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322. [Image] The Oregon plan for salmon and watersheds
KCAMATH FALLS. QREEON THE OREGON PLAN FOR SALMON AND WATERSHEDS The purpose of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds ( the " Oregon Plan") as stated in the Plan and reaffirmed in this Executive Order ...Citation Citation
- Title:
- The Oregon plan for salmon and watersheds
- Author:
- Oregon. Office of the Governor
- Year:
- 1999, 2005, 2004
KCAMATH FALLS. QREEON THE OREGON PLAN FOR SALMON AND WATERSHEDS The purpose of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds ( the " Oregon Plan") as stated in the Plan and reaffirmed in this Executive Order is to restore Oregon's wild salmon and trout populations and fisheries to sustainable and productive levels that will provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits and to improve water quality. The Oregon Plan is a long- term, ongoing effort that began as a focused set of actions by state, local, tribal and private organizations and individuals in October of 1995. The Oregon Plan first addressed coho salmon on the Oregon Coast, was then broadened to include steelhead trout on the coast and in the Lower Columbia River, and is now expanding to all at- risk wild salmonids throughout the state. The Oregon Plan addresses all factors for decline of these species, including watershed conditions arid fisheries, to the extent those factors can be affected by the state. The Oregon Plan was endorsed and funded by the Oregon Legislature in 1997 through Oregon Senate Bill 924 ( 1 997 Or. Laws, ch. 7) and House Bill 3700 ( 1 997 Or. Laws, ch.' 8). The Oregon Plan is described in two principal documents: " The Oregon Plan," dated March 1997, and " The Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, Supplement I - steelhbad," dated January 1998. As used in this Executive Order, + the Oregon Plan also incorporates the Healthy Streams Partnership ( Oregon Senate Bill 101 0, 1 993- Or. Laws, ch. 263). The Oregon Plan is a cooperative effort of state, local, federal, tribal and private organizations and individuals. Although the Oregon Plan contains a strong foundation of protective regulations -- continuing existing regulatory programs and speeding the implementation of others - an essential principle of the Plan is the need to move beyond prohibitions and to encourage efforts to improve conditions for salmon through non- regulatory means. Many of the most significant contributions to the Oregon Plan are private and quasi- governmental efforts to protect and . restore salmon on working landscapes, including efforts by watershed councils. Salmon and trout restoration requires action and sacrifice across the entire economic and geographic spectrum of Oregon. The commercial and sport fishing industries in Oregon have been heavily affected by complete or partial closures of fisheries. The forest industry operates under the Oregon Forest Practices Act, and has contributed substantially to salmon recovery through habitat restoration projects on private lands and by funding a large pan of the state recovery efforts. The agriculture and mining industries are also taking actions that will protect and restore salmon and trout habitat and improve water quality ( including financial support of restoration efforts by the mining industry). Urban areas are developing water conservation programs, spending funds for wastewater treatment improvements to reduce point source pollution, reducing non- point source pollution and reducing activities that degrade riparian areas. All citizens of Oregon share responsibility for declining populations of wild salmon and trout, and it is important that there be both a broad commitment to reversing these historic trends and a sense that the burdens of restoration are being shared by all of society. It is also important that there be independent scientific oversight of the Oregon Plan. This oversight is being provided by the Independent Mutidisciplinary Science Team ( IMST), established under Oregon Senate Bill 924 ( 1 997 Or. Laws, ch. 7). ~ d'ditional legislative oversight for the Oregon Plan is being provided by the Joint Legislative Committee on . Salmon and Stream Enhancement ( the " Joint Committee!'). Under the federal Endangered Species Act ( ESA) the U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service . . ( F& WS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service ( NMFS) are responsible for identifying species that are threatened or endangered, and for developing programs to conserve and recover lhose species. F& WS and NMFS have now listed salmonids under the ESA on the entire Oregon Coast, the lower Columbia River ( including most of the Portland metropolitan area). the la math River basin, and in the upper Columbia and Snake River basins. More listings are expected within the next year. To date, the F& WS and NMFS generally have not had the resources to develop and implement effective recovery plans for fisheries. In addition, in many areas a large proportion of the habitat that list'ed'salmonids depend on is located on private lands, where the regulatory tools under the ESA are relatively ' ill- defined and indirect. Finally, federal agencies alone, even if they take an active regulatory approach. to recovery, will not restore listed salmonids. The federal ESA may work to prohibit certain actions, but there is simply too much habitat on private lands for restoration to succeed without pro- active involvement and incentives for individuals, groups, and local governments to take affirmative actions to restore habitat on working landscapes. In April, 1997 the State of Oregon and NMFS entered into a Memorandum of Agreement ( MOA) under which the State agreed to continue existing measures under the March 1997 Oregon Plan and to take certain additional actions to protect and restbre coho salmon on the Oregon Coast. On May 6, 1997, NMFS determined that the Oregon Coast Evolutionarily Significant Unit ( ESU) of coho salmon did not warrant listing as a threatened or endangered species under the ESA. On June 2, 1998, the US. District Court for Oregon ordered NMFS to reconsider its decision without taking into account any parts of the Oregon Plan or MOA that are not " current enforceable measures." The U. S. District Court for Oregon also held that the MOA was speculative, due to the fact that it provided for termination by either party on thirty days notice, and that therefore the MOA could not be considered by NMFS ' in its listing decision. Under court order, NMFS reconsidered its decision without taking into account the application in the future of the harvest and hatchery measures contained in the Oregon Plan, or the habitat improvement programs being undertaken under the Oregon Plan, or the commitments made by the State of Oregon in the MOA for improvement of applicable habitat measures. Accordingly, NMFS listed Oregon Coast .. . coho as threatened undefthe ESA on or about October 2, 1998. - The MOA provided for the State of Oregon to take actions necessary to ensfie that - Oregon Coast coho did not warrant listing as a threatened or endangered species under the federal ESA. Now that Oregon Coast coho are listed as a threatened species as a- result of the U. S. District Court's order, the central purpose of the MOA has been eliminated. Due to the uncertainties created by the District Court's decision and the increasing extent of salmonids listed or proposed for listing under the federal ESA, it is important that the status of the State of Oregon's substantive commitments under the MOA and the purpose of the Oregon Plan be clarified. Through this Executive Order, the State of Oregon reaffirms its intent to play the leading role in protecting and restoring Oregon Coast coho and other salmonids. through the implementation of the Oregon Plan. This Executive Order provides the framework and direction for state agencies to implement ( to the extent of their authorities) the Oregon Plan in a timely and effective manner. This Executive Order also provides a framework for extending the state's efforts beyond a focus on Oregon Coast coho, to watersheds and fisheries statewide. Consistent with the principle of adaptive management, this Order applies the experience gained to date in implementing the Oregon Plan to provide additional detailed direction to state agencies. Finally, this Executive Order establishes a public involvement process to prioritize continuing efforts under the Oregon Plan. NOW THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED AND DIRECTED: ( 1) Overall Direction ( a) Agencies of the State of Oregon will, consistent with their authorities, fully implement the state agency efforts described in the Oregon Plan and in this Executive Order. ( b) The overall objective for state agencies under the Oregon Plan and this Executive Order is to protect and restore salmonids and to improve water quality. ( c) The Governor will, in cooperation with the Joint Committee, IMST, affected state agencies, watershed councils, and other affected local entities and persons develop and implement, a process to set biological and habitat goals and objectives to protect and restore salmonids on a basin or regional basis as soon as practicable. Once these goals and objectives are established, they will be used by state agencies . . . to evaluate their regulatory and non- regulatory programs and measures relating to the protection and re'storation of salmonids. Through this on- going evaluation, state agencies will determine any changes to their programs or measures that may be necessary to meet the biological and habitat goals and objectives. In the interim, the following objectives in subsections ( d) and ( e) shall apply to agencies' implem'entation of the OregGn Plan and this Executive Order. . . ( d) Actions that state agencies take, fund and/ or authorize that are primarily for a purpose other than restoration of salmonids or the habitat they depend upon will, considering the anticipated duration and geographic scope of the actions: ( A) to the maximum extent practicable minimize and mitigate adverse effects of the actions on salmoni. ds or the habitat they depend on; and ( 8) not appreciably reduce the likelihood of the survival and recovery of salmonids in the wild. ( e) State agencies will take, fund and/ or authorize actions that are primarily for the purpose of restoring salmonids or the habitat they depend upon, including actions implementing the Oregon Plan, with the goal of producing a conservation benefit that ( if taken together with comparable and related actions by all persons and entities within the range of the species) is likely to result in sustainable population levels of salmonids in the foreseeable future, and in population levels of salmonids that provide substantial environmental, cultural and economic benefits to Oregonians in the long term. ( f) With the broadening of the Oregon Plan,' prioritizing all agency actions according to coho core areas is no longer appropriate. Each state agency participating in the Oregon Plan, in consultation with ODFW and other partners involved in the implementation of the Plan and through a public involvement process, will modify their existing work programs in the Oregon Plan to prioritize agency measures to protect and restore salmonids in a timely and effective manner. The work programs will continue to identify key specific outcomes, refine and improve designations of priority areas, and establish completion dates. These modifications will be submitted