act (1968) P.L. 103-242 Amendment to the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act (1994) PRIA Public Rangelands Improvement Act R. or R Range or Rural RGCRMP Rio Grande Coordinated Resource Management Plan RGORP Rio Grande Occupancy Resolution Program RMP Resource Management Plan RN roaded natural (recreation opportunity) ROD Record of Decision ROS Recreation Opportunity Spectrum ROW right of way R&PP Recreation & Public Purposes (Act) RV recreational vehicle SCORP Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (New Mexico) SCS Soil Conservation Service (now NRCS) Sec. Section SHPO State Historic Preservation Officer SMA Special Management Area SPM semi-primitive motorized (recreation opportunity) SPNM semi-primitive non-motorized (recreation opportunity) SRMA Special Recreation Management Area T. Township USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture USDI U.S. Department of the Interior USFWS, FWS U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service AA-3 ABBRI'VIATIONS AND ACRONYMS USFS U.S. Forest Service uses U.S. Geological Survey VRM visual resources management (BLM program) WRRA Wild Rivers Recreation Area WSA Wilderness Study Area WSR Wild and Scenic River WSU Wilderness Study Unit AA-4 Glossary GLOSSARY actual use A report of the actual livestock grazing use certified to be accurate by the permittee or lessee, monitored annually. Frequency of Study - Data generally are obtained annually or at the end of the specified grazing period. May be collected at any time during the year to substantiate or verify reported actual grazing use and/or to make comparisons with authorized grazing use. Study Method - Actual grazing use reports submitted by the permittee of exact numbers of livestock and dates on and off allotment. adjustments in numbers Change (increase or decrease) of livestock numbers to conform to the amount of forage produced in an area, considering other multiple uses. aggregate A mineral material such as sand, gravel, shells or broken stone. allotment An area of land designated and managed for livestock grazing. alluvial fan A fan-shaped accumulation of disintegrated soil material; water deposited and located in a position where the water departs from a steep course to enter a flat plain or open valley bottom. alluvium Material, including clay, silt, sand, gravel, or similar unconsolidated sediments, deposited by a stream or other body of running water. animal unit (AU) Considered to be one mature cow (1,000 pounds) or its equivalent, based on average daily forage consumption of 26 pounds of dry matter. animal unit month (AUM) The amount of food or forage required by a mature cow, cow and calf, or the equivalent for one month. Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC ) An area of public land where special management attention is needed to protect and irreparable damage to important historical, cultural or scenic values, fish and wildlife prevent resources or other natural systems or processes, or to protect life and safety from natural hazards. association A particular type of vegetative community that has been described sufficiently and repeatedly in several locations such that we can conclude that it has: (1) a relatively consistent floristic composition, (2) a uniform physiognomy, and (3) a distribution that is characteristic of a particular habitat. avifauna All birds of a given region. Back Country Byway A BLM component of the National Scenic Byway System that focuses primarily on corridors along back country roads that have high scenic, historic, archaeological, or other public interest values. The road may vary from a single-track bike trail to a low-speed paved toad that traverses back country areas. Segments of back country byways are subdivided into four types based on the characteristics of the roads: GL-I GLOSSARY basalt Tvpe 1 - Roads are paved or have an all-weather surface and have grades that are negotiable by a normal touring car. These are usually narrow, slow-speed, secondary roads. Tvpe 11 - Roads that require high-clearance vehicles. These roads are usually not paved but may have some type of surfacing. Grades, curves, and road surface are such that they can be negotiated with a 2-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicle without undue difficulty. Tvne 111 - Roads that require 4-wheel-drive vehicles or other specialized vehicles such as dirt bikes or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). These roads are usually not surfaced. However, they are maintained for safety and resource protection purposes. They have grades, tread surfaces, and other characteristics that require specialized vehicles to negotiate. Tvoe IV - Trails that are managed to accommodate dirt bike, mountain bike, snowmobile or ATV use. They are usually single-track trails. (Source: BLM Manual 8357) A dark- to medium-dark-colored, commonly extrusive, igneous rock. browse Noun: That part of the leaf and twig growth of shrubs, woody vines and trees that is available for animal consumption. Verb: To consume browse. canopy Typically refers to the cover of the ground by the leaves and branches of trees or shrubs. cation exchange capacity The ability of a soil particle to absorb positively charged ions and retain/exchange them for plant uptake. Major cations include calcium, magnesium, potassium, ammonium, and sodium. classification The process whereby designated rivers are segmented according to the criteria and classes (Wild, Scenic, and/or Recreational) established in Section 2(b) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Criteria and classes are as follows. Wild Rivers: Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments and generally inaccessible except by trail, with watersheds or shorelines essentially primitive and waters unpolluted. These represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic Rivers: Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments, with shorelines or watersheds still largely primitive and shorelines largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational Rivers: Those rivers or sections of rivers that are readily accessible by road or railroad, that may have some development along their shorelines and some impoundment or diversion (present or past). climate Annual monitoring of local temperature and yearly precipitation - BLM collects precipitation data from May 1 to September 30. GL-2 GLOSSARY climax stage Describes a plant community that does NOT exhibit a cumulative species composition change in a period of 1 to 500 years. colluvium A deposit of soil material and rock fragments collected at the base of steep slopes as the result of gravity. community General term that can be applied to vegetation types of any size or longevity. competition Any interaction that is mutually detrimental to both participants; occurs between species that share limited resources. composition Typically refers to the makeup of a plant community whose individual plant species are designated as parts of the unified whole (community). condition The present state of the vegetation of a range site in relation to the climax tnatnral potential) plant community for that site. It is an expression of the relative degree to which the kinds, proportion, and amounts of plants in a plant community resemble that of the climax plant community for the site. Range condition is basically an ecological rating of the plant community. Air-dry weight is the unit of measure used in comparing the composition and production of the present plant community with that of the climax community. The PRIA (Public Rangelands Improvement Act of 1978) definition can more simply be stated as the “degree to which the present plant community resembles the plant community that best satisfies management objectives.” Studv Method - ESI (Ecological Site Inventor/) in which condition is classified in one of four serai stages based on the degree to which the present plant community is similar to the potential plant community for that ecological site. In the semi-arid environment of the planning area, rangeland ecological status usually changes very slowly; therefore, monitoring for condition occurs at the minimum of every 10 years unless other monitoring