Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, Wilderness

Transcription

US FOREST SERVICE
REGION 1
WILDERNESS CHARACTER MONITORING
SELWAY-BITTERROOT WILDERNESS
BITTERROOT, NEZ PERCE- CLEARWATER NATIONAL FORESTS
2011 BASELINE REPORT
COMPILED BY ANDREW HURSH
USFS Region 1
Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness
2012 Baseline Report
2
USFS Region 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Important Documents and Staff .......................................................................................... 5
Wilderness Character Monitoring Overview ...................................................................... 6
Untrammeled Quality.......................................................................................................... 9
Actions Authorized by the Federal Land Manager that Manipulate the Biophysical
Environment .................................................................................................................. 10
Fisheries Management Actions ................................................................................. 10
Lakes Stocked with Nonindigenous or Non-natural Species .................................... 11
Wildlife Management Actions .................................................................................. 12
Vegetation Management Actions .............................................................................. 13
Natural Fire Starts with On-ground Management Actions ....................................... 14
Natural Fire Starts Suppressed .................................................................................. 15
Acres Burned with Prescribed Fire ........................................................................... 17
Actions Unauthorized by the Federal Land Manager ................................................... 18
Number of Unauthorized Actions ............................................................................. 18
Undeveloped Quality ........................................................................................................ 19
Non-recreational Structures, Installations, and Developments ..................................... 20
Index of Authorized Physical Developments ........................................................... 20
Index of Unauthorized Physical Developments ........................................................ 21
Inholdings ..................................................................................................................... 23
Acres of Inholdings ................................................................................................... 23
Use of Motor Vehicles, Motorized Equipment, and Mechanical Transport ................. 24
Authorized Use ......................................................................................................... 24
Unauthorized Use...................................................................................................... 25
Natural Quality.................................................................................................................. 26
Plant and Animal Species and Communities ................................................................ 27
Number of Wilderness Acres with nonindigenous Invasive Plant Species .............. 27
Number of Lakes Stocked with Nonindigenous or Non-natural Species ................. 29
Westslope Cutthroat Trout Hybridization ................................................................. 30
Authorized Grazing Allotments ................................................................................ 32
Number of Invasive Species ..................................................................................... 33
Loss of Whitebark Pine ............................................................................................. 34
Physical Resources........................................................................................................ 35
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USFS Region 1
Concentration of Sulfate in Wet Deposition ............................................................. 35
Concentration of Nitrate in Wet Deposition ............................................................. 36
Average Deciview ..................................................................................................... 37
Lichen: Letharia Vulpina- Sulfur Content ................................................................ 38
Lichen: Letharia Vulpina- Nitrogen Content ............................................................ 39
Campsite Impact on Soils and Physical Features ..................................................... 40
Biophysical Processes ................................................................................................... 42
Solitude or Primitive and Unconfined Recreation Quality ............................................... 44
Remoteness from Sights and Sounds of People Inside the Wilderness ........................ 45
Acres of Wilderness away from Roads and Trails.................................................... 45
Number of Parties Visiting During Primary Use Season.......................................... 46
Campsite Density ...................................................................................................... 47
Facilities that Decrease Self-Reliant Recreation........................................................... 48
Index of Recreation Facilities ................................................................................... 48
Index of Unauthorized Recreation Facilities ............................................................ 50
Trail Miles in Developed Condition Classes 3 to 5 .................................................. 51
Outfitters and Guides Assigned Sites ....................................................................... 53
Management Restrictions on Visitor Behavior ............................................................. 55
Index of Management Restrictions ........................................................................... 55
Number of Enforcement Actions .............................................................................. 56
Conclusions ....................................................................................................................... 57
Appendix A: Measures Not Used ..................................................................................... 58
Appendix B: Data Sources and Protocols ......................................................................... 60
Appendix C: Effort Assessment and Measure Comments ................................................ 65
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USFS Region 1
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS AND STAFF
Important Documents and Staff
The following documents served as relevant guides and references to Wilderness
Character Monitoring, and may be helpful in the future:
-
-
Keeping it Wild: An Interagency Strategy to Monitor Trends in Wilderness
Character Across the National Wilderness Preservation System- Peter Landres
and others- 2008
Forest Service Technical Guide for Monitoring Selected Conditions Related to
Wilderness Character- Peter Landres and others- 2009
Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness General Management Direction- Nez Perce,
Clearwater, Lolo, and Bitterroot National Forests- 1992
Staff involved in creating this Report (2012):
-
Beth Hahn, Wildlife Biologist, Region 1
Bruce Sims, Hydrologist, Region 1
Catherine Stewart, Fire Ecologist/Fuels Coordinator, Region 1
Chris Ryan, Wilderness Specialist, Region 1
Deb Gale, Supervisor, Wilderness Resource Specialist, Bitterroot National
Forest
Jill Grenon, Air Quality Specialist/Botanist, Region 1
Margaret Kirkeminde, GIS, Clearwater National Forest
Marty Almquist, Outfitter Permit Administrator, Bitterroot National Forest
Patricia Johnston, Recreation Wilderness Trails and Rivers Program Leader,
Nez Perce/Clearwater National Forest
Peter Landres, Ecologist, Aldo Leopold Research Institute
Scott Spaulding, Fish Biologist, Region 1
Steve Shelly, Botanist, Region 1
Thomas Dzomba, Asst. Director, Air Quality and Smoke Management,
Region 1
Will Pedde, Spatial Data Coordinator, Region 1
5
USFS Region 1
-
WILDERNESS CHARACTER MONITORING OVERVIEW
Wilderness Character Monitoring Overview
An interagency team published Keeping it Wild in 2008, an overview of a monitoring
process years in the making. That paper should be referenced for detailed questions
about assessing Wilderness Character; the following is a brief summary of current
steps in the implementation, and where Region 1 of the Forest Service, and in
particular the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness fit in:
Despite decades of Wilderness designations and changing management practices, many
issues persist today regarding how, and in what ways, to protect our Wildernesses.
Increased litigation and increasingly difficult management decisions beckon the call for
effective monitoring. The 1964 Wilderness Act called for the preservation, across the
system, of “Wilderness Character,” but qualified the idea in no certain terms. Perhaps at
the time the authors felt that the concept needed no further description, but today it is
evident that the agencies and managers who work in Wilderness need to think about,
measure, and in the case of this project monitor their lands for “Wilderness Character.”