to the , Governor, the Joint Committee, and to the appropriate boards and commissions as soon as possible, but in no event later than June 1, 1999. Progress reports on action plans will be submitted to the Governor, the Joint Committee, and to the appropriate boards and commissions on an annual basis. In prioritizing their efforts,' state agencies shall consider how to maximize conservation -, benefits for salmonids and the habitat they depend on within limited resources and - . whether their- actions are likely to increase populations of salmonids in the foreseeable future. I p ( g) State agencies will work cooperatively with landowners, local entities and other persons taking actions to protect or restore salmonids. ( h) As the Oregon Plan grows in geographic scope and . in intensity of activity,' there is a growing need to streamline and prioritize state agency activity at the . regional level. One proposal has been to organize state natural resource agency field operations along hydrologic units. Therefore, state agencies will consider this proposal and, through the collective efforts of state agency directors, develop an organization plan that focuses state agency field effort on the activities and areas of highest priority under the Oregon Plan. ( i) State. agencies will continue to encourage and work with agencies of the U. S. government to implement the federal measures described in the Oregon Plan.. In addition, the state agencies will work with the federal government to develop additional means of protecting and restoring salmonids. Where appropriate, state agencies will request that federal agencies obtain incidental take permits under Section 7 of the federal ESA for state actions that ace funded or authorized by a , federal agency. ( j) State agencies will help support efforts to evaluate watershed conditions, and to develop'specific strategic plans to provide for flood management, water quality improvement, and salmonid restoration in basins around the state, including the Willamette basin through the Willamette Restoration Initiative. ( k) The IMST will continue to provide oversight to ensure the use of the best scientific information available as the basis for implementation of and for adaptive changes to the Oregon Plan. State agencies will ensure that the IMST receives data and other information reasonably required for its functions in a timely manner. The Governor's Natural Resources Office ( GNRO) has requested that the IMST's initial priority be review of the freshwater habitat needs of coho and the relationship between population levels, escapement levels, and habitat characteristics. The GNRO also will continue to request that the IMST annually review monitoring results and identify where the Oregon Plan warrants change for scientific or technical reasons and make recommend& ions to the appropriate agency on those adjustments that appear necessary. Agencies will report their responses to any recommendations by . . the IMST to the Governor and to the Joint Committee. Any other changes identified by the IMST as necessary to achieve properly functioning riparian and aquatic habitat conditions required to, protect and restore salmonids will be forwarded to the appropriate governmental entity for its consideration of the adoption of new, changed, or supplemental measures as rapidly as possible while providing for public involvement: Each state agency, by June 1, 1999, will ratify a monitoring team charter through an interagency memorandum. A draft of the charter is contained in the 1998 Oregon Plan Annual Report. ( I) Monitoring is a key element of the Oregon Plan. Each state agency will actively support the monitoring strategy described in the Oregon Plan. Each affected agency will participate on the monitoring team to coordinate activities and integrate analyses. Each agency will implement . an appropriate monitoring program to assess the effectiveness of their programs and measures in meeting the objectives set forth in the Oregon Planon an annual basis. In addition, agencies with regulatory programs that are included in the Oregon Plan will determine levels of compliance with regulatory standards and identify and act on opportunities to improve compliance levels: ( m) If information gathered regarding the effectiveness of measures in the Oregon Plan shows that existing strategies within state control are not achie, ving expected improvements and objectives, the agency( ies1 responsible for those measures will seek appropriate changes in their regulations, policies, programs, r-measures and other areas of the Oregon Plan, as required to protect and restore coho and other sal'monids. Such modification or supplementation will be done as rapidly as possible, consistent with public involvement. ( n) Agencies are using geographically- referenced data in their efforts under the Oregon Plan, and will be using Geographic Information Systems ( GIs) in the analysis of these , data. In doing so, the State GIs Plan, developed by the Oregon Geographic lnformation Council ( OGIC) ( see Executive Order 96- 40) will be followed, with specific adherence to the Plan guidance on data documentation, coordination and data sharing. The agency with primary responsibility for gathering and updating the specific data will be responsible for meeting the requirements of the Plan, and to ensure coordination- with OGIC, the State Service Center for GIs and other' cooperating agencies. In addition, state agencies will cooperate with the Governor's Watershed Enhancement Board ( GWEB), Soil and. Water Conservation Districts ( SWCDs), local waters$ ed councils, landowners and others in making these essential data available. ( 0) Geographically- based strategies to assess and achieve habitat needs and adequate escapement levels will be used, and the state agencies will continue with the development of standardized watershed assessment protocols, including a -- cumulative effects assessment. State agencies will also continue with the development of habitat restoration guides to evaluate and direct habitat restoration efforts. ( 2) Continuation and Expansion of Existing Efforts. Without limiting the generality of section ( l)( a) of this Executive Order, the following subsections of this Executive Order describe some of the many efforts in the Oregon Plan where the initial phase of work has been completed, and where efforts will be continued. ( a) The Oregon Fish & Wildlife Commission ( OFWC), the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife ( ODFW), and the Pacific Fishery Management Council ( PFMC) are managing ocean and terminal fisheries according to the measures set forth in the Oregon Plan ( ODFW I- A. l and Ill- A. l). These measures set a maximum mortality rate ( resulting from other fisheries) for any of four disaggregated stocks of coho of fifteen percent ( 1 5%) under poor ocean conditions. In 1997, the mortality rate. from harvest is estimated to have been between nine and eleven percent ( 9- 1 1 %). ODFW and OFWC will continue these measures in state waters, and will actively support continued implementation of the ocean harvest measures by the PFMC ( Amendment 13 to the Council's salmon management plan) until and unless a different management regime agreeable to NMFS is adopted. ( b) The OFWC and ODFW will ensure that the fish hatchery measures set forth in the Oregon Plan are continued by the OFWC and ODFW. ODFW is marking all hatchery coho on the Oregon Coast. This marking will allow increased certainty in estimating hatchery stray rates beginning in 1999. Available data on hatchery stray rates for coho and steelhead are being provided to NMFS on an annual basis. The number of hatchery coho released is estimated to have been 1.7 million in 1998 - substantially below the level called for in the Oregon Plan. This number will be reduced to 1.2 million in 1999. In addition, ODFW has, and will continue to provide. annual reports regarding: ( i) the number of juvenile hatchery coho that are released by brood year, locations and dates of release, life stage, and broodstock origin; ( ii) the number of adult coho taken for broodstock for each hatchery, the location and date of collection, and the origin ( hatchery or natural); ( iii) the number of hatchery coho . . estimated to have spawned in natural habitat by basin; ( iv) the estimated percentage of hatchery coho% the total natural spawning population; and ( v) the mortality of naturally- spawning coho resulting from each fishery. NMFS may provide comments about hatchery prograk affecting coho to ODFW, with any concerns to be resolved between NMFS and ODFW. - - ( c) ln addition to recent modifications to hatchery practices and programs, a new vision is needed for how Oregon will utilize hatcheries in the best and most effective manner. Therefore, the ODFW and the OFWC shall engage in a process to create a strategic plan for fish hatcheries in Oregon over the next decade ( including state and federally- funded hatcheries, private hatcheries, and the STEP program). The essential elements of this process are as follows: ( i) Impartial analysis - conduct an impartial analysis of the scientific bases, and the social and economic effects of Oregon hatchery programs utilizing existing analyses and review where feasible, but conducting new analyses if necessary; ( ii) Review the Wild Fish Management Policy ( WFMP) - because the future plan for hatcheries in Oregon is dependent on implementation of the WFMP, ODFW shall conduct a science and stakeholder review to determine if this significant policy should be revised and shall make any revision by July 2000; ( iii) Frame alternative strategies -- convene a group of stockholders to . frame alternative strategies, including outcomes and descriptions, of how hatcheries will be used in Oregon over the next decade ( these strategies will address the use of hatcheries for wild fish population recovery including supplementation, research and monitoring, public education, and sport and commercial fishing opportunities); ( iv) Public review and selection of a strategy -- the OFWC shall, after public review and ' ;-'-!