U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management Oregon State Office 1300 N.E. 44th Avenue, Box 2965, Portland, Oregon 97208 Wilderness Study Report Volume I October 1991 As the Nation’s principal conservation agency, the Department of the Interior has responsibility for most of our nationally owned public lands and natural resources. This includes fostering the wisest use of our land and water resources, protecting our fish and wildlife, preserving the environmental and cultural values of our national parks and historical places, and providing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor recreation. The Department assesses our energy and mineral resources and works to assure that their development is in the best interest of all our people. The Department also has a major responsibility for American Indian reservation communities and for people who live in Island Territories under U.S. administration. BV.W'--edeta\ pet^et£ ~ c ?.oTfco petvvet’ ,0 oC-5“V 2504] 80225 BLM-OR-EA-91 -43-8561 .6 \y.mum Table of Contents WSA QH W . oT 1^55" 111 I vJ Page Devils Garden . Squaw Ridge . Four Craters . Sand Dunes . Diablo Mountain . Orejana Canyon . Abert Rim . Fish Creek . , . Guano Creek . Spaulding . Flawk Mountain . Sage Flen Hills . Malheur River/Bluebucket . Stonehouse . Lower Stonehouse . . . Sheepshead Mountain Group . Sheepshead Mountains Wildcat Canyon Heath Lake Table Mountain West Peak Palomino Hills Alvord Desert/East Alvord . Winter Range . Mahogany Ridge . Red Mountain . Pueblo Mountain . Rincon . Alvord Peak . . Basque Hills . High Steens/Little Blitzen Gorge . South Fork of Donner and Blitzen River Home Creek . Blitzen River . Bridge Creek . Strawberry Mountain . Pine Creek Sheep Gulch Indian Creek Aldrich Mountain . Castle Rock . Beaver Dam Creek . Camp Creek Group . Camp Creek Cottonwood Creek Gold Creek Sperry Creek Cedar Mountain . . . Dry Creek . ..1 11 21 31 39 _ v ..59 ..69 ..81 ..91 101 113 121 131 141 151 171 191 199 213 223 241 255 265 277 301 311 323 339 349 359 367 377 385 403 413 Dry Creek Buttes . 423 Owyhee Breaks . 433 Blue Canyon . 447 Upper Leslie Gulch . 437 Slocum Creek . 463 Honeycombs . 473 Wild Horse Basin . 437 Lower Owyhee Canyon . 495 Saddle Butte . 31 1 Bowden Hills . 521 Clarks Butte . 531 Jordan Craters . 541 Trout Creek Mountains Group . 333 Willow Creek Disaster Peak Fifteenmile Creek Oregon Canyon Twelvemile Creek Upper West Little Owyhee . 575 Lookout Butte . 587 Owyhee River Canyon . 597 Thirtymile/Lower John Day . 617 North Pole Ridge . 631 Spring Basin . 641 Deschutes Canyon/Steelhead Falls . 651 Badlands . 665 North Fork . 677 South Fork/Sand Hollow . 687 Gerry Mountain . 701 Hampton Butte/Cougar Wells . 709 McGraw Creek . 719 Homestead . 727 Sheep Mountain . 737 Mountain Lakes . 747 Soda Mountain . , . 753 North Sisters Rocks and Zwagg Island . 763 Devils Garden Wilderness Study Area 1 . The Study Area — 29,680 acres The Devils Garden Lava Bed WSA (OR-1-2) is located in Lake County, about 60 miles southeast of Bend, Oregon, and 8 miles north of the small town of Fort Rock. The WSA contains 28,720 acres of BLM lands and 960 acres of split-estate land (see table 1). The boundaries are primarily defined on the east by private land, vehicle ways, and low standard dirt access roads associated with a powerline right-of- way. On the north, west and south, land ownership and low standard roads define the WSA boundary. A low-standard dead-end road extends 2 miles into a well in the Devils Garden, forming a part of the boundary. Most of the WSA is extremely rugged terrain covered by geologically recent lava flows. An open sagebrush grassland of some 3,900 acres in the north-central portion is known locally as “The Devils Garden.” The lava flows consist of aa lava, very sharp and broken in appearance, while smoother-textured, less rugged pahoehoe flows cover the south portion of the WSA. The WSA supports juniper, mountain mahogany, ponderosa pine, varied native grasses and abundant shrubs. There are a number of lava tube caves in the WSA, the largest and best known being Derrick Cave near the northeast corner of the WSA. A number of cinder cones occur in the WSA. The most interesting cinder cone, known as the “Little Garden”, is located in the northeast portion of the WSA. It is covered by ponderosa pine and dense stands of native bunchgrasses. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) and was included in the Final Oregon Wilderness Environmental Impact Statement filed in February 1990. There were three alternatives discussed in the EIS for the WSA; all wilderness alternative; partial wilderness alternative proposing wilderness designa¬ tion of 28,160 acres, with road closure and acquisi¬ tion of 960 acres of split-estate from willing owners (which is the recommendation of this report); and no wilderness/no action alternative. These lands are shown on Map 1. 1 j 2. Recommendation and Rationale — 28,160 acres recommended for wilderness 1 ,520 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate 28,160 acres wilderness and to release 1 ,520 acres for uses other than wilderness. The environmentally preferable alternative is the all wilderness alternative as it will result in the least change from the natural environ¬ ment over the long term. However, the recommen¬ dation would be implemented in a manner which would use all practical means to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. The recommendation would preserve the natural ecological diversity on 28,160 acres, representing a variety of volcanic features, and a combination of vegetative communities reflecting the transition from the forest ecosystems to the north, and the sage¬ brush-desert zone to the south. The area has high wilderness values, is generally free of human activity, and appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature. The area also possesses outstand¬ ing opportunities for solitude due to its large size, rugged topographic features and vegetative screen¬ ing. Wilderness designation of the Devil’s Garden WSA would add an ecosystem (Intermountain Sagebrush Province/Sagebrush-steppe) not presently repre¬ sented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. Outstanding opportunities for primitive recreation include hiking, hunting, photography, spelunking (cave exploring), sightseeing and nature study. The extent and diversity of volcanic features, plant communities, ecological interrelationships, and recreation opportunities offer a unique matrix of wilderness values. A homestead site in the Devils Garden WSA adds historic significance to the recommendation. Those public lands recommended nonsuitable for wilderness designation are located in the northwest (Area A), southeastern (Area B), and a small parcel of land on the southwest (Area C). Area A is land outside the main lava flow containing vehicle trails, fencelines and low wilderness value. Topography and ownership pattern would make controlling access difficult after designation, therefore the boundary has been drawn on an existing way at the edge of the flow. Area B in the southeast corner of the WSA contains a crested wheatgrass seeding which offers no opportunity for solitude. Area C on the southwest corner of the WSA presents an awkward ownership configuration and lacks wilder¬ ness values such as naturalness and solitude. These parcels are recommended as nonsuitable to improve wilderness manageability and exclude acreage not possessing wilderness character. Conflicts with other resource uses of the WSA are limited. Livestock utilization of the Devils Garden emergency allotment on a temporary basis requires the periodic use of a gas motor to operate the well in the garden. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendations Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness : The Devils Garden WSA remains in a generally natural condition with much of the Lava Flow pristine. The area’s large size, rugged topogra¬ phy and diverse vegetation enhance the natural perspective in the area. Fire scars within the area are a natural part of the ecosystem and are viewed as indication of natural cycles at work. Minor evi¬ dence of human activity appears in the “Devils Garden,” the historic homestead, a seeding that has revegetated to a great degree with native vegetation, and several vehicle trails. There are two wildlife guzzlers at remote locations in the suitable area. Unnatural features affect less than one percent of the area recommended suitable. Signs of human activity, seedings, fencelines and trails influence Areas A, B, and C, leading in part to the deletion of these areas from the area recommended suitable for wilderness designation. Three high voltage powerlines in a corridor outside the east boundary influence approximately 1 ,200 acres inside the southeast boundary as an outside sight visible within the area. The Devils Garden provides habitat for antelope, elk, over 5,000 deer, bobcat, porcupine, numerous bird species and a diverse range of small mammals, reptiles and other wildlife. There are occasional reports of black bear and cougar in the area. B. Solitude: The Devils Garden WSA has out¬ standing opportunities for solitude due to its large 2 R 14 E R 15 E R 16 E T 23 S T 24 S T 25 S RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS RECOMMENDED FOR NONWILDERNESS LAND OUTSIDE WSA RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS (None) SPLIT ESTATE STATE (None) PRIVATE (None) -N- I Devil’s Garden Lava Bed Proposal MAP-1 0 12 3 I _ I _ I _ I MILES OR- 1-2 January, 1991 Table 1 . Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area Acres BLM (within WSA) Split-Estate (BLM surface only)1 Inholdings (State, Private) Total Within Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 27,200 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA)1 960 Split-Estate (outside WSA)1 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 28, 1 60 Inholdings (State, Private) 0 Within Area Not Recommended for Wilderness BLM 1,520 Split- Estate1 0 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness 1 ,520 Inholdings (State, private) 0 'Appendix 1 is a detailed description of split-estate tracts included within the study. For purposes of this report, split- estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non-federal subsurface (minerals). 28,720 960 0 29,680 size, rugged topographic features, and vegetative screening. In the north half of the WSA extremely rugged lava flows, dense vegetation, cinder cones and highly broken terrain offer truly exceptional opportunities for solitude. Though the “Devils Garden” area is more open than the flow areas, it still has more than adequate topographic relief to warrant a high degree of solitude. The pahoehoe flows on the south half of the WSA at first appear open; however, the vast number of pockets, fissures and less dramatic elements of topographic relief in the area offer outstanding opportunities for solitude in this area as well. The “Little Garden” area in the northeast portion offers an overlook of the expanse of the Devils Garden while surrounded by ponderosa pine and lush native bunchgrasses. The aesthetics of the “Little Garden” represent the epitome of solitude. Areas A,B, and C identified as nonsuitable for wilderness have little opportunity for solitude due to topography and exposure to outside activities surrounding these parcels. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: The WSA offers outstanding opportunities for hiking, photography, spelunking, wildlife observation and study of natural history, especially geology and volcanism. The area also offers outstanding opportu¬ nities for hunting, camping, and general sightseeing. Derrick Cave is one of the most popular caves in the region, drawing interest from outside the state within the speleological community. The diversity of opportunities in the WSA and the varied terrain and ecosystems represented, from dense forest to big sage, caves to open expanses, rugged lava flows to pine covered cinder cones, make it especially attractive for primitive recreation. D. Special Features: The entire WSA is an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) due to high geologic and zoological values. 4 1 The Devils Garden contains numerous geologic features of high interest to the educational and scientific communities, especially as related to volcanism. Volcanic features of unusual complexity representing diverse form and textures have been used by university classes over the years as a field laboratory of significance to the educational commu¬ nity. Two spatter cones known as “The Blowouts” are located on the east edge of the study area. Several lava tube caves, including the well known Derrick Cave, and a variety of other volcanic features can also be found. The study area is in an ecotone between the sagebrush steppe and ponderosa pine forest, and therefore contains an assemblage of plants and animals found in both ecosystems. The Devils Garden Lava Bed also contains kupukas, areas of undisturbed soils and native vegetation surrounded by lava fields. The entire area is within crucial deer winter range, offering forage and thermal cover, and lies within wintering range for northern bald eagle, which is federally listed as threatened in Oregon. Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features, as Represented by Ecosystems: Wilderness designation of this WSA would add an ecosystem not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. There are 66 other BLM areas in the state under study within this ecosystem. This information is summarized in Table 2. According to the Bailey-Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, the Devils Garden WSA is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province, with a potential natural vegetation of sagebrush-steppe with juniper. Vegetative communities listed in the High Lava Plains and Columbia Basin section of the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan and occurring in the WSA are: ponderosa pine/big sagebrush, ponderosa pine/bitterbrush/Idaho fescue, ponderosa pine/ western juniper/big sagebrush, western juniper/big sagebrush/bluebunch wheatgrass, western juniper/ bluebunch wheatgrass, western juniper, Idaho fescue, western juniper/big sagebrush/bitterbrush, big sagebrush/Idaho fescue, mountain mahogany and aspen. B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive Recreation Within a Day’s Driving Time (five hours) of Major Populations Centers: The WSA is within five hours driving time of four standard metropolitan statistical areas with populations over 100,000: Eugene/Springfield, Salem, Portland, and Medford, Oregon. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within a five-hour drive of the population center. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The Devils Garden WSA would not contribute to balancing the geographic distribu¬ tion of areas within the National Wilderness Preser¬ vation System. There are 15 designated wilderness areas within 100 miles of this WSA. Manageability (The area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness character.) The portion recommended for wilderness designa¬ tion is manageable as wilderness. The only man¬ agement problem of any potential in the area is the necessity to utilize a gasoline motor on the well which provides water for the temporary grazing operation in the Devils Garden allotment. Due to the temporary nature of this utilization it is probable that this use would be found compatible with wilderness management after a site-specific analysis. Under the recommendation, manageability would be enhanced by the acquisition of mineral estate of 960 acres and closure of vehicle access to the Devils Garden. Areas B and C of the WSA recommended as nonsuitable would be manageable as wilderness, but lack wilderness values. Area A has a convoluted boundary with private land, numerous trails, a social history of vehicle use, and non wilderness types of camping and hunting activity that would make wilderness management impracticable within the parcel. Energy and Mineral Resource Values The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Bureau of Mines prepared a mineral assessment for the Devils Garden WSA in 1988 (USGS Bulletin 1738- A). Geothermal energy is the main potential energy resource in the area with a moderate rating based on indirect evidence of recent volcanism and above normal heat flow. 5 j Table 2. Ecosystem Representation Bailey-Kuchler NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Classification Areas Acres Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation NATIONWIDE Intermountain Sagebrush/ Sagebrush Steppe 3 76,699 136 4,340,660 OREGON 0 0 66 1 ,953,394 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Population Centers Areas Acres Areas Acres Eugene/Springfield, OR 42 2,859,994 4 770,436 Salem, OR 45 2,888,764 18 210,085 Portland, OR 48 4,537,392 16 91,762 Medford, OR 31 2,440,081 21 730,032 The WSA has a low potential for occurrence of metals based on direct evidence; and a moderate potential for silver, zinc and mercury based on indirect evidence. There is a moderate to high potential for cinders and slab lava used for decora¬ tive stone in the area. There is no present production of any mineral or geothermal resource in the WSA. In summary, quantities of various minerals are unknown, but potential for occurrence is low to moderate as identified in maps on the mineral report. As of May 1 991 , there were no mining claims within this WSA.. Recent USGS evidence suggests that the area may have moderate potential for hydrocar¬ bons at depth. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 914 AUMs and recreation use totaling 2,000 visitor use days per year are the primary resource outputs that generate economic activity in the WSA. Local personal income generated annually from these existing use levels amounts to approximately $1 1 ,000 for live¬ stock grazing and $24,000 related to recreation use, for an overall total of approximately $35,000. Under the recommendation, livestock grazing would remain at 91 4 AUMs. Recreation use is expected to increase by 20 visitor days per year due to popula¬ tion growth. Annual total personal income generated 6 from resource outputs in the WSA would increase by $240. There were no social issues identified by the study of this WSA. Summary of WSA-Specific Public Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternatives for the ultimate management of those lands found to have wilderness values. During the inventory phase, 19 public comments were received which dealt with wilderness values on the Devils Garden. Eighteen commenters supported the recommendation that the area be a WSA and one commenter discussed the supplemental values of the area for wilderness without specifically recom¬ mending the area be a WSA. Seven comments suggested the Cherry Stem Road into the area be closed. Thirty-three comments were received on the Draft EIS and its Supplement. Of these, 25 were written and 8 were oral; all support some portion or all of the area be designated as wilderness. One letter from the owner of the split-estate interests on the east side of the WSA specifically recommends that the entire area be designated as wilderness. One WSA- specific comment was received from the U.S. Forest Service. The Forest Service was concerned with fire management on their lands north of the WSA and the evaluation of wilderness character of the area as compared to existing Forest Service wilderness. Two letters were received on the Final EIS specific to this WSA. Impacts on Resources The following comparative impact table summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for all alternatives considered, including designation and nondesignation of the area as wilderness. 7 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (Partial Wilderness Alternative w/Road Closure and Acquisition) Impacts on Wilderness Values Wilderness designation of 28,160 acres including 960 acres of acquired mineral estate and ACEC designation on remaining acreage would enhance wilderness values. Minor solitude impairment on 1,520 acres nonsuitable. Impacts on Energy and Mineral No impact to development since none is projected. Impacts on Vegetation 17 miles of way and 2 miles of road would reveg¬ etate. No change in ecological status. Impacts on Wildlife Habitat and populations maintained on 28,160 acres with enhancement of deer winter range. Impacts on Livestock Grazing Use remains at 914 AUMs. Minor constraints on management practices due to closure of 17 miles of ways. Impacts on Recreation Use Change to primitive recreation use. Minor increase of 20 visitor days per year. Impacts on Local Personal Income Annual local personal income generated from resource outputs would increase by approximately $240. 8 All Wilderness Alternative No Wilderness/No Action Alternative Wilderness designation of 29,680 acres would protect and enhance wilderness values. ACEC designation would preclude most impairing management actions. Minor solitude impairment from continued vehicle access. No impact to development, since none is projected. No impact to development, since none is projected. 20 miles of way would revegetate. No change in ecological status. No change in ecological status. 20 miles of way would not revegetate. Habitat and populations maintained throughout the area. Crucial deer winter range enhanced. There would be a 30-acre forage improvement. Vehicle access would continue in habitat with minor impairment of habitat. Use remains at 914 AUMs. Minor constraints on management practices due to closure of 20 miles of ways. Use remains at 914 AUMs. No impact. Change to primitive recreation use. Minor increase of 20 visitor days per year. No change in types of recreation use. Minor increase of 20 visitor days per year. Annual local personal income generated from resource outputs would increase by approximately $240. Annual local personal income generated from resource outputs would increase by approximately $240. Appendix 1 - Estimated Costs of Acquisition of Non-Federal Holdings Within Areas Recommended for Designation « c O o o~ ■si If to LLI 05 C • ‘to to <1> 10 2 8 Q. O c to T5 O £ . 4) 5 ' Tl 0) 05 c to £ o X ' jto 3 „ CT O »> ^ I. LU 45 -XT 4) X to O to O o u “ w ^ to ‘S “ k_ O. 3 CL . O C „ C A) ■“ » (I) •e « fco^ -C ^ d) co £ 2 S o *■§ ® Oil to o to -r 4) re Q- S: to iTuj to 3 4) <0 «- JQ 2 3 to co lu 8 4, •2T5 4— ■ 3 10 (0 UJ 45 c 5 O 4> X) E 3 4) to c? o £ l- o < c o 'S >* c Q. C o to — > 4) ~ Q o 2 45 §8 co 8 cj r> o o o o o o. o o o 8 o in 0) 0 0 0 0 0 to to to 0)0) Q) > > > to to 0) 0) >- >- 0) 0) 0) .2 2 re re re re re re re > > > • f“ > > > L— L— CL CL CL L— L— CL Q. Q. "re "re "re re re ■re -SI re -o ■8-8 re "O 0) 0) re re re re LL LL LL LL LL LL CM O ■M" CO CO CO o +i LU 5 CM LU 'S LU CO z CM CM LU LLJ 5 5 5 2 LU 5 LU miu CO oJ c\J '* — '* — 1 1 i zLU2(/)2ZZ in CC . . CM 00 CO TJ- ,h» -r- CM CM C/S c c O o c C C o O O CM O O ■*-* o *—• o o . re re re re re 1- CO w W W CO h- co c/) c o in •*= C\J o . 0 h- (/) •o ® .T2 o o Q. ® x: •o c * •= <2 T3 0 O -O O § ®. 05 T3 o 2 ® 50 8 cl c a O “ c ® Ql ° © ® <0 C S o -jlj ® 8> c "3 ro 2 "2 ° ® £ 3 ° T? y5 Q- ® S 2^ n 5 J§ &1 £55 is-ni iMli 9 « g* c ? . ® ■— c ® o> _ <0 c 2> c = -9 ™ ™<.y-g n K « a® m •£ ® <0 1= ' "O - 3 o g o V) Sc S - . r= 8 ® C 2 2^15.3 5-g g « o “*2 51 - a> -T3 ° ^ C 4_ « ® c m ° o c •_ CD g E * . fc .tog3 3 ~ 5 m c £5 (0 w i/) 2 »oSSo £?