Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Final Environmental Assessment

Transcription

1 United States Department of Agriculture Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Final Environmental Assessment Forest Service Intermountain Region Prepared by Caribou-Targhee National Forest Deb Tiller, Team Lead November 2011 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDAs TARGET Center at (202) (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C , or call (800) (voice) or (202) (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 1 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

2 Table of Contents Chapter One: Purpose and Need For Action 1.1 Document Structure Background, Project Area 6 Vicinity and Proposed Action Map Proposed Action Purpose and Need Objective of the Proposed Action Management Direction Relative to Analysis Area Public Involvement Decision To Be Made Identification of Issues and Other Relevant Resources Concerns Outside the Scope Past, Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions 17 Chapter Two: Alternatives, Including Proposed Action 2.1 Decision Criteria Alternatives Not Considered In Detail Alternatives Considered In Detail Practices and Design Features Monitoring Comparison of Effects by Alternative 26 Chapter Three: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 3.1 Trails, Recreation, Scenery and Roadless Areas 28 Existing Condition 30 Effects Analysis, Conclusions and Irretrievable/Irreversible Effects Soils 43 Existing Condition 45 Effects Analysis, Conclusions and Irretrievable/Irreversible Effects Hydrology 48 Existing Condition 49 Effects Analysis, Conclusions and Irretrievable/Irreversible Effects 49 Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 2 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

3 3.4 Wildlife Existing Condition 52 Effects Analysis, Conclusions and Irretrievable/Irreversible Effects 54 Chapter Four: Lists & Disclosures - Preparers, Consultants, Bibliography 4.1 Required Disclosures Interdisciplinary Team and Consultation Public Involvement Bibliography 59 Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 3 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

4 Summary The Westside Ranger District of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest proposes to construct approximately five miles of non-motorized trail that will directly link the City of Pocatello s City Creek Trail System with the US Forest Service Mink Creek Trail System; via the Cusick Creek Trail( Trail # 010) and the South Fork of Gibson Jack Trail ( Trail # 040). The single track non-motorized trail would accommodate mountain bike, stock and foot travel. The proposed action occurs within a portion of the West Mink Roadless Area. The proposed action would not require a Forest Plan amendment and complies with the 2005 Caribou Travel Plan Revision. Two actions are to be evaluated by this environmental assessment. The no action alternative would not build new trail, and the City Creek Trail System and the Mink Creek trail system would not be directly linked by a non-motorized trail. This project was initially scoped for public comment in the fall of A decision was made to complete an environmental assessment (EA) according to 2008 regulations (36 CFR 220). A thirty-day comment period was initiated with the release of a draft EA and legal notice publication on June 7 th, 2011, in accordance with 36 CFR 215. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 4 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

5 Chapter One PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION 1.1 Document Structure The Forest Service has prepared this Environmental Assessment in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other relevant Federal and State laws and regulations. This Environmental Assessment discloses the direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental impacts that would result from the proposed action and the no action alternatives. The document is organized into four parts: Chapter One: Purpose and Need: This chapter includes information on the history of the project proposal, the purpose of and need for the project, and the agency s proposal for achieving that purpose and need. This chapter also details how the Forest Service informed the public of the proposal and how the public responded. Chapter Two: Alternatives: This chapter provides a more detailed description of the agency s proposed action and no action alternatives. This discussion also includes design features to avoid or reduce impacts. Finally, this chapter provides a summary of the environmental consequences associated with each alternative. Chapter Three: Existing Condition and Environmental Consequences: This chapter describes the existing condition of uses and resources and the environmental effects of implementing the proposed action and no action alternatives. This chapter is organized by resource area. Within each section, the existing conditions are described first, followed by the effects of each alternative. Chapter Four: Lists of Preparers, Consultants and Bibliography: This chapter provides a list of preparers and agencies contacted and consulted during the development of the environmental assessment. This chapter also discusses Tribal consultation as required by Executive Order (2000). This chapter includes referenced materials in the bibliography. Additional documentation, including more detailed analyses of project-area resources, is available in the project planning record located at the Westside Ranger District Office in Pocatello, Idaho. Best Available Science What constitutes best available science might vary over time and across scientific disciplines. As a general matter this NEPA document will show consideration for the best available science, scientific integrity of discussions and analysis of the project. This EA identifies analysis methods used, references scientific sources and discloses incomplete or unavailable information. The project record references all scientific information considered: papers, reports, literature reviews, and results of ground based observations. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 5 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