&%; f$'. i comment, adopt a strategic plan to guide development of future hatchery programs, incorporating the strategy developed and adopted in accordance with subpart ( iii) of this paragraph. ( d) Criteria and guidelines directing the design of projects that may affect fish passage have been established in a Memorandum of Understanding ( MOU) between the Oregon Department of Transportation ( ODOT), ODFW, the Oregon Department of Forestry ( ODF), the Oregon Department of Agriculture ( ODA), the Division of State Lands ( DSL) and the Federal Highway Administration. These guidelines apply to the design, construction and consultations of projects affecting fish passage. Under the MOU, projects requiring regulatory approvals that follow these criteria and guidelines are expedited. Oregon agencies will continue to provide technical assistance to ensure that the criteria and guidelines are applied appropriately in restoration projects, as well as any other projects that may affect fish passage through road crossings and similar structures. ODFW will work with state agencies, local governments, and watershed councils to ensure that Oregon's standards for fish passage set forth in Exhibit A to the MOU are understood and are implemented. - ( e) Fish presence, stream habitat, road and culvert surveys have been conducted for roads within ODOT jurisdiction and county roads in coastal basins, the Lower Columbia basin, the Willamette basin, and the Grande Ronbe/ lmnaha basins. Among the results of these surveys is the finding that culvert barriers to fish passage affect a substantial quantity of salmonid habitat. For example, surveys of county and state highways in western Oregon found over 1,200 culverts that are barriers to passage. As a result, ODOT is placing additional priority on restoring fish access. For 1998, ODOT repaired or replaced 35 culverts restoring access to 101 miles of salmonid habitat. For 1999, the Oregon Transportation Commission will be asked to fund approximately $ 4.0 million for culvert modification. ODOT and the Commission will continue to examine means to speed restoration of fish passage and to coordinate priorities with ODFW. ( f) Draft watershed assessment protocols have been developed and are being field tested. Beginning in 1999, SWCDs, watershed councils and others will be able to use the protocols as the basis for action plans to identify and prioritize opportunities to protect and restore salmonids. Watershed action plans have already been completed in a number of basins including the Rogue, Coos, Coquille and Grande Ronde. State agencies will work to support these watershed assessments and plans to the maximum extent practicable. Where watershed action plans have been developed under the protocols, GWEB will ensure that projects funded through the Watershed Improvement Grant Fund are consistent with watershed action plans, and other state agencies will work with SWCDs and watershed councils to ensure that activities they authorize, fund or undertake are consistent with watershed action plans to the maximum extent practicable. ( g) The State of Oregon has developed interim aquatic habitat restoration and enhancement guidelines for 1998. State agencies involved with restoration activities ( ODFW, ODF, DSL, ODA, DEQ, and GWEB) will continue to develop and refine the interim guidelines for final publication in April 1999. The guidelines will be applied in restoration activities funded or authorized by state agencies. The purpose of ' the guidelines will be to define aquatic restoration and to identify and encourage aquatic habitat restoration techniques to restore salmonids. . . ( h) ODA and O ~ hFave each entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Oregon Department'of Environmental Quality relating to the development of . Total Maximum Daily Loads ( TMDLs) and Water Quality Management Area Plans ( WQMAPs). O Dw~ ill adopt. a nd implement WQMAPs ( through the Healthy Streams Partnership) and ODF , will review the adequacy of forest practices rules to meet water quality standards. ODF and ODA will evaluate the effectiveness of these measures in achieving water quality standards on a regular basis and implement any changes required to meet the standards. ( i) Agencies are implementing a coordinated monitoring program, as described in the Oregon Plan. This program includes technical support and standardized protocols for watershed councils, stream habitat surveys, forest practice effectiveness monitoring, water withdrawal monitoring, ambient water quality monitoring, and biotic index studies, as well as fish presence surveys and salmonid abundance and survival monitoring in selected subbasins. State agencies are also' working to coordinate monitoring efforts by state, federal, and local entities, including watershed councils. State agencies will work actively to ensure that the monitoring measures' in the Oregon Plan are continued. - .. ( j) GWEB has put into place new processes for identifying and coordinating the delivery of financial and technical assistance to individuals, agencies, watershed councils and soil and water conservation districts as they implement watershed ' restoration projects to improve water quality and restore aquatic resources. Over $ 25 ' million has been distributed for watershed restoration projects in the last ten years. During the present ( 1 997- 99 biennium) GWEB has awarded over $ 1 2 million dollars in f- state and federal funds for technical'assistance and watershed restoration activities to implement the Oregon Plan. GWEB and state agencies will continue to seek financial resources to be allocated by GWEB for watershed restoration activities at the local and. statewide levels. ( k) State agencies will continue to encourage, support and work to provide incentives for local, tribal, and private . efforts to implement the Oregon Plan. In addition, state agencies will continue to provide financial assistance to local entities for projects to protect and restore salmonids to the extent consistent with their budgetary and legal authorities, and consistent with their work programs in the Oregon Plan. To the. maximum extent practicable, state agencies will also provide technical assistance and planning tools to provide local conservation groups to assist in and target watershed restoration efforts. These efforts ( during 1996 and 1997) are reported in " The Oregon. Plan for Salmon and Watersheds: Watershed Restoration Inventory, 1998." ~ u s c afe w of the important efforts that have been completed include: ( A) Eighty- two watershed councils have joined with forty- five Soil and Water Conservation Districts as well as private and public landowners to implement on- the- ground projects' to protect and restore salmonids. During 1996 and 1997, a reported $ 27.4 million was spent on 1,234 watershed restoration projects on non-federal lands. Both the amount spent and the number of projects represent significant increases ( of over 300 percent) over prior years. In 1996- 97, watershed councils, SWCDs and other organizations and individuals completed: ( i) 138 stream fencing projects, involving at least 301 miles of streambank; ( ii) 196 riparian area planting projects, involving at least 11 1 miles of streams; and ( iii) 458 instream habitat improvement projects. . . . ( B) Private and state forest landowners are implementing key efforts under the Oregon Plan, including the road risk and remediation program ( ODF- 1 and 2). Under this effort in 1996 and 1997, close to 4,000 miles of roads'have been surveyed to identify risks that the roads may pose to salmonid habitat. As the risks are identified, they are then prioritized for remediation following an established. protocol. Already, 52 miles of forest roads have been closed, 843 miles of road repair and reconstruction projects to - protect salmonid habitat have been completed, and an additional 14 miles of roads have been decommissioned or relocated.. In addition, 530 culverts have been replaced, upgraded or installed for fish passage purposes, improving access to a reported 146 stream miles. ( C) Organizations working in Tillamook County have developed the I ." J aw#~ t Tillamook County Performance Partnership. The Partnership is implementing the \*. Tillamook Bay National Estuary Program by addressing water quality, fisheries, floodplain management and economic development in the county. Among the actions that the Partnership has already accomplished are: ( i) the closure of seven miles of degraded forest roads and the rehabilitation of 469 miles of roads to meet current standards, at a cost of $ 1 8 million; ( ii) the fencing of 53 miles of streambank, and the construction of three cattle bridges and 100 alternative cattle watering sites, at a cost of $ 214,000; and ( iii) the completion of 24 instream restoration projects and 34 barbs protecting 4,200 feet of streambank, at a cost of $ 1.3 million dollars. ( D) The Confederated Tribes of the Grande Ronde Community of Oregon have completed a forest management plan that establishes standards for the protection of aquatic resources that are comparable to those found in the Aquatic Conservation Strategy ' of the Northwest Forest Plan. . % ( E) A combination of funding from the Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation and the National Fish and Wildlife Heritage Foundation ( private, non- profit organizations) is provi, ding support for seven biologists to design restoration projects. These projects are prioritized based on stream surveys, and are carried out with the voluntary participation and support of landowners. A ten- year monitoring plan has been funded- and implemented to determine project effectiveness: ( F) The Oregon Cattlemen's Association has implemented its WESt Program that is designed to help landowners better understand their watersheds and stream functions through assessments and monitoring. h he WESt Program brings landowners together along stream reaches, and offers a series of workshops, conducted on a site specific basis, free of charge. The workshops include riparian ecology, setting goals and objectives, Proper Functioning Condition ( PFC), data. collection and monitoring. Over 25 workshops have been held, with attendance ranging from 5 to 30 landowners per workshop. The WESt Program is sponsored by the Oregon Cattlemen's Association, DEQ, Oregon State University, and GWEB. ( G) Within the Tillamook State Forest road network 1,902 culverts have been replaced or added to'improve road drainage and to disconnect storm water runoff from roads reducing stream sediment impacts. Additionally, some of these culverts also improved fish passage at stream crossings. In this process, ODF has also replaced six culverts with bridges improving fish passage to approximately four miles of stream. The Tillamook State Foresl in conjunction with many partners, such F-as the Association of Northwest Steelheaders, G W EB, Simpson Timber Company, Tillamook County, the FishAmerica Foundation, Hardrock Construction Company, the Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation, the F& WS, the Oregon Youth Conservation Corps, Columbia Helicopters and Terra Helicopters, has also recently completed instream placement of over 400 rootwads, trees and boulders at a cost of $ 300,000 for habitat enhancement. ( 3) Key Agency Efforts. Continuation and completion of the following state agency efforts is critical to the success of the Oregon Plan. State agencies will make continuation or completion ( as appropriate) of the following efforts a high priority. ( a) The State of Oregon and the US. Department of Agriculture have entered into a Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program ( CREP). This cost- share program, one of the first of its kind, . will be used to reduce the impacts of agricultural practices through water quality. add habitat improvement. The objectives of the CREP are to: ( i) provide incentives'for farmers and ranchers to establish riparian buffers; ( ii) protect - . and restore at least 4,000 miles of stream habitat by providing up to 95,000 acres of riparian buffeis; ( i4) restore up to 5,000 acres of wetlands that will benefit salmonids; and ( iv) provide a mechanism for farmers and ranchers to comply with Oregon's ,- Senate Bill 101 0 ( 1 993 Or. Laws, ch. 263). ( b) ODF will work with non- industrial forest landowners to'administer the Stewardship Incentive Program and the Forest Resources Trust programs to protect and restore riparian and wetland areas that benefit salmonids. ( c) The Oregon Board of Forestry will determine, with the assistance of an advisory committee, to what extent changes to forest practices are needed to meet state water quality standards and to protect and restore salmonids. A substantial body of information regarding the effectiveness of current practices is being . developed. This information includes: ( i) the IMST report regarding . the role of forest practices and forest habitat in protecting and restoring salmonids; and ( ii) a series of - monitoring projects that include the Storms of 1996 study, a riparian areas study, a stream temperature study, and a road drainage study. Using this information, as well as other available scientific information including scientific information from NMFS, the advisory committee will make recommendations to the Board at both site and watershed scales on threats to salmonid habitat relating to sediment, water temperature, freshwater habitat needs, roads and fish passage. Based on the advisory committee's recommendations and other scientific information, the Board will make every effort to make its determinations by June 1999. The Board may . . determine that the most effective means of achieving any necessary changes to . - d;.