Following the Keeping it Wild framework, this report seeks to establish a baseline
assessment of the Wilderness Character of the Selway-Bitterroot, and to put in place the
concepts and mechanism necessary to continue the measurements into the future.
The goal of the monitoring is to inform and enhance, for managers and all other parties,
an understating of the status and trend of Wilderness Character specific to the Wilderness
in question. Four broad qualities of Wilderness Character were gleaned from the 1964
Act: Natural, Solitude or Primitive and Unconfined Recreation, Untrammeled, and
Undeveloped. Within this monitoring system these qualities are pared down into
indicators and measures, and each is tracked by the best available and most relevant
metrics in the Wilderness.
No apex of Wilderness character is defined in this process, nor is one Wilderness area
compared against another. Each measure is chosen to represent the Wilderness internally,
and is only tracked against itself, whether it follows an improving, stable, or degrading
trend in Wilderness Character. A scoring system can be used to describe the trends in the
four qualities and in Wilderness Character overall.
All measures chosen in this report must be tracked and updated over time; every five
years, a Trend Report that parallels this Baseline will be produced and the trends in each
measure and quality will be assessed. Ideally such knowledge will become useful in
decision-making processes and all work that concerns the Wilderness.
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USFS Region 1
How to use this Report:
For each quality of Wilderness Character, indicators have been dictated by the Keeping it
Wild framework. Each indicator must be tracked by at least one measure, and the
measures can be chosen for the Wilderness based on what would be the most relevant,
accurate, and feasible.
Much information in the Forest Service is gathered or worked with on a regional scale;
the measures chosen for the Selway-Bitterroot were picked through a collaboration
between the Forest-level managers whose districts include the Wilderness land area, and
regional specialists.
Each measure in this report is described first in terms of its metric. The baseline number
(2011 data was pulled wherever possible) is placed in a green box in the upper-right
corner of the page. This number quantifies the baseline status of the measure. Future
reports will list either the most recent data point or the past several in this box, and update
the accompanying arrow to reflect the measure’s trend.
A description of the measure elaborates on any scoring process or other necessary
knowledge to understand the metric, and should note whether or not an increase or
decrease in data figure reflects in improvement in Wilderness Character.
“Significant Change” and “Frequency” describe the data collection and analysis. Many of
the measures need a data point recorded for each year, and others need only be updated
for Trend Reports. These sections dictate the process by which Trend will be decided.
Often, for measures with yearly data points, statistical analysis will be necessary at each
report to analyze trend.
Finally, the process by which data is gathered is recorded in “source and protocol.” This
sectioned should be referenced for the future collection of data.
The scoring system for assessing trend is simple, and can be used during the updating of
each 5-year report. If a measure is degrading, it gets a score of “-1”, if it is stable “0”, and
if improving “+1”. Adding up these scores helps one determine the overall trend of a
quality. The same process can be used to make a statement about the trend in Wilderness
Character for the whole Wilderness. Reference Keeping it Wild for a further explanation
of this process.
7
Wilderness Character Monitoring Protocol
Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Area
Lolo
Lolo Hot
Springs
Lolo
National
Forest
Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness
NFS Lands
Non NFS Lands
Forest Boundary
State Boundary
10
20 Miles
Co lt
er
Ki
lle
Stevensville
Victor
at
Lak e
Big
Fl
Cr
.
Fi
sh
Cr.
se
C
S e l w a y
Fo rk
Nez Perce
National
Forest
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
Hamilton
Creek
Ma
rte
Darby
n
A r e a
Cre
p
er
ter
roo
t
White
Riv
r
Paradise
Creek
o
ve
p
ek
Ca
Ri
Bitterroot
National
Forest
Cu
ek
re
Tin
ek
Cre
C
ta n a
M ead ow
W i l d e r n e s s
r
Bea
Id ah
Selway Falls
ay
Creek
tt
B i t t e r r o o t
E.
Selw
Blo dg e
ek
93
Mo n
Creek
re
Moo
F
n
se
or
k
oo
N.
Ma
Creek
d
Clearwater
National
Forest
M
Old
s
k
Creek
Ba s
ee
sa
hy
Cr
L
h
oc
12
Florence
Will Pedde 10/24/12
Clearwater National Forest
Riv
us
k
Bitterroot National Forest
5
Br
or
Id aho
0
F
Lolo Pass
Montana
Nez Perce National Forest
F r a n k
C h u r c h - R i v e r
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Bit
Red River
Hot Springs
USFS Region 1
Untrammeled Quality
UNTRAMMELED
•
•
ACTIONS AUTHORIZED BY THE FEDERAL LAND MANAGER
THAT MANIPULATE THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
ACTIONS UNAUTHORIZED BY THE FEDERAL LAND MANAGER
THAT MANIPULATE THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
“…an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man.”
This excerpt from the 1964 Wilderness Act describes an important aspect of
Wilderness Character. Wilderness is to be that land on which we practice the utmost
humility and restraint with our actions. Thus, from a management perspective,
maintaining a land that “generally appears to have been affected primarily by the forces
of nature” could be taken to dictate no management. This is neither a reality nor the best
strategy, as we must protect the other facets of Wilderness Character, but in the interest
of intellectual honesty and integrity, it is fair to recognize that all intrusive actions by
man upon the Wilderness degrade the “untrammeled” quality. For monitoring purposes,
the two indicators that need to be measured over time are:
- Actions authorized by the Federal Land Manager that Manipulate the
Biophysical Environment.
o Lakes Stocked with nonindigenous or non-natural fish species
o Fisheries Management Actions
o Wildlife Management Actions
o Vegetation Management Actions
o Natural Fire Starts with on-ground management actions
o Natural Fires Starts Suppressed
o Acres Burned with Prescribed Fire
- Actions Unauthorized by the Federal Land Manager that Manipulate the
Biophysical Environment
o Number of Unauthorized actions
Any increasing trend in the measures chosen will be considered a degradation of
Wilderness Character.
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USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Actions Authorized by the Federal Land Manager that Manipulate the
ACTIONS AUTHORIZED BY THE FEDERAL LAND MANAGER THAT
Biophysical Environment
MANIPULATE THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
Fisheries Management Actions
Measure: FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
2011: 0
2011 Data Value: 0
Description: This measure is a count of all projects/actions undertaken
within the Wilderness in a given year that manipulate the fisheries in some
active/intrusive way. The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness in 2011 had no such
projects, though there was some monitoring of amphibian populations in
(Baseline)
mountain lakes by Idaho Fish & Game.