6 1.2 Background and Project Area The Westside Ranger District of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest proposes to built approximately five miles of single-track non-motorized trail to connect Cusick Creek Trail ( Trail # 010) to the South Fork of Gibson Jack Trail ( Trail # 040) following the 6,200 contour elevation. The project area is located just southwest of the City of Pocatello. Project implementation is expected to begin in the spring of The legal description for this proposal is Section 10, 14, 15, 23 and 26 of T7S, R34E of the Boise Meridian, within Bannock County, Idaho. All mileages disclosed in this document are approximate. The project area is the Gibson Jack elk and deer winter range prescription area, the eastern edge of the Gibson Jack municipal watershed prescription area and the associated aquatic influence zone prescription areas as identified in the 2003 Resource Management Plan prescription map. In 2007 and 2008 local trail users approached the Westside District Ranger and recreation staff to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a direct connector trail for nonmotorized travel from the City Creek trail system into the District s Mink Creek trail system. The City Creek Trail system lies on the West Bench of Pocatello and is managed by the City of Pocatello. The Mink Creek trail system lies just southwest of the City of Pocatello and is managed by the Forest Service. District staff and local trail users developed a proposed action based on the desire to connect the two trail systems while addressing resource concerns and maintenance needs. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 6 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

7 Note: Proposed Action Trail Corridor depicted by red line. Some routes shown are not designated roads or trails; they are historic jeep roads/trails and may not be evident on the ground. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 7 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

8 1.3 Proposed Action This section will provide a summary of activities proposed for the Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail. A detailed description of the proposed action is presented in Chapter Two: Alternatives. The Westside Ranger District of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest proposes to build approximately five miles of a single-track non-motorized trail that will connect the Cusick Creek Trail (Trail # 010) with the South Fork of Gibson Jack Trail (Trail #040). The proposed trail would accommodate mountain bike, stock and foot travel and would be built to Forest Service Trail Handbook standards and design guidelines. Some deviation in proposed trail alignment may be needed to avoid site-specific resource issues, rock outcroppings, wet areas and to take advantage of favorable terrain. The proposed action includes enlarging the Gibson Jack Trailhead parking area by three to five parking spaces, improving the vehicle turn-around, and enlarging the entry. Additional parking spaces would be installed on the western edge of the lot. As part of the proposed action, the Cusick Creek Trail and the South Fork of Gibson Jack Trail would receive additional maintenance to reduce erosion and sediment delivery into Cusick Creek and Gibson Jack Creek. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribe has ancestral Treaty Rights to uses of the Forest. The project area was included in the original Fort Hall Reservation, and is part of the Tribal lands ceded to the United States Government on or before The Tribes also have specific rights associated with these ceded lands. The proposed action was discussed with Shoshone-Bannock staff in January of Consultation with the Shoshone- Bannock Tribe on this proposal will continue as required. The proposed action would not occur within the Gibson Jack Natural Research Area. The proposed action would occur within the designated Gibson Jack municipal watershed prescription area and the Gibson Jack Elk and Deer Winter Range prescription area as identified in the 2003 Resource Management Plan (RMP). The proposed action would occur on the edges of the West Mink Roadless Area. Read further for more discussion of RMP direction and other applicable direction. Archeological surveys have been completed in compliance with National Historic Preservation Act and other cultural resource laws and in consultation with the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office. A Biological Evaluation has been conducted and informal consultation has occurred with the United States Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Service. RMP direction and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for wildlife, vegetation, soils, riparian areas and trails has been identified in this analysis and will be applied during and after project implementation. Decision Framework and Responsible Official Based on the findings of this analysis, the Westside District Ranger will make the decision to build or not to build approximately five miles of non-motorized single-track trail with the design features and BMPs identified in Chapter Two or additional design features as identified in the final decision. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 8 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