«** ■5 I § I ®| 3 ra ® w o S’ > < (O X CO 8>8 ? ® « * ^ 5 § m -rr 2 Q. O 2 c ^ £2 i "z: cO k_ E 8 8 C T3 if) -® co ® a o ® — w -O (TJ ® Q. - — ^ "O to (TJ C 3 O ® “2 o »» “• ® § 1 a) u CO ® ® Q. > »- a ° ^2a|o * « 8 i 8 o oiOc © CO £ o §■ ® - £^|8 .K U= — >> ® ■O -Q C c CO c 2 J o F ® co £ _ ._ Q. ® ~ -p >< &o|I 2 | ® ° ? S’ 2 O ® -n 2 ® Q. S O 8 lol&f I ® g .« ® O -Ji o o o fO ® ® o llpa- p ® o t © CO ♦= jc ‘F © .52 ^ h- E © Q o c ® ® < n ® ® co ® > O 10 Squaw Ridge Wilderness Study Area 1 . The Study Area — 28,340 acres The Squaw Ridge Lava Bed WSA (OR-1-3) is located approximately 80 miles southeast of Bend and 26 miles from State Highway 31 in Lake County, Oregon, and approximately 12 miles northeast of the town of Fort Rock. The study area contains 27,700 acres of BLM land, 640 acres of split-estate land, and a 320-acre State inholding near the eastern edge of the WSA (see Table 1 ). The boundaries are described by high standard gravel roads on the south, private land and 1 .5 miles of low standard dirt road on the west, low standard dirt road on the north, and low and high standard dirt roads on the east. Small portions of the east and north boundaries are formed along private land. The WSA, roughly circular in shape, is dominated by an extremely rugged basalt flow which issued from what is now called Lava Butte, and forms a flattened cone covering approximately two-thirds of the study area. Elevation ranges from 4,300 feet to 5,585 feet at the summit of Lava Butte near the center of the WSA. Vegetation consists primarily of western juniper/sagebrush/bunchgrass communities on the lava flow, and western juniper/big sagebrush¬ rabbitbrush communities surrounding the flow. Mountain mahogany, aspen, and ponderosa pine also occur at various locations within the lava flow. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, (FLPMA) and was included in the Final Oregon Wilderness Environmental Impact Statement filed in February of 1990. Three alternatives were identified for the WSA: all wilderness, partial wilderness (the recommendation in this report), and no wilderness/no action. These lands are shown on Map 1 . 2. Recommendation and Rationale — 21 ,010 acres recommended for wilderness 7,330 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate 21 ,010 acres as wilderness, and release 7,330 acres for uses other than wilderness. The all wilderness alternative is the environmentally preferable alternative. How¬ ever, the recommendation would be implemented in 11 a manner using all practical means to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. The recommenda¬ tion will preserve the portion of the WSA with high wilderness values, including volcanic features of scenic and educational value, extremely valuable wildlife habitat, and native bunchgrass communities, while releasing portions that have lower wilderness values. The 21,010 acres recommended for wilderness offer significant ecological diversity represented by numerous vegetative communities. The Squaw Ridge Lava Flow lies in a transition zone adjacent to ponderosa pine forest to the north and sagebrush- steppe desert flora to the south. Mountain ma¬ hogany and juniper are the predominant tree species on the lava flow. Isolated pines and quaking aspen occur along the north end of the flow. Shrubs include big sagebrush, bitterbrush, wax currant, desert- sweet, rabbitbrush and gland ocean-spray. Native bunchgrasses are abundant in the WSA. Bluebunch wheatgrass forms pure stands in excellent condition on the cinder cones in the WSA, while Thurber’s needlegrass, bottlebrush squirreltail, bluegrasses, Junegrass and Indian ricegrass represent valued populations of additional native species. These communities are less common outside the WSA. The WSA is totally within crucial deer winter range, providing forage and thermal protection. It offers outstanding primitive recreation opportunities related to wildlife observation and sightseeing for natural resources such as botany and geology. Squaw Ridge Lava Flow offers outstanding opportunities to observe the complex interactions occurring within a diverse ecosystem. Wilderness designation would add an ecosystem (Intermountain sagebrush/sagebrush-steppe) not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. The areas recommended as nonwilderness lie outside the lava flow on all four sides of the WSA. The primary rationale for unsuitable recommenda¬ tions was to allow for future livestock development (see areas A, B, and C, Map 1 ). Area A to the north of the main lava flow is a sagebrush and juniper area containing scattered grazing developments such as trails, waterholes and fencelines. Area B is an isolated parcel on the west side of the WSA is bracketed by private land on two sides and would be awkward to manage as wilderness due to activities on private lands that would intrude on wilderness solitude and perceived naturalness in the area. Area C represents areas on the south between the lava flow and a county road right-of-way, as well as two small parcels between the flow and private lands forming the boundary on the southwest and east. Area C contains a waterhole in the southwest portion. The conflicts with other resource uses of this WSA are limited. Grazing use of much of the area will be allowed to continue. The area has no known energy resources and the minerals known to exist in the area have low potential for occurrence with the exception of slab lava used for decorative stone. No development is projected in the foreseeable future. The recommendation is preferred over the all wilderness alternative because it would allow mainte¬ nance of grazing and wildlife water projects outside the lava flow, while preserving the primary wilder¬ ness values within the flow. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendations Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: The Squaw Ridge WSA appears to be predominantly natural with negligible human imprints. This natural character is emphasized by abundant native vegetation throughout the WSA and by undisturbed lava features. Peripheral to the lava flow, the WSA contains sagebrush, native grasses and forbs, with a minimal occurrence of exotic plant species. Scattered occurrences of aspen and ponderosa pine also add to the natural diversity of the area. A wildfire in 1986 burned approximately 500 acres at the northern edge of the WSA. The area is successfully revegetating on the majority of the burn with native bunchgrasses seeded naturally from surviving vegetation. The Squaw Ridge WSA is within crucial deer winter range supporting approximately 10,000 deer in winter. Elk have also been moving into the area in recent years. Other wildlife which inhabit or frequent the area include cougar, bobcat, porcupine, badger, yellow-bellied marmot, ground squirrels, bats, western rattlesnake, gopher snakes, fence lizard and other reptiles. Avian species include bald eagle, red tailed and rough-legged hawk, prairie falcon, great horned owl, turkey vulture, raven, loggerhead shrike, western tanager, mountain bluebird, and other perching song birds. 12 R 16 E R 17 E T 23 S T 24 S T 25 S RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS RECOMMENDED FOR NONWILDERNESS (None) LAND OUTSIDE WSA RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS (None) SPLIT ESTATE STATE PRIVATE (None) -N- I Squaw Ridge Lava Bed Proposal MAP-1 0 12 3 I _ I _ I _ I MILES OR- 1-3 January, 1991 Table 1. Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area BLM (surface and subsurface) Split-Estate (BLM surface only) 1 Inholdings (State, private) Total Within the Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 20,890 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA) 1 120 Split-Estate (outside WSA) 1 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 21,010 Inholdings (State, private) 1 0 Within the Area Not Recommended for Wilderness 6,81 0 Split-Estate1 520 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness 7,330 Inholdings (State, private)1 320 ' Appendix 1 is a detailed description of inholdings and split-estate tracts included within the study. For purposes of this report, split estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non-Federal subsurface (minerals). Acres 27,700 640 320 28,660 Unnatural features in the WSA are minimal in size and impact, and are scattered through the lands not covered by lava, affecting approximately 500 acres, less than 2 percent of the WSA. The area within the recommendation contains approximately 3 miles of vehicle way and is bound by approximately 1 1 miles of vehicle ways. Area A contains four small reser¬ voirs, four miles of fenceline and approximately 3 miles of vehicle way. The heavy cover of juniper and shrubs and the scattered low hills make the develop¬ ments relatively unnoticeable. Area B contains two miles of fenceline. Area C contains approximately one mile of vehicle way and a reservoir. A 425-acre seeding (15 years old) in the southeast corner of the WSA has been invaded by sagebrush, rabbitbrush and native bunchgrasses, making it relatively unno¬ ticeable to the average visitor. B. Solitude: The opportunities for solitude are outstanding in the entire WSA. The very irregular topography of the lava flow and the abundant juniper, mountain mahogany and shrub cover readily isolate the visitor anywhere in the main body of the recom¬ mendation. One can have a feeling of total solitude just a few yards into the lava flow. Small areas within nonsuitable areas A and C offer slightly less opportunity for solitude due to the lower stature of vegetation and flat terrain. These areas still afford excellent solitude potential. Solitude potential is quite limited in nonsuitable area B. The use of vehicles to haul water for cattle approxi¬ mately twelve times during the grazing season in the Jack’s Place pasture on the east side of the WSA has a temporary negative impact on the opportunities for solitude in the immediate vicinity. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: Out¬ standing opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation such as day hiking, backpacking, tent¬ camping, sightseeing, photography, caving and exploring the lava features are present throughout 14 the WSA. The WSA offers the visitor outstanding views, abundant wildlife, a variety of geological features and a wide diversity of plants. Hiking within the lava flow is challenging due to the rough and irregular surface. The area outside the lava flow (Areas A and C) offer less rugged terrain for camp¬ ing, and easier access for recreation. Area B has somewhat limited primitive recreation potential due toe the proximity to private lands and exposed terrain. D. Special Features: The WSA is known for its variety of volcanic features, including; sharp and convoluted “aa” lava, flat-featured smooth-surfaced pahoehoe lava, collapses, tumuli (fractured basaltic domes), cinder cones, squeeze-ups (lava forced through fissures), spires and ropy lavas. Numerous geology students and classes visit the WSA annually to study the examples of volcanism. The abundance and diversity of native vegetation in the WSA represents a somewhat unique feature. The WSA is located in an ecotone between the sagebrush steppe and ponderosa pine forest and thus contains an assemblage of plants found in both ecosystems. The high quality of the native vegeta¬ tion is exemplified by the diversity of species and the abundance of plants on the surface of the flow. Desert-sweet, an uncommon shrub, is endemic to lava flows such as this. The cinder cones are covered almost exclusively with bluebunch wheat- grass. This type of plant community is uncommon in southeastern Oregon. The rest of the flow is covered with a wide array of other native bunchgrasses, wildflowers, colorful lichens, and numerous shrubs and trees including juniper, mountain mahogany, and some ponderosa pine and quaking aspen. The area contains several kipukas— areas of rela¬ tively undisturbed native vegetation in the lava fields. The Squaw Ridge WSA is crucial deer winter range for approximately 10,000 mule deer from the Devils Garden deer herd. Elk are also wintering in the area in increasing numbers. Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features as Represented by Ecosystem: Wilderness designation of this WSA would add an ecosystem not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. There are 66 other BLM areas in the state under study within this ecosystem. According to the Bailey-Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, the Squaw Ridge WSA is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province, with a potential natural vegetation of sagebrush steppe with juniper. This information is summarized in Table 2. Vegetative communities listed in the High Lava Plains section of the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan and occurring in the WSA include western juniper/ Idaho fescue, big sagebrush/Idaho fescue, mountain mahogany, and Idaho fescue-bluebunch wheatgrass. B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive Recreation Within a Day’s Driving Time (five hours) of Major Population Centers: There are four standard metropolitan statistical areas with populations over 100,000 within five hours’ driving time of the Squaw Ridge WSA: Medford, Eugene/ Springfield, Salem, and Portland, Oregon. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within a five-hour drive of the population centers. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The Squaw Ridge WSA would not contribute to balancing the geographic distribu¬ tion of areas within the National Wilderness Preser¬ vation System. There are 15 designated areas within 100 miles of this WSA. Manageability (The area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics.) Given the rugged terrain and essentially pristine nature of the lava flow area, the recommended area would be easily managed as wilderness since lack of reasonable access for development or vehicle travel greatly limits the potential for incompatible use. The nonsuitable areas are also manageable as wilder¬ ness, although minor access problems to control vehicles in Area A would result with existing develop¬ ments and vehicle ways. Energy and Mineral Resource Values Energy and mineral resources were evaluated by BLM using available geologic data, results of a BLM geologic/geochemical study, and data provided by Engineers International, Incorporated (Ell), a consult¬ ing firm under contract to BLM. The data are con¬ tained in an Ell report titled “Geological Investigation and Mineral Inventory of Devil’s Garden, Four Craters, and Squaw Ridge in Lake County, Oregon.” Additional information is drawn from the U.S. Geo¬ logical Survey/ Bureau of Mines Bulletin 1738-A, 15 A Table 2. Ecosystem Representation Bailey-Kuchler Classification NWPS Areas Areas Acres Other BLM Studies Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation NATIONWIDE Intermountain Sagebrush Province/ Sagebrush Steppe 3 76,699 136 4,342,000 OREGON 0 0 66 1 ,954,734 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers Population Centers NWPS Areas Areas Acres Other BLM Studies Areas Acres Medford, OR 31 2,440,081 21 730,038 Eugene/Springfield, OR 42 2,859,994 43 770,436 Salem, OR 45 2,888,764 23 210,083 Portland, OR 48 4,537,392 21 91,762 “Mineral Resources of the Devil’s Garden Lava Bed, Squaw Ridge Lava Bed, and Four Craters Lava Bed Wilderness Study Areas, Lake County, Oregon” dated 1988. The entire WSA is considered moderately favorable for the occurrence of geothermal resources based upon recent volcanism and above-normal heat flow characteristic of most of southeastern Oregon. No specific areas of geothermal potential have been identified. Part of the WSA (1 ,740 acres) is rated highly or moderately favorable for the occurrence of slab lava. There are 400 acres rated highly favorable for the occurrence of cinders. Slab lava occurring near the margins of the Squaw Ridge lava flow is considered exploitable, while the interior deposits of slab lava and the cinder deposits are not accessible. As of May 1991 , there were no mining claims within the WSA. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 1 ,175 AUMs and recreation use totaling 400 visitor days per year are the primary resource outputs that generate economic activity in the WSA. Local personal income gener¬ ated annually from these existing use levels amounts 16 to approximately $14,100 for livestock grazing and $4,800 related to recreation use, for an overall total of $18,900. Under the recommendation, livestock grazing would remain at 1,175 AUMs and local personal income derived from it would not change. Recreation use numbers are not expected to change substantially, therefore income derived from it would remain unchanged. Annual local personal income generated from resource outputs (recreation use and livestock grazing) in the WSA would remain at approximately $19,000. There were no social issues identified in the study of this WSA. Summary of WSA-Specific Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternatives for the ultimate management of those lands found to have wilderness value. During formal public review of the Draft EIS and its Supplement, a total of 16 comments specifically addressing this WSA were received. Of those comments, 14 were written and 2 were oral comments received at the public hearings. Five commenters supported the all wilderness alternative citing protection of natural resources, ecological diversity, and the uniqueness of the area as reasons. One commenter supported an enhanced wilderness alternative and one commenter supported a greater than preferred alternative, both stating that the boundaries of the suitable recommendation were poorly drawn. One commenter supported the no wilderness alternative stating that the area could not be man¬ aged as a wilderness because there was little solitude or primitive recreation opportunities. Three commenters supported a greater than all wilderness alternative citing that the values of the area as wilderness (scenic value, recreation) out¬ weigh the other values of the area. No WSA-specific comments were received from federal or local agencies concerning the designation or nondesignation of the Squaw Ridge Lava Bed WSA. Two letters were received on the Final EIS specific to this WSA. Impacts on Resources The following comparative impact table summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for all the alterna¬ tives considered including designation or nondesignation of the entire area as wilderness. 17 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (Partial Wilderness Alternative) Impacts on Wilderness Values Wilderness designation of 21,010 acres would protect wilderness values. Values directly impaired on 430 acres. Impacts on Energy and Mineral Development Slab lava sale foregone on 20 acres. No impact on energy development since none is projected. Impacts on Vegetation 14 miles of ways would not revegetate; native vegetation preserved on 21 ,010 acres. Impacts on Wildlife Crucial deer winter range preserved on 21 ,01 0 acres. Habitat impacted by vehicles on 7,330 acres. Impacts on Livestock Grazing No change in use levels of 1 , 1 75 AUMs. Impacts on Recreation Use No substantial change in use. (10 visitor days/year due to population increase). Impacts on Local Personal Income Annual local personal income would remain at approximately $19,000. 18 All Wilderness Alternative No Wilderness/No Action Alternative Wilderness designation of 28,340 acres would protect or enhance existing wilderness values. Projected management actions would impair the area’s naturalness, solitude and recreation opportu nities on 2,000 acres. Slab lava sale foregone on 20 acres. No impact on energy development since none is projected. Slab lava sale on 20 acres. No impact on energy development since none is projected. 14 miles of ways would revegetate; native vegetation preserved on 28,340 acres. Vegetation altered on 520 acres. Habitat and populations of all species, including crucial deer winter range, preserved on 28,340 acres. There would be 500 acres seeded to enhance forage. One guzzler would be installed. Continued vehicle impacts on habitat. Vehicle use on 13.5 miles of ways forgone. No change in use levels of 1 ,1 75 AUMs. No impact. Types of use would shift from motorized to primitive. No substantial change in visitor numbers. No impact. Annual local personal income would remain at approximately $19,000. Local personal income would increase by and unknown amount above the present $19,000. o CD C o> 'c/> d> Q ■D CO 0) ‘5 §■ < «*- o CO CO o O ■O CD © E ■ BM ■d— > CO LU X ■O c CD Q. Q. < « <= O j= 2l II W HI D) c ' £ o _ S « x -z* ■* | L1J a> . or o'x t o « O N 0) o *- Q. +* ^ ~ co zr -C „ o W — 2 m 2 ^ 4 Jr o c re *"§* O LL 03 o # •: 8 # 0) W CL m “ Q. •*' ^ « i_^LU 3 d> (0 ■£ J3 2 3 0) CO LU TO — re 3 « CO LU w *» a> c $ O 0) -O E 3 Z a> 2 c? o £ H O < 'S >> c 9-E o s S:s 8r| Q o 2 atm ffl S c — C ^ co o : -§1 ■ - © © 3 O -jr -o -<= 8 ©■g o | © c SS o . © E co co © 3 E . © -C 1 §8 O CO -§ §>8 CO ® si '0 £ c O O 5..I O LO © o i2 ~o A O O 10 ® t5|8l 1 § 1 1 s E _ > 2 w o © © «- © ^ -O to K c 3 c » - S O p E O C t ® cl Z ^ rt 03 © 0J o &8.IE8J |N o‘o > CCJ g ^ ° O CD o © °. c .E -D E j: c _c c _ w - « « § >- -6 1 c :-E ® c O .hJ 20 Four Craters Lava Bed Wilderness Study Area 1 . The Study Area — 1 2,600 acres The Four Craters Lava Bed Wilderness Study Area (WSA) (OR-1-22) is located in Lake County, Oregon, approximately 60 miles southeast of Bend, Oregon and 8 miles north of the small town of Christmas Valley. The WSA includes 1 1 ,960 acres of BLM land and 640 acres of split-estate land (see Table 1). Roughly oval in shape, the study area is bounded on the west and north by a low standard dirt road and on the east and south by private land. A low standard dirt road bounds the WSA on the southeast for approximately 2 miles. A dead-end road, approxi¬ mately 1.7 miles in length, extends into the WSA forming part of the northern boundary. The WSA is divided into two distinctive types of land areas, each covering about half the acreage. The first type is the rugged aa lava flows and cinder cones. The second type is sagebrush/grassland flats. About half of the acreage in the WSA contains rugged aa lava flows and cinder cones. The remain¬ ing acreage is sagebrush/juniper and sagebrush/ grassland flats. The WSA contains the “Crack in the Ground,” a large tension fracture in the basalt approximately 2 miles long and from 10 to 30 feet in depth. This crack reaches a maximum width of about 20 feet. Another tension fracture, volcanic spires and pressure ridges also occur in the lava flow. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and was included in the Final Oregon Wilderness Environ¬ mental Impact Statement (EIS) filed in February 1990. Four alternatives were analyzed in the EIS: 1) all wilderness alternative; 2) partial alternative; 3) another partial alternative with acquisition (which is the recommendation of this report); and 4) no wilderness/no action alternative. 