Significant Change: Trend in this measure will be assessed by regression of
the yearly data points at each new report.
Frequency: Number of actions will be recorded for each year.
Source and Protocol: The Regional Fisheries Biologist (as of 2012, Scott Spaulding)
contacted biologists on each Forest district for the Wilderness, who in turn checked with
state agencies for projects within the Wilderness.
10
USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Lakes Stocked with Nonindigenous or Non-natural Species
Measure: LAKES STOCKED WITH NONINDIGENOUS OR NONNATURAL SPECIES
2011: 26
2011 Data Value: 26
Description: This is a count of all lakes within the Wilderness that are
stocked with fish by the state Fish, Wildlife and Parks agency. Unlike the
similar measure under the “Natural” quality, this measure will only count
those lakes that are actively stocked by state agencies today, not those that
may have been stocked decades ago but left alone since. As of 2011,
(Baseline)
Montana FWP stocks 7 lakes within the Wilderness (Fred Burr, Holloway,
Blodgett, Bass, Duffy, Carlton, and Heinrich, all on long-term intervals with
Westslope Cutthroat Trout), and Idaho Fish and Game stocks 19 (this
number was taken from their records of “stocked in last 5 years”). Note: lake “groups,”
such as Triple Lakes, were counted with a value of 1 for this tally.
Significant Change: This is a static measure; ANY change in the number of lakes with
each report will be considered significant.
Frequency: Data will be rerecorded only at 5-year reporting intervals.
Source and Protocol: Idaho fish stocking records are held on the Fish and Game
website: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/fish/stocking/. They can be searched by
year or 5-year intervals. Montana records were obtained through email with MT FWP (in
2012, with Chris Clancy).
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USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Wildlife Management Actions
Measure: WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
2011 Data Value: 0
within the Wilderness in a given year that manipulate the wildlife in some
active/intrusive way. The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness in 2011 had no such
projects, though there was some dropped collar retrieval done by the
Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.
Source and Protocol: The Regional Wildlife Biologist (as of 2012, Beth
Hahn) contacted biologists on each Forest district for the Wilderness, who in turn
checked with state agencies for projects within the Wilderness.
2011: 0
(Baseline)
12
USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Vegetation Management Actions
Measure: VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
2011 Data Value: None known
within the Wilderness in a given year that manipulate the vegetation in some
active/intrusive way.
Source and Protocol: The Regional Botanist (as of 2012, Steve Shelly) was
tasked with assessing vegetation management.
2011: 0
(Baseline)
13
USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Natural Fire Starts with On-ground Management Actions
Measure: NATURAL FIRE STARTS WITH ON-GROUND
MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
2011 Data Value: 0
Description: This measure is a count of the number of lightning-ignited fires
each year that receive active management, but are not suppressed. None of
the 2011 fires received such actions.
Source and Protocol: Records of fire actions was pulled by Stu Hoyt, Fuels
Specialist in the Regional Office.
2011: 0
(Baseline)
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USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Natural Fire Starts Suppressed
Measure: NATURAL FIRES STARTS SUPPRESSED
2011 Data Value: 1
Description: This measure is a count of lighting-ignited fires in the
Wilderness that were suppressed by the management. In 2011, of 18 such
fires, only the “Log” fire was suppressed.
Frequency: Number of suppressions will be recorded for each year.
Specialist in the Regional Office.
2011: 1
(Baseline)
15
Lolo
Lolo Hot
Springs
Factors Affecting the Untrammeled Quality of Wilderness
2011 Fire Suppression
Lolo
National
Forest
Small Fire- Suppressed (1 total)
Small Fire - Not Suppressed (12 total)
NFS Lands
Non NFS Lands
10
20 Miles
Will Pedde 10/24/12
.
Cr
C
se
or
N.
Moo
F
Creek
tt
Nez Perce
National
Forest
ROCK
POINT
ELK
RIDGE
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
93
Hamilton
Creek
Ma
A r e a
Cre
roo
t
White
ek
p
o
r
Paradise
p
re
Ca
ve
Bitterroot
National
Forest
Cu
ek
C
Tin
ek
Cre
Ri
Creek
Darby
er
PARADISE
LONG
RIDGE
Riv
n
W i l d e r n e s s
r
Bea
ta n a
rte
Mea do w
OTTER
Blo dg e
ek
Fo rk
PETTIBONE
Selway Falls
re
B i t t e r r o o t
LOG (Suppressed)
ay
JEANETTE
se
k
oo
E.
Selw
Victor
Big
Id ah
FLEA
RIDGE
S e l w a y
DOUBLE
STORM
Lak e
sh
FRIDAY
RIDGE
Fi
Creek
HIDDEN
CLIFF
Cr.
n
Stevensville
at
Ma
d
Creek
Fl
Old
lle
Clearwater
National
Forest
SATURDAY
BASSCADET
M
BARREN
RIDGE
Ki
s
k
sa
12
MAUDE
CREEK
STORM
Co lt
er
Ba s
ee
L
h
oc
Riv
Florence
hy
Cr
Creek
us
k
Mo n
5
Br
or
Id aho
State Boundary
0
F
Lolo Pass
Forest Boundary
Montana
Large Fire - Not Suppressed (6 total)
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Bit
ter
JERUSALEM
Red River
Hot Springs
USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Acres Burned with Prescribed Fire
Measure: ACRES BURNED WITH PRESCRIBED FIRE
2011 Data Value: 0
Description: This measure tracks the area within the Wilderness burned with
prescribed fire by the management. In 2011, there was no prescribed burning
in the Selway-Bitterroot.
Frequency: Acreage will be recorded each year.
Specialist in the Regional Office, and prescribed burn authorizations are
noted in the FACTS database.