9 1.4 Purpose and Need The purpose of this project is to improve the use and enjoyment of the Westside District trails. The popular City Creek trail system, managed by the City of Pocatello, does not directly link into the extensive Mink Creek trail system on Forest System lands. The benefits of a connector trail were discussed in the recommendations put forth in the 2010 Lower Portneuf Watershed Analysis (USDA Forest Service) and the 2009 City Creek Management Area Plan (City of Pocatello). A connector trail can improve the distribution of trail use. The connector trail has the potential to reduce crowding on the core trails of the City Creek trail system. Reduced crowding has the potential to improve trail safety and reduce trail damage from over-use. The connector trail has the potential to reduce parking congestion for the City Creek trail system, as some trail users will utilize the three Forest Service trailheads to the south. The Gibson Jack Trailhead is under-sized for the trail system that is serves. Enlarging the parking lot and redesigning spaces and turn-around would better serve trail users. The proposed connector trail, the Sterling Justice trail, would be built and maintained by the City Creek Trail Users Group (CCTUG) as identified in a Memorandum of Understanding between the Westside Ranger District and designated representatives of CCTUG. The Forest Service would ensure that the trail is built and maintained to design standards, using Best Management Practices (BMPs) for soil and water identified in Chapter Two. The Forest Service would be responsible for monitoring trail and resource conditions, including noxious weeds as identified in detail in Chapter Two. 1.5 Objective of the Proposed Action The goal of this proposal is to improve the existing District trail system and trail conditions to better serve Forest trail users. In past public scoping for the 2003 Resource Management Plan and the 2005 Travel Plan Revision, some forest trail users had indicated the need for additional non-motorized trail miles in close proximity to Pocatello (USDA FS 2005 FEIS Appendix C). The specific objective of this proposal is to provide trail linkage to the City Creek Trail system via the upper Cusick Creek Trail, (Forest Trail # 010) to the South Fork of Gibson Jack Trail (Trail #040). The lower Cusick Creek Trail is part of the City Creek Trail System and is managed by the City. The new trail would comply with specific RMP direction, the 2005 Caribou Travel Plan Revision, the Idaho Roadless Rule and RMP Best Management Practices concerning impacts to soil and water resources. 1.6 Management Direction Relative to the Analysis Area Land and Resource Management Plan Direction (RMP) The 2003 Caribou Forest Resource Management Plan (RMP), also referred to as the Forest Plan, establishes long-term management direction for the Forest. Forest-wide standards and guidelines are used to achieve the desired conditions outlined within the plan. The RMP further defines forest areas as sub-sections and prescription areas based Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 9 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

10 on resource conditions and management themes. Sub-sections and prescription areas have more specific standards and guidelines that supplement the forest-wide guidance of the RMP. RMP direction that pertains to the proposed action and issues are summarized below. Forest-Wide Guidance for Roads, Trails and Access and Recreation Desired Future Condition for Roads, Trails and Access (RMP 3-36 to 38): The transportation system provides access to the Forest to meet planning and management goals including recreation, special uses, timber management, range management, minerals development, and fire protection. The transportation system is safe, environmentally sound, and is responsive to pubic needs and affordable to manage and maintain. The Forest provides a variety of road and trail opportunities, including motorized and non-motorized experiences. Forest-wide goals for roads, trails and access include: -National Forest Service roads and trails needed for long-term objectives are maintained in a manner that provides for user safety and minimizes impacts to forest resources. -Roads and trail not needed for long-term objectives are decommissioned, stabilized, and restored to a more natural state. -Forest roads and trails are managed to maintain or improve watershed condition. -The forest transportation system is developed and maintained at the minimum level necessary to effectively and efficiently manage natural resources, provide user access, protect capital investments, provide for user health and safety and protect the environment. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 10 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

11 Forest-wide Guidelines for Roads, Trails and Access include: -The construction of new or maintenance of existing motorized and non-motorized access routes should be consistent with the ROS (Recreation Opportunity Spectrum) class in which they are located. -Operation, maintenance and rehabilitation of existing trails should be the priority over new construction. -Minimize construction of new transportation routes, evaluate existing routes, and reconstruct or relocate routes not meeting management goals. Desired Future Condition for Recreation reads, People visiting the National Forest enjoy a broad range of recreation opportunities amid natural settings. Recreation experiences and settings meet public expectations of quality and variety, while complimenting other resource objectives. Forest-wide goals for Recreation state, developed and dispersed recreation facilities, access, and programs are consistent with the desired ROS setting and other resource goals of the area in which they are located. Standards and Guidelines for Recreation include: -Construction and reconstruction of recreation facilities and trails that occur within Aquatic Influence Zones will adhere to the standards and guidelines described for Prescription Projects should be planned and implemented to meet the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) as depicted on the Forest ROS map. (Guideline) Additional plan direction for specific resources is discussed under each resource section within this assessment. Ecological Subsection: Basin and Range Transitional Mountains (RMP-4-2) Recreation and resource management emphasis items that pertain to this proposal are: Maintain and improve winter habitat for mule deer. Retain Roaded Natural and Semi-Primitive recreation opportunities near the urban center of Pocatello. Tribal Trust responsibilities and coordination adjacent to the Shoshone-Bannock Reservation. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 11 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