studies indicate a need for more frequent updating or a change in use. critical habitat Portions of the habitat of a wildlife population that, if destroyed or adversely modified, would result in a reduction of the population to a greater extent than destruction of other portions of the habitat. Also, a specific area formally designated by the Secretary of the Department of the Interior or Commerce that is determined to be essential to the survival and recovery of a threatened or endangered species or one proposed for listing. crucial habitat An area determined to be biologically important to the survival of a species. cultural resources inventory classes I - Existing Data Inventorv: An inventory study of a defined area designed to provide a narrative overview (cultural resource overview) derived from existing cultural resource information and to provide a compilation of existing cultural resource site record data on which to base the development of the BLM's site record system. ric^cc II - Sampling Field Inventory: A sample-oriented field inventory designed to locate and record, from surface and exposed profile mdications, all cultural resource sites within a portion of a defined area in a manner that will allow an objective estimate of the nature and distribution of cultural resources m the entire defined area. The Class II inventory is a tool used in management and planning activities as a GL-3 GLOSSARY deferred rotation grazing accurate predictor of cultural resources in the area of consideration. The primary area of consideration for the implementation of a Class II inventory is a planning unit. The secondary area is a specific project in which an intensive field inventory (Class III) is not practical or necessary. Glass III - Intensive Field Inventorv: An intensive field inventory designed to locate and record, from surface and exposed profile indications, all cultural resource sites within a specific area. Normally, upon completion of such inventories in an area, no further cultural resource inventory work is needed. A Class III inventory is appropriate on small project areas, all areas to be disturbed, and primary cultural resource areas. Discontinuance of grazing on various parts of rangeland in succeeding years, allowing each part to rest successively during the growing season to permit seed production, establishment of seedlings, or restoration of plant vigor. At least two, but usually three or more separate units are required. designated route A vehicle route of travel that has been approved through the land use planning process for motor vehicle use in accordance with the ORV/OHV area designation. dirt tank Usually a permanent earthen structure for holding water temporarily. These are built in high rainfall runoff areas such as arroyos, canyons or swales. disclimax community A climax vegetative community disrupted and changed by continuous disturbance, especially by domestic livestock, soil erosion or humans. disposal of land Removal of land from federal ownership by a sale, exchange, or transfer for use by a local community (recreation and public purposes). diversity The relative degree of abundance (a combination of species richness AND species evenness) of wildlife species, plant species, communities, habitats or habitat features per unit of area. Species Richness - The number of species per unit area within a community. Species Evenness - The distribution of individuals among the species, or between species. ecosystem The sum of the plant community, animal community, and physical environment in a particular region or habitat. eligibility Qualification of a river for inclusion into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System through determination that it is free flowing, and with its adjacent land area possesses at least one river-related value that is considered outstandingly remarkable. [Source: BLM Manual 8351] endangered species Federally Listed - Any species of animal or plant in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. State (Group One) - Species whose prospect of survival or recruitment in a certain area of the state is in jeopardy in the foreseeable future. GL-4 GLOSSARY endemic State (Group Two) - Species whose prospect of survival or recruitment in a certain area of the state may become jeopardized in the foreseeable future. A plant, animal, or social custom that is native to a particular region. environmental assessment (EA) A concise public document for which a federal agency is responsible that serves to: (1) briefly provide sufficient evidence and analysis for determining whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or a Finding of No Significant Impact; and (2) aid an agency's compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) when no EIS is necessary; or (3) facilitate preparation of an EIS when one is necessary. An EA includes brief discussions of the need for the proposal, of alternatives [as required by Sec. 102(2) of NEPA], of the environmental impacts of the proposed action and other alternatives, and a listing of agencies and persons consulted. exchange A trading of public land (surface or subsurface estate) that usually does not have high public value, for land in other ownerships that does have value for public use, management, protection and enjoyment. The exchange may benefit of other federal agencies as well as the BLM. exclusion areas Areas where future rights-of way may be granted only when mandated by law. existing utility corridor A parcel of land without fixed boundaries, limited only by terrain, land ownership and environmental considerations. exotic Typically a non-native plant or animal. fair-market value The amount in cash, or on terms reasonably equivalent to cash, for which in all probability a property would be sold by a knowledgeable owner willing, but not obligated, to sell to a knowledgeable purchaser who desires but is not obligated to buy. Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA) FLPMA, Public Law 94-579, gives BLM the legal authority to establish public land policy; to establish guidelines for administering such policy; and to provide for the management, protection, development, and enhancement of the public lands. Often pronounced “FLIPMA.” fire-adapted species Plant species that have morphologically or physiologically adaptive traits that require the rejuvenating effects of periodic fire. Adaptive traits include fire-induced flowering, sprouting, in-soil seed storage and fire-stimulated germination, on-the-plant seed storage and fire-stimulated dispersal. fire intensity (Byram's Fire Intensity) The product of the available heat of combustion per unit area of ground and the rate of spread of the fire. The primary units are BTU/sec/ft or KW/m of fire front. fire-intolerant species Plant species that are killed by fire. fire-tolerant species Plant species that can, through morphological or physiological adaptation, survive fire. Fire-tolerant characteristics include bud protection, thick bark, evanescent branches, rapid growth and early maturity. first burning period The daily period between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., immediately following the ignition of a wildland fire. GL-5 GLOSSARY forage (competitive) forb free flowing (river/stream) function geographic management unit geothermal energy grazing capacity grazing lease grazing preference habitat Habitat Management Plan (HMP) hardening herbaceous Plants used as food by large herbivores such as cattle, and by large and small wildlife. Any herbaceous (non-woody) plant that is not a grass or grass-like plant. Defined by Section 16(b) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act as " existing or flowing in a natural condition without impoundment, diversion, straightening, rip-rapping, or other modification of the waterway." Typically refers to the normal interactive processes within and between plants, communities, or associations; an action that is part of a series leading to a resulting action. Big-game habitat that is within a defined geographical area designated by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish for management purposes. Useful energy that can be extracted from naturally occurring steam, hot water