~ .;* i;. z . I:@;.. %- .~ + k forest practices is through regulatory changes, statutory changes or through other programs . including programs to create incentives for forest landowners. In the event that the Board determines that legislative changes. are necessary to carry out its determinations, the Board will transmit any recommendations for such changes to the . Governor and to the Joint Committee at the earliest possible date. ( d) Consistent with administrative rule, and statutory and constitutional mandates for the management of state forests, ODF State Forest management plans will include an aquatic conservation strategy that has a high likelihood of protecting and restoring properly functioning aquatic habitat for salmonids on state forest lands. ( e) ODF will present to NMFS a Habitat Conservation Plan ( HCP) under Section 10 of the federal ESA that includes the Clatsop and Tillamook State Forests. ODF has already completed scierkific review and has public review underway for this draft HCP. The scientific and public review comments will be considered by ODF in . . completing the draft HCP. The draft HCP will be presented to NMFS by June 1999. An HCP for the ~ jliotSt tate Forest was approved by the US. Fish & Wildlife Service in 1995. In October af 1997, ODF and DSL forwarded the Elliott State Forest HCP to NMFS with the request that it be reviewed to determine whether it has a high likelihood of protecting and restoring properly functioning aquatic habitat conditions on state forest lands necessary to protect and restore salmonids. Based on discussions surrounding the NMFS review, ODF and DSL will determine what revisions, if any, are required to the Elliott HCP and/ or Forest Management Plan to ensure a high likelihood of protecting and restoring properly functioning aquatic habitat for salmonids. ( f) Before the OFWC adopts and implements fishery regulations that may result in taking of coho, ODFW will provide NMFS with'all available scientific information and analyses pertinent to the proposed regulation where the harvest measures are not under the jurisdiction of the PFMC, including results of the Oregon Plan monitoring and evaluation program. This information, together with the proposed regulation and supporting analysis, will be provided at least two weeks prior to the OFWC's action, to give NMFS time to review and comment on the proposed regulations. ( g) ODFW will evaluate the effects of predation on salmonids, and . will . work with . affected federal agencies to determine whether changes to programs and law relating to predation are warranted in order to protect and restore salmonids. P ( h) Under Oregon Senate Bill 101 0 ( 1 993 Or. Laws, ch. 2631, ODA will adopt Agricultural Water Qualify Management Area Plans ( AWQMAPs) for Tier I and Tier ll watersheds by the end of 2002. The AWQMAPs will be designed and implemented to meet load allocations for agriculture needed to achieve state water quality . . standards. In addition, ODA will work with ODFW, DEQ, GWEB, SWCDs, federal . agencies and watershed councils to determine to what extent additional measures related to achieving properly functioning riparian and aquatic habitat on agricultural lands are needed to protect and restore salmonids, giving attention first to priority areas identified in. the Oregon Plan. In the event ODA is unable to reach a consensus regarding such measures, ODA will ask the IMST to review areas of substantive ' scientific disagreement and to'make recommendations to ODA regarding how they should be resolved. In the event that legislative changes are needed to implement such measures, ODA will transmit any recommendations for such changes to. the Governor and to the Joint Committee at the earliest possible date. In addition, any measures identified as rieeded by ODA will be implemented at the earliest practicable time. * . ( i) ODFW will expedite its applications for instream water rights and OWRD will process such applications promptly where flow deficits are identified as adversely affecting salmonids, and where such rights. are not already in place. The Oregon - water Resources Department ( OWRD) and the Oregon Water Resources Commission ( OWRC) will- also seek to facilitate flow restoration targeted to streams identified by OWRD and ODFW as posing the most critical low- flow barriers to salmonids. In addition, where necessary, OWRD will continue to work with the Oregon State Police to provide enforcement of water use. Where illegal water uses are identified, OWRD will ensure outcomes consistent with maintenance and restoration of flows. ( j) The Oregon Environmental Quality commission ( EQC). and DEQ will evaluate and will make every effort to utilize their authorities to continue to provide additional protection to . priority areas ( as determined under section 1 ( f) of this Executive Order), including in- stream flow protection under state law, and antidegradation policy under . the federal Clean Water Act ( including Outstanding Resource Waters designations . and high quality waters designations). . ( k) DSL has proposed to adopt changes to its Essential Salmonid Habitat rules that will provide additional protection for spawning and rearing areas of anadromous salmonids. In addition, ODFW and DSL will consult with the OWRC to determine where it is necessary to administratively close priority areas ( including ' work under General Authorizations) to fill and removal activities in order to protect salmonids. . . DSL, ODFW, ODF and ODA also will work together to identify means of regulating the . uy- w :.-:: st. removal of organic material ( such as large woody debris) from streams where such removal would adversely affect salmonids and would not be contrary to other agency mandates. ( I) DSL will seek the advice of the IMST regarding whether gravel removal affects gravel and/ or sediment budgets in a manner that adversely affects salmonids. ( m) The Department of Land Conservation and ~ e v e l o p r n e n t ' ( ~ ~ acn~ d ) th, e Land Conservation- and Development Commission ( LCDC) will evaluate and, to the extent feasible, speed implementation of existing Goal 5 requirements for riparian corridors. ( n) DLCD, DEQ, ODF, ODA, ODFW, and DSL and their respective boards and commissions will evaluate and implement programs to protect and restore riparian vegetation for the purposes of achieving statewide water quality standards and . . protecting and restoring a aquatic habitat for salmonids. ' ( 0) DLCD, with, the assistance of DSL and ODFW, and in consultation with coastal cities and counties, shall review the requirements of Statewide Planning Goal i 6 as they pertain to estuarine resources important to the restoration of salmonids, and shall, report its findings to LCDC for its consideration. ( p) The Oregon State Police will work to facilitate the existing cooperative relationship with the NMFS Office of ~ a Ewnfo rcement, as well as tomaintain cooperation with other enforcement entities, in order to enhance law enforcement, public awareness and voluntary compliance related to harvest, habitat and other issues addressed in the Oregon Plan. ( q) The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will continue to work to p. rovide information and education to the public on salmon and steelhead needs through park programs and interpretive aids. ( r) The Oregon Marine Board will work to ensure fish friendly boating and to develop boating facilities that protect salmonids. ( s) State natural resource agencies will continue, to the extent feasible, to support watershed councils by providing technical assistance to develop watershed assessments, restoration plans and to develop watershed priorities to benefit 7- salmonids. In addition, state natural resource agencies will work'on a larger . .:.... watershed scale to develop basin- wide restoration priorities. ( 4) Future Modifications; Public Involvement for the Oregon Plan Generally. The GNRO will solicit public co'mments and input from participants in the Oregon Plan regarding whether there are refinements or changes to the Plan and/ or the organizational framework for implementing the Plan that are necessary or desirable based on the experience gained over the past three years, or resulting from the widespread listings and proposed listings of salmon and trout under the federal ESA. Based on this public involvement, the GNRO will provide a report and recommendations to the Governor and the Joint Committee regarding whether modifications are necessary to the Oregon Plan in order to protect and restore coho and other salmonids. ( 5) Definitions. For purioses'of this Executive Order: . . ( aj The " Oregon Plan" means the Oregon Coastal Salmon Recovery lnitiative, dated March 1991, and the Steelhead. Supplement, dated January 1998. " Oregon Plan," as used in this Order, is intended to be consistent with the definition of the' Oregon Coastal Salmon Recovery lnitiative in Oregon Senate Bill 924 ( 1997 Or. Laws, .- cti. 7), and to include the Healthy Streams Partnership ( 1 993 Or. Laws, ch. 263). -. - ( b) " Protect" has the meaning given in section ( l)( d) of this Executive Order. ( c) " Restore" has the meaning'given in section ( l)( e) of this Executive Order. Restore necessarily includes actions to manage salmonids to provide for adequate escapement levels, and actions to increase the quantity and improve the quality of properly functioning habitat upon which salmonids depend. ( d) " Coho" means native wild coho salmon found in rivers and lakes along the Oregon Coast. ( el " Salmonids" means native wild salmon, char and trout in the State of Oregon. ( 6) Effective Date; Relation to Federal ESA. This Executive Order will take effect on the date that it is filed with the Secretary of State. The State of Oregon will continue to work with NMFS to determine the appropriate relationship between the Oregon Plan and NMFS's efforts under the federal ESA. Done at Salem, Oregon, this $ day of & ~ 4 y , 1999. ha26 . ~ it& er, M. D. Suz adnd .~. ow& end DEPUTY SECR~ ARYOF - STATE
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Only portions of issues of The Water Report are available in the Klamath Waters Digital Library. See the full report at http://www.thewaterreport.com/
Citation Citation
- Title:
- The Water Report - Klamath update water purchase / release
- Author:
- Envirotech Publications
- Year:
- 2004, 2008, 2006
Only portions of issues of The Water Report are available in the Klamath Waters Digital Library. See the full report at http://www.thewaterreport.com/
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U. S. Die artment sf the Interior Bu. rea. u oP L and Management K I W ~ Falls R~& G urnw . 2795 & tdeaonAvepue, BuMng #% Klamath F~ HSO, r egon 97803 . . January 2004 Klamath Falls Resource Area Planning ...