2011: 0
(Baseline)
17
USFS Region 1
UNTRAMMELED
Actions Unauthorized by the Federal Land Manager
ACTIONS UNAUTHORIZED BY THE FEDERAL LAND MANAGER
NumberTHAT
of Unauthorized
Actions
MANIPULATE
THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
Measure: NUMBER OF UNAUTHORIZED ACTIONS
2011 Data Value: 9
2011: 9
Description: This measure tracks the number of unauthorized manipulations
through law enforcement records. In 2011, all citations issued were
considered to fall into this category. The 9 tickets included:
- 4 uses of a chainsaw
- 1 landing of a helicopter
- 1 unremoved outfitter camp
(Baseline)
- 1 possession of a bicycle
- 1 dispensing of debris (salt)
- 1 unattended campfire
Significant Change: Trend in this measure will be assessed by regression of the yearly
data points at each new report.
Frequency: Number of citations will be recorded for each year.
Source and Protocol: Law enforcement records come from the LEIMARS database,
which needs to be accessed through the regional law enforcement office. This is best
done through the Regional Wilderness Specialist (as of 2012, Chris Ryan) who will
contact them.
18
USFS Region 1
Undeveloped Quality
UNDEVELOPED
•
•
•
NON-RECREATIONAL STRUCTURES AND DEVELOPMENTS
INHOLDINGS
USE OF MOTOR VEHICLES, MOTORIZED EQUIPMENT, AND
MECHANICAL TRANSPORT
“…an area of undeveloped Federal land retaining its primeval character and
influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation.”
The undeveloped quality of Wilderness Character is degraded by any structures,
installations, motor use, or mechanical transport that increases people’s ability to occupy
or modify the environment. To manage for a Wilderness “with the imprint of man’s work
substantially unnoticeable,” monitoring must track the presence of any development and
the use of modern equipment over time. The indicators chosen to describe the
“undeveloped” quality are:
-
-
Non-recreational Structures and Development
o Index of Authorized Physical Developments
o Index of Unauthorized Physical Developments
Inholdings
o Acres of Inholdings
Use of Motor Vehicles, Motorized Equipment, and Mechanical Transport
o Authorized Use
o Unauthorized Use
An increasing trend in any of these measures will be considered a degradation of
Wilderness Character.
19
USFS Region 1
o
UNDEVELOPED
Non-recreational Structures, Installations, and Developments
NON-RECREATIONAL STRUCTURES, INSTALLATIONS, AND
Index of Authorized
Physical Developments
DEVELOPMENTS
Measure: INDEX OF AUTHORIZED PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENTS
2011 Data Value: 37
2011: 37
Description: This measure is a count of structures and developments within
the Wilderness that are recorded and authorized by the management. As of
2011, 37 such features are accounted for. They include:
- 8 lookout towers
- 19 dams
- 1 cabin
(Baseline)
- 4 Forest Service facilities
- 1 office (Moose Creek Ranger Station)
- 4 inholdings (worth note: the 1 acre inholding of the Blixseth-Upper
Lochsa contains no structures)
Significant Change: This is a static measure, so at each trend report ANY change in the
number of developments will be considered significant.
Frequency: This measure will be rerecorded at each 5-year trend report.
Source and Protocol: This list was compiled through a combination of local and
regional databases, maps, and the cooperate knowledge of forest staff.
Moose Creek Ranger Station, within the Wilderness
20
USFS Region 1
UNDEVELOPED
Index of Unauthorized Physical Developments
NON-RECREATIONAL STRUCTURES, INSTALLATIONS, AND
DEVELOPMENTS
Measure: INDEX OF UNAUTHORIZED PHYSICAL
DEVELOPMENTS
2011: 0
2011 Data Value: 0
Description: Unauthorized physical developments are found through law
enforcement records. In 2011, none of the citations issues were considered to
be “developments.”
(Baseline)
Frequency: This data will be recorded for each year.
Source and Protocol: Law enforcement records come from the LEIMARS
database, which needs to be accessed through the regional law enforcement
office. This is best done through the Regional Wilderness Specialist (as of 2012, Chris
Ryan) who will contact them.
21
Lolo
Lolo Hot
Springs
NFS Lands
Dam
Non NFS Lands
Lookout
Forest Boundary
State Boundary
10
20 Miles
sh
Clearwater
National
Hidden
Forest
Peak
Big
Fi
.
Cr
S e l w a y
Canyon
Lake
Wyant
Lake
se
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
Unautorized
Facilities (faliure to
remove outfitter camp)
Hamilton
Creek
Darby
n
ve
r
White
Paradise
Creek
Cu
p
ek
Tamarack
Lake
Tin
Tin Cup
Lake
re
Cooper
Flat
Mortorized
Equipment
(chainsaw)
er
Ri
Bitterroot
National
Forest
ek
C
Riv
Running Creek
Ranch
Cre
o
ek
Gardiner
Peak
North Star
Ranch
A r e a
Mortorized
Equipment
(chainsaw)
Shearer
Guard Station
ta n a
Selway
Lodge
r
Bea
Id ah
W i l d e r n e s s
Cre
Mea do w
Indian
Hill
Creek
tt
rte
Selway Falls
ay
Moose
Creek
Ma
Selw
Nez Perce
National
Forest
Seminole
Ranch
93
Garrard
Lake
Fo rk
E.
Possessing
a Bicycle
Knaack
Lake
Blo dg e
B i t t e r r o o t
Shissler
Peak
Fred
Burr Lake
Hauf
Lake
Sears
Lake
Blodgett
Lake
ek
Victor
Mo n
Creek
re
Moo
n
F
Ma
or
k
C
N.
Old
Mill
Lake
Diablo
Mountain
se
roo
ter
Mortorized
Equipment
(chainsaw)
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Mortorized
Equipment
(chainsaw)
Bit
Spot
Mountain
t
Landing a
helicopter
Red River
Hot Springs
Creek
Stevensville
South
Fork
Lake
Cr.
M
oo
Lappi
Lake
s
St. Mary
Peak
at
Fish
Lake
Florence
Big Creek
Lake
d
Fl
Lak e
Grave
Peak
McConnell
Mountain
Horse
Camp
lle
k
sa
Ki
ee
Creek
12
Co lt
er
Cr
L
h
oc
Riv
Ba s
Will Pedde 10/24/12
p
5
us
Holloway
Lake
Bass
Lake
hy
Ca
0
Br
k
Id aho
Unauthorized Use/Development
F
Lolo Pass
or
Reed
Lake
Mills
Lake
Building
Carlton
Lake
Lolo
National
Forest
Developed Inholding
Montana
Factors Affecting the Undeveloped Quality of Wilderness
USFS Region 1
UNDEVELOPED
Inholdings
INHOLDINGS
Acres of Inholdings
Measure: ACRES OF INHOLDINGS
2011 Data Value: 95
2011: 95
Description: This measure counts the acreage of privately held land within
the Wilderness boundary. As of 2011, four inholdings exist in the SelwayBiterroot:
- Running Creek Ranch (26 acres)
- North Star Ranch (26 acres)
- Selway Lodge (42 acres)
(Baseline)
- Blixseth-Upper Lochsa (1 acre)
Significant Change: This is a static measure, so at each trend report ANY
change in the number of developments will be considered significant.