or hot rock in the earth's crust. The maximum livestock stocking rate possible without damage to vegetation or related resources such as watershed. This incorporates factors such as the suitability of the rangeland for grazing, as well as the proper use that can be made of all the plants within the area. Normally expressed in terms of acres per animal unit month (ac/AUM); sometimes referred to as the total AUMs that are available in any given area, such as an allotment. Areas that are unsuitable for livestock use are not computed in the grazing capacity. The grazing capacity may or may not be the same as the stocking rate (see below). A document authorizing the use of public land outside grazing districts for livestock grazing, under Section 15 of the Taylor Grazing Act. The total number of animal unit months of livestock grazing on public land apportioned and attached to base property owned or controlled by a permittee or lessee. An area where a plant or animal lives. Sum total of environmental conditions in the area. A written and officially approved wildlife habitat plan for a specific geographical area of public land. An HMP identifies wildlife-habitat and related objectives, establishes the sequence of actions for achieving the objectives, and outlines procedures for evaluating accomplishments. Development of recreation sites or areas to prevent or limit the impact of recreation use on soil, vegetation and other resources. Methods of developing "hardened" areas include construction of trails and designated use areas such as campsites and picnic sites. Any flowering plant except those developing persistent woody stems above ground (i.e., grass, grass-like, or forb). GL-6 GLOSSARY herbaceous vegetation Having the nature of an herb, grass or grass-like plants, whose stem withers to the ground after each season's growth. historical cultural resources Historic cultural resources include all mines, ranches, tdwns, resorts, railroads, trails and other evidence of human use in the United States from the entrance of the’snanish to 1932. ^ humus The organic fraction of soil in which decomposition is so far advanced that its original form is not distinguishable. igneous rocks Rocks formed by solidification of molten rock below the earth's crust. kind of livestock The type of domestic livestock grazing on rangeland, including cattle, horses, sheep, goats or a combination of these. May be broken down to greater detail such as cows with calves, yearlings, steers, ewes, or ewes with lambs. known geothermal resource area An area in which the geology, nearby discoveries, or competitive interests would indicate that commercial production of geothermal resources is probable. lithic A stone or rock exhibiting modification by humans. It generally applies to projectile points, scrapers and chips, rather than to ground stone. lithic scatter A prehistoric cultural site type at which flakes, cores and stone tools are located, indicating the manufacture or use of tools. microsite climate The average weather conditions (temperature, moisture, precipitation) that affect life activity in a relatively small area. This type of climate typically varies from the overall regional climate because of local physical features. mineralization The process of converting or being converted into a mineral. multiple use management The management of the various surface and subsurface earth resources so they are used in the combination that best meets the present and future needs of the American people. Consists of managing for the following resources and uses; domestic livestock grazing, fish and wildlife development and use, industrial development, mineral production, human occupancy, outdoor recreation, timber production, watershed protection, wilderness preservation, and preservation of public values. nonpoint source pollution (NFS) The alteration of waters by activities not regulated as point sources; this alteration degrades the quality of waters or adversely affects the biological community inhabiting them. noxious An undesirable plant or animal that potentially produces a harmful or undesirable chemical compound. off-highway vehicle (OHV) use Any use by a motorized vehicle off paved roads, or roads and trails that are regularly and frequently maintained for general transportation purposes. off-road vehicle (ORV) Any motorized vehicle designed for or capable of cross-country travel on or immediately over land, water, sand, snow, ice, marsh, swampland or other terrain. GL-7 GLOSSARY organic matter Accumulation of dead plant matter and partially resynthesized plant and animal residues that are in a partly recognizable form. outstandingly remarkable values Values among those listed in Section 1(b) of the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act: "scenic, recreational, geological, fish and wildlife, historical, cultural, or other similar values . . . Other similar values that may be considered include ecological, biological or botanical, paleontological, hydrological, scientific, or research values. [Source: BLM Manual 8351] percolation The movement of water through a soil or rock body. perennial stream A stream or portion of a stream that flows continuously. permeable Soil or rock that has a texture that permits water to move through it perceptibly under the head differences ordinarily found in subsurface water. petroglyph A form of rock art manufactured by incising, scratching or pecking designs into rock surface. physiognomy The outer or physical appearance of vegetation. playa The usually dry and nearly level lake plain that occupies the lowest part of a closed depression. prescribed burning Controlled application of fire, either scheduled or unscheduled, to wildland fuels in either their natural or modified state. Such burning is done under specified environmental conditions that allow the fire to be confined to a predetermined area, while at the same time producing the effects required to attain planned resource management objectives. primary contact Primary contact means any recreational or other water use in which there is prolonged and intimate contact with the water, such as swimming and water skiing, involving considerable risk of ingesting water in quantities sufficient to pose a significant health hazard. Primary contact also means any use of streams or water for Native American traditional cultural, religious, or ceremonial purposes in which there is intimate contact with the water that involves considerable risk sufficient to pose a significant health risk. The contact may include but is not limited to ingestion or immersion. public land Any land and interest in land owned by the United States and administered by the Secretary of the Interior through the Bureau of Land Management, without regard to how the United States acquired ownership. The exceptions are lands: • held on the Outer Continental Shelf; • held for the benefit of Indians, Aleuts and Eskimos; and • for which the U.S. retains the minerals, but the surface is private. public land laws The body of laws that regulate the administration of the public land and its resources. pyrolysis The thermal or chemical decomposition of fuel at an elevated temperature. GL-8 GLOSSARY range betterment fund range site rangeland rangeland condition (ecological) rangeland condition trend rangeland health evaluation rangeland improvement raptor rest-rotation grazing The separate account in the National Treasury established by Section 401(b)(1) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, consisting of 50 percent of all money received by the United States as fees for grazing livestock on public land. Rangeland that differs from other sites in its ability to produce a characteristic type, size, productivity or proportion of a natural plant community. A range site is the product of all the environmental factors responsible for its development. Land used for grazing by livestock and big-game animals on which the vegetation is dominated by grasses, grass-like plants, forbs or shrubs. The present state of the vegetation on a range site in relation to the climax (natural potential) plant community for that site. It is an expression of the relative degree to which the kinds, proportions and