12 Management Prescription Area Direction The proposed action occurs within the three prescription areas listed below. Prescription (b) Municipal Watershed (RMP 4-25): This prescription applies to the congressionally designated watershed of Gibson Jack. In general vegetation appears natural in municipal watershed areas; however, exceptions may exist for some areas, and some human caused vegetation manipulation may occur. This area provides recreational opportunities in a natural setting. Access to some sites may be limited and some sites may have no access at all. Goals for this prescription include: Provide water of a quality that meets State and municipal standards. Manage to protect cultural, historic, ecological, botanical, geological and/or zoological resources. Soil and Water Guidelines for this prescription include: Management activities in these watersheds should be designed to assure maintenance of high quality surface water. Watershed restoration should be done primarily where deteriorated soil or hydrologic conditions are caused by management or human-induced activities. Recreation Guidelines for this prescription include: Recreation facilities are not encouraged, and are only provided to protect resource values from dispersed recreation use. Prescription Riparian/Wetland Areas (RWA) (RMP 4-45): This prescription applies to areas associated with intermittent streams and wetlands. Due to mapping complexities, the prescription areas are defined on the ground. RMP direction includes: Design, construct, and operate new recreation facilities, including trails and dispersed sites, in a manner that maintains progress toward desired AIZ attributes. (Standard) Manage existing recreation facilities, including trails and dispersed sites, to minimize adverse impacts and, where feasible, move towards desired AIZ attributes. (Guideline) Prescription (d) Elk and Deer Winter Range (RMP 4-44): This prescription emphasizes actions and resource conditions that provide quality elk and deer winter range. Habitats are managed for multiple land benefits, to the extent these land uses are compatible with maintaining or improving elk and deer winter range. Access is managed or restricted to provide security for wintering elk and deer. Winter and summer motorized travel is restricted to designated roads and trails. Livestock grazing, timber Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 12 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

13 management, recreation and other resource management activities can occur as long as desired vegetation conditions are being maintained. Manage dispersed recreation to maintain winter habitat conditions. Minimal recreation facilities may be provided, such as hitch rack, rudimentary toilets, etc., but are not encouraged Caribou Travel Plan Revision In 2005 the Forest completed a travel plan revision for the Caribou Forest districts, including the Westside Ranger District. The Final EIS and Decision determined the designated motorized road and trail system and also determined the non-motorized trail system for the districts. The proposed action would add a new trail to the non-motorized trail system. The 2005 Decision did not prohibit adding to or changing the District transportation system to adapt to resource and user needs. 1.7 Public Involvement Public involvement in this project began in the fall of 2010 when this proposal was included in the Forest s SOPA Quarterly. This project has appeared quarterly in the schedule since that issue. Other public involvement efforts were: September 24, 2009 District Staff met with CCTUG to discuss the proposal and need for connector trail. March 17, 2010 Forest staff met with United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Idaho Fish and Game to discuss the project. November 10, 2010 Public Open House with interested parties November 12, 2010 and May 27 th, 2011 News articles in Idaho State Journal Numerous phone calls and office visits with interested parties. Public comments used for analysis and issue statements. June 7 th, 2011 Legal Notice published in Idaho State Journal, Draft EA made available for public comment, 30 day comment period commences. July 7 th, 2011 Official Comment period ends. 1.8 Decision to Be Made This Environmental Analysis (EA) does not document a decision. The purpose of this analysis is to disclose the effects and consequences of alternative actions and to give the public an opportunity to comment. Using information in the EA the Westside District Ranger will make decisions based on alternatives, effects, and public comments. The decision to be made for this project is: should a single-track non-motorized trail be built to connect Cusick Creek Trail (Trail #010) to the South Fork of Gibson Jack Trail (Trail #040)? If a new trail is built, should the Gibson Jack Trailhead and parking lot be Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 13 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

14 enlarged? If a new trail is built, what design features, mitigation measures, and monitoring should be applied to the project? 1.9 Identification of Issues and Other Relevant Resources Information gathered from public and internal scoping was analyzed to determine if any concerns were raised relevant to the decision. Potential issues were identified through scoping and the consultation process with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. Some people were concerned with impacts to wildlife and wildlife habitat, specifically big game winter range and sharp-tailed grouse habitat and disturbance. Some people were concerned with building more trails on the western benches adjacent to Pocatello, which could have a negative effect on the recreation setting. Listed below are the issue statements and indicators for these concerns. Impacts to Sharp-tailed Grouse and Sharp-tailed Grouse Habitat The project may have negative impacts sharp-tailed grouse and grouse habitat. Indicator: Would the project meet RMP standards and guidelines for sharp-tailed grouse? Impacts to Moose and Mule Deer Habitat and Winter Range Security The project may have negative impacts to moose, mule deer and mule deer winter range. Indicator: Would the project meet RMP standards and guidelines for big game winter range? Impacts to recreation setting, scenery and the existing trail systems The project may have negative impacts to the recreation setting and area trails. Indicator: Would the proposed action retain existing ROS settings and meet prescribed Visual Quality Objectives set in the RMP? Other Relevant Resources Public comments, tribal consultation and the interdisciplinary team requested that the following resource concerns be fully analyzed and disclosed in the environmental document. These comments were sorted by resource area and are discussed in Chapter Three. The categories include hydrology, soils, wildlife, and wilderness/roadless area characteristics. Concerns for threatened, endangered, and sensitive plants; heritage resources; economic effects; climate change; air quality and increased wildfire risk are discussed in the next paragraphs and not analyzed further in the document. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 14 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