2. Recommendation and Rationale 9,100 acres recommended for wilderness 3,500 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation for this WSA is to designate 9,100 acres as wilderness, and to release 3,500 21 acres for uses other than wilderness. Acquisition of the 440 acres of mineral estate is included in the recommendation. The environmentally preferable alternative for this WSA is the all wilderness alterna¬ tive as it would result in the least change from the natural environment over the long run. However, the recommendation would be implemented in a manner that would avoid or minimize environmental impacts. The recommendation recognizes the high wilderness values of the area which are considered to outweigh use of the area for resource development such as cinder pits. It would preserve unique natural features in the lava flow evidencing relatively recent volcan- ism, including the four cinder cones (The Four Craters). The recommendation would enhance naturalness and opportunities for solitude in the area recommended suitable outside the lava flow by eliminating motorized vehicle access and closing two miles of ways. The recommendation would preserve opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation within the lava flow, and enhance opportunities on the lava-free areas by eliminating vehicle use. Wilderness designation of this WSA would add an ecosystem (intermountain sagebrush/sagebrush- steppe) not presently represented in Oregon, and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. The recommendation would release from wilderness consideration lands that would be difficult to manage as wilderness. The nonsuitable Area A on the east side of the WSA has a boundary convoluted by private land ownership, and is heavily influenced by activity on these lands adjacent to the WSA. Area A also lacks any substantial opportunities for solitude or primitive recreation and natural values are low. Nonsuitable area B, located on the south end of the WSA, is influenced by a number of activities and influences not suitable for wilderness designation. Livestock management activities requiring vehicles such as water hauling, and resource utilization such as juniper harvest (500 acres), could continue on the 3,500 acres not designated wilderness. Vehicle access for recreation would continue to the Crack in the Ground. The recommendation would enhance manageability on the suitable portion by ensuring that mineral development activities do not degrade wilderness values. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendations Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: The WSA is in a natural condition and is primarily affected by the forces of nature. The rugged terrain within the lava flow has precluded development opportunities and contributed to the preservation of this portion of the WSA in a pristine condition. The cinder cones are notable scenic features that appear to be primarily affected by the forces of nature, with only a small area encompass¬ ing a few square feet near the northernmost crater having been used for a cinder source. The WSA is within a crucial winter range for mule deer and provides high quality and quantity native forage and thermal cover for between 2,000 and 3,000 deer. The WSA is within the range of bald eagles (a Federal listed threatened species in Oregon). Other birds include: great horned owl, mourning dove, quail, common flicker, red-tailed and rough-legged hawks, prairie falcon, American Kestrel, mountain bluebird, Townsend’s solitaire, robins and many other passerine species. Coyote, bobcat, marmot, black-tailed jackrabbit, cottontail, golden-mantled ground squirrel, least and yellow pine chipmunk, kangaroo rat, jumping mice, and various reptile species inhabit the area. Recent reports also indicate that a population of big eared bats (Plecotus townsendii), a candidate species for protection under the Endangered Species Act, may inhabit the area. There are 8.5 miles of vehicle ways outside the lava flow created by motorized vehicle use for livestock management and recreation. Approximately 5.5 miles of fenceline are well-masked by vegetation and have little impact on the area. A short way leads to the Crack-in-the-Ground, and traffic from high visitor use has impacted approximately 5 acres near the Crack. Area A on the east side of the WSA contains minor impacts on naturalness. Area B on the south contains a fenceline which does not impair wilder¬ ness values, a vehicle way used for watering cattle and contains a heavy growth of cheatgrass which is not a natural species. 22 B. Solitude: Opportunities for solitude in the WSA are outstanding. The extremely rugged terrain of the R 17 E R 18 E v * f ♦ n V ^''16 \ P \ 17 1 p V n , i 1 V i p •' i ii T 25 S T 26 S RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS I RECOMMENDED FOR NONWILDERNESS 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1| LAND OUTSIDE WSA ::::::::::: recommended for IllHtltnJ WILDERNESS (None) SPLIT ESTATE STATE (None) PRIVATE (None) -N- Four Craters Lava Bed Proposal MAP-1 o L 1 2 3 J _ I _ I MILES OR- 1-22 January, 1991 Table 1 . Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area Acres BLM (surface and subsurface) 1 1 >960 Split-Estate (BLM Surface Only) 640 Inholdings 0 Total 12,600 Within the Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 8,660 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA)1 440 Split-Estate (outside WSA)1 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 9,100 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Within the Area Not Recommended for Wilderness BLM 3,300 Split-Estate1 200 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness 3,500 Inholdings (State, Private) 0 'Appendix 1 is a detailed description of split-estate tracts included within the study. For purposes of this report, split-estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non-Federal subsurface (minerals). lava flow readily isolates visitors. The sagebrush/ juniper communities surrounding the lava flows generally provide adequate cover and terrain for solitude. The opportunity for solitude is somewhat constrained adjacent to the boundary road on the west side of the WSA, and at the Crack in the Ground, due to the high level of visitor use. Area A on the east side of the WSA has low potential for solitude due in part to the configuration of the boundary around private lands and to the exposed nature of this parcel. Area B on the south has moderate potential to achieve solitude, except near the boundary roads on the south and west. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: Primi¬ tive recreation opportunities are outstanding within the WSA. Day hiking opportunities are plentiful throughout the area. Backpacking trips are also available within the entire WSA. The terrain is extremely rugged in the lava flows so campsites are somewhat limited. Areas outside, or along the edge of the flow, however, provide abundant campsites. Hunting occurs in the WSA as a primitive recreation opportunity not dependent upon vehicle use. Wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities are outstand¬ ing. The dramatic terrain, in conjunction with high wildlife numbers in the area, offer unique and spectacular settings, as well as the opportunity to closely approach wildlife for picture taking. Crack-in- the-Ground is a one-of-a-kind feature with cool temperatures, grasses, and ferns inside the crack in dramatic contrast to the desert landscape just above. Area A on the east side of the WSA has low value for primitive recreation. Area B on the south does have potential for sightseeing, wildlife viewing and primi¬ tive hunting. D. Special Features: Four Craters Lava Bed WSA has a variety of volcanic features which offer out¬ standing opportunities for education, sightseeing, 24 photography, and nature study. Among these is Crack in the Ground, a 2.5-mile-long tension fracture in the basalt which reaches a depth of 30 feet. The crack was formed approximately 1 ,000 years ago when the four craters erupted, releasing pressure from beneath the pre-existing Green Mountain basalt flow which collapsed across a broad area, creating tension fractures on the east and west sides of the collapse. Visitors can walk down into the Crack and observe its unique features such as the ferns, mosses, colorful lichens, and lush grasses and shrubs. The four craters, cinder cones on a distinct linear alignment along a fault, are also visually unique and highly scenic. Two of the cones are close enough to the boundary road for fairly easy access. The cones are popular hiking destinations and offer spectacular views of the surrounding area. The farthest of these two cones exhibits ledges inside its crater, indicating that a lava lake may have existed at some time during past volcanic activity. The third cone is composed almost entirely of lava bombs. A fan-shaped lava flow nearby is an excel¬ lent example of aa lava. The WSA also contains kipukas — areas of undisturbed soils and native vegetation in the lava fields. In the vicinity of the fourth cone are spectacular lava spires formed as lava broke through the side of the cone and piled up in pressure ridges. The view from the cones is spectacular, overlooking the whole Christmas Valley area and the desert east to Wagontire Mountain. The study area is located in crucial deer winter range. Winter populations of mule deer in the WSA range from 2,000 to 3,000 depending on climate and overall herd numbers. Several cultural resource lithic sites and historic sites are also located in the WSA. Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System The Four Craters WSA would add some diversity to the NWPS. Although other lava flow areas do exist in the NWPS, the individual nature of each area geologically, botanical and within scenic and zoologic settings makes many of them distinct in character from others that may be geographically quite close. The Cinder cone alignment and Crack-in-the-Ground are unique features that would be added to the NWPS. A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features as Represented by Ecosystem: Wilderness designation of the Four Craters WSA would add an ecosystem not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilder¬ ness Preservation System by only three areas. There are 66 other BLM areas in the state under study within this ecosystem. According to the Bailey-Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, the study area is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province with a potential natural vegetation of sagebrush steppe. This infor¬ mation is summarized in Table 2. The vegetative communities listed in the High Lava Plains section of the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan which occur in the WSA are western juniper/Idaho fescue, western juniper/big sagebrush/bluebunch wheatgrass and big sagebrush/Idaho fescue. B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive Recreation within a Days’ Driving Time (five hours) of Major Population Centers : There are two metropolitan statistical areas with popula¬ tions over 100,000 within five hours’ driving time of the Four Craters Lava Bed WSA: Medford, Oregon; and Boise, Idaho. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within five hours drive of major popula¬ tion centers. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The Four Craters Lava Bed WSA would not contribute to balancing the geo¬ graphic distribution of areas within the National Wilderness Preservation System. There are 15 designated areas within 100 miles of this WSA. Manageability (The area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics.) The WSA would be manageable as wilderness. The clear boundaries with extremely rugged terrain in the majority of the suitable area greatly aid in preserving that natural character of the land. Area A on the east side would be difficult to manage, with convoluted boundaries, and terrain and features not conducive to wilderness management. Livestock management activities on area B in the southern portion of the WSA would complicate wilderness management because of conflicts concerning water sources for livestock. Although no development is projected, acquisition of the mineral estate of the split-estate portion would assure that wilderness values would be protected. 25 Table 2. Ecosystem Representation Bailey-Kuchler NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Classification Areas Acres Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation Intermountain Sagebrush NATIONWIDE Sagebrush Steppe 3 76,699 136 4,357,740 OREGON 0 0 66 1,970,474 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Population Centers Areas Acres Areas Acres Medford, OR 31 2,440,081 21 730,038 Boise, ID 16 4,741,570 126 5,060,460 Energy and Mineral Resource Values Energy and mineral resources were evaluated by BLM using available geologic data and data provided by Engineer’s International, Incorporated (Ell), a consulting firm under contract with BLM. The Ell data are in a report titled “Geologic Investigation and Mineral Inventory of Devil’s Garden, Four Craters, and Squaw Ridge in Lake County, Oregon.” Additional data used were the results of a recent report from the U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Bulletin 1738 A “Mineral Resources of the Devil’s Garden Lava Bed, Squaw Ridge Lava Bed, and Four Craters Lava Bed Wilderness Study areas, Lake County, Oregon” published in 1988. Although no specific areas of geothermal potential have been identified in the WSA, the entire WSA is considered moderately favorable for the occurrence of geothermal resources, based upon recent volcan- ism and above-normal heat flow characteristics present throughout most of southeastern Oregon. Portions of the WSA are considered to be highly favorable and moderately favorable for the occur¬ rence of slab lava by BLM reports, while USGS/ USBM reports the value as low. Slab lava occurring near the margins of the lava flow is considered exploitable to a minor degree; interior deposits are not readily accessible. Four separate sites within the WSA (40 acres) are rated as having a high potential for cinders. Two cinder deposits near the edge of the lava flow are accessible. 26 As of May 1991 , there were no mining claims within the WSA. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 623 AUMs and recreation use totaling 3,500 visitor days per year are the primary resource outputs that generate economic activity in the WSA. Local personal income gener¬ ated annually from these existing use levels amounts to $7,476 for livestock grazing and $42,000 related to recreation use, for an overall total of $49,476. Livestock grazing would remain at 623 AUMS. Recreation use is expected to increase by 50 visitor days per year due to population growth. The recom¬ mended action would result in a probable increase in annual local personal income of approximately $600 based on the recreation use increase. There were no social issues identified in the study of this WSA. Summary of WSA-SpecificPublic Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternatives for the ultimate management of the lands found to have wilderness value. During formal public review of the Draft and Supple¬ ment to the Draft EIS, a total of 15 comments specifically addressing the Four Craters Lava Bed WSA were received. Of these, 1 4 were written and one was oral. One commenter supported an expanded boundary alternative stating that the boundaries of the suitable portion were poorly drawn. Two commenters recommended no wilderness. One commenter supported a greater-than-all wilder¬ ness alternative for protection of natural resources. One person supported an enhanced wilderness alternative for the same reason. Two commenters supported a greater than preferred alternative for reasons such as the protection of deer winter range, the uniqueness of the area (Crack-in- the-Ground), and poorly drawn boundaries as reasons for the alternative. Five commenters supported the all wilderness alternative stating reasons such as native vegetation of scientific interest, uniqueness of the area, invalid rationale for unsuitable area, and overstating man¬ ageability problems to support the alternative. Three commenters supported the preferred alterna¬ tive without stating reasons for their decision. No WSA-specific comments were received from other agencies or local governments concerning the designation or nondesignation of the Four Craters WSA. One letter from Lake County did request continued access to a cinder source in the north end of the WSA. Two comment letters were received on the Final EIS specific to this WSA. Impacts on Resources The following comparative impact table summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for all the alterna¬ tives considered including designation or nondesignation of the entire area as wilderness 27 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (Partial Wilder- All Wilderness Alternative ness with Acquisitions Alternative) Impacts on Wilder¬ ness Values Wilderness designation of 9, 1 00 Wilderness designation of 1 2,600 acres acres would protect or enhance would protect or enhance existing values. existing values. Loss or impairment of wilderness values would occur on 3,500 acres due to indirect impacts. Impacts on Energy and Mineral Develop¬ ment One cinder pit would be foregone. One cinder pit would be foregone. Impacts on Vegetation Little or no change would occur to Vegetation would be preserved on 1 2,600 existing vegetation. Juniper would acres. An estimated 7.5 miles of ways be removed on 500 acres. would revegetate. Impacts on Wildlife Minimal impact to habitat expected Habitat and populations for all species, due to possible wood cutting on including crucial deer winter range, would 500 acres. be preserved. Impacts on Livestock Management No change in use. Two miles of No change in use. There would be 7.5 way closed. miles of way closed to routine manage¬ ment activities. Impacts on Wood Products Juniper harvest would be precluded Juniper harvest would be precluded on on 1 ,000 acres. 1 ,500 acres. Impacts on Recreation Use Two miles of way closed. There There would be 8.5 miles of way closed, would be a projected increase of 50 There would be a projected increase of visitor days due to population 50 visitor days due to population growth, growth. Impacts on Local Personal Income Local personal income generated Local personal income generated from from resource outputs in the WSA resource outputs in the WSA would would increase by $600 per year. increase by $600 per year. 28 Partial Wilderness Alternative No Wilderness/No Action Alternative Wilderness designation of 5,130 acres would protect or enhance existing values. Loss or impairment of wilderness values would occur on 7,470 acres due to indirect impacts. Wilderness values would be lost on 1 ,500 acres due to development actions. Loss or impairment of wilderness values would occur on 12,600 acres due to indirect impacts. One cinder pit would be foregone. One cinder pit would be developed. Little or no change would occur to existing vegeta¬ tion. Juniper would be removed on 1,500 acres. Juniper would be removed on 1 ,500 acres. Habitat would be disturbed on 1 ,500 acres. Habitat would be disturbed on 1 ,500 acres. No impact. No impact. No impact. No impact. There would be a projected increase of 50 visitor days due to population growth. There would be a projected increase of 50 visitor days due to population growth. Local personal income generated from resource outputs in the WSA would increase by $600 per year. Local personal income generated from resource outputs in the WSA would increase by $600 per year. CD c O <0 T- » % 8 to Si si c o • HB 4— > (0 c CD • M Estimated Acquisi Land P Costs C (/) © © a k. o ■g g> t= o .c © •3 o H— 5 m x C * ,2 UJ o ~o 0 T5 ■0 3 „Jc O CT O S t o to O © < 2 C £ o o 0- 3 £ a E o o © k. o c DC CD £*£.2 o' C o •— ^ © <0 .<2 - © » OS g © Lb < £« c r ■ an Ownership by Federal, State ate, other) Subsurface Estate 5 CD CD C ■ ■M ■O o X o #t 8 o 2 hiS WUJ © ■o © (0 U_ © • c c i o O z o H— o c E o 3 Z CD ‘5 © CT 75 c? o o ® < ,w *- H O < o w GO o o I © O "5 >« C E a c o ■ Ml O o| 00 LU Jil 1 §,£<3 © X _l c © Q. Q. < 8 o 0) CD c (0 -C o X LU 10 CD > 0) 8 (f) 2 CD T> CD OJ o LU CO 00 d CD CO to c o DC g $ c\j c\i id CM ^ ^ 0)0 Z3 U X) -C C O - <5 05 _S5 © CD i © CD c 05 © c © -O 1 *3 ff (0 S o >» © XL a .E © ~o © a © -E' ■g .c © E 8 o o o o © S’ a & •o © © & * 2 8 Q- CD © .E ■£ w (0 © © o O) © — Z Q © _ © © £ O 30 Sand Dunes Wilderness Study Area 1. The Study Area — 1 6,440 acres The Sand Dunes Wilderness Study Area (WSA OR- 1-24) is located in Lake County, 9 miles northeast of the small town of Christmas Valley, Oregon and about 70 miles southeast of Bend, Oregon. It is approximately 30 miles north of Oregon Highway 31, and 30 miles west of U.S. Highway 395. The WSA contains 16,040 acres of BLM land and one parcel of split-estate land totaling 400 acres. (See Table 1). Low standard roads define the boundaries on the north and east, a 750-kV powerline right-of-way on the west, and legal land subdivisions on the south. Much of the land outside the area is public land managed by the BLM and is used primarily for recreation and grazing. The majority of the WSA is characterized by unstabilized sand dunes, which rise to a maximum height of about 60 feet. Pockets of vegetation exist between the dunes and surrounding ephemeral seeps. Sparse grasses grow on the dunes in late summer, and some juniper trees occur on the northern and eastern margin of the dunes near the boundaries. The area between the dunes and the north boundary road supports extensive areas of salt-grass and greasewood cover. A portion of the WSA inside the Lost Forest contains sagebrush, juniper and ponderosa pine. There is no perennial water in the area. A 960-acre portion of the Lost Forest Research Natural Area (RNA) is within the WSA. The bound¬ ary road of the WSA separates this portion of the RNA from the remainder of the RNA. The RNA was designated in 1972 for research purposes and receives special management, including withdrawal from mineral entry. The RNA is within a “limited” off¬ road vehicle designation with vehicles restricted to roads or trails posted as open to travel. The sand dunes are “open” to vehicles equipped for travel across sand or snow. The Lost Forest consists of a disjunct stand of ponderosa pine occurring in a climate lower in rainfall than that normally associated with this vegetation community. The sand dunes, the sandy soils within the Lost Forest, and associated vegetation represent a complex and unique ecosys¬ tem. All Research Natural Areas and Primitive Areas in existence at the time of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) were designated as Instant Study Areas (ISA). They were so named 31 because the deadline for completion of the wilder¬ ness study was accelerated from the 1991 reporting date for the remaining wilderness study areas to be identified in inventories. The BLM Oregon State Director’s 1979 report on the Lost Forest Instant Study Area concluded that the Lost Forest ISA did not have wilderness characteristics and should not be recommended for wilderness designation. The report did conclude that the roadless portion of the Lost Forest RNA/ISA within the Sand Dunes WSA should be incorporated for further study with the Sand Dunes WSA. A portion of the WSA includes part of the Fossil Lake paleontologic area vehicle closure, which continues to the west, outside the WSA. Some 4,160 acres of the WSA are within this fenced vehicle closure area. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and was included in the Final Oregon Wilderness Environ¬ mental Impact Statement (EIS) filed in February 1990. Two alternatives were analyzed in the EIS: an all wilderness alternative; and a no wilderness/no action alternative, which is the recommendation in this report. The all wilderness alternative would recom¬ mend all 16,440 acres of public land in the WSA as suitable for wilderness. This assumes the mineral estate of 400 acres of split-estate lands would not be acquired and would remain open to mineral entry. The no wilderness alternative would recommend the entire WSA nonsuitable as wilderness, and repre¬ sents the situation most likely to occur without wilderness designation. These lands are shown on Map 1. 2. Recommendation and Rationale 0 acres recommended for wilderness 16,440 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation for this WSA is to release the entire area for uses other than wilderness. The environmentally preferable alternative is all wilder¬ ness, as it would result in the least change from the natural environment over the long term. However, the no wilderness alternative would be implemented in a manner which would use all practical means to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. Wilderness values are limited to the central core of the dunes, and significant portions of the WSA do not contain substantial wilderness values. Although the central portion does offer outstanding solitude and opportunities for primitive recreation and a high degree of naturalness owing to the nature of the constantly moving dunes, the majority of the area lacks the degree of wilderness values necessary for a recommendation to designate the area as wilder¬ ness. The area would also not be manageable as wilder¬ ness. The openness of the surrounding terrain, easy access from existing roads, and the long-standing tradition and public acceptance of off-road vehicle use in the area open to vehicles prior to the passage of FLPMA would require an extensive effort to attempt to manage the area as wilderness. Physical barriers, such as 15 miles of fencing with cable reinforcement, would be required to restrict vehicle access, along with nearly constant monitoring of the Wilderness boundary. The actions needed to enforce total ORV elimination would of themselves severely degrade any wilderness values such as naturalness and opportunities for primitive recreation. The recommendation does take into consideration public comments on the management of sand dunes in other areas. Where areas of dunes have been closed, with nearby areas left open to vehicles, such closures have proven enforceable overtime, with the acceptance of the public that recreational opportuni¬ ties are not foregone. However, in the case of the Sand Dunes WSA, where no alternative recreation site is available, a closure would be extremely difficult to enforce, and many violations of the closure to motorized vehicular use could be expected. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendations Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: The Sand Dunes WSA appears to be generally in a natural condition. The natural appearance is maintained in most of the WSA by the shifting sand which quickly alters evidence of human activity. The United States Air Force has constructed a large backscatter radar site immediately adjacent to the 32 iDE mi / I .•;: ■ . IT) J- > I cc O 0 c O LL Q LU Q CO 2 CO LU LU |£ n m 0 Q O _J LU - OC $ 5g S o OC 2 D « I S 5 a o 2 JO CL <0 The all wilderness with acquisitions alternative for the Diablo Mountain WSA would recommend 113,120 acres of public land suitable for wilderness. The 1 ,170 acres of private inholdings, 640 acres of state inholdings and the mineral estate of 5,200 acres of split- estate lands would be acquired through pur¬ chase or exchange, if the owners are willing. The partial wilderness with acquisition alternative for the WSA would recommend 51,160 acres suitable as wilderness, and the mineral estate of 3,680 acres of split-estate lands within the suitable area would be acquired through purchase or exchange from willing owners. The recommendation would designate 90,050 acres suitable as wilderness, and 320 acres of private inholdings and 4,900 acres of mineral estate on split- estate land would be acquired from willing owners through purchase or exchange. Nonsuitable acreage totals some 23,070 acres. These lands are shown on Map 1. 2. Recommendation and Rationale —90,050 acres recommended for wilderness 23,070 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate 90,050 acres wilderness and release 23,070 acres for uses other than wilderness. In addition, 320 acres of private inholdings and 4,900 acres of mineral estate on split- estate land would be acquired from willing owners through purchase or exchange. The environmentally preferable alternative is the all wilderness with acquisitions alternative as it would result in the least change from the natural environment over the long term. However, the recommendation would be implemented in a manner which would use all practical means to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. The recommendation would serve to protect wilder¬ ness values on 90,050 acres. These values include outstanding opportunities for solitude, primitive and unconfined recreation (hiking, wildlife observation), and the preservation of wildlife habitat. The area is in a generally natural condition with only a few minor signs of human activities. On this vast expanse of native desert range where there is a variation in topography and character from expansive salt flats, through unique volcanic flows, upward to the high mountain escarpment of Diablo Mountain, one can experience unlimited views of some of the harshest of environments, yet still realize the abundance of life forms that depend upon these outwardly barren lands. The reintroduction of bighorn sheep and the pres¬ ence of snowy plover upon the lakeshore demon¬ strates the difference between human and natural interpretations of liveability on desert lands. The recommendation also recognizes the strong public support expressed for preservation of the area’s high value for solitude, preservation of habitat for species such as bighorn sheep and snowy plover, and primitive and unconfined recreation in the form of hiking, photography, nature study and camping. The recommendation would provide for the addition of a unique combination of ecosystems (Intermountain Sagebrush Province/Sagebrush Steppe and Saltbush-greasewood) to the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS). At present, there are no similar wilderness areas containing both of these ecosystems. Biological diversity would be added to the NWPS under the recommendation. The recommendation, at the same time, would open up 23,070 acres of public land for uses other than wilderness. In Area C, landd would be available for exploration and development for their moderate potential for the occurrence of oil and gas and geothermal energy. One 12-megawatt geothermal power plant may be developed in Area C. Nonsuitable Area A, on the north end of the WSA, would be available for completing land exchanges with the private landowner who has offered lands of value within the study area. This nonsuitable portion also would provide for enhancing wildlife manage¬ ment in the area through manipulations to accommo¬ date snowy plover habitat. The recommendation also allows for intensive grazing management on 5,600 acres on Area B, the southeast corner of the WSA. The remaining untreated burned area of about 5,000 acres, which resulted from the Sharptop fire, will be seeded to improve livestock forage and consolidate the man¬ agement regimen within this pasture. 40 Table 1. Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area Acres BLM (surface and subsurface) 107,920 Split-Estate (BLM Surface Only) 5,200 Inholdings (State, Private) 1,810 Total 114,930 Within the Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 85,150 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA) 1 4,900 Split-Estate (outside WSA) 1 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 90,050 Inholding (Private) 1 320 Within the Area Not Recommended for Wilderness BLM 22,770 Split-Estate1 300 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness 23,070 Inholdings (State, Private)1 1 ,490 'Appendix 1 is a detailed description of inholdings and split-estate tracts included within the study. For purposes of this report, split-estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non-Federal subsurface (minerals). 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendations Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: Diablo Mountain WSA is in essentially a natural condition. The natural processes have masked or removed signs of past activities, such as travel routes and range developments. On this vast expanse of native desert range, with variation in topography and character, from expan¬ sive salt flats through unique volcanic flows, upward to the high mountain escarpment of Diablo Mountain, one can experience unlimited views of some of the harshest and least altered of native environments yet still realize the abundance of life forms that depend upon these outwardly barren lands. A variety of game and nongame species inhabit or frequent the WSA including antelope, mule deer, coyote, rabbits and other small mammals. Lack of water in the area limits available habitat and conse¬ quent numbers of animals in the larger species. The escarpment facing east from Mount Diablo, and many smaller rims in the area are used by prairie falcon, red-tailed hawk, golden eagle and other raptors. Other bird species include raven, chukar, canyon wren, sage sparrow and sage thrasher. The western snowy plover, a notable shoreline bird and also a candidate species for listing as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, nests along Summer Lake. Among other shoreline birds that reside on the Summer Lake State Game Manage¬ ment Area adjacent to the northwest boundary are the avocet and killdeer. The unnatural features that do exist influence less than 1,000 acres. These include earthwork mounds of seven livestock waterholes located in the east half of the WSA, 5 miles of fence in the southeast corner 43 of the WSA, and some 32 miles of vehicle ways inside the WSA. These developments are substan¬ tially unnoticeable in the WSA as a whole, and the terrain screens them from viewing outside of their immediate location. B. Solitude: Outstanding opportunities for solitude are present throughout the Diablo Mountain WSA. The large size and the topography found within the WSA enhance opportunities for experiencing solitude in all locations of the WSA. Particularly effective in offering opportunities for solitude are the draws and broken ridges within the WSA from Sharptop to the peak of Diablo Mountain. Where traffic volumes are high on boundary roads, solitude is affected to a slight degree along the WSA boundary. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: Oppor¬ tunities for primitive recreation are outstanding within the WSA. The diverse and broken terrain offers excellent opportunities for hiking and backpacking along the eastern half of the WSA in the draws and mountain areas. Wildlife observation offers chances to see wild horses, deer, antelope, and raptors which inhabit or frequent the WSA. Other activities include unique photographic opportunities and nature study. The harsh environs of the Diablo WSA present the opportunity to study rugged natural communities which survive beyond the influence of human capacities to alter or redefine the natural environ¬ ment. D. Special Features: The Diablo Mountain WSA has been selected by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for reintroduction of California bighorn sheep, a candidate species for Federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. The eastern shore of Summer Lake is potential nesting habitat for the snowy plover, another Federal candidate species. (This means that the listing as threatened or endan¬ gered may be appropriate, but current data is not conclusive. The primary impact to the species has been the loss of habitat over the years.) Raptors use the rims on the east side of the WSA for nesting. Archaeologic sites are located within the WSA and there are also homesteads of historic interest in the WSA. Fossil mollusks have been found in sedimen¬ tary deposits around the Ten Mile Butte area, and there may be more fossils in the western two-thirds of the WSA. Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features as Represented by Ecosystem: According to the Bailey-Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, the Diablo Mountain WSA is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province and the potential natural vegetation is saltbush- greasewood and sagebrush steppe. Wilderness designation of the Diablo Mountain WSA would add two ecosystems (using the Bailey-Kuchler system) not presently represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS). This WSA contains two potential natural vegetation types: sagebrush steppe and saltwood-greasewood, an unusual occurrence. There are no designated areas within the NWPS containing this combination. Only sixteen other BLM areas in the nation and eleven areas in Oregon contain both of these ecosystems. This information is summarized in Table 2. The WSA contains seven vegetative communities listed in the Basin and Range section of the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan: big sagebrush/bluebunch wheatgrass; big sagebrush-greasewood; low sage¬ brush/Sandberg’s bluegrass; bare playa and playa margin: big sagebrush-spiny hopsage; greasewood- saltgrass and shadscale-spiny hopsage-budsage. B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive Recreation Within a Day’s Driving Time (five hours) of Major Population Centers: There are four standard metropolitan statistical areas with populations over 100,000 within five hours’ driving time of the Diablo Mountain WSA: Medford, Oregon; Salem, Oregon; Eugene/Springfield, Oregon; and Redding, California. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within a five-hour drive of the population center. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The Diablo Mountain WSA would not contribute to balancing the overall geo¬ graphic distribution of areas within the National Wilderness Preservation System. There are ten designated areas within 100 miles of this WSA. Manageability (The area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness character.) The Diablo Mountain WSA is capable of being managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics. The manageability would be enhanced by acquisition of two small private inholdings and mineral estate under 5,300 acres of split-estate parcels scattered throughout the WSA. Such acquisitions would 44 Table 2. Ecosystem Representation • Bailey-Kuchler NWPS Areas Other BLM Study Classification Areas Acres Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation Intermountain Sagebrush Province/ Sagebrush Steppe & NATIONWIDE 0 0 16 876,130 Saltbush-Greasewood OREGON 0 0 1 1 569,487 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Population Centers Areas Acres Areas Acres Medford, OR 31 2,440,081 21 730,038 Salem, OR 45 2,888,764 18 210,085 Eugene/Springfield, OR 42 2,859,994 43 770,436 Redding, CA 15 1,264,503 11 344,633 prevent potential adverse effects from access to, and incompatible surface-disturbing activities on, these parcels. Impacts on Resources The following comparative impact table summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for designation and nondesignation of the area as wilderness. Energy and Mineral Resource Values As reported in the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and Bureau of Mines (BM) report “Mineral Resources of the Diablo Mountain Wilderness Study Area Lake County, Oregon,” USGS Open-File Report 90-0513, (1990), no energy or mineral resources were identified in the study area, but brines within lake and playa sediments contain concentrations of chemical components suitable for the production of soda ash, boron compounds, and sodium sulfate. In the western part of the study area, the mineral resource potential is moderate for undiscovered resources of soda ash, boron compounds, salts, potash, bromine, lithium and tungsten associated with brines. In a small south-central part of the study area, the mineral resource potential is low for low- grade high-tonnage epithermal hot spring gold-silver deposits and for magnesium for dolomitic limestone. The study area includes thermal springs and lies within 2 miles of the Summer Lake Known Geother¬ mal Resource Area (KGRA), a Federally-defined area with specific boundaries within which geother- 45 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (Proposed Action Alternative) All Wilderness Alternative Impacts on Wilderness Values Wilderness values protected or enhanced on 85,470 acres, lost on 250 acres, impaired on 7,000 acres. Wilderness values protected or enhanced on 1 13,120 acres. Impacts on Energy and Mineral Development Geothermal plant developed, limestone mine foregone. Explora¬ tion foregone on 85,470 acres. Geothermal plant and limestone mine foregone, exploration fore¬ gone. Impacts on Vegetation There would be 32 acres reveg¬ etated; 5,160 acres altered. There would be 32 acres reveg¬ etated. Impacts on Wildlife Habitat altered on 5,160 acres. Most habitat preserved for plover, sheep, deer, and raptors. Habitat preserved, one guzzler built. Impacts on Livestock Grazing 588 AUMs retained, 32 miles of way closed, minor inconvenience. 588 AUMs retained, 32 miles of way closed, minor inconvenience. Impacts on Recreation No change in use level, change to primitive types of use. No change in use level, change to primitive types of use. Impacts on Local Personal Income Local personal income would increase by an unknown amount due to energy development. Local personal income would remain at approximately $8,000 per year. 46 All Wilderness with Acquisitions Alternative Partial Wilderness with Acquisi¬ tion Alternative No Wilderness/No Action Alter¬ native Wilderness values protected or enhanced on 1 14,930 acres. Wilderness values protected on 51,160 acres, degraded on 8,500 acres, lost on 250 acres. Wilderness values lost on 5,460 acres. Short-term loss of solitude on 68,000 acres. Geothermal plant and limestone mine foregone, exploration fore¬ gone. Geothermal plant developed, limestone mine foregone. Explora¬ tion foregone on 5 1 , 1 60 acres. Geothermal plant and limestone mine developed. No impact on exploration. There would be 32 acres reveg¬ etated. There would be 18 acres reveg¬ etated and 160 acres altered. Vegetation would be altered on 5,460 acres. Habitat preserved, one guzzler built. Habitat preserved for plover, sheep, deer, and raptors. Existing habitat preserved, one guzzler constructed. 588 AUMs retained, 32 miles of way closed, minor inconvenience. 588 AUMs retained, 18 miles of way closed, minor inconvenience. No impact. No change in use level, change to primitive types of use. No change in use level, change to primitive types of use. No impact. Local personal income would remain at approximately $8,000 per year. Local personal income would increase by an unknown amount due to energy and mineral devel¬ opment. Local personal income would increase by an unknown amount due to energy and mineral devel¬ opment. 47 mal resources are known to exist. (Approximately 250 acres of the WSA in the nonsuitable portion is within the KGRA.) The resource potential for the entire study area is rated moderately favorable for low-temperature geothermal energy useful for agricultural and building heating, and is low for oil and gas. Energy and mineral resources were initially evalu¬ ated by BLM using available geologic data and data provided in a report titled “Assessment of Geology, Energy, and Mineral Resources of the Summer Lake Geologic Resource Area” prepared by TERRADATA, a consulting firm under contract with BLM. There also appeared to be moderate potential for oil and gas in the western two-thirds of the study area because of the possibility of oil and gas bearing rocks at depth, and some gas show in water wells. Recent information from USGS indicates that there may be moderate potential for hydrocarbons at depth. As of May 1991 , there were no mining claims within the WSA. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 588 AUMs and recreation use totaling less than 100 visitor days per year are the primary resource outputs that generate economic activity in the WSA. Local personal income generated annually from these existing use levels amounts to approximately $7,000 for livestock grazing and approximately $1 ,000 from recreation use, for an overall total of $8,000. Under the recommendation, livestock grazing would remain at 588 AUMs and recreation use would remain at less than 100 visitor days per year. The recommended action would result in a probable increase in local personal income by an unknown amount above the current $8,000 due to projected energy development amounting to one 20-MW geothermal power plant with up to 12 production wells. There were no social issues identified with the study of this WSA. Summary of WSA-Specific Public Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternatives for the ultimate management of those lands found to have wilderness value. During formal public review of the Draft EIS and its Supplement, a total of 24 comments specific to the Diablo Mountain WSA were received. Of these, 19 were written and 5 were oral comments received at the 24 public hearings on the EIS. Nine commenters supported the all wilderness alternative stating designation would preserve animal and plant habitat, and ensure ecological diversity. Five commenters expressed support for the all wilderness with acquisitions alternative, explaining that this would preserve habitat, and that wilderness values of the area were more important than other uses. Two commenters supported the no wilderness/no action alternative giving reasons such as the wilder¬ ness values of the area are too low, and that there are too many inholdings. One commenter supported an all wilderness with contracted boundaries stating that the boundaries of suitable recommendation are poorly drawn, and that the BLM overstated manageability problems. Four people expressed support for a greater than preferred alternative due to the uniqueness of the area and because it would not affect existing grazing privileges. No comments were received on the Draft EIS or its Supplement from any federal or local agencies. Since the public review, however, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has demonstrated significant interest in the area after the Final EIS relevant to the reintroduction of California bighorn sheep and has expressed considerable interest with respect for management regarding the western snowy plover, water flows, and other management issues commensurate with management of the Summer Lake State Wildlife Management Area. They support the recommendation. Three public comments on the Final EIS were received specific to this WSA. 48 Appendix 1 - Estimated Costs of Acquisition of Non Federal Holdings Within Areas Recommended for Designation CM 49 Orejana Canyon Wilderness Study Area 1 . The Study Area — 24,600 acres The Orejana Canyon Wilderness Study Area (WSA) (OR-1-78) is located in Harney County, Oregon, 30 miles northeast of the small town of Plush, Oregon. U.S. Highway 395 is located 35 miles to the west of the WSA, and Oregon State Highway 140 is approxi¬ mately 40 miles to the south. The WSA contains 24,600 acres, all of it BLM land, and except for a block of state land to the west, the surrounding lands are BLM. The southern, eastern and northern boundaries of the WSA are defined by low standard roads; the western boundary is defined by a low standard road for approximately 5 miles and by a way for approximately 7 miles along the base of Orejana Rim. The WSA is characterized by the 500-foot-high Orejana Rim and the 8.5-mile-long Orejana Canyon, which runs most of the length of the WSA from north to south. Five small side canyons run along the length of Orejana Canyon. The vegetation in the study area is sagebrush/bunchgrass. The WSA is broken geographically, segregated into a large scale in the north called ‘the Basin,” and the lower two- thirds of the area contain a high plateau known as ‘the island” and the confines of Orejana Canyon. A sagebrush/bunchgrass composes the area’s vegeta¬ tion. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and was included in the Final Oregon Wilderness Environ¬ mental Impact Statement (EIS) filed in February, 1990. There were three alternatives analyzed in the EIS: an all wilderness alternative; a partial wilderness with road closure alternative (which is the recommenda¬ tion of this report); and a no wilderness/no action alternative. The recommendation recommends 14,800 acres of Orejana Canyon WSA suitable for wilderness, and a total of 9,800 acres would be recommended as nonsuitable. These lands are shown on Map 1. 51 2. Recommendation and Rationale 14.800 acres recommended for wilderness 9.800 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate 14,800 acres wilderness and to release 9,800 acres for uses other than wilderness. The environmentally preferable alternative is considered to be the all wilderness alternative as this would result in the least change to the natural environment over the long term. How¬ ever, the recommendation would be implemented in a manner which would use all practical means to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. The recommendation was supported by public comment, and would preserve the highest wilder¬ ness values of the canyon with its unique geologic features, the open expanse of the island, and paleontologic values along Orejana Rim. The outstanding opportunities for primitive recreation such as hunting and wildlife observation, and opportunity for solitude in this remote region would be preserved. Riparian habitat, habitat for sage grouse, and potentially expanded bighorn sheep habitat would also be preserved in a natural condi¬ tion. At the same time, the recommendation would allow for the development of the range resource in the nonsuitable portion that lacks wilderness values. Such development would include water develop¬ ments and forage enhancement projects for livestock which would result in an increase of 226 AUMs. Wilderness designation of this WSA would add an ecosystem not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. In addition, wilderness designation of this WSA would contribute to balanc¬ ing the geographic distribution of areas within the NWPS. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendations Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: The Orejana Canyon WSA appears to be generally natural with the area within Orejana Canyon and on The Island being predomi¬ nantly natural. The incised canyon meandering through high elevation table lands, with the large boulders along the Rim suggest not only naturalness, but a massive display of nature’s grandness. The island stands open and wild, free of human en¬ croachment, symbolic of a once grander landscape now reduced in scale across the West to determined remnants. Although there are some minor intrusions in the recommendation area, the vegetation and topogra¬ phy provide screening from these. The nonsuitable area does contain vehicle trails, reservoir mounds and impacts of man that detract from the natural perspective of the landscape. The WSA is frequented by mule deer and antelope and provides year-round habitat for chukar, partridge and quail, raptors such as golden eagle and red¬ tailed hawk, and other wildlife species. Bighorn sheep also frequent the area as they move north from Hart Mountain. There are 1 1 reservoirs and waterholes in the WSA, many of which are unnoticeable as a whole. The berms resulting from the construction of Hartman Reservoir are quite noticeable within The Basin, which constitutes the majority of the nonsuitable area of the recommendation. There are also 1 1 miles of ways within The Basin area, with less than 2 miles of way in the remainder of the WSA. Altogether, unnatural features are visible from approximately two percent of the WSA. B. Solitude: Outstanding opportunities for solitude are available in the Orejana Canyon and on The Island between Orejana Rim and the Canyon. Orejana Canyon is 8.5 miles in length and fairly wide with five small side canyons. This topography allows for isolation even with moderate levels of use. Opportunities for solitude are limited in the Basin, and on the northwest corner of the WSA which 52 R 27 E R 28 E GO - 'TZ— ir jjVl /'I - 7— ' // < '/ w A 3 r_v 1 :\ \ - v» V > \ . ! i y s \ / ; S* 20 ^ « k m / < — -•••' X, js .V U •/ i ii V V, N ^ f r v ^ •v - T-: JHS3 r w 32 Lakt b th* S V Bnj,h ' > . • • '» w v STANDARD RECOMMENDED T 30 S T 31 S ro/jt Closure T 32 S RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS RECOMMENDED FOR NONWILDERNESS LAND OUTSIDE WSA RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS (None) V, SPLIT ESTATE (None) STATE (None) PRIVATE (None) Orejana Rim Proposal MAP-1 o L L 3 J MILES -N- OR- 1-78 January, 1991 Table 1. Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area Acres BLM (surface and subsurface) 24,600 Split-Estate 1 0 In holdings (State, private) 0 Total 24,600 Within the Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 14,800 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA)1 0 Split-Estate (outside WSA)1 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 1 4,800 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Within the Area Not Recommended for Wilderness BLM 9,800 Split-Estate1 0 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness 9,800 Inholdings (State, private) 0 'For purposes of this report, split-estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non-Federal subsurface (minerals). constitute the nonsuitable portion of the recommen¬ dation. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: Oppor¬ tunities for primitive and unconfined recreation are outstanding in the suitable portion of the recommen¬ dation. The face of Orejana Rim offers several unique opportunities for primitive recreation including sightseeing (obsidian flows and paleontological features) and hiking. Primitive recreation including hiking, photography and nature study is best in the canyon and along the rim. Primitive recreation opportunities are limited in the nonsuitable portion. D. Special Features: Orejana Rim is an example of the distinctive basin and range topography of southeastern Oregon. It contains exceptional geo¬ logic and paleontological features such as unique obsidian flows and fossil remains. This area provides habitat for California Bighorn Sheep and sage grouse, both Federal candidate species for Threat¬ ened and Endangered status. Sage grouse are listed as a Category 2 species in the state of Oregon. This means that the listing as threatened or endangered may be appropriate, but current data is not conclu¬ sive. The primary impact to the sage grouse has been the loss of habitat over the years. The area is used as winter and early spring range by approxi¬ mately 100 bighorn rams, which move south onto Hart Mountain for most of the year. The rim also has high potential for supporting nesting raptors. Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features as Represented by Ecosystem: Wilderness designation of this WSA would add an ecosystem not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only 3 areas.- There are 66 other BLM 54 areas in the state under study within this ecosystem. This information is summarized in Table 2. According to the Bailey-Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, the Orejana Canyon WSA is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province with a potential natural vegetation of sagebrush steppe. Big sagebrush/Idaho fescue and low sagebrush/ Sandberg’s bluegrass are the vegetative communi¬ ties known to occur in the WSA and that are classi¬ fied in the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan in the Basin and Range section. B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive Recreation Within a Days Driving Time (five hours) of Major Population Centers: There are three standard metropolitan statistical areas over 100,000 population within five hours’ driving time of the WSA: Eugene/Springfield, Oregon; Medford, Oregon; and Boise, Idaho. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within five hours drive of major population centers. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The Orejana WSA would contribute to balancing the geographic distribution of areas within the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS). There are only 3 designated areas within one hundred miles of this WSA. Impacts on Resources The comparative impact table on pages 6 and 7 summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for all the alternatives considered including designation or nondesignation of the entire area as wilderness. Table 2. Ecosystem Representation Bailey-Kuchler Classification NWPS Areas Areas Acres Other BLM Studies Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation NATIONWIDE Intermountain Sagebrush Sagebrush Steppe 3 76,699 136 4,345,740 OREGON 0 0 66 1,958,474 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Population Centers Areas Acres Areas Acres Medford, OR 31 2,440,081 21 2,730,038 Eugene/Springfield, OR 42 2,859,994 43 770,436 Boise, ID 16 4,741,570 126 5,060,460 55 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (Partial Wilderness With Road Closure Alternative) Impacts on Wilderness Values Wilderness designation would protect and enhance existing wilderness values on 14,800 acres. Pro¬ jected actions would impair the wilderness values on 930 of the 9,800 acres nonsuitable for wilderness. Impacts on Energy and Mineral Development Exploration for tin in The Basin is expected. Impacts on Vegetation Little or no change to existing vegetation. Two miles of ways would revegetate. Impacts on Wildlife Habitat and populations would be maintained and habitat for bighorn sheep would be enhanced by the placement of 3 guzzlers. Impacts on Livestock Grazing Shift of 226 AUMs into WSA foregone. Restricted use of 2 miles of ways would cause a slight inconve¬ nience to livestock operators. Impacts on Recreation Use Same as all wilderness for suitable 14,800 acres. No impact to nonsuitable portion. Impacts on Local Personal Income Local personal income generated from resource outputs would remain at approximately $10,300 per year. 56 All Wilderness Alternative No Wilderness/No Action Alternative Wilderness designation of 24,600 acres would result in protection and enhancement of existing wilderness values. Projected management actions would impair the area’s naturalness, solitude and recreation opportu¬ nities and special features over 2,640 acres. No impact. Exploration for gold on 2,800 acres and for tin in the Basin is expected. Little or no change to existing vegetation. Nine Miles of ways would revegetate and 4 miles of ways would partially revegetate. Vegetation would be altered on 960 acres by burn- for-release. A 226 AUM grazing increase within the WSA would reduce residual ground cover on 300 acres. Placement of 3 guzzlers would remove less than an acre of vegetation. Total impact approxi¬ mately 1,260 acres. Habitat and populations would be maintained and habitat for bighorn sheep would be enhanced by the placement of 3 guzzlers. Deer and antelope habitat would improve on 960 acres; sage grouse habitat would decrease on 960 acres. Bighorn sheep habitat would be enhanced by the placement of 3 guzzlers. Some local habitat would be degraded by increase in livestock use. Shift of 226 AUMs into WSA foregone. Restricted us on 13 miles of ways would cause some inconve¬ nience to livestock operators. Shift of 226 AUMs into WSA would be realized by a 960 acres burn-for-release project. Use numbers would not change, but types of activity would shift from motorized to primitive types of recreation. Use numbers would not change. Local personal income generated from resource outputs in the WSA would remain at approximately $10,300 per year. Annual local personal income generated by resource outputs would increase by approximately $2,700. 57 Manageability (The area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness character.) The Orejana Canyon WSA is capable of being managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics. The clear boundary on the south and east along the road, and well-defined remaining boundaries would make control and management within the area relatively simple. The terrain and size of the area also would make it easy to observe the area on foot or horseback patrols. Energy and Mineral Resource Values Energy and mineral resources were evaluated by BLM using available geologic data and data provided in a report by TERRADATA, a consulting firm under contract with BLM. The report is titled “Assessment of Geology, Energy, and Minerals Resources of the Mule Springs Valley Geologic Resource Area.” Additional minerals information has been provided by the U.S. Bureau of Mines in a 1987 report entitled “Mineral Resources of the Orejana Canyon Study Area, Harney County, Oregon,” and by the U.S. Geological Survey/Bureau of Mines in a 1988 report, Bulletin 1738-B, titled “Mineral Resources of the Orejana Canyon Wilderness Study Area, Harney County, Oregon.” No energy resources have been rated in these reports as having moderate or high potential for occurrence in the WSA. There is a low potential for the occurrence of diato- mite, gold, silver, lead and antimony on 2,800 acres based on indirect evidence (geochemical anoma¬ lies). Indirect evidence also indicates a low potential for tin in the northern portion of the WSA. There are no known commercial mineral deposits in the WSA or within several miles of the WSA. As of May 1991 , there were no mining claims within the WSA. Recent information from USGS indicates there may be moderate potential for hydrocarbons at depth. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 777 AUMs and recreation use totaling fewer than 100 visitor days per year generate $9,324 and approximately $1 ,200 respectively. The overall total of local personal income is approximately $10,500. Under the recommendation, livestock grazing would remain at 777 AUMs. Recreation use numbers are not expected to change. Annual local personal income generated from resource outputs in the WSA would remain at approximately $10,500. There were no social issues identified with the study of this WSA. Summary of WSA-Specific Public Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternative for the ultimate management of those lands found to wilderness value. A total of 16 comments were received on the Draft EIS and supplement to the draft. Of these, 1 4 were written and 2 were oral comments received at the 2 4 public hearings. Ten commenters supported the all wilderness alternative, saying designation would protect natural resources and prevent overgrazing. There was also concern that BLM overstated the value of other resources. One person supported the wilderness alternative, stating that it would protect the ecological diversity, gene pool, and ecosystems. One person expressed support for the no wilderness alternative, stating that the wilderness values are low. One commenter supported an expanded boundary stating that the boundaries were poorly drawn. No specific comments were received from other agencies or local governments regarding designation of the Orejana Canyon WSA. No comment letters were received on the Final EIS specific to this WSA. 58 Abert Rim Wilderness Study Area 1. The Study Area — 23,760 acres The Abert Rim Wilderness Study Area (WSA OR-1- 101) is located 26 miles north of Lakeview and 3 miles northeast of Valley Falls, in Lake County, Oregon. U.S. Highway 395 passes along the west boundary of the WSA. The boundaries of the study area are defined by the right-of-way of Highway 395 and private land on the west, private land on the south, primarily low stan¬ dard dirt roads and some private land on the east, and a powerline right-of-way on the north. There are 23,280 acres of BLM land in the Abert Rim WSA and 480 acres of split-estate lands. There are no private inholdings. Table 1 summarizes land ownership within the WSA. The study area is 21 miles long and varies in width from 1 .5 miles in the north to 4 miles in the south. It is dominated by Abert Rim, a high west-facing fault scarp rising over 2,000 feet above Lake Abert. Above the rim, the land slopes gently to the east. Several intermittent streams, ponds and springs occur in the WSA, and there is an isolated stand of ponderosa pine known as Colvin Timbers near the southeast boundary. Vegetation in the WSA varies from salt-desert shrub communities at the base of the rim, with stringers of mountain mahogany, juniper, aspen on the face, and ponderosa pine along the uplands. The ponderosa pine is located in an isolated stand known as “Colvin Timbers”. These trees are located 5 miles north of the Fremont National Forest boundary and are the most northerly location of pine in the Warner Moun¬ tains. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and was included in the Oregon Wilderness Final Environ¬ mental Impact Statement (EIS), filed in February of 1990. Two alternatives were analyzed in the EIS: an all wilderness alternative which is the recommendation of this report, and a no wilderness/no action alterna¬ tive. These lands are shown on Map 1 . 59 2. Recommendation and Rationale — 23,760 acres recommended for wilderness 0 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate all 23,760 acres wilderness. This is considered to be the environmen¬ tally preferable alternative as it will result in the least change from the natural environment over the long term. A total of 23,280 acres of public land plus 480 acres of split-estate land are recommended for wilderness. The recommendation recognizes that the high wilderness values of Abert Rim outweigh opportuni¬ ties for minor timber harvest and reservoir construc¬ tion associated with livestock management activities. The Abert Rim WSA offers one of the most spec¬ tacular geologic sightseeing views in eastern Or¬ egon. It rises vertically from Lake Abert over 2,000 feet above the traffic on U.S. Highway 395. It is one of the largest exposed fault scarps in North America and is a major attraction in this region of the state. The rim remains in a natural condition and supports a large herd of bighorn sheep, which gather on the lower slopes in winter, drawing visitors to both the unique wildlife and geologic features of the site. The WSA offers outstanding primitive recreation opportunities with hiking and upland game bird hunting along the face, and opportunities for excep¬ tional solitude, and primitive recreation such as camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and spectacular sightseeing above the rim. The WSA also lies within the Lake Abert Archaeologic Zone listed in the National Register of Historic Places, with sites representing thousands of years of human occupa¬ tion. The proximity of the WSA to a major travel corridor adds regional and national value as a representation of wilderness accessible to the public. The recommendation would preserve as wilderness the unique features of the Abert Rim WSA, such as the dramatic topographic relief, vegetative and wildlife diversity, cultural resource values, and the natural and scenic qualities of the area. In addition, outstanding opportunities for solitude and primitive types of recreation, including sightseeing, backpack¬ ing, photography, hunting and horseback riding exist in many portions of the WSA. These qualities have been determined to outweigh the benefits of other resource uses. The recommendation would provide for the addition of a unique combination of ecosystems (Intermountain Sagebrush Province/sagebrush steppe and saltbush-greasewood) to the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS). At present, there are no similar wilderness areas containing both of these ecosystems. Biological diversity would be added to the NWPS under the recommendation. The addition of this area to the NWPS would contrib¬ ute to balancing the geographic distribution of wilderness areas. There are only three designated wilderness areas within 100 miles of this area. The Abert Rim WSA is generally in a natural condi¬ tion, as characterized by the good condition of the native plant communities and the unmarred face of the scarp. The area can be managed to preserve its wilderness character. The unnatural features in the study area are generally small, scattered and not visible from a great distance. Conflicts with other resources uses of the WSA exist but do not outweigh the value of the WSA for wilder¬ ness. Grazing use of the area above the rim will be allowed to continue, but the construction of one reservoir to improve livestock distribution would be foregone. Salvage logging of Colvin Timbers in the event of disease or insect infestation would be precluded. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendation Wilderness Characteristics A.Naturalness: The study area generally appears to be in a natural condition and is primarily affected by the forces of nature. The dramatically scenic face of Abert Rim presents a natural vista to thousands of travelers along Highways 395 and 31. The large scale of the landscape overwhelms the minor disturbance found along Highway 395. Above the rim on the south, mountain mahogany groves, pon- derosa pine, aspen groves, and even the broad appearance of low sage terrain focus perceptions upon the natural environment. Topography and 60 R 21 E R 22 E . LU ^-s © c 1- © o < c z 1- o CO z LU LU 1- H -1 LU H < < > CL f- CC CO CO CL < CC CO o £ U. Q t, 111 Q CO z w lu LU E - « CD T- CC < » I ■M 2 CL »- Q- < 0) o ^ < 2. Recommendation and Rationale — 23,760 acres recommended for wilderness 0 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate all 23,760 acres wilderness. This is considered to be the environmen¬ tally preferable alternative as it will result in the least change from the natural environment over the long term. A total of 23,280 acres of public land plus 480 acres of split-estate land are recommended for wilderness. The recommendation recognizes that the high wilderness values of Abert Rim outweigh opportuni¬ ties for minor timber harvest and reservoir construc¬ tion associated with livestock management activities. The Abert Rim WSA offers one of the most spec¬ tacular geologic sightseeing views in eastern Or¬ egon. It rises vertically from Lake Abert over 2,000 feet above the traffic on U.S. Highway 395. It is one of the largest exposed fault scarps in North America and is a major attraction in this region of the state. The rim remains in a natural condition and supports a large herd of bighorn sheep, which gather on the lower slopes in winter, drawing visitors to both the unique wildlife and geologic features of the site. The WSA offers outstanding primitive recreation opportunities with hiking and upland game bird hunting along the face, and opportunities for excep¬ tional solitude, and primitive recreation such as camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and spectacular sightseeing above the rim. The WSA also lies within the Lake Abert Archaeologic Zone listed in the National Register of Historic Places, with sites representing thousands of years of human occupa¬ tion. The proximity of the WSA to a major travel corridor adds regional and national value as a representation of wilderness accessible to the public. The recommendation would preserve as wilderness the unique features of the Abert Rim WSA, such as the dramatic topographic relief, vegetative and wildlife diversity, cultural resource values, and the natural and scenic qualities of the area. In addition, outstanding opportunities for solitude and primitive types of recreation, including sightseeing, backpack¬ ing, photography, hunting and horseback riding exist in many portions of the WSA. These qualities have been determined to outweigh the benefits of other resource uses. The recommendation would provide for the addition of a unique combination of ecosystems (Intermountain Sagebrush Province/sagebrush steppe and saltbush-greasewood) to the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS). At present, there are no similar wilderness areas containing both of these ecosystems. Biological diversity would be added to the NWPS under the recommendation. The addition of this area to the NWPS would contrib¬ ute to balancing the geographic distribution of wilderness areas. There are only three designated wilderness areas within 100 miles of this area. The Abert Rim WSA is generally in a natural condi¬ tion, as characterized by the good condition of the native plant communities and the unmarred face of the scarp. The area can be managed to preserve its wilderness character. The unnatural features in the study area are generally small, scattered and not visible from a great distance. Conflicts with other resources uses of the WSA exist but do not outweigh the value of the WSA for wilder¬ ness. Grazing use of the area above the rim will be allowed to continue, but the construction of one reservoir to improve livestock distribution would be foregone. Salvage logging of Colvin Timbers in the event of disease or insect infestation would be precluded. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendation Wilderness Characteristics A.Naturalness: The study area generally appears to be in a natural condition and is primarily affected by the forces of nature. The dramatically scenic face of Abert Rim presents a natural vista to thousands of travelers along Highways 395 and 31. The large scale of the landscape overwhelms the minor disturbance found along Highway 395. Above the rim on the south, mountain mahogany groves, pon- derosa pine, aspen groves, and even the broad appearance of low sage terrain focus perceptions upon the natural environment. Topography and 60 a ) QC O LL Q UJ Q CO Z CO LLI UJ 2 2 o o UJ cr QC UJ o < QC CO o £ tJ- Q w UJ _ Q CO z CO UJ UJ E m — I ^ O i fc- Q. < 0) O ^ < CO CO CO CO CO H Table 1. Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area Acres BLM (surface and subsurface) 23,280 Split-Estate (BLM surface only)1 480 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Total 23,760 Within the Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 23,280 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA)1 480 Split-Estate (outside WSA)1 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 23,760 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Within the Area Not Recommended for Wilderness BLM 0 Split- Estate1 0 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness 0 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Appendix 1 is a detailed description of split-estate tracts included within the study For purposes of this report, split-estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non-federal subsurface (minerals) vegetation mask most evidence of past human activity in the WSA. A wildfire burned approximately 3,000 acres of the scarp in the southern end of the WSA in 1985. The area is revegetating naturally with native bunchgrasses at high elevations. The entire WSA is California bighorn sheep range. The Abert Rim herd represents a very successful reintroduction that began with transfer of animals from Hart Mountain in the mid-1970’s. The herd now numbers more than 60, with interchange between animals located north near Grey’s Butte and animals on Hart Mountain. Abert Rim is an important raptor nesting area with prairie falcon nesting densities averaging one nest per mile, and golden eagles nesting at approximately two nests per mile. Nesting sites also occur for great horned owl and red-tailed hawk. There is a wide variety of animal populations due to the diversity of vegetation and topography within the WSA. The lack of development in the area also contributes to the diversity of species composition. Abert Rim WSA provides habitat for 150 pronghorn antelope, bobcat, coyote and badger, rattlesnakes and other reptiles. Avian species also include burrowing and saw-whet owls, sage grouse (candi¬ date threatened species in Oregon), chukar, quail, common flicker, downy and hair woodpeckers, Williamson’s sapsucker, and a variety of song birds. Unnatural features influence less than 8 percent of the WSA. They include 14 small waterholes and/or reservoirs, six wildlife guzzlers, three spring develop¬ ments, 3 miles of fence and 6 miles of vehicle ways. Some tree stumps remain from selective logging in Colvin Timbers. Many of these features are small or difficult to locate, and certain vehicle ways are becoming overgrown. Livestock developments are scattered and do not have a significant impact on the area as a whole. The only unnatural feature outside the WSA affecting opportunities for solitude is Highway 395 located at the base of the Rim, forming the western boundary of the WSA. Traffic along the highway can occasionally be heard inside the WSA to varying degrees depend¬ ing upon wind currents. The highway is visible from much of the western portion of the study area and from the rim, but the panorama of Lake Abert and the landscape beyond tends to dwarf the narrow ribbon of roadway. In general the sporadic noise intrusion is significant only on the lower slopes below the scarp. A powerline forming the northern boundary is visible for approximately 0.5 mile within the WSA. B. Solitude: Opportunities for solitude are outstand¬ ing in the WSA, especially in the southern half, both on the rim and along portions of the scarp. Here deeply-incised side canyons, foothills at the base of the scarp, and vegetative screening all help to isolate the visitor. The portion of the WSA north of Mule Lake and the portion along Highway 395 offer fewer opportunities for solitude due to the narrowness of the WSA on top of the rim, the lack of isolating land form, lower height of vegetation and proximity to noise from traffic. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: Oppor¬ tunities for primitive types of recreation are outstand¬ ing in the WSA. Hiking, backpacking, hunting, camping, sightseeing, photography, wildlife observa¬ tion and horseback riding opportunities are excellent. The visitor is rewarded with outstanding views, diverse wildlife (deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, eagles), a variety of geological features and a wide array of plants. Hiking can vary from flat easy terrain on top, to steep terrain on the scarp and in the canyons, such as along the undeveloped and rugged Poison Creek hiking trail. The exhilarating scenic views, the variety of topography, and of wildlife and the wooded areas and springs offer outstanding recreation opportunities. D. Special Features: Abert Rim is best known as one of the largest continuous fault scarps in North America. The scarp, which shows little erosion, rises over 2,000 feet above Lake Abert. It is a major scenic landmark which can be seen from both Highway 395 and Highway 31 for many miles. The area included in the WSA exhibits outstanding scenic qualities both above and below the rim. A major portion of the WSA has been designated as an archeological district on the National Register of Historic Sites and Places because of the presence of high archeological values along the ancient shoreline of Lake Abert. Colvin Timbers, an isolated group of ponderosa pines on 600 acres, represents the northernmost extension of ponderosa pine in the Warner Moun¬ tains. The WSA supports a herd of California bighorn sheep, a candidate species for Federal listing as threatened or endangered in Oregon. The herd was introduced in 1974 to help perpetuate the species and now exceeds 60. The WSA also contains crucial mule deer winter range. The northern two- thirds of the rim is an important nesting area for prairie falcon, golden eagle, great-horned owl and red-tailed hawk. The Abert Rim WSA is used yearly for both educa¬ tional and scientific purposes by geology and archeology students. Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features as Represented by Ecosystem: According to the Bailey-Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, Abert Rim WSA is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province with a potential natural vegetation of saltbush-greasewood along the western edge and sagebrush steppe in the rest of the WSA. Wilderness designation of the Abert Rim WSA would add two ecosystems (using the Bailey-Kuchler system) not presently represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS). This WSA contains two potential natural vegetation types: sagebrush steppe and saltbush-greasewood, an unusual occurrence. There are no designated areas within the NWPS containing this combination. Only sixteen other BLM areas in the nation, eleven of which are in Oregon, contain both of these ecosys¬ tems. This information is summarized in Table 2. The area is adjacent to the ponderosa/shrub forest- type to the south and includes a small portion of this community at Colvin Timbers. Vegetative communi¬ ties listed in the Basin and Range section of the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan occurring in the WSA are: ponderosa pine savanna, western juniper/big sagebrush/bluebunch wheatgrass, big sagebrush/ bluebunch wheatgrass, big sagebrush-greasewood, big sagebrush-bitterbrush/Idaho fescue, bitterbrush- sagebrush-snowberry, low sagebrush/Sandberg’s bluegrass, silver sage, big sagebrush-spiny hopsage and mountain mahogany. Table 2 summarizes this information. 64 B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive Recreation Within a Day’s Driving Time (five hours) of Major Population Centers: There are three standard metropolitan statistical areas with populations over 100,000 within five hours’ driving time of the Abert Rim WSA: Eugene/Springfield, Oregon; Medford, Oregon; and Redding, California. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within five hours’ drive of major population centers. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The addition of Abert Rim to the NWPS would contribute to balancing the geographic distribution of wilderness areas. There are only three designated wilderness areas within 100 miles of the WSA. Manageability (The area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics.) For the most part, the boundaries of the WSA are well defined and easily enforceable as wilderness, although recognition of the boundary on the south¬ east would require signing. Table 2. Ecosystem Representation Bailey-Kuchler NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Classification Areas Acres Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation Intermountain Sagebrush Province NATIONWIDE Sagebrush Steppe & Saltbush-Greasewood 0 0 16 965,490 OREGON 0 0 1 1 658,847 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Population Centers Areas Acres Areas Acres Eugene/Springfield, OR 42 2,859,994 43 770,436 Medford, OR ~ 31 2,440,081 21 730,038 Redding, CA 15 1 ,264,503 11 344,633 65 Energy and Mineral Resource Values Energy and mineral resources were evaluated by BLM using available geologic data and data provided by TERRADATA in, a consulting firm under contract with BLM. The data is contained in a report titled “Assessment of Geology, Energy and Minerals Resources of the Abert Rim Geologic Resource Area.” Data from a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Bureau of Mines (USBM) report titled “Mineral Resources of the Abert Rim Wilderness Study Area, Lake County, Oregon,” USGS Bulletin 1738-C, 1988, supplements and updates previous information. The USGS/BM report states that no mineral re¬ sources were identified in the Abert WSA, and that field studies revealed no areas of alteration that might be associated with mineralization. This re¬ sulted in lowering the potential for metals, gold, silver, and mercury, from moderate to low for the WSA. The entire area does have moderate potential for geothermal energy resources and low potential for oil and gas resources. There were 28 mining claims within the WSA as of May 1991 . Though geothermal potential is consid¬ ered to be moderate, no wells have been drilled. Recent information from the USGS regarding hydrocarbon “plays” in the region indicates that there may be moderate potential for hydrocarbons at depth. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 708 AUMs and recreation use totaling 2,100 visitor days per year are the primary resource outputs that generate economic activity in the WSA. Local personal income gener¬ ated annually from these existing use levels amounts to approximately $8,496 for livestock grazing and $25,200 related to recreation use of the WSA, for an overall total of $33,696. Under the recommendation, livestock grazing would remain at 708 AUMs. Overall recreation use would increase by 200 visitor days per year. Annual local personal income generated from resource outputs in the WSA would increase by approximately $2400. There were no social issues identified with the study of this WSA. Summary of WSA-Specific Public Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternatives for the ultimate management of those lands found to have wilderness values. During the formal public review of the Draft and Supplement to the Draft EIS, there were a total of 23 comments received specifically addressing the Abert Rim WSA. Of these comments, 20 were written and 3 were oral comments received at the 24 public hearings. Seven commenters supported all wilder¬ ness and six commenters favored designating an area greater than all wilderness. Four commenters opposed wilderness designation of the WSA. Those supporting all wilderness cited protection of ecosystems and plant communities, wildlife species and ecological diversity as their reasons. Those favoring designation of an area larger than all wilderness advocated the inclusion of areas to the east and south (inventory unit 102). Those opposing wilderness designation claimed that the area does not have sufficient wilderness values, that the area is too small, and that sounds from Highway 395 and evidence of past logging activities render the area unqualified for wilderness. No specific comments were received from other agencies or local governments regarding designation or nondesignation of the Abert Rim WSA. No public comments on the Final EIS were received specific to this WSA Impacts on Resources The following comparative impact table summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for both alterna¬ tives considered for the Abert Rim WSA. 66 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (All Wilderness Alternative) No Wilderness/No Action Alter¬ native Impacts on Wilderness Values Wilderness designation of 23,760 acres would result in projection and enhancement of existing wilderness values. Projected management actions would impair wilderness values over approximately 1 ,700 to 2,900 acres. Impacts on Energy and Mineral Development No impact to energy or mineral development is expected. There would be no impact to energy or mineral development. Impacts on Vegetation The 6 miles of ways would revegetate. Vegetation would be altered on 7 acres by reservoir construction and an increase in concentration of livestock. Another 600 acres could be affected by salvage logging. Impacts on Wildlife Habitat and populations would be maintained throughout the area. Habitat enhancement of bighorn sheep and pronghorn habitat would occur. Wildlife would sustain minor and temporary levels of disturbance due to vehicle use. Habitat for mule deer, raptors and cavity¬ nesting species would be re¬ duced by salvage logging on 600 acres. Impacts on Watershed No impact to water quality. Water availability improved by construction of one reservoir. Impacts on Livestock Grazing Continued improper livestock distribution due to loss of oppor¬ tunity to construct one reservoir. Reduced vehicle use would cause a minor inconvenience to livestock operators. Construction of one reservoir would improve livestock distribu¬ tion. Impacts on Wood Products No salvage logging would be allowed. Salvage logging could take place. Impacts on Recreation Use An increase in recreation by 200 visitor days per year is expected. No change in the level or type of use is expected, except for a 1 ,000 visitor day increase if vehicle access is improved for logging operations. Impacts on Local Personal Income Annual local personal income would increase by more than $2,000. Annual local personal income would increase by approximately $12,000. 67 Appendix 1 - Estimated Costs of Acquisition of Non-Federal Holdings Within Areas Recommended for Designation O) c '55 w c o o O s V) ■8-S to 2 o S 55 x * i— uj ■8 3 „ D" (D O * E « w ii\ ^ TT w o £ O O 0l 3 a. . o c >"*- o = ■0=0 c a> = 2 a> « .<2 - « — ■ 3 «£.o 2 o O = « 5 ® 2 O LL TO o r: 8 # a> ra 2 ro « kX’UJ to LU « 0> c 5 O a> S3 E 3 — 05 « « — a> o s o < c o a c — « o 8 >» c o 55 <5.3 J a> o o o a> 05 c « jz o X LU if) a> > 05 2 to 05 ■o 05 O 00 CO 00 C\J C\J 8 to CM to LU 8™: 68 5 <2 to -O © •D © 2- to Q_ O -C x to is © 03 o-g J-| E £ to © -c T8 5 E 5 £ to © © © © to to O © O © ^ C 03 £ s, . 03 to ^ f R 03 © O w> © © to a> © 03 _c c o o 03 © D Q. _ oO to ^ © “ O (8 © 03 c 2 I o c 2 © ■O to .to 8 g£ 5 8\s to ^“O ® a ® « i2 E ~ <= to © 9 © ■ -o c _ - to -E T3 "O O) c C o rt-!S >- = £ P< « ^ _ o B2 • -v- ^ to © o 5 o T3 CT > C O © J$ 03 S -r^ ° - © to r- - ~ ^ ^ to o .» 3 -o -Q E c C *3 03 © to a © c Q. «*- © cfl O £ to to £ 8^ .= 8.0 "8 g. e ~ “■ to to c to **T Q. *- to x 8 | ® O ™ (/> "S-o £ t> ® « g ^ © to © to « £ 8 2 -<= III 5 ? o nl c 5 ^ © © C o ~o © Q_ D ill £ |8 5 <0 c D) ’<0 a> O ■O 0 ■o c 0 E E o o 0 DC co CD 0 (/> o> c 2 o x To 0 T3 0 LL i C o o CO 3 O’ < >*- o (0 *—> CO o o ■O 0 cS E ■ MM *-> CO LU X B c 0 Q. Q. < « o O ■5 If vt HI c .2 o '3 05 C '35 8 » § « « 8 _ o CL O _ « TO •* - » O o 3 T5 O ■g <0 05 ejj o -* o 5 <0 x 'C* « . cr o'- t o v> O © < « £00 CL 3 k. .0 c >"•- o — "O ~ C d) * TT *05 $ H.2 _ >=wli (0 © S«5S § -g ® w UJ * ©2 Oil o o ©■: 8 o ® « 0- « n Ol. *? jZ l: 'LU 3 « CO UJ <0 w © C 5 O 2 E 3 © 2 g5 o £ I- o < c o *1° & S:s 8r| Q 0 2 I£« © (A © 05 c CO -C o X LU & 3 co © © T5 © O CM CD CM CE CD wr § 00 ~ CO O % O © E 0 ® | (0 CL O ■B * 2 c 8 1 0 j= t> - 5 .E .2 -5 0-1 1-S E .E CO 0 -c © II CO 0 © 0 © co 8 8 2 ® 0 ~ E © E 0 . ^ 2 © f-s E x JD 0 o O (0 0 c 0 >3 o co © Q> Sf2 -g 3 ° x c 00“ *•- © © © 0 0 3= © -S cl « ffl — c ~ u> ® §£ e 8.5 CO *— _ c O o> © O o 0 S CO 0 0 © . h: _® ^ !S Q.-D -9 ■D ® ® g 1 -O ® g- rt III 8] ?l«s1 _Q -*= g _J © © © U C C •JX T3 o O >_ g -C 0 ® ll CO co -o (fl c ® 2 3 0 9 © -o - ^ o © © p ©> > CX) ± C c > c 3 J:.b © g § 2 ® -D o> 8 Q- I .2 | £ 'B 5 © — C CO - lil §1 E 8 | “ C « ® 2 jn *11:* | 1 S- ® O <0 ^ O *- © >.**- o 5g 2 g>f o S' 2 £ ■§ . 5 CS S I w O 00 O 0 c .E-o E ® C _c c _ 0 ■- “ « S £ x — — 9 = -5 -Q c .ts x c © (D .co O © « £ 3 n <0 Cfl^T) b = © u © 0 t (0 (fl (0 -o f S 2 8 ® a. s. a ro .= o ® § E 8 1 | ■g S n) 5 a I ® 8 o 8 Iil8« S>-| ®5 © < 0 © 0 £ co © £ o #|h 80 Guano Creek Wilderness Study Area 1. The Study Area — 10,350 acres The Guano Creek Wilderness Study Area (WSA) (OR-1-132) is located approximately 67 miles northeast of Lakeview, Oregon, in southern Lake County. Oregon State Highway 140 passes 12 miles south of the WSA. All of the 10,350 acres within the WSA are BLM land. Table 1 summarizes land ownership within the WSA. The boundaries are defined by low standard dirt or gravel roads with the exception of approximately 1 .5 miles along the eastern edge following the boundary of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Shirk Ranch (fence) and an indentation of private land in the north. The study area is characterized by open and gently rolling, sage-covered terrain which is broken by shallow intermittent drainages, rims, and the canyon of Guano Creek. There are two ephemeral sink lakes (geologic features created by circular depressions in the lava) in the northern portion of the WSA. Vegetation is primarily low sagebrush and bunchgrass communities, with riparian vegetation along drainages and Guano Creek, and juniper/ shrub associations scattered on upland areas. There is a small stand of willow at the lower end of Guano Creek. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and was included in the Final Oregon Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) filed in February, 1990. There were three alternatives analyzed in the EIS: an all wilderness alternative (which is the recommendation of this report); a partial wilderness alternative; and a no wilderness/no action alternative. The partial alternative would recommend 640 fewer acres than the all wilderness alternative. These lands are shown on Map 1 . 2. Recommendation and Rationale 10,350 acres recommended for wilderness 0 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate all 10,350 acres wilderness. This is considered to be the environmentally preferable alternative as it will result 81 in the least change from the natural environment over the long term. The recommendation preserves the WSAs notable wilderness values which are considered to outweigh benefits derived from construction of water developments for enhancement of water availability for livestock. The recommendation would preserve significant natural values in the Guano Creek WSA such as the presence of rare plants and of native plant communities, paleontological resources, and habitat for the Sheldon tui chub, and sage grouse (a candidate species for listing under the Endangered Species Act). The WSA is in a natural condition overall. However, the Guano Creek Canyon is subject to heavy livestock grazing pressure on alternate years. The uplands north of the canyon are undisturbed except for grazing, and has two ephemeral lakes where large gentle depressions collect rainfall and snowmelt. These sink lakes are in a natural condition which is a rare situation due to extensive waterhole construction, and have been surveyed by the Pacific Northwest Research Natural Area Committee as a potential Research Natural Area (RNA). Exposed tuffaceous soils provide for visual variety, as well as unique paleontological and botanical resources. Late Miocene vertebrate fossils have been found within these sediments and two rare plant species, Eriogonum crosbyae and Ivesia rhypara, are dependent upon these unique soils. Wilderness designation of the Guano Creek WSA would add an ecosystem (Intermountain sagebrush/ sagebrush steppe) not presently represented in Oregon, and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. In addition, wilderness designation of this area would contribute to balancing the geographic distribution of wilderness within the NWPS. The recommendation would preserve opportunities for solitude which are excellent in the canyon and along the broken rims. Primitive recreation activities such as bow hunting, hiking and nature study are outstanding. The naturalness of adjacent lands to the south and north contribute to the quality of the wilderness experience within the WSA, as do the sweeping views to Hart Mountain, Beaty Butte and Guano Rim. Minimal conflicts with other resource uses of this WSA exist, and what conflicts do exist are far outweighed by the value of the area for wilderness. Grazing use of the area will be allowed to continue, but construction of two small watering facilities which would increase water supply for livestock would be foregone. Realignment of one mile of road would have to be kept outside the wilderness. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendations Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: The Guano Creek WSA is in a natural condition and has been primarily affected by the forces of nature. The area is characterized by undisturbed uplands, swales, and low rims with two undeveloped sink lakes. As most lakebeds in the vicinity have been developed with waterholes, the occurrence of such lakes in a natural condition is rare. Guano Creek represents a valuable desert resource that has been unaltered except for impacts to vegetation resulting from livestock grazing. Recent changes in management on the east end of the WSA have considerably improved the natural condition of the riparian resource. As home to the Sheldon tui chub, an isolated candidate for listing as threatened or endangered status, protection of the stream is particularly important. The WSA receives summer antelope use, with resident numbers ranging from 10 to several hundred. It is estimated that 1 ,000 antelope use or pass through the area each year. Herd condition is good. Approximately 100 mule deer use or frequent the study area on a year-round basis. They tend to concentrate near the rimrock where juniper groves provide cover. Herd condition is good. Waterfowl including gadwall, pintail, shoveler, mallard, and Canada goose nest in emergent vegetation on the two sink lakes and Guano Creek during wet years, producing as many as 25 broods of 6-10 young. These same areas provide resting and feeding habitat for these and other migrating birds each spring. The rims and canyons are likely habitat for raptors, but no nests have been observed. The WSA is also habitat for coyote, skunk, badger, porcupine, weasel, Stellar’s jay, nighthawk, swift, flycatchers, numerous other birds, small mammals, and amphibians. Common reptiles include western rattlesnake, gopher snake, and fence lizard. 82 R 26 E R 27 E T 38 S RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS RECOMMENDED FOR NONWILDERNESS (None) LAND OUTSIDE WSA RECOMMENDED FOR WILDERNESS (None) SPLIT ESTATE (None) STATE (None) PRIVATE (None) -N- I Guano Creek Proposal MAP-1 0 12 3 I _ I - 1 - 1 MILES OR-1-132 January, 1991 Table 1. Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area Acres BLM (surface and subsurface) 10,350 Split- Estate1 0 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Total 10,350 Within the Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 10,350 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA)1 0 Split Estate (outside WSA1 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 1 0,350 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Within the Area Not Recommended for Wildernes BLM 0 Split-Estate1 0 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness 0 Inholdings (State, private) 0 'For purposes of this report, split-estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non-Federal subsurface (minerals). The unnatural features which do exist are limited to three small reservoirs, 1 .5 miles of fence and 5 miles of ways. The reservoirs are small, scattered and not noticeable for any distance. The vehicle ways are apparent only along their routes and do not significantly affect the natural scene. Disturbances impact directly and indirectly approximately only one percent of the study area. B. Solitude: Outstanding opportunities for solitude exist in Guano Creek Canyon, along broken rims and in the vicinity of the tuffaceous cliffs in the eastern portion of the WSA. The sink lakes, bowl-like depressions in the basalt uplands, offer isolation in spite of the low vegetation. Secluded spots may also be found among juniper above the rimrock where there is less topographic screening. The remoteness of the study area, coupled with the naturalness of much of the surrounding lands, engenders a strong feeling of solitude even on the open sage flats. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: Outstanding opportunities for primitive recreation exist throughout the WSA. These opportunities include hiking, camping, horseback riding, wildlife observation and plant studies. Antelope hunting, popular in the area, is good. The variety of terrain, from open sage flats to rugged canyon and rimrock, from colorful soils and eroded tuffaceous formations to meandering stream, offers outstanding sightseeing and photographic opportunities as well. D. Special Features: The two ephemeral sink lakes in the northern portion of the WSA are geological features which are unique to the basalt flows of southeastern Oregon. The significance of these two lakes is that they are undisturbed by water projects (few such unaltered lakes remain). These sink lakes have been surveyed as a potential Research Natural Area, but more inventory is needed before a recommendation is made on their eligibility for RNA status. A population of Eriogonum crosbyae (Crosby’s buckwheat) occurs on the east side of the WSA. The site is unique in soil and vegetative composition, with this species showing considerable variability. The species is known to exist in only two other 84 locations in Oregon and is a candidate for Federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. Ivesia rhypara, a recently discovered species, also occurs in the WSA. It is on List 1 of the Oregon Natural Heritage Data Base, taxa endangered throughout range. Guano Creek is habitat for the Sheldon tui chub, a candidate species in Oregon for addition to the list of Federal threatened and endangered species. Its range is limited to a few springs and streams of northwest Nevada and southeast Oregon. Another candidate species for Federal threatened and endangered status which inhabits the WSA is the sage grouse. Wintering concentrations are high, and there is at least one strutting ground within the WSA. Sage grouse are listed as a Category 2 species in the state of Oregon. This means that the listing as threatened or endangered may be appropriate, but current data is not conclusive. The primary impact to the sage grouse has been the loss of habitat over the years. Tertiary tuffaceous sedimentary rocks along the eastern portion of the WSA contain late Miocene vertebrate fossils. Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features as Represented by Ecosystem: Wilderness designation of this WSA would add an ecosystem not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. There are 66 other BLM areas in the State under study within this ecosystem. According to the Bailey/Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, the Guano Creek WSA is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province with a potential natural vegetation of sagebrush steppe. Table 2 summarizes this information. Vegetative communities listed in the Basin and Range section of the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan which occur in the WSA are low sagebrush/ Sandberg’s bluegrass, silver sagebrush, and big sagebrush/bluebunch wheatgrass. B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive Recreation Within a Days Driving Time (five hours) of Major Population Centers: There are four standard metropolitan statistical areas with populations over 100,000 within five hours’ driving time of the WSA: Reno, Nevada; Boise, Idaho; Eugene/Springfield, Oregon; and Redding, California. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within five hours’ drive of major population centers. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The Guano Creek WSA would contribute to balancing the geographic distribution of areas within the National Wilderness Preservation System. There are only three designated areas within one hundred miles of this WSA. Manageability (the area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics). The area is capable of being managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics. There are no inholdings or split-estate parcels. The boundaries are very clear-cut around the WSA and easily located and enforced. The openness of terrain and relatively smaller size of the Guano Creek WSA would add to the ease of management in this case due to ease of observation for enforcement. The values in the area are high in value and relatively concentrated, making control procedures easier to effect. Energy and Mineral Resource Values Energy and mineral resources were evaluated by BLM using available geologic data and data provided in a report by TERRADATA, a consulting firm under contract with BLM. The report is titled “Assessment of Geology, Energy, and Minerals Resources of the Crump Lake Geologic Resource Area.” The U.S. Geological Survey and Bureau of Mines (USGS/USBM) report, “Mineral Resources of the Guano Creek Wilderness Study Area, Lake County, Oregon,” Open File Report 88-0297, states no mineral resources were identified in the area. There is no potential for geothermal energy or energy mineral resources within the WSA. The study area has low mineral potential for zeolites and oil and gas. The TERRADATA report did indicate moderate potential for mercury, gold, silver and diatomite in various areas within the WSA, but the difference from the USGS/USBM report is not significant to warrant any modification of the recommendation. 85 Table 2. Ecosystem Representation Bailey/Kuchler NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Classification Areas Acres Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation Intermountain Sagebrush NATIONWIDE Sagebrush Steppe 3 76,699 136 4,359,990 QREGQN 0 0 66 1,972,724 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Population Centers Areas Acres Areas Acres Reno, NV 45 4,967,230 175 6,904,809 Boise, ID 16 4,741,570 126 5,060,460 Eugene/Springfield, OR 42 2,859,994 43 770,436 Redding, CA 15 1 ,264,503 11 344,633 As of May 1991 , there were no mining claims within the WSA. Recent information from the USGS, based on reports of hydrocarbon “plays” in the region, indicates that there may be a moderate potential for hydrocarbons at depth. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 575 AUMs and recreation use totaling less than 100 visitor days per year are the primary resource outputs that generate economic activity in the WSA. Local personal income generated annually from these existing use levels amounts to approximately $7,000 for livestock grazing and more than $1 ,000 related to recreation use of the WSA, for a total of $8,000. 86 Under the recommendation, livestock grazing would remain at 575 AUMs, and overall recreation use would remain at approximately 100 visitor days per year. The total effect on local personal income would be no net change from the current level. There were no social issues identified with the study of the WSA. Summary of WSA-Specific Public Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternatives for the ultimate management of those lands found to have wilderness qualities. During formal public review of the Draft and Supple¬ ment to the Draft EIS, a total of 1 7 comments specifically addressing the Guano Creek WSA were received. Of these, 1 4 were written and 3 were oral comments received at the 24 public hearings. Three commenters supported an expanded wilderness, while seven commenters supported all wilderness. Four commenters supported a partial wilderness of 9,890 acres; two commenters opposed wilderness designation. Those supporting an expanded wilderness cited protection of raptor habitat and habitat for the Sheldon tui chub as reasons for their positions. Proponents of an all wilderness designation cited protection of the Sheldon tui chub, of antelope habitat, and of the sink lakes and riparian vegetation along Guano Creek. Protection of Guano Creek and its riparian zone is a concern of those who support a partial wilderness recommendation. One opponent of wilderness designation stated that the area was too small, and that designation would adversely affect the minerals industry and powerline construction. Another opponent feels that the area is too large for hunters to pack out trophy animals without the use of a vehicle. No WSA-specific comments were received from other agencies or local government concerning the designation or nondesignation of Guano Creek WSA. No comments on the Final EIS were received specific to this WSA. Impacts on Resources The following comparative impact table summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for all the alternatives considered including designation or nondesignation of the entire area as wilderness. 87 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (All Wilderness Alternative) Impacts on Wilderness Wilderness designation of 10,350 acres would protect and enhance existing wilderness values. Impacts on Energy and Mineral Development No impact to energy and mineral development. Impacts on Vegetation Little or no change to vegetation throughout. Impacts on Wildlife Habitat and populations would be maintained throughout. Impacts on Watershed Water quality would remain in present condition throughout. Impacts on Livestock Grazing Vehicle use on 5 miles of ways would be limited resulting in minor inconvenience to livestock operator. Enhancement of water availability foregone. Impacts on Recreation Use Overall recreation use level not affected. There would be a change to nonmotorized types of recreation use. Impacts on Local Personal Income Local personal income would remain at $8,000 per year. Partial Wilderness Alternative No Wilderness/No Action Alternative Wilderness designation would protect and enhance existing wilderness values on 9,890 acres. One acre of the nonsuitable portion would be affected by projected actions. Projected management activities would impair the area’s wilderness values on 1 ,430 acres. No impact to energy and mineral development. No impact to energy and mineral development. Little or no change to vegetation in suitable area. One acre altered for road realignment. Vegetation altered over 260 acres by waterhole and reservoir construction and by road realignment. Habitat and populations would be maintained in the suitable portion. One acre of habitat would be altered by road realignment. Waterhole construction in sink lake would reduce waterfowl production by 85 to 90 percent. Concentration of cattle at new water facilities would reduce nesting and escape cover. Road realignment would alter one additional acre. Water quality would remain in present condition in the suitable portion. Short term impact to water quality and flow during road realignment. Water quality and flow reduced on 2 miles of ephemeral stream. Water table lowered in 250 acre sink lake. Vehicle use on 5 miles of ways would be limited, resulting in minor inconvenience to livestock operator. Enhancement of water availability foregone. Two water facilities would be constructed. Overall recreation use level not affected. There would be a change to non-motorized types of recreation use. No change in use level or type. Local personal income would remain at $8,000 per year. Local personal income would remain at $8,000 per year. 89 . Spaulding Wilderness Study Area 1 . The Study Area — 69,530 acres The Spaulding Wilderness Study Area (WSA OR-1- 139) is located 18 miles east of Adel, Oregon, in both Lake and Harney counties. Its boundaries are defined by the right-of-way of Oregon State Highway 140 for approximately 3 miles on the southwest, a high standard dirt road on the west and low standard dirt roads on the north, east, and south. The WSA boundary extends up the dead-end road to Spaulding Reservoir and around a 320-acre parcel of private land adjacent to this road. All lands adjacent to the WSA are public. The Spaulding WSA contains 69,530 acres of BLM land and 440 acres of private inholdings. Table 1 summarizes land ownership within the WSA. The WSA is 17 miles long from north to south and from three to nine miles wide in a roughly oval shape with a panhandle on the south. The study area is characterized by rolling sagelands broken by low rimrock and interlaced by a network of intermittent stream drainages. Antelope Butte at the south end of the WSA rises to an elevation of 6,440 feet. Sage Hen Canyon, central to the study area, funnels outward from steep high rimrock to a broad swale near Spaulding Reservoir, which is excluded from the WSA boundary. West of the reservoir the drainage is also known as Spaulding Creek. At the south end of Sage Hen Canyon near the eastern WSA boundary is a one-mile series of pools known as The Potholes. These pools hold water after spring run-off well into the summer. The western portion of the WSA is dominated by a 13 mile section of Guano Rim, also called Dougherty Rim, which reaches a height of 900 feet. The rim is incised by seven steep canyons and the major drainage known as Rocky Canyon. Eleven sink lakes are scattered throughout the area above and to the east of Guano Rim. Along the eastern boundary are a large erosion basin and a prominent landmark, Chimney Rock. Vegetation consists generally of sagebrush/bunchgrass communities, with some aspen groves beneath rims, scattered occurrence of mountain mahogany, and juniper growing at the base of some rims. Various shrub species occur in the canyons and among the rimrock. The WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and was included in the Final Oregon Wilderness Environmental Impact Statement filed in February 1990. 91 Three alternatives were analyzed in the EIS: an all wilderness alternative, a partial wilderness alternative, and a no wilderness/no action alternative (which is the recommendation in this report). The partial wilderness alternative would recommend 34,800 acres as suitable for wilderness, and 34,730 acres nonsuitable. These lands are shown on Map 1. 2. Recommendation and Rationale — 0 acres recommended for wilderness 69,530 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation for this WSA is to release the entire area of the Spaulding WSA for uses other than wilderness. The all wilderness alternative is considered to be the environmentally preferable alternative as it would result in the least change to the natural environment over the long term. However, the no wilderness/no action alternative would be implemented in a manner which would use all practical means to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. The recommendation recognizes that the benefits of retaining options for increasing livestock forage production, improving deer and antelope habitat, and developing mineral resources outweigh the benefits of preserving the area’s wilderness values. This would allow vegetative manipulation on 2,587 acres to increase forage production for livestock by 776 AUMs. Three reservoirs, two waterholes, 2 miles of pipeline and 7 miles of fence would improve livestock distribution and enhance livestock management. The 776-AUM increase in forage allocation would generate an additional $9,312 in local personal income annually. Vegetative manipulation for wildlife would improve spring forage, and therefore nutrition, for mule deer and antelope. The installation of a wildlife guzzler would increase the available water for deer, antelope and other wildlife species. The projects would alter sage grouse habitat over 1 ,504 acres and introduce non-native grasses to the area. The recommendation would permit the potential development of an open-pit gold mine which would increase local personal income by an unknown amount depending upon the quantity and quality of the ore extracted. If developed, the mine is projected to cover 160 acres and visually affect 600 acres. Road construction for mining and livestock management activities is expected to increase motorized recreation in the area. The additional 50 visitor days per year projected would increase local personal income by $240. It has been determined that these land uses and the income they generate outweigh the benefits of naturalness, opportunities for solitude and primitive types of recreation, vegetative diversity and water quality, as well as special features such as sage grouse habitat and cultural resources. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendation Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: The WSA is in a predominantly natural condition and primarily affected by the forces of nature. The concentrations of native vegetation, especially in the undisturbed habitat of Sage Hen Canyon, and the large number of sage grouse in the area attest to its naturalness. There are several undisturbed sink lakes in the northern portion of the WSA. Evidence of recent human activity is extremely isolated and unobtrusive when considering the area as a whole. There are two spring developments, 5 miles of fence, 1 1 small waterholes and reservoirs, and 13 miles of ways scattered within the 69,530 acres. Unnatural features outside the WSA are State Highway 1 40 which forms 3 miles of the southern boundary ascending Guano Rim at Dougherty Slide, and livestock developments in Guano Valley which are visible from atop Guano Rim. These features are visible from only a small percentage of the study area and do not have a significant adverse effect on the naturalness of the WSA as a whole. Approximately 80 mule deer and 250 antelope frequent the area. The area also supports badger, coyote, bobcat, mountain cottontail, and numerous other small mammals, bird species, and reptiles. B. Solitude: Due to the large size and remote location of the Spaulding WSA, outstanding opportunities for solitude exist over most of the area. The northern portion contains broad, unobstructed 92 R 28 E R 29 E i 05 T- CO 05 T- 05 □c cT O « D C (0 CO CO CO -I CE^ O ® “•§ QZ uj Q CO z w LU UJ |l o m ° Q O _i uj - oc £ cc o CO CO UJ z cc UJ o < cc ^ CO o C $ u. o Q UJ D z UJ 2 of o Z uj O CE Z Three alternatives were analyzed in the EIS: an all wilderness alternative, a partial wilderness alternative, and a no wilderness/no action alternative (which is the recommendation in this report). The partial wilderness alternative would recommend 34,800 acres as suitable for wilderness, and 34,730 acres nonsuitable. These lands are shown on Map 1. 