amounts of plants in a plant community resemble that of the climax plant community for the site. Rangeland condition is basically an ecological rating of the plant community. Four classes are used to express the degree to which the composition of the present plant community reflects that of the climax. Ecological Condition Class % of Present Plant Community at Climax for Range Site Excellent 76-100 Good 51-75 Fair 26-50 Poor 0-25 The direction of change in rangeland condition. A form used for site specific evaluations which look at the indicators of rangeland health. Any activity or program on or relating to rangelands that is designed to improve production of forage, change vegetative composition, control patterns of use, provide water, stabilize soil and water conditions, and provide habitat for livestock or wildlife. Any predatory bird (such as a falcon, hawk, eagle or owl) that has feet with sharp talons or claws adapted for seizing prey and a hooked beak for tearing flesh. Under the rest-rotation grazing system, grazing is deferred on various parts of an allotment during succeeding years, and the deferred parts are allowed complete rest for one or more years (Society for Range Management 1974). The allotment is divided into pastures, usually with comparable grazing capacities. Each pasture is systematically grazed and rested so that livestock production and other resource values are provided for, while the vegetation cover is simultaneously maintained or improved. This practice provides greater protection of the soils resource against wind and water GL-9 GLOSSARY rest-rotation grazing system erosion (Hormay 1970; Johnson 1965; Ratliff and Reppert 1974; Ratliff, Reppert and McConnen 1972). Any of several rest-rotation grazing systems may be used, depending upon the objectives for the allotment and the number of pastures. A grazing system in a rangeland area that provides for systematic and sequential livestock grazing as well as rest from livestock use. Such a system is established to provide for the production of livestock while simultaneously maintaining or improving the vegetative condition and soil fertility. rift A system of fractures (faults) in the earth's crust and the associated valley or depression. right-of-way An authorization to use public land for a specified purpose. Examples of purposes that require rights-of-way are roads, power lines, pipelines, water wells and communication sites. riparian functional ratings Proper Functionine Condition - Riparian areas are functioning orooerlv when adequate vegetation, landform or large woody debris is present to (1) reduce the stream energy associated with high waterflows, thereby decreasing erosion and improving water quality; (2) filter sediment, capture bedload and aid floodplain development; (3) improve floodwater retention and groundwater recharge; (4) develop root masses that stabilize streambanks against cutting action; (5) develop diverse ponding and channel characteristics to provide the habitat and the water depth, duration and temperature necessary for fish production, waterfowl breeding and other uses; and (6) support greater biodiversity. Functional— At Risk - Riparian areas that are in functional condition but an existing soil, water, or vegetation attribute makes them susceptible to degradation. Nonfunctional - Riparian areas that clearlv are not providing adequate vegetation, landform, or large woody debris to reduce the stream energy associated with high flows. These areas do not decrease erosion, improve water quality, or have the other characteristics listed above. riparian vegetation Vegetation that occurs in or adjacent to drainage ways or their floodplains. river area That portion of a river (segment or corridor) authorized either by the Congress or an agency for study. The area consists of the river itself and its immediate environment, including a minimum area that extends at least 1/4 mile inland from each river bank. For designated rivers, the term refers to the river and adjacent land within the authorized boundaries. [Source: BLM Manual 8351] rock art (petroglyph or pictograph) A general term for the pecking, incising or painting of designs onto rock surfaces. rock shelter An overhang, indentation or alcove formed naturally by rockfall or in a rock face, generally not of great depth, that has associated evidence of human use. GL-10 GLOSSARY seasonal grazing Livestock grazing on an allotment that occurs only during a portion of the calendar year, typically following the four seasons. secondary contact Secondary contact means any recreational or other water use in which contact with the water may occur and in which the probability of ingesting appreciable quantities of water is minimal, such as fishing, wading, commercial, and recreational boating, and any limited seasonal contact. sedimentary rocks Rocks formed by the consolidation of loose sediment. "Sedimentary" is one of the three classes or rocks, the other two being igneous and metamorphic. serai stage The developmental stage of a plant community in which the community exhibits some directional, cumulative, non-random change in species composition over a period of 1 to 500 years. silviculture The art or science of cultivating a forest; forestry practices. sinuous Bending, winding, or curving; wavy. site progression The directional, cumulative, non-random change exhibited by a plant community that leads to a climax stage (i.e., succession). soil series A group of soils having genetic horizons (layers) that, except for texture of the surface layer, have similar characteristics and arrangement in the profile. soil texture The relative proportions of sand, silt and clay in a soil, as described by classes. Recognized classes of soil texture are: sand silt loam silty clay loam loamy sand silt silty clay sandy loam sandy clay loam clay loam clay loam Modifiers placed on textural classes when appropriate are: gravelly very gravelly cobbly very cobbly stony very stony special-status plants and animals Species that are (1) proposed for listing, officially listed, or candidates for listing as threatened or endangered by the Secretary of the Interior under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act, (2) listed or proposed for listing by a state in a category implying potential endangerment or extinction, and (3) designated by each BLM State Director as sensitive. Candidate species (formerly called "Category 2") are those species for which the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has information indicating that a proposal to list is possibly appropriate, but for which substantial data on biological vulnerability or threats are not currently available to support the immediate preparation of proposed listing rules. split estate Refers to a situation in which the mineral estate is owned or controlled by a party other than the owner of the surface of the same land area. GL-11 GLOSSARY stand A relatively small, homogenous group of plants in an area with like physiognomy. Typically refers to woody plants such as trees or shrubs. stocking rate The quantity of cattle (measured in animal unit months or AUMs) grazing a unit of land for a specific period of time. Expressed as unit of land (acres) per AUM. The area of land may include permitted BLM land, uncontrolled state land, or uncontrolled private land that is accessible for grazing. structure Typically refers to a plant community and the physical manner (physiognomy) of organization; the arrangement or interrelation of all the parts of a whole. thinning A silvicultural process used to remove a fraction of the trees or shrubs within a stand through mechanical means. threatened species Any species likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant part of its range. trace elements Chemical elements necessary for the growth of plants in only extremely small amounts (less than 1 part per million). Also, elements present in minor amounts in the earth's crust, as opposed to the eight abundant rock-forming elements of oxygen, silicon, aluminum, iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium. "Trace elements measurements" in hydrology is a general term, not precisely defined, but generally concerned with elements like heavy