15 Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Plants There is no suitable habitat for sensitive plants currently listed for the Caribou Forest within the project area; therefore, there are no impacts for threatened, endangered, and sensitive plants Heritage Resources Some people were concerned that a connector trail would impact heritage resources. The proposed action would have no effect to cultural resources based on surveys of the areas of proposed disturbance. If proposed disturbance areas change, a Forest archaeologist will be notified in order to complete the National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 consultation process for modifications to the original proposal. If any cultural resources are encountered during the course of the project a Forest archaeologist will be notified immediately and all ground disturbing activities will cease in that area until the Forest archaeologist takes appropriate action in consultation with the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office. Economic Impacts Some people noted that the connector trail could increase retail and tourism income to the area. A well-designed local trail system can be a significant contributor to local economies and increase the quality of life for residents. The proposed non-motorized trail would enhance hiker, stock user and mountain bike opportunity within an existing trail system. It is anticipated that the proposed trail, and addition of five miles, would not have a measurable effect on local retail businesses that rely on recreation and tourism such as gas stations, sporting good suppliers, restaurants and hotels/motels. Climate Change and Air Quality The proposed non-motorized trail could reduce full-sized traffic on area roads, or increase traffic on some area road; but the change would be a small percentage of the existing motorized traffic within the area. The proposed action has the potential to increase dust during construction activities; however, construction would be limited to times of year when there is adequate soil moisture to work the soil, reducing the risk of construction dust. Measureable effects to air quality or climate change under both alternatives are not anticipated. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 15 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

16 Potential Impacts to Gibson Jack Road and Fire Risk Gibson Jack Road is a one-way in/one-way out county road that serves the Gibson Jack neighborhoods. Gibson Jack Road has a significant daily traffic load as neighborhood residents come and go throughout the day and evening. Some people are concerned the proposed action would increase traffic on Gibson Jack Road, which could increase fire risk and hamper evacuation efforts in the event of a wildfire. It is difficult to predict use patterns; however, the Gibson Jack Trailhead parking capacity would limit trailhead use. The existing trailhead only serves a maximum of eight passenger vehicles. The proposed action will add three to five additional spaces. An additional three to five parking spaces at the Gibson Jack Trailhead could be comparable to an addition of three residential homes added to the Gibson Jack neighborhoods. This addition would not dramatically change the existing traffic load on this county roadway. The proposed action has the potential to aid fire-fighters, as the single track trail corridor could provide a control line and/or anchor in the event of an uncontrolled wildfire within the project area. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 16 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

17 1.10 Concerns Outside the Scope of Project The following concerns are outside the scope of the proposed action; already decided by law, regulation, RMP, or other higher level decisions; irrelevant to the decision to be made, or conjectural and not supported by scientific or factual evidence. The concern statements and rationale for being beyond the scope are discussed below. Change in Management of the City Creek Trail System The City Creek trail system lies on land managed and owned by the City of Pocatello. In 2009 the city council adopted the City Creek Trail System Management Plan. This comprehensive plan addresses resource issues and best management practices to help design and manage a trail system that serves a variety of trail and road users while minimizing impacts to resources, specifically water quality within the Portneuf drainage. The Forest Service has no jurisdiction on the management of these lands. See Chapter Three for a detailed description of the City Creek trail system and uses. Change in Designated Motorized Routes on the Westside Ranger District This analysis does not address or propose to change the designated motorized routes on the Westside Ranger District. This proposal does not include additional motorized trails or changes to motorized designations. Open-motorized route density ceilings, as prescribed in the RMP, do not apply to non-motorized or mechanized routes Past, Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions Cumulative effects consist of the direct and indirect effects resulting from the incremental impact of the proposed action or alternatives when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of who carries out the action (40 CFR ). All of the environmental issues carried forward for analysis in the EA have the potential for cumulative effects. Detailed discussion of cumulative effects is found in Chapter Three under the Effects Analysis section for each resource or use. Guidance implementing NEPA requires that federal agencies identify the temporal and geographic boundaries within which they will evaluate potential cumulative effects of alternative, and the specific past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects that will be analyzed (40 CFR ). In 1997, the Council on Environmental Quality published additional guidance on cumulative effects assessment, which provides the basis for discussion in this EA (Council on Environmental Quality, 1997). For purposes of this EA, the general temporal boundaries of analysis are from 1975 to Past and present recreation activities within the project area include trail uses, hunting and non-motorized winter travel. Past and present management activities include fire suppression, prescribed fire, trail construction and maintenance, maintenance of a water diversion on Gibson Jack Creek and travel plan patrol and enforcement. Parking lot enlargement for the Gibson Jack Trailhead was considered in the past; however, lack of funding discouraged this improvement. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 17 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