Citation Citation
- Title:
- Klamath Falls Resource Area Planning Update, Winter 2003
- Author:
- United States. Bureau of Land Management. Klamath Falls Resource Area Office
- Year:
- 2003, 2004
U. S. Die artment sf the Interior Bu. rea. u oP L and Management K I W ~ Falls R~& G urnw . 2795 & tdeaonAvepue, BuMng #% Klamath F~ HSO, r egon 97803 . . January 2004 Klamath Falls Resource Area Planning Update Winter 2003 United States Department of the Interior BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT Klamath Falls Resource Area 2795 Anderson Avenue, Building 25 Klarnath Falls, Oregon 97603- 7891 Phone: ( 541) 883- 6916 1 Fax: ( 541) 884- 2097 E- Mail Address: Username@ or. blm. gov Website: http: llwww. or. blrngov/ L. akeview/ kfra/ index. htrn KLAMATH FALLS RESOURCE AREA PLANNING UPDATE Winter 2003 The primary purpose of this Planning Update is to inform you about the activities on the Klarnath Falls Resource Area. It is my desire to keep you informed about issues, activities, and opportunities I think are important to the public. More importantly, I am seeking ideas and comments from those who may be affected by multiple- use management programs here on the resource area. This planning update is organized to make it easy for you to find projects of most interest. Projects have been arranged into categories ( i. e., Recent Decisions, New Projects, On- going Projects, and Environmental Education Activities). In addition, each of these categories is sorted by resource topics ( e. g., Lands Program, Timber Sales, etc.). The table will give you a brief description of activities occurring within the Klamath Falls Resource Area and for most projects a location. Refer to one of three maps following the table, for locations of projects. Additional information can be obtained fi- om the contact listed in the project descriptions. If you have any concerns about the proposed actions, please call the Klarnath Falls Resource Area and ask for the " Contact" person listed or the Resource Area Planner as soon as possible. The earlier you get involved, the more capability we have to adjust or change planned actions. Also be alert for news releases and public notices published in the Herald and News as projects reach stages for public involvement. If you want to provide comments to a specific environmental assessment, please send or deliver your written comments addressed to the Field Manager, Klamath Falls Resource Area, by the close of, or postmarked by the last day of the comment period. Your comments and concerns are welcomed, and could influence the final decision on these projects. I would appreciate any comments or suggestions you may have regarding this p l h i n g update or how it could be improved to make it more useful to you. Thank you for your continued interest in BLM's management of public lands. If you have any questions on this planning update, stop by the office or call ( 541) 883- 6916. Jon Raby, Field Manager Klamath Falls Resource Area BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT ' KLAMATH FALLS RESOURCE AREA 2795 ANDERSON AVENUE, BLDG. # t5 KLAMATH FALLS, OR 97603 PHONE NUMBER: ( 541) 883- 6916 MAP PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION LOCATION SPECIAL AREAS STATUS OF COMPLETION CONTACT REF. # AFFECTED ANALYSIS DATE CX = Categorical Exclusion, DNA = Determination of NEPA Adequacy, EA = Environmental Assessment, EIS = Environmental Impact Statement Klarnath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 2 New Projects - Watershed Map # 4 T39S. R14E, Secs. 10, 11,14, 15 Norcross Vegetation Treatments - Thin ponderosa pine, remove invasive juniper, restore native vegetative communities ( grass, shrub, pine), and monitor the effects of treatment on vegetative and hydrologic resources. New Projects - Roads and Facilities None Map 1 EA in progress. Road crossing Spencer Creek Spencer Creek Culvert Replacement Spencer Watershed Riparian Fence Reconstruction New Projects - Recreation I Topsy Recreation Site Improvements - Campground water 1 T40S, R7E, Sm. 1 Map # I0 1 system and boat ramp improvements None I DNAS~ nnrrr2004 I Fall 2005 New Projects - Range Management Fall 2007 Fish passage Riparian Protection Mike Turaski in progress CX in progress Map #' DNA Spring 2004 Pitch Log Creek, Long Branch Creek, and Antelope Creek within the Gerber Block Gerber Watershed Riparian Fencing - Emposed project to construct livestock exclosure fencing along about 1.1 miles of Pitch Log Creek, 1.5 miles of Long Branch Creek, and 1.7 miles of Antelope Creek. Maintain fences as riparian exclosures or riparian pastures. Monitor effects of reduced livestock use on vegetation and streambank conditions. New Projects - Timber Management Contract - Fall 2004 Construction - 2005. Summer 2004 Riparian protection Fall 2004 Andy Hamilton Andy Hamilton Dana Eckard Jenny Creek Watershed South Gerber Block Jenny Creek Watershed South Gerber Block I I I None 1 None Jenny Creek EA - Purpose of this EA is to address a variety of forest health and restoration treatments in the Jenny Creek Watershed. Proposed treatments may include; commercial timber sales, non- commercial silvicultural treatments, riparian restoration treatments, aspen stand restoration and road restoration projects. South Gerber EA - Purpose of this EA is to address a variety of forest health and restoration treatments in the South Gerber Block area. Proposed treatments may include; commercial timber sales, non- commercial silvicultural treatments, riparian restoration treatments, juniper woodland treatments, aspen stand restoration and road restoration projects. LOCATION Recent Decisions - Lands Program 1 I I I I I Upper Spencer Creek Road Treatments - Road Upper Spencer Creek I' Implementation in July obliteration, decommissioning, realignment, improvement, T38S, R6E Sections Riparian Resenres DDRBs I 2M Mike Turaski and stream crossing removal. 15 and 23 12123103 Recent Decisions - Wildlife M Map 1 # 43 ecisions - Waters Map 1 # 21 Willow Valley Habitat Enhancement Willow Valley Warm water fishexies Implementation pending Reservoir ODFW involvement. Section 1 Exploration Quarry Expansion Drilling - Authorization for ODOT to conduct exploratory drilling in and around an existingpit to identify a source for additional mineral material. Scott Snedaker I I I I I I Recent Decisions - Fuels Treatment T40S, R6E, Sec. 1. N112NW114 Map 1 # 3 None Boundary Springs Yarding and Removal of Cut Juniper - Purpose of this project is to remove juniper boles in previously treated areas to reduce fuel accumulation and promote commercial use of juniper. None Ben Hall 1 & 2, Cerber Potholes, Sehnipps, and FIZ 95- 71 Juniper Yarding - to remove juniper boles in previously treated areas to reduce fuel accumulation and promote commercial use of juniper. Fint 360 acres yarded and material sold to Area FTZ- 1 04 utilization local mill ( REACH) that utilizes juniper. Exploration initiated as weather permits. Rebecca La& Linda Younger Mike Bechdolt Various Mike Bechdolt Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 3 Fuel treatment, juniper utilization DNA completed. Project on hold. BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT KLAMATH FALLS RESOURCE AREA AVEl PHONE NUMBER: 2795 ANDERSON AVENUE, BLDG. # 25 ' E ( 541) 8836916 SPECIAL AREAS STATUS OF AEFECrED ANALYSIS PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTlON LOCATION AEFErnD COMPLETION DATE CONTACT r~ ann~ ng~ na~ ysis~ lrnp~ ernen- r Gareinoenr al RMP Evaluation~ Revision- In the final settlement agreement to the American Forest Resource Council vs. Bureau of Land Management ( BLM) litigation, the BLM is directed to revise Resource Management Plans ( RMPs) in western Oregon by December, 2008. The BLM began the revision process in 2003, evaluating current plans and developing a project preplan. Project status information will be posted on the District website. Formal scoping is expected in the second half of calendar year 2004. RMP Revision - FY 2008 None Resource Area Wide All Resources Evaluation in progress Don Homeins GerberlWillow Valley Coordinated Resource Management Plan ( CRMP) Watershed Analysis. - A local planning team of private landowners, StatelFederal land managers, and concerned citizens recommends future project implementation on private land in CRMP area. CRMP meetings/ discussions are continuing Map 1 # 5 GerberNillow Valley Watershed Completion date open-Rivate Lands ended Don Homeins Lany Frazier Wild and Scenic River designation, Area of Critical Concern, T& E spp. Map l # 28 Upper Klamath River Management Plan DEE - Develop a management plan in response to Wild and Scenic Riven Act requirements for river segment approx. 