metals (specific gravity of 5.0 or more) that are toxic to plant and animal life in low concentrations. trailhead The parking, signing, and other facilities available at the beginning and/or end of a trail. transfer payments Payments that allow people to maintain an income, e.g., unemployment insurance, retirement benefits. trend Used to detect the direction of change in ecological status or in resource value ratings observed over time. Trend in ecological status is described as “toward” or “away from” the potential natural community or as “not apparent” (not apparent is also referred to as “static”). Frequency of trend is approximately 3 to 5 years. Apparent Trend - Apparent Trend is a professional iudeement made at one point in time. It is based on the current status of the vigor, reproduction, distribution, age, and other characteristics of the vegetation as well as on soil, litter, cover, erosion, and other factors of a site. Photo Plot Frequencv - This method includes takine a close up photograph of either a 3- by 3-foot plot or a 5- by 5-foot plot and a general view photography of the study site. In addition, measurements are made to provide quantitative data concerning vegetative characteristics. turbidity The cloudy condition caused by suspended solids in a liquid. The term is also used for the measurement of suspended solids in a liquid. universally accessible Applies to areas available for access to all members of the general public, including those with disabilities. GL-12 GLOSSARY uplift utilization vegetation treatments visual resources management (VRM) classes volcanic rock wilderness Elevation of any part of the earth's surface relative to some other parts. The proportion or degree of current year’s forage production that is consumed or destroyed by animals (including insects). May refer to either a single plant species, a group of species, or to the vegetation as a whole. Utilization is synonymous with use, and is generally conducted every one to two years, as needed. Key Species - Key species are generally an important component of a plant community. Key species serve as indicators of change and may or may not be forage species. More than one key species may be selected for a stratum depending on management objectives and data needs. In some cases, problem plants, such as poisonous plants may be selected as key species. Key Forage Plant Method - Key forage plant method is an ocular estimate of forage utilization within one of six utilization classes. Observations are made of the appearance of the rangeland and especially the key species, along a transect which traverses the key area. Methods used to control the growth and spread of undesirable vegetation. Control can be by chemical or mechanical means, or by fire. VRM classes are based on relative visual ratings of inventoried lands. Each class describes the different degree of modification allowed to the basic elements of the landscape. The following are the minimum management objective for each class. Class I - Natural ecological changes and very limited management activity are allowed. Any contrast created within the characteristic landscape must not attract attention. This classification is applied to Visual Areas of Critical Environmental Concern, wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, and other similar situations. Class II - Changes in any of the basic elements (form, line, color, texture) caused by a management activity should not be evident in the landscape. A contrast may be seen but should not attract attention. Class III - Contrasts to the basic elements caused by a management activity may be evident and begin to attract attention in the landscape. The changes, however, should remain subordinate to the existing landscape. Class IV - Contrasts may attract attention and be a dominant feature in the landscape in terms of scale. However, the changes should repeat the basic elements of the landscape. An igneous rock resulting from volcanic action at or near the earth's surface. 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 that retains its primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation, and that is protected and managed so as to preserve its natural conditions. Such an area GL-13 GLOSSARY (1) generally appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature, with the imprint of human work substantially unnoticeable; (2) has outstanding opportunities for solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of recreation; (3) contains at least 5,000 acres of land for its preservation and use in an unimpaired condition; and (4) may also contain ecological, geological or other features or scientific, educational, scenic or historical value. wilderness area An area formally designated by the Congress as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. wilderness characteristics Those characteristics of wilderness as described in Section 2(c) of the Wilderness Act. These include size, naturalness, solitude, primitive and unconfined types of recreation, and supplemental values. wilderness inventory An evaluation of the public land in the form of a written description on a map showing those lands that meet the wilderness criteria as established under Section 603(a) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and Section 2(c) of the Wilderness Act. Once an inventory has been done, the lands meeting the criteria are released from further wilderness consideration. wilderness review The term used to describe the entire wilderness inventory, study and reporting phases of the BLM's wilderness program. wilderness study The process of analyzing and planning opportunities for wilderness preservation, along with other resource uses, within the BLM's planning system. Wilderness Study Area (WSA) A roadless area or island that has been inventoried and found to' have wilderness characteristics as described in Section 603 of FLPMA and Section 2(c) of the Wilderness Act. wildlife Includes all species of mammals, birds, crustaceans, amphibians, reptiles, or their progeny or eggs, that whether raised in captivity or not, are normally found in a wild state. Feral horses and burros are excluded. withdrawal An action that restricts the use of public land and segregates it from some or all of the public land or mineral laws. woody vegetation Descriptive term referring to trees or shrubs with a hard core. yearlong grazing Continuous livestock grazing for a calendar year. GL-14 References REFERENCES Anderholm, S.K., M.J. Radell and S.F. Richey. 1 995. Water-QualityAssessmentof the Rio Grande Valley Study Unit. Colorado, New Mexico, Texas— Analysis of Selected Nutrient, Suspended-Sediment, and Pesticide Data. U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations Report 94-4061. Armson, K.A. 1977. Forest Soils: Properties and Processes. Toronto: University of Toronto Press. Autenrieth, R.E. 1984. "Little Lost Pronghorn Fawn Study--Condition, Habitat Use, and Mortality." In Proceedings of the Biennial Pronghorn Antelope Workshop 1 1:49-70. Bart, J. 1977. "Impact of Human Visitation on Avian Nesting Success." Living Bird \ 6\\%1 -92. Belknap, E. 1996. Taped Proceedings from the Johne's Disease Workshop, 12, 1996. Fort Collins, Colorado: Colorado State University. Biota Information System of New Mexico (BISON-M). 1995 and 1997. Biological Database for New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Forest Service, and the University of New Mexico. Borland, J.P. and K. Ong. 1995. Water Resources Data, New Mexico— Water Year 1994. U.S. Geological Survey Water Data Report NM-94-1 . Bryant, L.D. 1985. "Livestock Management in the Riparian Ecosystem." In Riparian Ecosystems and Their Management: ReconcilingConflictingUses— First North American Riparian Conference, (April 16-18, 1985), pp. 285-89. U.S. Dept, of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest & Range Experimental Station. Fort Collins, Colorado. Cable, D.R. 1973. "Fire in Southwestern Semidesert Communities." In Proceedings, Tall Timbers Fire Ecology Conference {iunQ 8-9, 1972) 12:109-27. Lubbock, Texas. CarbaughB., J.P. Vaughn, E.D. Beilis and H.B. Graves. 1975. "Distribution and Activity of White-Tailed Deer Along an Interstate Highway." Journal of Wildlife Management 39:570-81. Cemicek, D. and R. Moore. 