18 Management actions for the future could include additional fuels management. The under-sized trail bridge on the West Fork of Gibson Jack Trail, also called the Gibson Mountain Trail (Trail # 015) will be replaced as funding is secured. Trail information and signing will be improved over time. Reasonably foreseeable trends for the project area and for the District include increased trail uses, both motorized and non-motorized, as the community population increases. Big game winter range will become more valuable as adjacent private lands are developed. Public access to public lands will become more finite as access across private lands is lost with new land owners, new land uses and development of open space. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 18 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

19 Chapter Two ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PROPOSED ACTION This chapter describes the No Action Alternative, the Proposed Action (Alternative Two) and alternatives that were not considered in detail. Alternatives are developed to provide the decision maker with a reasonable range of options to lessen or eliminate unresolved conflicts. The Proposed Action, Alternative Two is the initial formulation of the project that was subjected to internal review and public comment. Alternative One, No Action provides a baseline for analysis and can be a viable choice for the decision maker. This analysis utilized the best available science to reach the conclusions and recommendations. 2.1 Decision Criteria As with most land management decisions, the overall goal is to meet the purpose and need while avoiding substantial adverse impacts to other resource values. With this goal in mind, the decision maker has identified the following criteria on which a decision would be based. The degree to which each of the alternatives meets standards and guidelines for soils, water quality and wildlife habitat as identified in the 2003 Resource Management Plan (RMP). The degree to which each of the alternatives meet the desired condition for recreation opportunity and user needs as identified in the 2003 RMP. 2.2 Alternatives Not Considered in Detail Local trail users and the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) considered other alternatives to meet the purpose and need of directly connecting the two trail systems. A lower route was initially evaluated by the IDT and was included in early scoping efforts. The lower trail would cross private lands and lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The lower route was eliminated from detailed study due to other management constraints. The BLM will initiate travel planning for this parcel of land at a later date. 2.3 Alternatives Considered in Detail Alternative One, No Action The No Action Alternative is included in detailed analysis and serves as a baseline for comparison. This alternative is a viable choice for the decision-maker. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 19 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

20 Alternative Two, Proposed Action Alternative Two, the Proposed Action, is to build a single track non-motorized trail that would connect the Cusick Creek Trail (Trail # 010) into the South Fork of Gibson Jack Trail (Trail # 040). The new connector trail would be managed for hikers, runners, stock users and mountain bikers. The trail would have an average tread width of 24 and an estimated length of five miles. Tread width would vary; as rocky areas built with a small trail dozer would initially be wider; the tread width narrows after cut banks and fill areas settle. The trail would contour around the 6,200 elevation, rising and falling to meet the existing trails to the north and south. The lower motorized Cusick Creek trail and the non-motorized Gibson Jack Trail would be reconstructed with water bars and grade reversals to improve drainage of these travel ways. The proposed connector trail, the Sterling Justice trail, would be built and maintained by the City Creek Trail Users Group (CCTUG) as identified in a Memorandum of Understanding between the Westside Ranger District and designated representatives of CCTUG. As part of the proposal, the Gibson Jack Trailhead would be improved with additional parking spaces, entry widening and gravel surfacing. Trail construction and maintenance would be supervised by Forest Service staff and built to agency standards as specified. Monitoring of trail condition, illegal uses and potential noxious weed infestations would be accomplished by the Forest Service. Trail Location The southern terminus of the proposed trail departs from the South Fork of Gibson Jack trail 0.88 miles west of the Forest boundary at the 5,400 contour. The trail travels north, bends northwest, and then continues north to the North Fork of Johnny Creek at the 6,000 elevation (2.5 miles). At this location the trail climbs east to the face of the unnamed ridge (6,200 ) then stays on contour traveling west then north, eventually dropping down to meet Cusick Creek Trail at the 5800 level (2.18 miles). The proposed trail route, shown in Chapter Two, pg. 22, depicts the trail location as discussed at the public meeting and shared with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribal staff, City of Pocatello Parks and Recreation staff, City Creek Trail Users Group (CTUG), Idaho Fish and Game, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Every effort was made to create accurate map locations of the proposed activities. The actual trail location may vary to avoid rock outcrops, wet soils (seeps or springs) or cultural resource features. The actual trail location may vary to take advantage of favorable terrain. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 20 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