Source and Protocol: Location and acreage data for these inholdings was determined
using the Automated Lands Program.
23
USFS Region 1
UNDEVELOPED
Use of Motor Vehicles, Motorized Equipment, and Mechanical Transport
USE OF MOTOR VEHICLES, MOTORIZED EQUIPMENT, AND
Authorized Use
Measure: AUTHORIZED USE
2011 Data Value: 12 (one very heavy)
2011: 12
Description: This measure tallies the number of authorized uses of motors or
mechanical transport in a given year. In 2011, there were 12 authorizations of
varying impact.
Maintenance on Moose Creek, Shearer, and Fish Lake guard stations
and the Seminole Ranch were mechanical transport only, authorizing th use
of wheelbarrows and wagons.
(Baseline)
Three search-and-rescue operations were done by helicopter.
Generators and electric equipment were run to refinish the floor and
remove paint at Moose Creek.
Chainsaw use was authorized for the suppression of the Log Fire.
Three dam maintenance projects were authorized, with helicopter use. It is
important to note that the Tin Cup Lake Dam project required 93 helicopter flights and
the use of heavy equipment.
Source and Protocol: Index can be referenced by the Regional Wilderness Specialist;
data comes from the INFRAwild database- its ‘Motorized Equipment/Mechanical
Transport Use Authorization Report.’
24
USFS Region 1
USE of Motor Equipment
UNDEVELOPED
Unauthorized
USE OFUse
MOTOR VEHICLES, MOTORIZED EQUIPMENT, AND
Measure: UNAUTHORIZED USE
2011 Data Value: 6
Description: This measure counts the number of unauthorized motor uses
using law enforcement records. In 2011, citations were issued for 4 uses of
chainsaw, 1 possession of a bike, and 1 landing of a helicopter.
office. This is best done through the Regional Wilderness Specialist (as of
2012, Chris Ryan) who will contact them.
2011: 6
(Baseline)
25
USFS Region 1
Natural Quality
Natural
Species and Communities
Physical Resources
Biophysical Processes
NATURAL
•
•
•
PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES AND COMMUNITIES
PHYSICAL RESOURCES
BIOPHYSICAL PROCESSES
“…protected and managed so as to preserve its natural conditions.”
The Natural quality of Wilderness Character seeks to describe an ecological
environment unaffected by modern civilization. With our impacts to biophysical process,
plant and animal communities, and likely unknown facets of nature ever farther-reaching,
it is important to manage the Wilderness as a place in which the effects are minimal or
absent. This can require both research and active or intrusive management; the balance
between this quality and the others is a the discretion of the Federal Land Manager. Three
indicators central to “naturalness” have been chosen to direct monitoring efforts.
-
-
-
Plant and Animal Species and Communities
o Percentage of Wilderness with Invasive, Nonindigenous Plant Species
o Number of Lakes Stocked with Nonindigenous or Non-natural Fish
Species
o Westslope-Cutthroat Trout Habitat
o Authorized Grazing Allotments
o Number of Invasive Species
o Loss of Whitebark Pine
Physical Resources
o Air Quality Measures
o Soil Disturbance and Erosion around Campsites
o Departure from Natural Fire Regime
o Spread of weeds through access-points
26
USFS Region 1
Trend relationship to Wilderness Character is measure-specific for the Natural Quality;
some measures chosen for this report track positive change.
NATURAL
Plant and Animal Species and Communities
Number of Wilderness Acres with nonindigenous Invasive Plant Species
Measure: NUMBER OF WILDERNESS ACRES WITH
NONINDIGENOUS INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES
2011 Data Value: 72,378.712
Description: Data from the NRM TESP-IS database was chosen for this
measure.
Infested Area Acreages of Invasive Species with the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
INFESTED AREA ACRES
Lythrum salicaria
purple loosestrife
0.002
Brassica
mustard
0.004
Tanacetum vulgare
common tansy
0.009
Euphorbia esula
leafy spurge
0.042
Trifolium pratense
red clover
0.237
Linaria dalmatica
Dalmatian toadflax
0.267
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum oxeye daisy
0.698
Verbascum thapsus
common mullein
1.000
Arctium minus
lesser burdock
1.569
Berteroa incana
hoary alyssum
2.399
Cynoglossum officinale
gypsyflower
2.459
Cirsium arvense
Canada thistle
17.164
Hieracium caespitosum
meadow hawkweed
31.427
Cirsium vulgare
bull thistle
40.197
Ranunculus acris
tall buttercup
42.447
Bromus tectorum
cheatgrass
157.664
Leucanthemum vulgare
oxeye daisy
308.065
Hypericum perforatum
common St. Johnswort
1,061.111
Potentilla recta
sulphur cinquefoil
1,727.933
Centaurea biebersteinii
spotted knapweed
68,984.018
72,378.712
2011:
72,738.712
(Baseline)
Significant Change: This is a slowly changing measure, so need only be updated at each
5-year trend report, by reinvestigating the acreage data for changes.
Frequency: At each 5-year trend report an update of infestation data will be used to
represent change.
Source and Protocol: Data can be obtained through the Regional Botanist (as of 2012,
Steve Shelly) or Regional FIA data steward (as of 2012, Renate Bush).
27
Lolo
NFS Lands
Lolo Pass
State Boundary
10 Miles
Creek
12
TOM BEALE PARK
sh
.