1998. “1997 Survey of Boaters on the Lower Taos Box and Racecourse Sections of the Rio Grande in New Mexico.” Clary, W.P. 1988. Data on File at Forestry Sciences Laboratory, U.S. Dept, of Agriculture, Intermountain Research Station, Boise, Idaho. Clements, C. J., et al. 1995 New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Study. Prepared for Energy, Minerals, & Natural Resources Department, New Mexico State Parks and Recreation Division. Las Cruces, New Mexico: New Mexico State University, Hospitality and Tourism Services Program. Colby, B.G., J. Leones, C. Mullahy-Koenig and L. Ryan. 1994. River Recreation and the Economy of Northern New Mexico. Tucson, Arizon: University of Arizona, Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics. Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Labor Market Information Section. 1983, 1984. Colorado Labor Force Review. Denver, Colorado. R-1 REFERENCES Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Commission. 1994. Status of Water Quality in Colorado, 141 p. 1995. Classifications and Numeric Standards for the Rio Grande Basin 3.6.0 (5CCR 1002-8), 47 p. . 1 996. The Basic Standards and Methodologies for Surface W ater 3.1.0 (5CCR 1 002-8), 1 4 1 p. . 1996. Status of Water Quality in Colorado, \A\ 'p. DeByle, N. V. and P.E. Packer. 1 972. "Plant Nutrient and Soil Losses in Overland Flow from Burned Forest Clearcuts." In Watersheds in Transition, Procedures of American Water Resources Assoc., pp. 296-307. Dortignac,E.J. 1956. Watershed Resources and Problems of the Upper Rio Grande Basin. U.S. Dept, of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest & Range Experimental Station. Fort Collins, Colorado. Dunn, W.C. 1993. Evaluationof Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Habitat in New Mexico, Final Report. New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Project W-127-R-9, Job 9. Durkin, P., M. Bradley, S.E. Carr, E. Muldavinand P. Mehlhop. 1995. Riparian/Wetland Vegetation Communities of the Rio Grande: A Classification and Site Evaluation. Final Report prepared by New Mexico Natural Heritage Program, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico. Albuquerque, New Mexico. Elmore, W. 1988. "Stream Processes and Grazing Strategies." Presentation at Riparian Management Workshop: Challenges and Opportunities, May 3, 1988. Elko, Nevada: Nevada Coop. Ext. Espinosa, J.M. 1942. Crusaders of the Rio Grande: The Story of Don Diego de Vargas and the Reconquest and Refounding of New Mexico. Chicago: Institute of Jesuit History. Findley, J.S., A.H. Harris, D.E. Wilson and C. Jones. 1975. Mammals of New Mexico, xxii + 360 pp. Garrabrant, Lynn A. 1993. Water Resources of Taos County, New Mexico. U.S. Geological Survey, Water Resources Division. Investigations Report 93-4107. Albuquerque, New Mexico: U.S. Geological Survey. Garton, E.O., B. Hall and T.C. Foin. 1 977. "The Impact of a Campground on the Bird Community of a Lodgepole Pine Forest." Visitor Impacts on National Parks: The Yosemite Ecological Impact Study, pp. 37-43. T.C. Foin, Jr., ed. Davis, CA: Institute of Ecology, University of California, Publ. 10. Graefe, A., J. Vaske and F. Kuss. 1984. “Social Carrying Capacity: An Integration and Synthesis of Twenty Years of Research,” Leisure Sciences, Volume 6, Number 4. Grubb, T.G. and R.M. King. 1991. "Assessing the Human Disturbance of Breeding Bald Eagles with Classification Tree Models." Journal of Wildlife Management 55(3):500-51 1. Gunnerson, J.H. 1987. Archaeology of the High Plains. Cultural Resource Series, No. 19. Denver, Colorado: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Colorado State Office. Hanson, B. and R.S. Bristol. 1 994. Fish Survey of the Rio Grande in Northern New Mexico, 1987. Albuquerque,New Mexico: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, New Mexico Ecological Services State Office. Hamiss, R.O. and R.B. Murray. 1973. "Thirty Years of Vegetal Change Following Burning of Sagebrush Grass Range." Journal of Range Management 26:322-25. R-2 REFERENCES Hillman, C.N. and J.W. Carpenter. 1980. Breeding Biology and Behavior of Captive Black-Footed Ferrets. Surv. Pub 1980-12:348. Holden, P.B. 1980. Ptychocheilus lucius Girard, Colorado squawfish. N.C. Biological Survey Publication 1980 to 12:348. Howe, J. 1997. “Balancing Nature and Commerce in Gateway Communities,” Island Press. Interpretive Management Associates. 1995. Interpretive Plan— Rio Grande Gorge. Submitted to the Bureau of Land Management, Divide, Colorado. Johnson, L. 1996. Taped Proceedings from the Johne's Disease Workshop, March 12, 1996. Fort Collins, Colorado: Colorado State University. Kauffman, J.B., W.C. Krueger and M. Vavra. 1983. "Effects of Late Season Cattle Grazing on Riparian Plant Communities." Journal of Range Management 36(6):685-91 . Kennedy, P.L. and D.W. Stahlecker. 1986. Prey Base Analysis by Habitat Site, Taos Resource Area, Near Questa in Taos County, New Mexico (Peregrine Falcon Prey). Study submitted to the Bureau of Land Management. Taos, New Mexico. Knipe, T. 1977. The Arizona White-Tailed Deer. Special Report 6. Phoenix, Arizona: Arizona Game & Fish Dept. Leal, D. 1995. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Ecological Services Office, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Personal communication with Jim Silva, Resource Advisor, Albuquerque District, BLM. September. Lujan, Carol Chiago. 1993. “A Sociological View of Tourism in an American Indian Community: Maintaining Cultural Integrity at Taos Pueblo." American Indian Culture & Research Journal 17(3): 101-20. Lyon, L.J. 1984. "Road Effects and Impacts on Wildlife and Fisheries." In Forest Transportation Symposium Proceedings, December 11-13, 1984. Casper, Wyoming. Denver, Colorado: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Region 2. McDaniel, K.C. and J.F. Balliette. 1986. "Control of Big S>agcbrush(Artemisiatridentata) with Pelleted Tebuthiuron." Weed Science 34:267-80. McLaren, D. 1998. “Rethinking Tourism and Ecotravel,” Kumarian Press. Minckley, W.L. 1973. 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"Effects of Prescribed Fire on Vegetation and Sediment in Oak/Mountain Mahogany Chaparral." Journal of Forestry 69:800-805. Pase, C.P. and F.W. Pond. 1964. Vegetation Changes Following Mingus Mountain Burn. Resource Note RM- 18. Fort Collins, Colorado: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest & Range Experiment Station. Peek, J.M., R.A. Riggs and J.L. Lauer. 1979. "Evaluation of Fall Burning on Bighorn Sheep Winter Range." Journal of Range Management 32:430-32. Platts, W.S. 1982. "Sheep and Cattle Grazing Strategies on Riparian- Stream Environments." Wildlife-Livestock Relationships Symposium: Proceedings 10 (April 20-22, 1981), pp. 251-70. University of Idaho Forestry, Wildlife, and Range Experimental Station. Platts, W.S. and R.F. Raleigh. 1984. "Impacts of Grazing on Wetlands and Riparian Habitat." Developing Strategies for Rangeland Management, pp. 1 105-17. Boulder, Colorado: Westview Press. Ratliff, R.D., G.R. Melvin and N.K. McDougald. 1987. Managing Livestock Grazing on Meadows of California’s Sierra Nevada: A Manager-User Guide. Leaflet 21421. Berkeley, California: University of California, Division of Agriculture & Natural Coop. Extension. Seaman, T.J. and R.C. Chapman. 1993. Guadalupe Mountain, New Mexico: An Inquiry into the Archaeology’ of Place. OfficeofContract Archaeology, University of New Mexico Report No. 185-385. Albuquerque,New Mexico. R-4 REFERENCES Severson, K.E. and C.E. Boldt. 1978. "Cattle, Wildlife and Riparian Habitats in the Western Dakotas." In Regional Rangeland Symposium, February 27-28, 1978, Bismark, North Dakota. Dickinson, North Dakota: North Dakota State University. Sferra, S.J., R.A. Meyer and T.E. Corman. 1995. Arizona Partners in Flight 1994 Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Survey. Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program Technical Report 69. Arizona Game & Fish Department, Phoenix, Arizona. Shelby, B. and T. Geberlein. 1986. “Carrying Capacity in Recreation Settings,” Oregon State University Press. Shelby, B.,J. VaskeandT. Heberlein. 