2. Recommendation and Rationale — 0 acres recommended for wilderness 69,530 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation for this WSA is to release the entire area of the Spaulding WSA for uses other than wilderness. The all wilderness alternative is considered to be the environmentally preferable alternative as it would result in the least change to the natural environment over the long term. However, the no wilderness/no action alternative would be implemented in a manner which would use all practical means to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. The recommendation recognizes that the benefits of retaining options for increasing livestock forage production, improving deer and antelope habitat, and developing mineral resources outweigh the benefits of preserving the area’s wilderness values. This would allow vegetative manipulation on 2,587 acres to increase forage production for livestock by 776 AUMs. Three reservoirs, two waterholes, 2 miles of pipeline and 7 miles of fence would improve livestock distribution and enhance livestock management. The 776-AUM increase in forage allocation would generate an additional $9,312 in local personal income annually. Vegetative manipulation for wildlife would improve spring forage, and therefore nutrition, for mule deer and antelope. The installation of a wildlife guzzler would increase the available water for deer, antelope and other wildlife species. The projects would alter sage grouse habitat over 1 ,504 acres and introduce non-native grasses to the area. The recommendation would permit the potential development of an open-pit gold mine which would increase local personal income by an unknown amount depending upon the quantity and quality of the ore extracted. If developed, the mine is projected to cover 1 60 acres and visually affect 600 acres. Road construction for mining and livestock management activities is expected to increase motorized recreation in the area. The additional 50 visitor days per year projected would increase local personal income by $240. It has been determined that these land uses and the income they generate outweigh the benefits of naturalness, opportunities for solitude and primitive types of recreation, vegetative diversity and water quality, as well as special features such as sage grouse habitat and cultural resources. 3. Criteria Considered in Developing the Wilderness Recommendation Wilderness Characteristics A. Naturalness: The WSA is in a predominantly natural condition and primarily affected by the forces of nature. The concentrations of native vegetation, especially in the undisturbed habitat of Sage Hen Canyon, and the large number of sage grouse in the area attest to its naturalness. There are several undisturbed sink lakes in the northern portion of the WSA. Evidence of recent human activity is extremely isolated and unobtrusive when considering the area as a whole. There are two spring developments, 5 miles of fence, 1 1 small waterholes and reservoirs, and 13 miles of ways scattered within the 69,530 acres. Unnatural features outside the WSA are State Highway 140 which forms 3 miles of the southern boundary ascending Guano Rim at Dougherty Slide, and livestock developments in Guano Valley which are visible from atop Guano Rim. These features are visible from only a small percentage of the study area and do not have a significant adverse effect on the naturalness of the WSA as a whole. Approximately 80 mule deer and 250 antelope frequent the area. The area also supports badger, coyote, bobcat, mountain cottontail, and numerous other small mammals, bird species, and reptiles. B. Solitude: Due to the large size and remote location of the Spaulding WSA, outstanding opportunities for solitude exist over most of the area. The northern portion contains broad, unobstructed 92 A3NdVH A3NUVH 3XV1 Table 1. - Land Status and Acreage Summary of the Study Area Within Wilderness Study Area Acres BLM (surface and subsurface) 69,530 Split-Estate1 0 Inholdings (State, private) 440 Total 69,970 Within the Recommended Wilderness Boundary BLM (within WSA) 0 BLM (outside WSA) 0 Split-Estate (within WSA) 0 Split- Estate (outside WSA) 0 Total BLM Land Recommended for Wilderness 0 Inholdings (State, private) 0 Within the Area Not Recommended for Wilderness BLM 69,530 Split- Estate 0 Total BLM Land Not Recommended for Wilderness Inholdings (State, private) 440 1 For purposes of this report, split-estate lands are defined only as those lands with federal surface and non Federal subsurface (minerals). vistas which engender a powerful feeling of solitude. The south half of the WSA at first appears rather open, but the area offers ample opportunity for isolation due to the gently-rolling terrain and the variation in height of the sage cover. The steep convoluted canyons along Guano Rim offer exceptional opportunities for isolation and solitude. The intermittent presence of vehicles at Spaulding Reservoir affects the opportunities for solitude in that vicinity. C. Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: Primitive recreation opportunities are outstanding for day hiking, backpacking, camping, nature study, photography, hunting, horseback riding and general sightseeing in most of the WSA. Sage Hen Canyon is a rugged and scenic area for hiking and offers opportunities for wildlife observation. The numerous canyons of Guano Rim offer birdwatching, photographic and sightseeing opportunities. Due to the large size of the WSA, primitive hunting and backpacking opportunities excel. D. Special Features: Guano Rim is one of a series of high fault black scarps responsible for the distinctive basin and range topography of southeastern Oregon. The rim has potential for moderately-dense nesting by raptors, and many aeries are present on the steep face of the rim and on the rimrock of its canyons. Approximately 85 percent of the study area has been identified as year-long sage grouse habitat. Inventories in 1980 and 1988 tabulated a total of 16 sage grouse strutting grounds within the WSA. Four of these strutting grounds contained more than 30 birds at the time of inventory. Approximately 80 percent of sage hens nest within 2 miles of the strutting ground where mating occurs. The sage grouse is a candidate for Federal listing as threatened or endangered in Oregon under the Endangered Species Act. The southern half of the area is crucial antelope winter range and spring kidding grounds. Cultural resources, including a petroglyph site, are within the boundaries of the WSA. 95 Diversity in the National Wilderness Preservation System A. Expanding the Diversity of Natural Systems and Features as Represented by Ecosystem: Wilderness designation of this WSA would add an ecosystem not presently represented in Oregon and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System by only three areas. There are 66 other BLM study areas in the state within this ecosystem. According to the Bailey/Kuchler system of classifying ecosystems, the Spaulding WSA is located in the Intermountain Sagebrush Province, with a potential natural vegetation of sagebrush steppe. Table 2 summarizes this information. Vegetative communities listed by the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan in the Basin and Range section and occurring in the WSA include big sagebrush/ldaho fescue, low sagebrush/Idaho fescue, low sagebrush/ Sandberg’s bluegrass, silver sagebrush, aspen groves and mid- to high-level vernal (spring) ponds. Other communities in the WSA include a willow- grass community in a riparian area, and big sagebrush/Thurber’s needlegrass community. B. Assessing the Opportunities for Solitude of Primitive Recreation Within a Day’s Driving Time (five hours) of Major Population Centers: There are four standard metropolitan statistical areas with populations over 100,000 within five hours’ driving time of the Spaulding WSA: Medford, Oregon; Reno, Nevada; Boise, Idaho; and Redding, California. Table 3 summarizes the number and acreage of designated areas and other BLM study areas within a day’s driving time of major population centers. C. Balancing the Geographic Distribution of Wilderness Areas: The Spaulding WSA would contribute to balancing the geographic distribution of areas within the National Wilderness Preservation System. There are only three designated areas within 100 miles of this WSA. Manageability (The area must be capable of being effectively managed to preserve its wilderness character.) The area is capable of being managed to preserve its wilderness characteristics. The boundaries are well defined by BLM roads and by fencing. Private inholdings do not currently affect the area’s manageability and would not be anticipated to complicate management; the lands are currently used for livestock grazing operations with little or no development potential beyond current conditions that would conflict with wilderness management. The southern part of the WSA would require extra patrol efforts during hunting season to prevent vehicle incursions. Table 2. Ecosystem Representation Bailey/Kuchler NWPS Areas Other BLM Studies Classification Areas Acres Areas Acres Province/Potential Natural Vegetation NATIONWIDE Intermountain Sagebrush Province/ Sagebrush Steppe 3 76,699 136 4,300,810 OREGON 0 0 66 1,913,544 96 Table 3. Wilderness Opportunities for Residents of Major Population Centers Population Centers NWPS Areas Areas Acres Other BLM Studies AreasAcres Medford, OR 31 2,440,081 21 730,038 Reno, NV 45 4,967,230 175 6,904,809 Boise, ID 16 4,741,570 126 5,060,460 Redding, CA 15 1,264,503 11 344,633 Energy and Mineral Resource Values Energy and mineral resources were evaluated by BLM using geologic data in BLM files, data in a report by TERRADATA (a consulting firm under contract with BLM), and a recent report from the United States Bureau of Mines. The potential for occurrence of oil, gas, or geothermal resources is not considered to be significant. According to a TERRADATA report, there is moderate potential for the occurrence of base and precious metals and bentonite over the entire WSA. There is also moderate potential for the occurrence of diatomite on 21 ,500 acres, mostly in the northern portion, with some acreage surrounding Antelope Butte in the southern portion. Based on a U.S. Bureau of Mines mineral investigation, 5,640 acres in the northern portion has high potential for the occurrence of pozzolanic tuffs, and there may be potential for base and precious metals in the center of the study area and near Chimney Rock. As of May 1991 , there were no mining claims within the WSA. Recent U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) information based on generalized data tied to hydrocarbon plays in the region indicates that there may be moderate potential for hydrocarbons at depth. Local Social and Economic Considerations Livestock use at the current level of 3,580 AUMs and recreation use totaling 200 visitor days annually are the primary resource outputs resulting from economic activity in the WSA. Approximately $42,960 of local personal income is generated each year from livestock grazing. Another $2,400 is generated annually from recreation use, for an overall total of $45,360. Under the recommendation, an increase in forage allocation for livestock by 776 AUMs would generate an increase of approximately $9,300 in local personal income. An additional increase in local personal income would be expected from mineral development, with the amount of increase being dependent upon the quantity and quality of the minerals extracted. An increase would also be realized from an increase in annual recreation use. Total annual local personal income generated from resource outputs in the WSA would increase by at least $9,900. There were no social issues identified in the study of this WSA. Summary of WSA-Specific Public Comments Public involvement has occurred throughout the wilderness review process. Certain comments received during the inventory process and early stages of the EIS preparation were used to develop significant study issues and various alternatives for the ultimate management of those lands found to have wilderness value. During formal public review of the Draft EIS and its Supplement, a total of 25 comments specifically addressing the Spaulding WSA were received. Of these, 20 were written and 5 were oral comments received at the 24 public meetings. Eleven commenters supported recommendation for all of the WSA; two commenters favored an expanded wilderness designation. The recommendation was supported by three commenters. 97 Table 4. Comparative Summary of Impacts by Alternative Issue Topics Recommendation (No Wilderness/No Action Alternative) Impacts on Wilderness Values Projected actions would impair wilderness values over approximately 5,000 acres of the WSA. Impacts on Energy and Mineral Development No impact to mineral development. Development of one open pit mine would be realized. Impacts on Vegetation Projected actions would alter native vegetation on 3,860 acres, with a slight decrease in residual ground cover resulting from a 776 AUM increase in livestock grazing. Impacts on Wildlife Antelope and deer habitat improved by vegetative manipulation by installation of a guzzler. Sage grouse habitat altered on 3,860 acres with decline in reproductive success. Impacts on Watershed Watershed and water quality degraded on 160 acres at the Potholes. Impacts on Livestock Grazing Livestock use would increase by 776 AUMs. Three reservoirs, two miles of pipeline and 7 miles of fence would be constructed. No restrictions on vehicle access. Impacts on Recreation Use Slight increase in recreation use numbers, with vehicle oriented use increasing and primitive use decreasing. Impacts on Local Personal Income Annual local personal income would increase by at least $9,900. 96 All Wilderness Alternative Partial Wilderness Alternative Wilderness designation of 69,530 acres would result in protection and enhancement of existing wilderness values. Wilderness designation would protect and enhance wilderness values on 34,800 acres. In the nonsuitable portion, projected actions would directly impair wilderness values on 2,100 acres. Development of one open pit mine would be foregone. Development on 34,800 acres with moderate potential for precious metals foregone. Development on an open pit mine would occur in the nonsuitable portion. No impact to development of diatomite, bentonite or pozzolanic tuffs. Existing native vegetation retained and 13 miles of ways would revegetate. Native vegetation preserved on 34,800 acres. In nonsuitable portion, 2,100 acres altered by proposed management actions. Habitat and populations would be maintained throughout the area. Existing habitat would be preserved on 34,800 acres. Antelope and deer habitat would be improved on 660 acres in the nonsuitable portion; negative impacts to sage grouse habitat on the same acreage. No change from present condition. Watershed and water quality degraded on 1 60 acres at the Potholes. Minor inconvenience and slight increase in cost to operators due to restrictions on 13 miles of ways. There would be a 332-AUM increase in forage allocation; 2 waterholes and 2 miles of pipeline would be constructed. No change or slight decline in recreation use numbers. Type of use would shift from vehicle oriented to primitive. Use level not affected. Shift from vehicle oriented to primitive recreation in suitable portion due to closure of 2.5 miles of ways. Annual local personal income would remain at approximately $45,400. Annual local personal income would increase by at least $4,000. 99 Impacts on Resources The following comparative impact table summarizes the effects on pertinent resources for all of the alternatives considered, including designation or nondesignation of the entire area as wilderness. Those favoring wilderness designation for the entire WSA cited protection of sage grouse and antelope habitat and of streamside habitat for wildlife in general. Five commenters stated that mineral values were overstated and three commenters felt that potential livestock projects were not a valid rationale for a no wilderness recommendation. Proponents of an expanded wilderness felt that areas beyond the WSA boundary met wilderness criteria. Of those opposing wilderness designation, two commenters did not give reasons for their opposition. One commenter stated that the area is too small for wilderness, and that designation would adversely affect the mineral industry and would interfere with powerline construction. No WSA-specific comments were received from federal or local agencies concerning the designation or nondesignation of Spaulding WSA. One public comment was received on the Final EIS specific to this WSA. 100 Hawk Mountain Wilderness Study Area 1 . The Study Area — 69,640 acres The Hawk Mountain Wilderness Study Area (WSA OR-1-146A) is located in southern Harney County, approximately 73 miles east of Lakeview, Oregon. U.S. Highway 140 passes 5 miles southwest of the WSA. The boundaries are described by a high standard gravel road on the northwest, private land and a fenceline on the north, low standard dirt roads on the northeast and southwest, and the Charles Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge (fence located on the Nevada State line) on the south. The adjacent lands are public except for some private lands along the northern boundary at Acty Mountain. A dead-end road extends 2.5 miles to a horsetrap near the northwest corner of the WSA. The road and horsetrap site are excluded from the WSA. The study area contains 68,360 acres of BLM land and two 640-acre parcels of split-estate lands. Approximately two-thirds of the study area is in the BLM’s Lakeview District and approximately one-third is in the Burns District. The west side of the WSA is characterized by rolling sagebrush hills and low broken rimrock grading eastward toward the lake basin known as Hawksie Walksie. The steeper ridges and peaks of Acty Mountain, Hawk Mountain and Lone Juniper Mountain flank the basin to the north and northeast. To the east are buttes of partially exposed columnar basalt, areas of colorful volcanic soils and stone, and high tablelands incised by rocky draws. Elevation ranges from 5,600 feet in Hawksie Walksie Basin to 7,234 feet at the summit of Hawk Mountain. Vegetation in the WSA is composed primarily of big sagebrush-bunchgrass communities with low sagebrush flats on the western-most portion and on the high plateaus of the southeast. Mountain shrub communities occur on northern slopes at higher elevations. Tree species are limited to scattered junipers and one grove of mountain mahogany. Excellent examples of native bunchgrass communi¬ ties exist in several areas within the WSA. Relative to the review of Hawk Mountain WSA, it was appropriate to consider the recommendation of Fish and Wildlife Service for Big Springs Table located in Nevada, to the south of the Hawk Mountain WSA. Their recommendation was that Big Springs Table was suitable for wilderness designation. 101 The Hawk Mountain WSA was studied under Section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) and was included in the Final Oregon Wilderness Environmental Impact Statement filed in February, 1990. There were three alternatives analyzed in the EIS: an all wilderness alternative (which is the recommenda¬ tion of this report), a partial wilderness alternative, and a no wilderness/no action alternative. In the partial wilderness alternative, 42,280 acres in the eastern portion of the WSA would be considered suitable for wilderness, with acquisition of the 1 ,280 acres of split-estate land, while 27,360 acres in the west would be considered nonsuitable. These lands are shown on Map 1. 2. Recommendation and Rationale — 69,640 acres recommended for wilderness 0 acres recommended for nonwilderness The recommendation is to designate all 69,640 acres as wilderness. This is considered to be the environ¬ mentally preferable alternative as it will result in the least change from the natural environment over the long term. A total of 68,360 acres of public land plus 1 ,280 acres of split-estate land are recommended for wilderness. This recommendation for wilderness would apply to these inholdings in the event they were acquired through purchase or exchange with willing owners. Appendix 1 lists the split-estate lands and provides additional information on acquisition of those tracts. The recommendation would help to preserve the very natural condition of Hawk Mountain WSA. These wilderness values would outweigh the ben¬ efits that would be foregone from any energy and mineral development or livestock developments. The Hawk Mountain WSA appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature, as evi¬ denced by the abundance, diversity, and vigor of the native bunchgrasses and their associated plant communities. Approximately 300 acres of the 440- acre Long Draw Research Natural Area (RNA) lie within the WSA. The RNA was established to protect, for scientific and educational purposes, an excellent Indian ricegrass/Thurber’s needlegrass community, identified as the best example of such a community in Oregon. Another proposed RNA in the north central portion of the WSA hosts a unique assemblage of native plants. The variety of soil types in the WSA support an array of plants and communities not found in such proxim¬ ity elsewhere in Oregon. Plant species include the sensitive Astragalus alvordensis , Astgragalus tetrapterus, Caulanthus crassicaulus, and Cymopterus purpurascens. Wilderness designation of the Hawk Mountain WSA would add an ecosystem (Intermountain sagebrush/ sagebrush-steppe) not presently represented in Oregon, and represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS) in only three areas. In addition, designation of this area as wilderness would contribute toward balancing the geographic distribution of areas within the NWPS. Only a few minor human developments are found within the boundaries of the Hawk Mountain WSA. This large area encompasses a variety of distinctive landforms, supports a wild horse herd, and provides substantial native habitat for antelope and other wildlife. The occurrence of ferruginous hawk nests in the area proves there to be a high value to preserv¬ ing native habitat for this species in an unaltered condition, free of human disturbance. Opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation are outstanding throughout the WSA. The northern and eastern portions provide mountainous terrain with steep sided draws, hidden valleys, and high ridges overlooking an immense expanse of native terrain in which to isolate oneself from the world of human encroachment. The large size of the interior drain¬ age to the Hawksie Walksie lakebed and the gentler landscape rises westward to low sage country offer an open expanse of high desert that contribute significantly to the feeling of solace and solitude available only in such few remaining areas unaf¬ fected or unsettled by humans. The receipt of 25 public comments specific to the Hawk Mountain WSA calling for either all or ex¬ panded wilderness designations in the area repre¬ sents significant public interest in the WSA. This demonstrates a high degree of public support for the recommendation. The area can be managed as wilderness. The boundaries are primarily easily identifiable roads and fencelines, and there are minor conflicts with other resource uses such as grazing. 102 LU . — . CD c 1- CD o < c 2 1- o — ^ C 0 z LU LU 1- 1- _l LU (— < < > Q. 1- QC CO co 0. ' I .1 oc o o LU Q Z LU O o LU OC CO co LU z cc LU Q _1 $ CC O ll Q LU Q Z LU o o LU IT (1) c o CO CO LU z oc LU Q § z O < QC CO o Cl> c o LU Q CO O LU Q Z LU CO CO LU O Q Z < 2 O o LU QC QC LU Q _J $ < CO ■<* I I QC o o> CD CO D C CO CO— l