20 miles long encompassing 6,400 acres. Klarnath River - J. C. Boyle Reservoir, Oregon, to Copco One Reservoir, California Draft EIS released 511 612003. Comment period closed 8/ 13/ 2003. FEIS December 2004 Upper Klamath Basin and Wood River Wetland Resource Management Plan Amendment for the Fourmile Creek portion of this area. The purpose of this project is to amend the Upper Klamath Basin and Wood River Wetland RMP EIS to designate the Fourmile Creek area as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. Riparian Wetland Area of Critical Environmental Concern ( ACEC) Draft EIS to be prepared. Specific schedule and completion date unknown. ACEC Evaluation submitted to District Manager, October 2000. Map 1 # 29 Fourmile Creek Wetland Lou Whiteaker Lany Frazier Draft MOU presented to the Tribal Council on 2/ 22/ 2000. Waiting for Tribal feedback. - -- Unknown Memorandum of Understanding ( MOU) between the Klamath Tribes and BLM for Coordination on Management Issues. - The proposed MOU identifies a process to coordinate tribal involvement with BLM management actions on public lands. Late- Successional Reserve ( LSR) Assessment. A single LSR Assessment was prepared to assess all 19 Unmapped LSRs designated within the resource area and develop management recommendations for these areas to restore or maintain late successional habitat. Former Tribal None Lakeview District Lands - None Draft submitted to and pending approval from the Regional Ecosystem Office ( REO). BLM lands west of Highway 97 covered by the Northwest Forest Plan Unmapped Late Successional - Reserves. Analysis is complete. - ou Whiteaker Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 4 2795 ANDERSON AVENUE, BLDG. # 25 KLAMATH FALLS, OR 97603 541) 8834916 STATUS OF COMPLETION DATE CONTACT AFFECTED I ANALYSIS I - Map 2 # 46 - None Map 1 -# 7 Map 1 # 22 - None Map 2 # 44 Map 2 # 30 Oak Thinning - Thin 100 acres of oak woodland to restore plant communities and reduce potential for stand replacing wildfires and overall fire management costs. Noxious Weed Treatments - contain1 reduce noxious weed populations using integrated pest management ( manual, mechanical, chemical, and biological control methods). Activities tier to KFRA Integrated Weed Control Plan ( IWCP) and EA- OR- 014- 93- 09 approved July 21, 1993. T40S, R6E, Sec. 35 T41S, R6E, Sec. 3 and 10 T41S, WE, Sec. 1 Weed- infested sites throughout the Klamath Falls Resource Area Bitterbrush Planting - - Various locations Ongoing Planning/ Analysisflmplementation - Vegetation Treatments I I I -- -- - Horton Rim I Windy Ridge Juniper Removal - Juniper treatment for fuel reduction and wildlife habitat inmovement GerberlWillow Valley Riparian Conifer Treatments - removing invasive juniper from riparian areas in the Gerber Block G& I Willow Valley Watersheds Spencer Creek Riparian Thinning- thin 80 acres of iuniverlmixed conifer T38S, R6E, Secs. 21 and 28 Clover Creek DDRB - 108 acres mechanical treatment. T. 38S, R6E, Sec. 27.34 Off Spencer Hookup Road I Document is tiered to the Northwest Area Noxious 1 Noxious Weed I Klamath River canyon/ ACEC None I Wyd Control Program Treatments occur May - EIS avvroved December I October on a vearlv I Lou mitaker Analysis in Progress. 1985: supplemented in March 1987. Analysis completion expected Spring 2004. - . basis. Mule deer winter range. Rob Roninger None I EA completed Riparian Reserves EA completed. I Ongoing - Possible in Key Watershed completion in 2004 I Mike Turaski cx completed. h j e c t in progress. Riparian, critical sucker habitat 2- 3 year implementation began Spring 2003. Ongoing Planning/ Analysis/ Implementation- Lands Treatments occur on a yearly basis. Hapa DNA completed. Bald Eagles, Survey and Manage species Map l # 8 Greg Reddell Map 1 # 17 Implementation initiated 2003 - Ongoing DNA completed in Spring 2001. Mike Turaski Map I -# 20 Map 1 -# 9 On hold for RE0 approval of LSRA - ~- - Dehlinger Trust - Residential Road ROW and easement. Bmner Land Exchange Steve Haper Bly Dump Sale ( EA No. OR- 014- 97- 01) - Purpose of # l8 this project is to sell Bly Transfer Station to Klamath Co. I of Bly'OrrgOn. Map I I None Known I Analysis in progress I Winter2004 Linda Younger T40S, RIOE, Sec. 9 South Bryant Mountain Al B ~ n eLra nd Sale Nancy Charley Trust Reciprocal Easement and ROW Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 5 None Unknown T41S, R13E. Sec. 14 T38S, RSE, Sec 12- 13 Reciprocal Easement Pending On hold Unknown Borders Riparian Reserve Winter 2004 Spring 2005 EA completedl Decision record pending CX completed, easement pending Linda Younger Linda Younger Spring 2004 Fall 2004 Linda Younger Linda Younger MAP PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION REF. SPECIAL AREAS IC OMPLI AFFECTED Ongoing Planning/ Analysis/ Imp LOCATION ETION DATE I COMA dementation - rimber Sales I - - - Non - Non Roaming Salvage EA - The purpose is to provide NEPA coverage for timely salvage of timber mortality over the entire Resource Area. Entire Resource Area Unknown Preparing scoping letters. Spring 2004 I MI* cBechdo1t FY 04 - Baldy Salvage Timber Sale - Sale is designed to harvest windthrown trees as a result of 2003- 4 windstorms and scattered insect and disease related mortality. Anticipated volume is I . O- 1 SMMBF on 300- 500 acres. FY 04 - Matchbox Title I1 Service Contradl'imber Sale - The project consists of a Forest Health Density ManagementIUnderstory Thinning of overstocked mixed conifer stands. The sale is being designed under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self- Determination Act of 200 - Public Law 106- 393. A service contract will be used to thin, yard, and deck trees from an overstocked mixed conifer stand. A timber sale contract will be used sell the decked material. Approximately 300 acres are scheduled for treatment resulting in about 600 MBF. Primarily in the Surveyor Mtn and Burton Butte Areas. May also include some eastside areas. Timber Sale is scheduled to be sold in Mike Bechdolt May or June of 2004 Presently marking some of the scatted salvage Matrix Contract is scheduled to be awarded in June or Mike Bechdolt July of 2004 Chase Mountain Area T. 40S., R. 7E., Sec. 9 Presently Preparing the Matrix Timber Sale Contract Proposed sale date: Summer 2005 Mike Bechdolt Riparian Reserves T38S., ME., Sec. l3,15,23, 25 and 26 Reserves! Matrix Buck Again Timber Sale - An estimated 700 acres is designed for treatment in the Spencer Creek watershed near Buck Lake. Approx. 4 MMBF to be harvested. Sale preparation. Chew Timber Sale- Approximately 1,000 acres density management understory reduction adjacent to and south of T40S. R6E, Secs. 1, 1 1,14 T40S, R7E. Secs. 3 and 5 Proposed sale date Mike Bechdolt Hwy 66 west of la math Falls. ~ aleanal~ zuendd er the Sale preparation. Spring 2004 or 2005. Topsy/ Pokegama/ Hamaker EA (# OR- 0 14- 98- 01 ). Estimated volume of 2.5 m b f . None Oneoine Plannine/ Analvsis/ Implementation - Roads and Facilities Map 1 # 77 Map # 73 Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 6 Sediment Traps - 30 sediment traps on BLM, USFS, and private land Map I # 6 Gcrber Road Sediment Reduction - road resurfacing and drainage improvement to reduce sediment delivery to streams in the Gerber Watershed Spencer Creek Watershed and Gerber Block Gerber Washrack- Installation of facility at Gerber Guard Station for washing equipment to control the suread of noxious weeds and overhead filling of tankers. 5 stream crossings None Gerber Guard Station Critical sucker habitat DNA completed. Sediment traps installed. Noxious weed prevention EA completed. Implementation initiated I Fall 2004 Monitoring in progress. Mike Turaski CX completed. Mike Turaski Pending funding. Bob Crumrine/ Brian McCarty - I - 1 - Map 1 # 6 Ongoing Planning/ Analysis/ Implementation - Roads and Facilities ( continued) Gerber Area Recreation Improvements - ( RMP ROD EIS 6- 2- 95, pp. 49- 50) - Project falls under corrective maintenance, improvement or replacement in the Klamath Falls RMP. Existing maintenance, improvement or replacement include: rocking and chip- sealinglpaving road system and campsites, picnic tables, barrier posts, camp host RV holding tank, hydrants, Barnes Valley Boat Ramp access road. Scott Smter Gerber Reservoir Recreation Site Gerber Area Primitive Camp and Day Use Sites Recreation Improvements. The objectives of these improvements are to update or improve existing facilities to continue to provide an enhanced recreational experience and satisfy visitor needs. T& ESpecies ( suckers and bald eagles) Scott Senter Stan H Spring, Potholes, Miller Creek, Frog Camp, Pitchlog Creek, Wildhorse, Basin, Rock Creek and Willow Valley Reservoir Map l # 6 Projects in compliance GththeKFIURMP. Determination of NEPA Adequacy completed and approved on 10128199. Wood River Wetlands Project - Remaining projects: Finish installation of fish screen on 7- mile Canal diversion structure and floating boardwalk, interpretive signs, and trail system. Surface rock dike roads from bridge to 7- mile Canal and add group interpretive site. Juniper Chip Road - Using juniper debris for biomass or by- product in Oshea ( mZ 95/ 71), and Norcross Springs. FY 2004 - Miller Creek- Potholes trail to be constructed T& E Species ( suckers) wood River Property I I Upper Klamath Basin and Wood River Wetland I A Determination of NEPA Adequacy ( DNA) completed 9/ 25/ 2000. ( Project contingent on funding) Map 1 # 25 - Map 2 # 70 FY 2004- sidewalks and pinic tables to be installed at Willow Valley Res. Wedge Watkins Joe Foran 25 miles north of Klamath Falls, Oregon T 39 8 40s. R13,14,14XE I None Known I I Stewardship contract EAcompIeted being developed. Ongoing Projects - Prescribed Burning and Fuels Treatment Wetlands Map 2 # 2 Resource Management Plan EIS; decision signed June 16,1995. Joe Foran Pending funding Short Lake Broadcast Bum - Prescribe bum approx. 280 acres outside FTZ to reduce fuel loading and risk of wildfire. T38S. R1 I E, Sec 20 & 29 - - - - - - -- - - - - - Miller Creek Mechanical Treatment - Proposal to use mechanical piling instead of prescribed buming of a~ oroximatelv I00 acres. Map 2 # 37 - T39S. R13E. Sec. 14 & 23 Analysis Completed ACEC 1 FONSl and Decision Record on 3- 24- 99. Joe Foran None Known Project delayed. EA completed Fuels Maintenance Treatments # t ( KCER - 00- 03) Treat approximately 1,200 acres to remove fire- prone brush, excessive levels of hazardous fuels ( less than 6" in diameter), and small conifers that are ladder fuels and threats to over stow trees bv crown fire.. Map 2 # I 1 Spring 2004 Klamath Falls Resource Area, east of Hwy 97. See Prescribed Fire Map for locations. None Known Dale Brush Map 2 # 62 Analysis completed. Multiple year implementation - ongoing. Mechanical Slash Treatment Project - Mechanical treatments ( shearing, chipping, or grinding) to reduce fuels and control vegetation on approx. 12,000 acres. Joe Foran Multiple Locations Resource Area Wide None / Second DNA completed. Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 7 Projects tasked out over a three year period - ongoing. PROJECT K. 1 TITLE & DESCRIPTIO SPECIAL AREAS STATUS OF 4 CONTACT AFFECTED ANALYSIS - Map 2 -# 39 Map 2 # 40 - Map 2 -# 42 Map 2 # 38 Map 2 # 63 Map 2 # 64 - Map 2 # 65 & # I9 Map 2 # 45 - Map 2 # 49 - Stukel98- 1 Mechanical Treatment - Mechanical piling T40S, RIOE, Sec. 10,11,14, instead of pmcribed burning of approximately 500 acres. 