Cr
se
k
S e l w a y
Moo
F
se
or
E.
ek
B i t t e r r o o t
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
ROCK CREEK
BEAR CREEK PASS HORSE CAMP/TH
r
Cre
ek
C re ek
RUNNING
CREEK
Red River
Hot Springs
Bitterroot
National
Forest
C
p
Cu
k
ree
r
Paradise
o
ve
White
PARADISE
BOAT
LAUNCH
SPOT
MOUNTAIN
WATCHTOWER
CREEK
FLAT CREEK
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
C
e
re
TIN CUP
CREEK
k
CHAFFIN
CREEK
TRAPPER
CREEK
R e t u r n
BAKER
LAKE
BOULDER
CREEK
NEZ
PERCE PASS
o f N o
A r e a
LAKE COMO
Darby
SHEEPHEAD
CREEK
HORSE HEAVEN
ROARING
LION
ROCK CREEK
HORSE CAMP
CAYUSE
CREEK
SAWTOOTH
CREEK
TRAPPER
PEAK
Ca
Ri
Hamilton
Creek
A r e a
p
PARADISE
FLAT/WHITE CAP CREEK
CANYON
CREEK
LITTLE
ROCK CREEK
n
Mead ow
Bea
MILL CREEK
Creek
tt
TWIN LAKES
W i l d e r n e s s
INDIAN
HILL
BLODGETT
Blo dg e
rte
Selway Falls
ay
Ma
Selw
93
Id ah
GEDNEY
SHEAFMAN
Fo rk
Nez Perce
National
Forest
SELWAY
RIVER/RACE
CREEK
GASH CREEK
Mo n
SPLIT CREEK
Creek
re
Victor
SWEATHOUSE
Big
Clearwater
National
Forest
C
BIG CREEK
GLEN LAKE
FRED BURR
N.
n
Stevensville
COLT CREEK
d
Fi
Ma
M
oo
BASS CREEK
Cr.
GOLD
MEADOWS
BOULDER
CREEK
lle
SWAMP
CREEK
ELK SUMMIT/HOODOO LAKE
Creek
s
at
Lak e
a
Ki
WARM SPRINGS
Fl
hs
Co lt
k
c
Lo
er
ee
EAGLE
MOUNTAIN
Riv
Ba s
KOOTENAI
BEAVER RIDGE
CREEK
END-OF-ROAD
ST. MARY'S
CAMP
Cr
MOCUS
POINT
PASS
CREEK
Old
BEAVER
MEADOWS
er
WARM SPRINGS
END-OF-ROAD
CAMP
FISH
CREEK
RAMP
BASS OVERLOOK
y
Will Pedde 10/31/12
Class 5 - Most Severe
WILDERNESS
GATEWAY
BASE CAMP
Br
h
us
Riv
5
Florence
t
2.5
SWEENEY
k
roo
0
or
ter
Class 4
F
Bit
Class 3
Forest Boundary
Id aho
Weed severity classes are based
on the total infested area within 1
mile of trailheads, boat ramps and
assigned outfitter camps which
lead to or are within the SBW.
Tin
Class 2
ta n a
Weed Severity at SBW Access Points
Non NFS Lands
Lolo
National
Forest
Frank Church-River of No Return Wldrnes.
Fo rk
Class 1 - Least Severe
S. FORK
LOLO CREEK
st
We
Areas Infested with Non-indigenous
Plant Species
(Note: The density of weed infestation within
these areas varies)
Lolo Hot
Springs
Montana
Factors Affecting the Natural Quality of Wilderness
Non-indigenous Plant Species
USFS Region 1
SPECIES and communities
NATURAL
Number of Lakes Stocked with Nonindigenous or Non-natural Species
Measure: NUMBER OF LAKES STOCKED WITH
NONINDIGENOUS OR NON-NATURAL SPECIES
2011: 60
2011 Data Value: 60
Description: This measure tallies the number of lakes, within the
Wilderness, that were naturally fishless but are no longer due to stocking
actions both present and historical. In the SBW, nearly all lakes are
considered naturally fishless, so all those recorded as having been stocked
pre- and post-designation will be counted in this measure.
(Baseline)
These lakes as of 2011 are:
Montana- Big Creek, Blodgett, Canyon, Crystal, Kerlee, Pearl, South Fork,
South Fork Lolo, Holloway, Bass, Carlton, Duff
Idaho- Battle, Bell, Big Foot, Bills, Bitch, Brushy Fork, Burnt Knob, Chimney, Colt,
Coquina, Cub, Dan, Diamond, Dodge, Duck, Elizabeth, Emerald, Fish, Garnet, Goat,
Hidden, Hungry, Isaac, Jeanette, Kettle, Lizard, Long, Maple, Maude, May, Moose, Mud,
North Lone, Papoose, Parachute, Park, Ranger, Shasta, Sid, South Lone, Spruce, Square
Rock, Stingray, Triple, Upper Bear, White Cap, White Sand
Note: lake “groups,” such as Triple Lakes, were counted with a value of 1 for this tally.
This information was gathered from management records and may not be wholly
indicative of the presence of non-natural fish in the Wilderness. Many unnamed or
unlisted lakes are known to have fish in them.
Significant Change: ANY change in the number of stocked lakes will be considered
significant for this measure. Because most of these stocked populations are now historical
and sustain themselves, a change in this measure would likely be due either to stocking in
a new lake, or some intervention to remove the fish from a naturally fishless lake.
Frequency: This is a static measure, so should be rerecorded at each 5-year trend report
to investigate change.
Source and Protocol: Data can be obtained through the RO Fish Biologist (as of 2011,
Scott Spaulding). Information on Montana lakes comes from the state FWP (contact
2012: Chris Clancy) or can be found in the “Cooperative Agreement for Fish, Wildlife
and Habitat Management on National Forest Wilderness Lands in Montana” document.
Information on Idaho lakes can be found on the Fish and Game website:
http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/fish/stocking/.
29
USFS Region 1
SPECIES and communites
NATURAL
Westslope Cutthroat Trout Hybridization
Measure: WESTSLOPE-CUTTHROAT TROUT HYBRIDIZATION
2011 Data Value: 18/23
2011:
Description: This measure assesses signs of hybridization in typically
genetically pure populations of Westslope-Cutthroat Trout. Genetic studies
18/23
are divided by sub-watersheds, called 6th-field HUCs. This measure will be a
tally of HUCs that show genetically pure populations in their data collection,
versus the total number of HUCs that have been sampled in the Wilderness.
As of 2011, 23 6th Field HUCs have received data collection, with 18
(Baseline)
showing pure populations (5 show hybridization). Problematically, this is
only data for the Montana side of the SBW; Idaho figures are not yet found.