1988. “ComparativeAnalysis of Crowding in Multiple Locations: Results from Fifteen Years of Research” Leisure Sciences, Volume 1 1, pp. 269-291. Skovlin, J.M. 1984. "Impacts of Grazing on Wetlands and Riparian Habitat — A Review of Our Knowledge." In Developing Strategies for Rangeland Management, pp. 1001-1103. Boulder, Colorado: Westview Press. Sogge, M.K., T.J. Tibbitts and S.J. Sferra. 1993. Status of the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Along the Colorado River Between Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Mead, 1993 Summary Report. Northern Arizona University, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, & Arizona Game & Fish Department Report. National Park Service Cooperative Park Studies Unit. Sporting Goods Manufacturing Assoc., Outdoor Products Council. 1995. National Survey on Recreation and the Environment, Key Findings 1994-1995. Presented during the SGMA Congressional Reception and Exhibition. Washington, D.C. Stankey, G. and S. McCool. 1984. “Carrying Capacity in Recreational Settings: Evolution, Appraisal, and Application,” Leisure Sciences, Volume 6, Number 4. Sublette, J.E., M.D. Hatch and M. Sublette. 1990. The Fishes of New Mexico. Albuquerque, New Mexico: University of New Mexico Press. Tarrant, M., D. English and H. Cordell. 1995. “A User Carrying Capacity for the Nantahala River, North Carolina,” submitted to USDA Forest Service, Wayah Ranger District, North Carolina. Tennessee Department of Conservation, USFS, TN Valley Authority. 1988. “Ocoee River General Management Plan. Terres, J.K. 1991. The Audubon Society Encyclopedia of North American Birds. A. A. Knopf, Inc. 1 1 09 pp. Tibbitts, T.J., M.K. Sogge and S.J. Sferra. 1994. A Survey Protocol for the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher {Empidonaxtraillii extimus). Technical Report NRTR-94/04, Colorado Plateau Research Station. Northern Arizona University & U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service. Tyus, H.M. 1 984. Loss of Steam Passage as a Factor in the Decline of the Endangered Colorado Squawfish. Thome Ecol. Inst. Publ. 14:138-144. University of Tennessee, Clemson U. 1989. “Ocoee River User Study.” U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southwestern Region. 1992. Soil and Water Conservation Practices Handbook, FSH 2509.22. R-5 REFERENCES U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. 1981. Water Erosion— Universal Soil Loss Equation. Conservation Agronomy Technical Note 28. Washington D.C. . 1 982. Soil Survey of Taos County and Parts of Rio Arriba and Mora Counties, New Mexico. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office. . 1987. Guide for Wind Erosion Control. Conservation Agronomy Technical Note 27. Washington, D.C. . 1992. Soil Survey of Rio Arriba County Area, New Mexico. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office. U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census. 1990. 1990 Census. Washington, D.C. . 1983, 1984, 1994. City and County Data Book. Washington, D.C. U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis. 1995. Regional Economic Profile. Washington, D.C. U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 1981. Timber Management Plan, Albuquerque, New Mexico: Albuquerque and Socorro Districts. . 1982. Public Domain Woodlands Management Policy Statement. Instruction Memorandum 83-102. Washington, D.C.: Washington Office. . 1984. Handbook of Methods for Locating Black-Footed Ferrets. Cheyenne, Wyoming. Wyoming BLM Wildlife Technical Bulletin No. 1, BLM-WY-PT-84-006-4350 Rev 88. . 1988. Taos Resource Management Plan. Albuquerque District. BLM-NM-PT-88-021-4410. 1997. New Mexico Bat Project Survey and Acoustic Documentation Final Report. Taos Field Office, Taos, New Mexico. U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Albuquerque District. 1991. Albuquerque District Proposed Resource Management Plan Amendment/ Final Environmental Impact Statement — Oil and Gas Leasing and Development. BLM-NM-PT-92-002-41 1 1 . Albuquerque, New Mexico. . 1996. "Establishment of Supplementary Rules for Designated Recreation Sites, Special Recreation Management Areas, and Other Public Lands in the Albuquerque District, New Mexico." Federal Register. Federal Register 61, (92);2 1479-83 (Friday, May 10, 1996). Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office. U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Albuquerque District, Taos Resource Area. 1984. Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River Recreation Area Management Plan. Taos, New Mexico. . 1988. Taos Monitoring Plan. Taos, New Mexico. . 1994. North Unit Transportation Plan. Taos, New Mexico. . 1996. Weed Prevention Plan. Taos, New Mexico. . 1998. Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Management Plan for Taos Resource Area. Taos, New Mexico. R-6 REFERENCES U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Canon City District, San Luis Resource Area. 1989. Draft San Luis Resource Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement. Canon City, Colorado. . 1991. San Luis Resource Area Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan. Canon City, Colorado. U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, New Mexico State Office. 1990. New Mexico Riparian- Wetland 2000 Management Strategy. Santa Fe, New Mexico. • February 24, 1994. "Statewide Supplemental Guidance for Off-Highway Vehicle Management," Instruction Memorandum No. NM-94-098. Santa Fe, New Mexico. . February 1, 1995. "New Mexico Road Policy, Albuquerque District," Instruction Memorandum No. NM-95- 03 1 . Santa Fe, New Mexico. U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Wyoming State Office. 1991. Final Environmental Impact Statement, Vegetation Treatment on BLM Lands in Thirteen Western States. BLM-WY-ES-9 1-022-4320. Cheyenne, Wyoming. U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1984. American Peregrine Falcon Recovery Plan (Rocky Mountain/Southwest Population). Prepared in cooperation with the American Peregrine Falcon Recovery Team. Denver, Colorado. . 1988. Black-Footed Ferret Recovery Plan. Denver, Colorado. 154 pp. . 1989. Black-Footed Ferret Survey Guidelines for Compliance with the Endangered Species Act. Denver, Colorado, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. . 1993. Federal Register. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: Final Rule to List The Mexican Spotted Owl as a Threatened Species. 50 CFR Part 17. Vol. 58, No. 49:14248-14271. March 16, 1993. . 1994. Federal Register. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: Animal Candidate Review for Listing as Endangered or Threatended Species Proposed Rule. 50 CFR Part 17. November 15, 1994. . 1995. Recovery Plan for the Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida). Vol. I. Albuquerque, New Mexico. 172 pp. U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington Office. November 19, 1982. "Public Domain Woodlands Management Policy," Instruction Memorandum No. WO-83- 102. Washington, D.C. . 1991. Riparian-Wetland Initiative for the 1990s. Washington, D.C. . 1995. Interim Management Policy for Lands Under Wilderness Review, BLM Manual H-8550-1, Release 8-67. Washington, D.C. Uresk, D.W., J.F. Cline and W.H. Rickard. 1976. "Impact of Wildfire on Three Perennial Grasses in Southcentral Washington." Journal of Range Management 29:309-10. Waltmeyer, S. 1989. “Statistical Summaries of Streamflow Data in New Mexico through 1985,” U.S. Geological Survey. R-7 REFERENCES West, N.E., F.D. Provenza, P.A. Johnson and M.K. Owens. 1984. "Vegetation Change After 13 Years of Livestock Grazing Exclusion on Sagebrush Semidesert in West Central Utah." Journal oj Range Management 37(3);262- 64. Williams, B. 1996. Taped Proceedings From the Johne's Disease Workshop. March 12, 1996. Fort Collins, Colorado: Colorado State University. Williams, S. 1995. New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Santa Fe, New Mexico. Personal communication with Jim Silva, Resource Advisor, Albuquerque District, BLM. Winward, A.H. 1970. Taxonomy and Ecology of Big Sagebrush. Ph.D. Dissertation. Moscow, Idaho: University of Idaho. Wright, H.A. 1985. "Effects of Fire on Grasses and Forbs in Sagebrush Grass Communities." In Rangeland Fire Effects: A Symposium. Boise, Idaho: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. Yoakum, J.D. 1980. "Pronghorn." Big Game of North America: Ecology and Management, pp. \03-2\. D.L. Gilbert and J.L. Schmidt, eds. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania: Stackpole Books. R-8 REFERENCES LEGISLATION American Indian Religious Freedom Act. August 1 1, 1978. Public Law 95-341 . U.S. Statutes at Large, Vol. 92, Part 1 (1978), pp. 461-63. Antiquities Act. June 8, 1906. Public Law 59-209. U.S. Statutes at Large, Vol. 34, Part 1 (1905-7), p. 225. Archaeological Resources Protection Act. October 31, 1979. Public Law 96-95. U.S. Statutes at Large, Vo\. 97> (1979), pp. 721-28. Clean Water Act, as amended. 1977. Public Law 95-217. U.S. Code, Title 33, Section 1251, et. seq. National Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act (Moss-Bennett Act). May 24, 1974. Public Law 93-291 . U.S. Statutes at Large, Vol. 88, Part 1 (1974), pp. 174-76. National Historic Preservation Act. October 15, 1966. Public Law 89-665. U.S. Statutes at Large, Vol. 80, Part 1 (1966), pp. 915-19. National Historic Preservation Act Amendments. December 12, 1980. Public Law 96-515. U.S. Statutes at Large, Wo\. 94, Part 3 (1980), pp. 2987-3006. Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. 1990. Public Law 101-601. U.S. Statutes at Large, \o\.\QA (1990), p. 3050. Public Rangelands Improvement Act. October 25, 1978. Public Law 95-51. U.S. Code, Title 43, Section 1901. EXECUTIVE ORDERS Executive Order 1 1593. May 13, 1971. "Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment." Code of Federal Regulations, Title 3 (1971), pp. 154-57. Executive Order 1 1644. February 8, 1972. Executive Order 1 1989. May 24, 1977. Executive Order 12608. September 9, 1987. R-9 t 1 « ' ll "HrA- ,■• A *:^ t V V ewf5>d* < . "* ' » ■ ill/' J ■' •i.T,mw<. > li'i *i» -«r^.j7ik;jjf \Wi X > I .^)^f H ‘itniii JaA **’ A< ■» : f Itiiv* «.N»' . '01 ♦«s^. ♦■'; ' ^^XK’^-V. jC-. iv»' 't?*' V- ' .' ,|^’!wk ‘iylj noilo^jJAi*! fsrnurxgek^ i ^ ’• '*» ^•'ij^va^l(!!^^ . ■■'•'^ *■^1'' O*' • 't.'i 1^.-, Mtr i''''*^- itllficr p»«* j • . ! ^ i ^ C ,ux': V. } ' f ««ikl 3m4AA? -babn^w’m; rji ;bA t:' ^# *s^,vi '- ; .’M^v ‘ -uv thr ' tja«rr„?^ 4o • ’. Ai\ Z -i ' :^-f'/’’ J ^ .«#hwvtbf»m/ foAnobcv-riaarAJori&k tH b<)0£ 7«VS ,qq ,(0g?*r) C'rvs^ .M 5^)4 Jt^V ,*.‘^^c^>, n> f*riwv '?, B\) f w«, I .IHHM r- r%«r»b/;rii8Q^fl,bajjftfoD<>fOT’^ »vini>fli!:oh’3<^ /.'JQi m»t>jZ f i'rft^r '4. /. \ waJ .v^M^r- ,^ ,J;>A % ♦ ily ;< tl Wf- . WijlO avinjOGjf; *• • '!‘T«>I ,K «(fcM f'gPi t' *tebrO V8^t ,SM)btl *»biO I ■. > ► “i iN. .. ' ‘•* \ ‘ - * ” . 'i I • ’ ’ '■ •. ,V .-"T\T*V> •tl / V I INDEX Animal Unit Months (AUMs) 2-22, 2-34; 3-21; 4-8 Black Mesa ACEC . . Boating Management Bosque Segment . . . . 1-4; 2-13 2-41,2-42 1-4, 1-10; 2-48; 3-4, 3-6, 3-47, 3-55, 3-57, 3-60; 4-2, 4-21, 4-22, 4-25, 4-27, 4-28 Campgrounds 2-14, 2-51, 2-52; 3-3-3-5, 3-47, 3-55, 3-58, 3-61; 4-37 Copper Hill ACEC 1-4, 2-14; 2-38, 2-40, 2-41, 2-53, 2-54; 4-1, 4-4, 4-16, 4-19, 4-24 County Line Recreation Site 1-1, 1-4, 1-10; 2-47, 2-48, 2-51, 2-53; 3-4, 3-9, 3-55-3-57, 3-60, 3-66, 3-71; 4-26^28 Embudo Canyon ACEC 1-4; 2-14; 3-5,3-46-3-48, 3-67 Facilities . . . . Fire 1-10, 1-12, 1-14; 2-2, 2-7, 2-9, 2-40, 2-43-2-51, 2-53; 3-2-3-5,3-45, 3-58, 3-61, 3-64, 3-69; 4-2, 4-8, 4-19, 4-20, 4-22, 4-26, 4-28, 4-35 1-5, 1-6; 2-3, 2-5, 2-11,2-13, 2-15, 2-21, 2-22, 2-55; 3-10, 3-12, 3-16, 3-41, 3-70, 3-71; 4-4-4-7, 4-9; 5-7, 5-8 Grazing Allotments 1-1, 1-4; 2-35; 3-20-3-22 Guadalupe Mountain ACEC 1-4; 2-1 1; 3-3, 3-46, 3-47, 3-67 Impacts on Interpretation and Public Education Impacts on Prehistoric and Historic Resources Impacts on Public Access Impacts on Recreation Impacts on Riparian Resources Impacts on Scenic Quality Impacts on Socioeconomic Conditions Impacts on Soils and Water Quality Impacts on Vegetation Impacts on Wild and Scenic Rivers Impacts on Wildlife Interpretation and Public Education 1-13; 3-43, 3-69 4-20 4-31 4-22 4-3 4-21,4-22 4-32 4-7, 4-8 4-4 4-1 2-2; 4-9, 4-19, 4-35, 4-36 2-2, 2-55; 4-1, 4-3, 4-4, 4-7-4-9, 4-21, 4-30, 4-31 John Dunn Bridge Recreation Site 2-51; 3-71 La Junta Segment La Sauses Recreation Site . . La Sauses Segment Land Acquisition Leasable Minerals Locatable Mining Lone Juniper Recreation Site Lower Embudo SMA Lower Gorge ACEC 2-44 2-43 2-43 4-24 2-13, 2-54; 3-66; 4-30, 4-37 2-53 3-5, 3-55; 4-25 . . . . 2-15, 2-38; 3-5, 3-44, 3-46, 3-67 . 1-4; 2-13, 2-20, 2-40, 2-53; 4-1, 4-24 . 2-53; 3-68, 3-73; 4-7-4-9, 4-20, 4-21, 4-30, 4-31, 4-37 3-18,3-20 2-8, 2-13, 2-15, 2-38, 2-53, 2-54; 3-66; 4-16, 4-19, 4-22 Mineral Development Mineral Extraction . . Mineral Leasing . . . . Index - 1 Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) Orilla Verde Recreation Area 1*4; 2-4, 2-13, 2-14, 2-20, 2-40, 2-50, 2-51, 2-53; 3-3, 3-4, 3-14, 3-22, 3-43, 3-46-3-48, 3-55, 3-57-3-59, 3-61, 3-66, 3-67; 4-4, 4-23, 4-25-4-29 Orilla Verde/Pilar Segment 2-46 Outfitted Boaters 2-43-2-49 Prehistoric and Historic Resources 2-7, 2-38; 3-41; 4-1, 4-3, 4-4, 4-7-4-9, 4-20, 4-21, 4-24, 4-31 Prescribed Burning 3-14, 3-15; 4-4, 4-5, 4-9, 4-21 Private Boaters 2-41, 2-43-2-48; 4-25-4-27 Public Access 1-6, 1-13; 2-2, 2-13, 2-15, 2-43, 2-46, 2-48, 2-52, 2-55; 3-55, 3-68, 3-69; 4-4, 4-8, 4-19, 4-23, 4-28, 4-30, 4-3 1 Quartzite Recreation Site 2-46, 2-47, 2-51, 2-52, 2-57; 3-48; 4-29 Racecourse ACEC 1-4; 2-13; 3-5, 3-22, 3-46, 3-47, 3-67 Racecourse Segment 2-47, 2-55; 3-3; 4-27 Razorblades Segment 2-43; 3-5, 3-22, 3-46, 3-47, 3-67 Recreation 1-1, 1-4, 1-5, 1-10-1-12; 2-2-2-4, 2-7, 2-8, 2-10, 2-1 1, 2-13, 2-14, 2-19, 2-20, 2-22, 2-36-2-38, 2-40, 2-41, 2-43, 2-44, 2-46-2-48, 2-50-2-55, 2-57; 3-2-3-5, 3-9, 3-12, 3-14-3-20, 3-22, 3-36, 3-42, 3-43, 3-45-3-48, 3-55-3-62, 3-64-3-67, 3-69-3-71, 3-77, 3-78, 3-80; 4-1-4-4, 4-8, 4-10, 4-19-4-32, 4-34-4-36; 5-2, 5-3, 5-5, 5-8 Rio Embudo Box 1-10; 2-17, 2-48; 3-7-3-9, 3-56; 4-2, 4-22, 4-31 Rio Grande Corridor ACEC 1-1, 1-4; 2-38, 2-54; 3-46, 3-47, 3-67 Riparian Resources 2-5, 2-19, 2-28; 3-7; 4-3, 4-4, 4-9, 4-20, 4-22, 4-35 San Luis Hills ACEC 1-1, 1-4; 2-4, 2-5, 2-10, 2-54, 2-55; 3-29, 3-46, 3-67 Scenic Quality 1-12; 2-2, 2-7, 2-8, 2-38, 2-40, 2-54; 3-2, 3-45, 3-47; 4-2-4-4, 4-7-4-9, 4-20-4-22, 4-24, 4-29-4-31, 4-36 Socioeconomics 5-8 Special-Status Animal Species 3-31 Special-Status Plant Species 3-15 Taos Box 2-44,2-45;3-2, 3-42,3-45,3-55, 3-56, 3-61; 4-26 Trails 2-37, 2-41, 2-43, 2-44, 2-50, 2-52, 2-57; 3-1, 3-5, 3-15, 3-29, 3-46-3-48, 3-55, 3-59, 3-61; 4-19, 4-29 Upper Box 2-44; 3-2, 3-55, 3-56; 4-26 Ute Mountain Segment 2-37, 2-41, 2-43, 2-50 Vegetation 1-6, 1-10, 1-1 1; 2-1-2-3, 2-5, 2-6, 2-12, 2-14, 2-14, 2-19- 2-33, 2-35-2-38, 2-55, 2-57; 3-5, 3-7, 3-8, 3-10, 3-12-3-17, 3-21, 3-29, 3-34, 3-37, 3-41, 3-45, 3-48, 3-64, 3-65; 4-2-4-10, 4-17, 4-21-4-23, 4-28, 4-31, 4-35; 5-7, 5-9 Vegetation Treatments 2-35; 4-7, 4-9, 4-21 Warm Springs SMA 2-15, 2-38; 3-5, 3-46, 3-67 Water 1-5, 1-8, 1-9, 1-1 1, 1-12, 1-14; 2-3, 2-5, 2-6, 2-16, 2-19-2-21, 2-23-2-29, 2-31, 2-32, 2-35, 2-37, 2-51, 2-52; 3-3-3-5, 3-7-3-12, 3-14, 3-16-3-20, 3-29-3-31, 3-33-3-41, 3-44, 3-57, 3-60, 3-61, 3-64-3-66, 3-68, 3-69; 4-3, 4-6-4-10, 4-13, 4-14, 4-16-4-18, 4-20, 4-22, 4-23, 4-25, 4-26, Index - 2 Wild and Scenic Rivers (WSRs) Wild Rivers Recreation Area . . 4-28, 4-36; 5-2, 5-3, 5-5, 5-8 1-1; 2-4 1-4; 2-4, 2-1 1,2-36-2-38, 2-40, 2-44, 2-50-2-54; 3-2, 3-3, 3-12, 3-15, 3-22, 3-42, 3-45-3-48, 3-58-3-61, 3-65-3-67, 3-69, 3-70; 4-1, 4-10, 4-22, 4-24, 4-28 Wild Rivers SMA 2-11 Wildlife 1-1,1-11, 1-14; 2-2, 2-5, 2-6, 2-1 1, 2-15, 2-21, 2-22, 2-24-2-33, 2-35-2-38, 2-41, 2-50, 2-54, 2-57; 3-2, 3-3, 3-5, 3-10, 3-15, 3-17, 3-29-3-31, 3-36, 3-39, 3-44, 3-55, 3-60, 3-64, 3-70; 4-2, 4-3, 4-6, 4-9-4-11,4-13-4-16, 4-19, 4-22-4-24, 4-26, 4-28, 4-30-4-32, 4-35, 4-36; 5- 1-5-3, 5-7, 5-8, 5-10 Index - 3 ☆ U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1998-673-079 / 31002 Region Inset 3 Inset 2 Velarde Map 7 ROUTE DESIGNATIONS (South Half) Rio Grande Corridor Coordinated Resource Management Plan Primary highway, hard surface Secondary highway, hard surface Light duty road, principal street, hard or improved surface Other road or street Trail, 4WD Vehicle ■ Proposed Closure Planning Area Boundary River or Stream BLM Tribal State ■ ToresT Service ’ Private I