21 Season of Use The trail shall be open to non-motorized uses year-round. The trail would be available, but not encouraged, for skiing and snow-shoeing during winter months. If trail tread becomes rutted or damaged from use during the wet seasons, gates at the Gibson Jack trail intersection and the Cusick Creek Trail intersection would be installed to prohibit all travel during wet conditions. A special order would enforce this closure. Implementation and Maintenance Project implementation would begin in the spring/summer of Construction would occur during times when precipitation events are unlikely to occur. Maintenance would be conducted annually or as needed to maintain drainage structures and out-sloping of trail tread. Maintenance work would be completed by the City Creek Trail Users Group as agreed to in a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 21 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

22 Map 2.0 Alternative Two, Proposed Action Route/Corridor Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 22 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

23 (Note: some routes depicted on map are not designated roads/trails; some routes are historic jeep roads that may or may not be evident on the ground) 2.4 Practices and Design Features for Alternative Two General Best Management Practices, BMPs, for this project include: Caribou RMP direction (USDA FS 2003) Forest Service Handbook (FSH) Soil & Water Conservation Practices Handbook, Chapter 15: Road & Trails (USDA FS 1988) FSH Trails Management Handbook Chapters 3 & 4: Trail Preconstruction & Construction and Trail Operation & Maintenance. (USDA FS 1991) Best Management Practices for Stream Channel Crossing: A hydrologist or fisheries biologist would field-verify all crossings and identify the most suitable crossing locations and methods (e.g. armored ford, culvert, or bridge) to meet RMP Aquatic Influence Zone (AIZ) direction. Crossings could be moved upstream to avoid spring runoff areas. Applicable AIZ Standards & Guidelines (RMP pg 4-51): All [Crossings, including culverts] would be designed and installed to meet desired conditions for riparian and aquatic species. [Crossings, including culverts]... would be sized so that the probability of flow exceedance is fifty percent or less during the time the [crossing] is expected to be in place. Bed load and debris would be considered when determining crossing dimensions. Install cross-drainage above stream crossings to prevent sediments from entering streams. Trails would cross the AIZ riparian areas as perpendicular as possible. Channel changes on streams or drainages would be avoided. Crossings would be designed and installed to avoid turning stream flows down the [trail] prism in the event of a blocked or overflowing culvert. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 23 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

24 Trail drainage structures would avoid disruption of natural hydrologic flow paths. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 24 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

25 Best Management Practices for Storm Water Management: Proper trail location, alignment, grades, switchback design, stream crossings, and drainage features [as identified in FSH , Chapter Three] would minimize erosion. Trail drainage structures would not be placed where they could discharge onto erodible slopes or directly into streams (RMP pg. 4-51). Disturbed areas would be stabilized with wood-straw or other immediate ground cover. Forest botanist would approve seeding methods and mix. If possible, allow natural succession from adjacent native vegetation. Re-seeding will occur during late fall as needed. Forest hydrologist and soil scientist would be consulted for site-specific erosion and water control features prior to construction of parking lot. Traffic barriers would be installed between Gibson Jack stream and the parking area to buffer stream banks and reduce sediment into the stream The parking lot cross- grade would drain away from Gibson Jack Creek. Runoff would be captured by a swale placed along toe of slope. Culvert(s) would have armored outlet(s) as appropriate. Parking lot would be surfaced with gravel to further reduce erosion risk. Vehicles, tools and materials used during all construction and maintenance would be washed as needed to prevent the spread of noxious weeds. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 25 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

26 Design Features for Soils: Trail construction would be conducted when soil moisture is dry enough to prevent rutting and compaction, but not too dry, to prevent excessive dust and friable soils. Construct and maintain out-sloped trail tread. Grade reversals would be designed into the trail. Where grade reversals are not practical, water bars or rolling dips will be used. Maximum spacing of drainage structures, whether they are grade reversals, rolling dips, or water bars would be as follows: Trail Grade (%) Drain spacing (ft) (Trails Management Handbook FSH Chapter 3 Exhibit 02; USDA Forest Service, 1995). Design Feature for Wildlife: Construction activities would not occur between the months of March and May to minimize disturbance to nesting and brooding sharp-tailed grouse. Design Feature for Safety: Construction activities on steep slopes would include mitigation to prevent rocks and debris from rolling into ravines and lower canyons. 2.5 Monitoring for Alternative Two The following activities would serve to monitor implementation and effects of Alternative Two. District staff would monitor trail and crossing conditions and need for maintenance of tread and drainage features. A hydrologist and soil scientist would monitor for proper BMP implementation. Adaptive management will be applied as necessary to protect soils and water quality. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 26 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