Significant Change: Because genetic sampling is done over somewhat longterm intervals, this measure will be reassessed only every 5 years, with each trend report.
Any change in value for this measure (more hybridization, degrading; less, improving)
will be considered significant.
Frequency: Genetic sampling is done on 5-year intervals, yet data may change sooner as
unsampled sub-watersheds are added to the database. For recording this measure,
reassess “hybridization/number sampled” at each trend report.
Source and Protocol: Data can be pulled at the regional level, through the Regional Fish
Biologist (as of 2012, Scott Spaulding). GIS data-sets from the MFISH database (and
possibly another source for Idaho) may need to be trimmed to find hybridization figures.
30
Lolo
Lolo Hot
Springs
South Fork
Lolo Creek
NFS Lands
Non NFS Lands
Forest Boundary
20 Miles
Ki
lle
Lak e
sh
Bitterroot
River-Canyon
Creek
Cr
.
Fi
se
C
Fo rk
Nez Perce
National
Forest
Creek
tt
93
Hamilton
Sawtooth Creek
Roaring
Lion Creek
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
Creek
Ma
rte
Darby
n
A r e a
Cre
er
p
Boulder
Creek
ter
roo
t
White
p
re
Riv
r
Paradise
Creek
o
ve
Ca
Ri
Bitterroot
National
Forest
Cu
ek
C
Bitterroot
River-Chaffin
Creek
ek
Tin
ek
Cre
ta n a
M ead ow
W i l d e r n e s s
r
Bea
Id ah
Selway Falls
Blo dg e
ek
B i t t e r r o o t
E.
ay
re
Moo
F
se
or
k
oo
N.
S e l w a y
Selw
Fred Burr
Creek
Cr.
Creek
at
n
Victor
Big
Fl
Ma
Stevensville
d
Clearwater
National
Forest
M
Old
Creek
Kootenai
Creek
k
Creek
Co lt
er
Florence
s
ee
sa
Ba s
Cr
L
h
oc
12
hy
Will Pedde 11/19/12
Riv
us
Swan
Creek
k
Id aho
10
Br
or
Mo n
5
F
Lolo Pass
State Boundary
0
Lolo
National
Forest
Sub-watersheds (6th Code HUCs)
with Genetically Pure Populations
of Westslope Cutthroat Trout
(Data available for Montana only)
Montana
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Bit
Red River
Hot Springs
USFS Region 1
NATURAL
Authorized Grazing Allotments
Measure: AUTHORIZED GRAZING ALLOTMENTS
2011 Data Value: NONE
Description: This measure is a count of grazing allotments permitted within
the Wilderness.
Significant Change: ANY change in grazing permits will be considered
significant.
Frequency: This is a static measure, and should be rerecorded at every 5year trend report to investigate changes.
Source and Protocol: Data can be found in the INFRA database, which can
be accessed locally or through the RO Wilderness Specialist (as of 2011,
Chris Ryan). Information may also be known at the Forest level.
2011: 0
(Baseline)
32
USFS Region 1
NATURAL
Number of Invasive Species
Measure: NUMBER OF INVASIVE SPECIES
2011 Data Value: 20
2011: 20
Description: This measure is simply a count of all invasive plant species
present in the Wilderness. As of 2011, there are 20 that have been recorded.
They are, by common name:
- Lesser Burdock
- Hoary alyssum
- Mustard
(Baseline)
- Cheatgrass
- Spotted knapweed
- Oxeye daisy (chrysanthemum leucanthemum)
- Canada thistle
- Bull thistle
- Gypsy flower
- Meadow Hawkweed
- Common St. Johnswort
- Oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)
- Dalmation toadflax
- Purple loosestrife
- Sulfur cinquefoil
- Tall buttercup
- Common tansy
- Red Clover
Significant Change: ANY change in the number of invasive species will be considered
significant.
Frequency: This is a static measure, and should be rerecorded at each 5-year trend
report, to investigate changes.
Source and Protocol: Weed data can be obtained through the RO Botanist (as of 2011,
Steve Shelly).
33
USFS Region 1
NATURAL
Loss of Whitebark Pine
Measure: LOSS OF WHITEBARK PINE
2011 Data Value: 61.86/3.81 live/dead
2011:
Description: FIA samples 213 plots in the SBW for tree presence, and has
61.86/3.81
data showing presence of Whitebark Pine across these plots. This measure
will compare their “Live trees per acre of PIAL trees” and “Dead trees per
live/dead
acre of PIAL trees” mean figures. Should a greater mortality of Whitebark
Pine become present through the future, ideally this will be reflected in this
data.
(Baseline)
Significant Change: ANY change in the live/dead ratio in either direction
will be considered a trend.
Frequency: Data will be reassessed only at each 5-year trend report.
Source and Protocol: Data can be obtained through the Regional Botanist (as of 2012,
Steve Shelly) or Regional FIA data steward (as of 2012, Renate Bush).
34
USFS Region 1
NATURAL
Physical Resources
ConcentrationPHYSICAL
of Sulfate inRESOURCES
Wet Deposition
Measure: CONCENTRATION OF SULFATE IN WET DEPOSITION
2011 Data Value: .15 mg/l
Description: Deposition samples are collected weekly at a site just outside of
Lost Trail Pass, and analyzed regularly. This measure will simply average,
for an entire year, the concentration of Sulfate found in these samples.
Source and Protocol: All air quality measures can be obtained through the
Regional Air Quality Specialist (as of 2012, Thomas Dzomba). Yearly
averages for each measure should be provided.
2011: .15
mg/l
(Baseline)
Concentraton of Nitrogen (as NO3) and Sulfur (as SO4) in wet deposition – 2010 – from NADP
35
USFS Region 1
Physical Resources
NATURAL
Concentration of Nitrate in Wet Deposition
PHYSICAL RESOURCES
Measure: CONCENTRATION OF NITRATE IN WET
DEPOSITION
2011 Data Value: .24 mg/l
Description: Deposition samples are collected weekly at a site just outside of
Lost Trail Pass, and analyzed regularly. This measure will simply average,
for an entire year, the concentration of Nitrate found in these samples.
Regional Air Quality Specialist (as of 2012, Thomas Dzomba). Yearly
averages for each measure should be provided.