23,24 Stukel98- 2 Prescribed Burn - Prescribe bum approx. 3,000 acres to: Reintroduce fire to restore plant communities, while reducing the potential for stand-replacement wildfires and overall fire management costs. T40S, RIOE, Sec. 12,13,24 T40S, RllE, Sec. 7& 18 HamakerIChase Fuels Treatment - Reduce Fuels on T40S, R8E 4000 acres south of Hwy 66 I Stiles Spring Prescribed Burn - Project purpose to bum approximately 1,000 acres to: Reinduce fire to restore sustainable function and structure to plant communities, while reducing the potential for stand- replacement wildfires, and reducing overall fire management costs. Stukel98- 7 & 9 Prescribed Burns - Prescribe bum approximately 525 acres to: reintroduce fire to restore plant communities, reduce overall fire management costs and the potential for stand- replacing wildfires. Statelinel Holbmk Prescribed Bums - Presmie bum approximately 4.000 acres to reduce fuel loading and risk of catastrophic wildfire. T37S, RIOE, Sec. 3- 5,9- 11, 14- 15 T40S, RllE, Sec5 & 6 T. 40S, R15 E., T. 41S, RISE. -- Big Adobe Prescribed Burn - Prescribe bum approximately 6,700 acres to reduce fuel loading and risk of catastrophic wildfire ( includes Wild Midway Rx Bum) Range- Juniper Treatment - Hazardous fuel reduction, T40S. R12E. Sec. 1 1 using mechanical and prescribed fire methods. T41 S, RISE Upper Swan Prescribed Burn - Project purpose: bum approximately 98 acres to restore sustainable function and structure to plant communities, reduce potential for stand-replacement wildfires and overall fire management costs. g and Fuels Treatment ( continued) None Known Project0 t1ie 4r- s9 4to- 0E9A. # OR- Project ongoing Joe Fmn T37S, RIOE, Sec. 24 & 25 T37S, RI 1.5E, Sec. 31 Bald Eagle ( Analysis Completed- I 200 acres treated in FY I None Analysis Completed Project tiers to EA # OR- 014- 94- 09. EA completed Wildlife Habitat Riparian Initiated Winter 2001 Fall 2004 Joe Foran Project delayed until the Spring 2004 Bald None Bald Eagle I Planned projects tier to the Promammatic Fire I Joe Foran Joe Foran Project initiated, 2- 3 year implementation FONSI - 12- 1 9- 99. 2000; Remainder Decision Record on 01 - 25- 2000 ,, Foran Joe Foran Analysis Completed Project tiers to EA # OR- 014- 94- 09) approved on 4- 29- 94. Initiated Winter 2001 Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 8 Wildlife forage/ habitat improvement 130 acres completed Remainder Spring 2004 Accomplished 1500 acres. Remainder Fall 2004. Steve Pehick- Underwood Joe Foran DNA completed ongoing 2- 3 year implementation Joe Foran .. " "" . 7 < .,.. - . . 7 - " b - . " < * - - ' 7 , 4 . , v ,-' w., ,. ' q"* -*?, . x*-.. s,... >,% VW? P ,*.- 7i*,- .*. x., < 8 SCHEDULE OF PROPOSED PROJECTS BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT KLAMATH FALLS RESOURCE AREA * 2795 ANDERSON AVENUE, BLDG. # 25 KLAMATH FALLS, OR 97603 PHONE NUMBER: ( 541) 883- 69 MAP PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION LOCATION I SPECIAL AREAS STATUS OF ANALYSIS COMPLETION CONTACT REF. # AFFECTED DATE Rangeland Health Standards Assessments - in progress I These assessments compare the monitoring information collected against the five Standards for Rangeland Health and propose management changes if current grazing use is not meeting the Standards, or not making significant improvement towards meeting them. Changes are implemented through the grazing decision or agreement process. z3I Re16 Allotment ( M893) I South Langell Valley I None Known I Assessment in progress I Summer 2004 I Dana Eckard M$\ 3 I KIamatL Forest Estates Allotment ( M862) 1 North of Bonanza -~ Yainax Allotment ( M861) I None Known I Assessment in progress I ~ ~ - 2 0 0 4 I Bill Lindsey North of Bonanza Map # 55 None Known ? G3 Haskins Allotment (# 0826) y&' Assessment in progress Masten Allotment ( M842) Map # 68 North of Bonanza Kellian Allotment (# 0834) Hungry Hollow Allotment (# 0830) Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 9 SUM 2004 North of Bonanza Adams Allotment (# 0800) Rangeland Health Standards Assessments - completed* Bill Lindsey None Known North of Bonanza North of Bonanza None Known East of Bonanza Bill Lindsey Assessment in progress None Known None Known * A total of 37 Rangeland Health Standards Assessments have been completed to date, 1 has been completed so far in FY 2004. Assessment in progress None Known None Known Assessment completed Summer 2004 Assessment in progress Assessment in progress Map North of Bonanza December 2003 # 48 Dana Eckard Summer 2004 Assessment in progress McCartie Allotment (# 0860) Dana Eckard Summer 2004 Summer 2004 Dana Eckard Summer 2004 Dana Eckard Dana Eckard Presentations/ Environmental Education Programs/ Tours ( Fiscal Year to Date) Fun With Fungi I 1 1/ 2/ 03 I Seven Mile Area Adults 25 I What Was Presented Overview of past and current outreach events; permit sales Wood River Wetland Field Trip Operation Indian Rocks ARPA Investigation 1 1 1/ 3/ 03 ( Central Washington University 1 Faculty and Students I 51 I Date 1 Group / Age # of People 1 01 1 5/ 03 10/ 28/ 03 Where Cultural Resource Management and the NEPA Process Archaeological Investigations in the Great Basin I Wildlife Management 1 12/ 16/ 03 1 OIT - " Expanding Horizons" I 8* Grade Students I 120 1 Ross Ragland Theater Wood River Wetland Coloring Books 1 1/ 3/ 03 1 1/ 4/ 03 Klarnath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 10 Answer People/ Adults Oregon Institute of Technology Students I 1 1 11 9/ 03 Shasta Elementary School -- - S - 290 Fire Behavior 25 - 30 Central Washington University Central Washington University Elementary Students 30 12/ 20/ 03 Graduate Student Seminar Graduate Student Seminar 24 35 Klamth Community College Adults 8 EventIActivlty Date Location Contact( s) F 01 rarnclpanrs ( EmployeeslPublic*) IBald Eagle Conference I Februaryl3- IS I Oregon Institute of Technology I Steve Haynerl Kelly Hollums I l~ arthD ay I April I Jefferson Square Mall I Greg Reddell I Klamath Watershed conference February 24 - 26 Wilderness & Horse Packing Clinic** International Migratory Bird Day IMBD Pre- event Classes -- - IMBD Educator Workshop Oregon Institute of Technology May ( IMBD) April 24 IMBD Event National Free Fishing Day RAP Camp Klamath County Fair Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 11 Wedge WatkinslKelly Hollums April 16 - pp - - Sixth Grade Forestry Tour National Public Lands Day Oregon Archeology Celebration Klarnath County Fairgrounds Klamath Community College May 8 June June August Tonya PinckneyIScott Senter Steve Hayner, et al OSU- Klamath Co. Extension * Numbers of public participants for large events are estimated. ** BOLD WRITING indicates that project is funded with District Outreach dollars. September September September Veteran's Park To Be Announced Camp Esther Applegate Klamath County Fairgrounds Steve Hayner, et al Steve Hayner Scott Snedaker To Be Announced PinckneylSenter Clover Creek Educational Area To Be Announced To Be Announced ~ p Bill Johnson To Be Announced Michelle Durant Glama th Falls Resource Area Miscellaneo~ wP roject Loca ticms R6E RBE R7E RBE RBE RlOE RIIE R12E R13E R14E R14.6E R16E Klamath Falls Resource Area, Winter 2003 Planning Update - Page 12 N LEGEND R5E R6E R7E R8E RQE RIOE R l l E R12E R13E R14E R14.5E R15E Klarnath Falls Resource Area, Fall 2003 Planning Update - Page 13 UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR BUREAU OF LAND MANAGE~ ENT Klarnath Falls Resource Area Office 2395 Parderson Avenue, Building a 5 Kfamth MIS. Oregan 97603 OF. FIGIAL, BUSI~ ESS PENALTY FOR PRIVATE USE, $ 300 Marita Kunkel Library Director Oregon Institute of Techolagy 3201 Cempus Dr Klamath Falls, OR 97601
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325. [Image] The Endangered Species Act : a primer
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We monitored larval Lost River and shortnose suckers from natal beds in the Williamson and Sprague rivers to nursery grounds in Upper Klamath Lake. Downstream movements occurred at night, in the middle ...
Citation Citation
- Title:
- Natural history and ecology of larval Lost River suckers and larval shortnose suckers in the Williamson River-Upper Klamath Lake System
- Author:
- Cooperman, Michael S.
- Year:
- 2004, 2005
We monitored larval Lost River and shortnose suckers from natal beds in the Williamson and Sprague rivers to nursery grounds in Upper Klamath Lake. Downstream movements occurred at night, in the middle of the channel, and on the falling limb of the hydrograph. Ages, sizes, and developmental stages of larvae from spawning beds and the river mouth were similar, while larvae collected contemporaneously from the lake tended to be larger and better fed. Our results indicate in-river rearing was rare, that a rapid outmigration to the lake was favorable for larval survival, and that modification of the lower Williamson River does not appear to have prohibited rapid entry or preclude access to Upper Klamath Lake. Within the Williamson River and Upper Klamath Lake, emergent macrophytes supported significantly higher abundance, larger mean sizes, and better fed larvae than submerged macrophytes, woody vegetation, or open water areas. Analysis of seven years of larval sucker production and survival corroborated the habitat analysis by identifying a positive relationship with emergent macrophyte availability as well as a positive relationship with air temperature and a negative relationship with high wind. These findings illustrate the importance of fast growth, appropriate habitat and calm hydrological conditions for larvae, and are highly consistent with other larval fish studies.
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327. [Image] Raising Upper Klamath Lake, appraisal study : draft.
Executive Summary This report documents an appraisal-level evaluation of raising Upper Klamath Lake in south-central Oregon. The lake is the State's largest freshwater lake and is a principal storage feature ...Citation Citation
- Title:
- Raising Upper Klamath Lake, appraisal study : draft.