27 Monitoring noxious weed populations would be accomplished annually by Forest staff. If noxious weeds are discovered, they would be reported and treated. A schedule would be established for early detection-rapid response to noxious weeds along the corridor of the new trail and on adjacent trails. Trail would be monitored for unauthorized motorized use. Rocks/barrier would be used to limit motorized access at both ends of the connector trail. Trail would be monitored for unauthorized spur trails. The Forest archaeologist would be notified in order to complete the National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 consultation process for any new modification to this alternative. If cultural resources are encountered during the course of the project the Forest archaeologist will be notified and all ground disturbing activities will cease in that area until the Forest archaeologist takes appropriate action in consultation with the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office. 2.6 Comparison of Effects by Alternative This section summarizes the information from Chapter Three: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences. This discussion compares and contrasts the alternatives considered in detail. Alternative One, the no-action alternative, would meet RMP standards and guidelines for soil, water quality or wildlife habitat within the project area. The no-action alternative does not improve non-motorized trail opportunities in close proximity to the City of Pocatello. Alternative Two with required BMPs, design features and monitoring would meet RMP standards and guidelines for soil, water quality and wildlife habitat within the project area. This alternative would not adversely affect the existing trail system, recreation setting, scenery, wilderness potential or roadless values of the project area. The connector trail would add approximately five miles to the District trail system of 473 miles, or less than 2% of District trail miles. Alternative Two adds to the transportation system; however, it also expands non-motorized trail opportunity in close proximity to the community of Pocatello. Trail users would benefit with a connector trail directly linking the two popular trail systems. Alternative Two is responsive to increasing nonmotorized trail use within and adjacent to the valley communities. The action alternative meets RMP desired conditions for recreation and trails on the Forest. Alternative One and Two are compatible with the management prescription of Backcountry/Restoration as described in the 2008 Idaho Roadless Rule. Alternative One and Alternative Two meet RMP standards and guidelines and area prescription direction. Table 2.0 Comparison Summary of Alternatives Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 27 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

28 Issue: Alt. One, No Action Alt. Two, Proposed Action Big Game Habitat RMP standards and guidelines would be met RMP standards and guidelines would be met Sage Grouse Habitat RMP standards and guidelines would be met RMP standards and guidelines would be met Water Quality RMP standards and guidelines would be met RMP standards and guidelines would be met W/BMPs Soils/ RMP direction RMP direction would be met, new acres to trans. system-0 RMP direction would be met w/design features, 1.7 acres to trans. system Recreation setting and scenic integrity RMP standards and guidelines would be met RMP standards and guidelines would be met Providing variety of rec. opportunities Recreation opportunities do not change under this alternative Nonmotorized Recreation opportunities are increased under this alternative Note: detailed analysis by resource area for both alternatives is available in Chapter Three of this EA. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 28 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF

29 Chapter Three AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES This chapter includes a summary of the current conditions of the environment in and adjacent to the project area. Environmental consequences of Alternative One, No Action and Alternative Two, Proposed Action are also discussed in this chapter. Unless specifically stated otherwise, additional information is contained in the project record. 3.1 Trails, Recreation, Scenery and Roadless Areas Analysis Area. The analysis area for trails and recreation consists of the Gibson Jack big game winter range prescription area and the eastern portion of the Gibson Jack municipal watershed prescription area. The scenery analysis includes a discussion of adjacent lands regardless of ownership. The project area includes the eastern edge of the West Mink Roadless Area. The analysis area for the wilderness and roadless area discussion is the entire West Mink Roadless Area. The analysis area for the cumulative effects discussion for trails, recreation, scenery, wilderness and roadless values is the Westside Ranger District, a larger unit of land under similar management and uses. Analysis Method. The affected environment analysis is tiered to the 2003 Caribou Resource Management Plan FEIS and Appendices. The following discussion describes the existing trails, recreation uses and trends, scenery, wilderness potential and roadless values of the project area. Recreation use patterns are drawn from District field observations and past public involvement. Results of the 2010 City Creek Trail System user survey are also discussed. National trend information is drawn from the 2000 Forest Service Renewable Resource Planning Act Assessment Update and county population data from 2000 and 2010 Census results. The Forest Service Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) will be used to evaluate potential impacts to recreation use and settings. The Forest Service Scenery Management System, or SMS, is used to evaluate potential effects to the scenic landscapes of the area. This analysis will determine to what extent the alternatives meet the prescribed ROS settings and Scenic Integrity Objectives set by the Resource Management Plan (RMP). The 2003 RMP manages scenery using Visual Quality Objectives or VQOs. In the analysis, VQOs are cross-walked to the new Scenery Management System. This analysis will also describe the alternatives effects to wilderness potential and roadless area characteristics for the West Mink Roadless Area and compliance with the management direction of the 2008 State of Idaho Roadless Rule. Cusick Creek-Gibson Jack Connector Trail Page 29 Westside RD, Caribou-Targhee NF