- Author:
- U.S. Dept. of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation
- Year:
- 2000, 2008, 2005
Executive Summary This report documents an appraisal-level evaluation of raising Upper Klamath Lake in south-central Oregon. The lake is the State's largest freshwater lake and is a principal storage feature of the Klamath Project. The Klamath Project provides water for irrigating approximately 240,000 acres in the Klamath Basin in south-central Oregon and northern California. The Klamath Project was authorized for construction in 1905, and work began shortly thereafter. In 1921, Link River Dam was constructed at the south end of the lake, near the city of Klamath Falls, to provide regulation of the lake. Background The listing of fish species as threatened or endangered, and the Federal responsibility to protect Tribal trust assets, have placed increasing demands on the limited water supply of the Klamath Project and reduced its flexibility to meet demands. There is an immediate need to increase water supplies and improve the timing of their availability to improve fish and wildlife habitat and water quality. The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) began the Klamath Basin Water Supply Initiative (Initiative) in 1996 to identify options for increasing water supplies in the Klamath River Basin. The Initiative is a joint effort partnership of Reclamation, the Klamath River Compact Commission, the California Department of Water Resources, and the Oregon Water Resources Department. The Initiative identified 96 options for increasing water supplies and recommended 44 for further study, including raising Upper Klamath Lake. Options Evaluated The evaluation documented in this report considers increasing the maximum operating level of Upper Klamath Lake by 2 feet by raising Link River Dam. Two options are described: (1) raising existing levees around the lake to contain the lake within its current surface area and (2) allowing the lake to spread and flood adjacent lands. Option 1 constrains the higher water surface elevation to the current shoreline. Modifications would be provided to protect all existing land, roads, and structures surrounding the lake. A 2-foot-high parapet will be constructed on top of the dam to accommodate the higher water level. Major construction activities include: Raising Upper Klamath Lake ? Eight sections of new seawall, totaling 6.6 linear miles ? Modifying 14 sections of existing dikes with roads, totaling 44.3 linear miles ? Modifying 10 sections of existing dikes without roads, totaling 25.2 linear miles ? Two sections of new dikes with roads, totaling 1.9 linear miles ? Three sections of new dikes without roads, totaling 2.7 linear miles ? Armoring two sections of existing dikes, totaling 3.5 linear miles ? Raising one bridge and county and local roads at seven locations, totaling 1.3 miles of roads ? Raising 2.5 miles of a State highway ? Rehabilitating 126 private residences (relocating septic tanks, providing foundation drainage, and landscaping) ? Rehabilitating headworks and intake structures at 10 locations ? Relocating an existing boat dock The estimated cost of Option 1 is $125 million. Option 2 does not protect structures and property, but, instead, allows the lake to spread beyond the current shoreline and flood adjacent lands. Existing dikes will be breached, and existing roads that would otherwise be inundated will be raised. Either existing headworks and water intakes at various locations will be retrofitted for the higher water surface elevation, or the associated facility will be purchased. Link River Dam will be modified as in Option 1. Major construction activities include: ? Breaching (every % mile) 14 sections of existing dikes with roads, totaling 44.3 linear miles of dikes ? Breaching 10 sections of existing dikes without roads, totaling 25.3 linear miles of dikes ? Armoring 3.0 linear miles of an existing dike ? Raising one bridge and county and local roads at three locations, totaling 0.6 mile of roads Executive Summary ? Raising 2.5 miles of an existing State highway ? Rehabilitating headworks and intake structures at nine locations ? Relocating an existing boat dock The estimated cost of Option 2 is $129 million, including $113 million for the acquisition of private land and structures. Raising Upper Klamath Lake 2 feet will increase storage by approximately 170,000 acre-feet, or about 25 percent. Winter floodflows, which are presently spilled to the Klamath River and not available for project use, will be stored and made available to help meet water needs for endangered species, Tribal trust resources, agricultural contractors, and national wildlife refuges. Future operation of the enlarged lake will be contingent upon acquisition of appropriate rights to divert and store additional water in the lake and may require filing an application for the appropriation of additional water with the Oregon Water Resource Department. Costs associated with implementing either Option 1 or Option 2 are significant. In addition, implementing either option will have both positive and negative impacts on the natural and human environment. Recommendations Several engineering studies are recommended. These include: ? Estimating quantities, properties, and availability of embankment and riprap materials, and identifying their locations (quaries) ? Constructing a modified dike test section to assess construction methodology and performance of rockfill protection ? Using detailed aerial topography (maximum 1-foot contours) of the Upper Klamath Lake shoreline to better define existing features and required improvements ? Conducting a comprehensive survey of all shoreline structures to provide a better estimate of the work required and associated costs ? Inspecting existing dam gates and concrete bulk heads to determine if additional modifications are required for the higher reservoir water surface ? S-3 Raising Upper Klamath Lake ? Developing site-specific, cost-effective alternatives to the proposed shore protection features ? Identifying and securing suitable rights-of-way Recreation facilities need to be analyzed in more detail to determine impacts and associated protection, relocation, and modification costs. A user survey and appropriate mapping of all recreational facilities has been initiated to determine existing recreation use levels and assist in the analysis of potential impacts. A detailed hydrology study demonstrating that unappropriated water is available to fill the additional storage in Upper Klamath Lake is recommended. Better descriptions of area-elevation-capacity relationships and evaporation and transpiration losses will also be needed. The following environmental studies are recommended: ? Develop detailed topographic information for the entire lake and surrounding area to predict the extent of flooding and potential vegetation changes ? Develop topographic mapping in 1-foot increments to predict effects on wetland vegetation ? Determine potential streamflow changes below Link River Dam and potential benefits to threatened and endangered fishes ? Determine impacts to upland areas that would be inundated by the higher reservoir water surface elevations. The following economic studies are recommended: ? Determine all costs (e.g., planning, design, construction, mitigation, and operation, maintenance, and replacement) ? Determine benefit/cost Early development and implementation of a public involvement plan will be essential to a feasibility study. Various studies to identify and analyze social impacts and impacts to environmental justice, Tribal trust, and cultural resources are recommended. Opportunities to avoid or lessen adverse impacts will also need to be identified. S-4
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Distributed to depository libraries in microfiche; Shipping list no.: 96-0055-P; "September 1995"--P. [18]; "RF116690"--P. [18]
Citation Citation
- Title:
- Wildlife of the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges, California-Oregon
- Author:
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Year:
- 1995, 2007, 2006
Distributed to depository libraries in microfiche; Shipping list no.: 96-0055-P; "September 1995"--P. [18]; "RF116690"--P. [18]
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Summary In summary, we found that federal agencies have taken steps to improve collaboration as a way to reduce conflicts that often occur between species protections and other resource uses, but that ...
Citation Citation
- Title:
- Endangered Species Act : successes and challenges in agency collaboration and the use of scientific information in the decision making process : testimony before the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Water, Committee on Environment and Public Works, United States Senate / statement of Robin M. Nazzaro
- Author:
- Nazzaro, Robin M
- Year:
- 2005, 2007
Summary In summary, we found that federal agencies have taken steps to improve collaboration as a way to reduce conflicts that often occur between species protections and other resource uses, but that more could be done to promote routine use of collaboration and clarify agencies' responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act. In September 2003, we reported on efforts taken by the Department of Defense (DOD) to coordinate with other federal land managers in order to reduce the impact of species protections on military activities. We found several cases where such efforts were successful. For example, at the Barry M. Goldwater range in Arizona, Air Force officials worked with officials at FWS and the National Park Service to enhance food sources for the endangered Sonoran pronghorn in locations away from military training areas. As a result, the Air Force was able to minimize the impact of restrictions on training missions due to the presence of the pronghorn. However, such cases were few and far between because, among other things, there were no procedures or centralized information sources for facilitating such collaboration. In March 2004, we reported on collaboration that takes place pursuant to section 7(a)(2) of the act?referred to as the consultation process?in the Pacific Northwest. In this area, large numbers of protected species and vast amounts of federal land conspire to make balancing species protection and resource use a contentious endeavor. We found that steps the Services and other federal agencies had taken made the consultation process run smoother and contributed to improved interagency relationships. However, some problems have persisted. For example, some agencies disagree with the Services about when consultation is necessary and how much analysis is required to determine potential impacts on protected species. In each of these reports, we made recommendations intended to further improve collaboration among federal agencies with regard to balancing species protections and other resource uses, and?in the March 2004 report?to resolve disagreements about the consultations process. DOD and FWS have begun discussing an implementation strategy to improve collaboration regarding species protection on military and other federal lands and development of a training program. With regard to the consultation process, while FWS and NMFS have continued to take steps to expand their collaboration processes, the agencies did not believe that disagreements about the consultation process require additional steps. They believe that current training and guidance is sufficient to address questions about the process. With regard to the use of science, we have found that FWS generally used the best available information in key Endangered Species Act decisions, although the agency was not always integrating new research into ongoing species management decisions. In addition, we identified concerns with the adequacy of the information available to make critical habitat decisions. In December 2002, we reported on many aspects of the decision making for species protections regarding the Mojave Desert tortoise. We found that the decision to list the tortoise as threatened, its critical habitat designation, and the recommended steps in the species' recovery plan, were based on the best available information. However, despite over $100 million in expenditures on recovery actions and research over the past 25 years, it is still unclear what the status of the tortoise is and what effect, if any, recovery actions are having on the species because research has not been coordinated in a way to provide essential management information. Such information is critically important as some of the protective actions, such as restrictions on grazing and off road vehicle use, are vigorously opposed by interest groups who question whether they are necessary for the tortoise's recovery. Accordingly, we recommended that FWS better link land management decisions with research results to ensure that conservation actions and land use restrictions actually benefit the tortoise. In response, FWS recently established a new office with a tortoise recovery coordinator and plans to create an advisory committee to ensure that monitoring and recovery actions are fed back into management decisions. In August 2003, we found that, similar to the decision making regarding the tortoise, FWS decisions about listing species for protection under the act were generally based on the best available information. However, while most critical habitat designations also appeared to be based on the best available information, there were concerns about the adequacy of the information available at the time these decisions are made. Specifically, critical habitat decisions require detailed information of a species' life history and habitat needs and the economic impacts of such decisions?information that is often not available and that FWS is unable to gather before it is obligated under the act to make the decision. As a result, we recommended that the Secretary of the Interior clarify how and when critical habitat should be designated and identify if any policy, regulatory, or legislative changes are required to enable the department to make better informed designations. FWS has not responded to our recommendation.
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Only portions of issues of The Water Report are available in the Klamath Waters Digital Library. See the full report at http://www.thewaterreport.com/
Citation