2011: .24
mg/l
(Baseline)
36
USFS Region 1
Physical Resources
NATURAL
Average Deciview
PHYSICAL RESOURCES
Measure: AVERAGE DECIVIEW
2011 Data Value: 5.34 dv
2011:
Description: Visibility data is collected by a monitor at the Sula Peak
lookout. A filter generates Deciview value by analyzing fine and coarse
5.34 dv
particulate matter in the air. Samples are collected every three days; this
measure, however, will be an average of the Deciview for an entire year.
Deciview is a measure of visibility impairment, so a lower Deciview will
indicate an improvement in air quality, and vice versa.
(Baseline)
Source and Protocol: All air quality measures can be obtained through the Regional Air
Quality Specialist (as of 2012, Thomas Dzomba). Yearly averages for each measure
should be provided.
2010 data for Deciview values, from which this measure is derived
37
USFS Region 1
Physical resources
NATURAL
Lichen: Letharia Vulpina- Sulfur Content
PHYSICAL RESOURCES
Measure: LICHEN: LETHARIA VULPINA- SULFUR CONTENT
2011 Data Value: 0.052333
2011:
Description: Lichen samples are collected every five years, in various sites,
and analyzed for pollutants. Those lichens which are most susceptible to
0.052333
changes in air pollutants, are chosen, so for this measure Letharia Vulpina
data will be used to indicate concentrations of Sulfur. An average value of all
samples will be used.
(Baseline)
Regional Air Quality Specialist (as of 2012, Thomas Dzomba). Yearly averages for each
measure should be provided.
Percentages of Sulfur and Nitrogen in SBW Lichen Samples collected 2007 - 2011
38
USFS Region 1
Physical resources
NATURAL
Lichen: Letharia Vulpina- Nitrogen Content
PHYSICAL RESOURCES
Measure: LICHEN: LETHARIA VULPINA- NITROGEN CONTENT
2011 Data Value: 0.477867
2011:
Description: Lichen samples are collected every five years, in various sites,
and analyzed for pollutants. Those lichens which are most susceptible to
0.477867
changes in air pollutants, are chosen, so for this measure Letharia Vulpina
data will be used to indicate concentrations of Nitrogen. An average value of
all samples will be used.
(Baseline)
Regional Air Quality Specialist (as of 2012, Thomas Dzomba). Yearly averages for each
39
USFS Region 1
Physical Resources
NATURAL
Campsite Impact on Soils and Physical Features
PHYSICAL RESOURCES
Measure: CAMPSITE IMPACT ON SOILS AND PHYSICAL
FEATURES
2011 Data Value: 1656
Description: This measure tracks the “impact ratings” described in
inventories of all SBW campsites. Each site is rated, by assessment of tree
damage, barren core exposure, and other factors, either Extreme, Heavy,
Moderate, or Light. To score these ratings, this measure will use a simple
index system: Extreme sites get a score of “4”, Heavy sites “3”, Moderate
sites “2”, and Light sites “1”. For the data as of 2011, this scores as
follows:
Extreme sites:
90 x 4 = 360
Heavy sites:
170 x 3 = 510
Moderate sites:
243 x 2 = 486
Light sites:
300 x 1 = 300
2011:
1656
(Baseline)
Total Score: 1656
Significant Change: This measure can either be updated annually with the campsite
inventory, and tracked across those data points, or reassessed at each Trend Report. ANY
change in the score will be considered significant and indicative of an improvement or
degradation. (Remember: a lower score describes an improvement in Wilderness
Character).
Frequency: Campsite inventories are done towards an attempted 20% of sites
inventoried each year, thus every 5 years for any given site. Inventory data is updated on
a rolling basis.
Source and Protocol: Data was obtained through campsite inventory protocol and
spreadsheet collection.
40
Lolo
Lolo Hot
Springs
1
heavy
2
moderate
3
light
4
NFS Lands
Non NFS Lands
Forest Boundary
State Boundary
5
10
20 Miles
Br
Ba s
Co lt
er
Ki
lle
Stevensville
Victor
at
Lak e
Big
Fl
Cr
.
Fi
sh
Cr.
se
C
S e l w a y
Fo rk
Nez Perce
National
Forest
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
Hamilton
Creek
Ma
rte
Darby
n
A r e a
Cre
r
Paradise
White
p
er
ter
roo
t
Creek
o
ve
p
ek
Ca
Ri
Bitterroot
National
Forest
Cu
ek
re
Tin
ek
Cre
C
ta n a
M ead ow
W i l d e r n e s s
r
Bea
Id ah
Selway Falls
ay
Creek
tt
B i t t e r r o o t
E.
Selw
Blo dg e
ek
93
Mo n
Creek
re
Moo
F
n
se
or
k
oo
N.
Ma
Creek
d
Clearwater
National
Forest
M
Old
s
k
Creek
hy
ee
sa
Florence
Cr
L
h
oc
12
k
Will Pedde 11/2/12
Riv
us
or
Id aho
0
F
Lolo Pass
Riv
extreme
Lolo
National
Forest
Opportunity Class
Campsite Site Class
Montana
Remoteness from Sights and Sounds of People Inside the Wilderness
2011 Campsite Inventory
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Bit
Red River
Hot Springs
USFS Region 1
NATURAL
BIOPHYSICAL PROCESSES
Measure: VEGETATION DEPARTURE FROM HISTORICAL
CONDITIONS BASED ON MODELING
2011 Data Values: Condition Class 1: 298,811 acres
Condition Class 2: 1,010,121 acres
Condition Class 3: 31,843 acres
2008:
2414582
INDEX SCORE: 2414582
Description: This measure assesses changes in vegetation due to such issues
(Baseline)
as fire suppression. The condition classes describe the area’s departure from
historical vegetation conditions: Class 3 is “High Departure”, Class 2
“Moderate” and Class 1 “Low.” For this measure the acreage values for each
class will be indexed in a simple scoring system- 3 points for class 3, 2 for class 2, and 1
for class 1. The most recent data (2008) thus scores as follows:
Condition Class 3: 31,843 x 3 = 95529
Condition Class 2: 1010121 x 2 = 2020242
Condition Class 1: 298811 x 1 = 298811
Total score = 2414582
This score can be updated with each new data set, a lower number indicating an
improvement in Wilderness Character, a higher one a degradation.
Significant Change: ANY change in the score value will be considered indicative of
trend.
Frequency: Condition class ratings are updated on a ___-year timeline. At each new
trend report, the latest data should be used and trend assessed in comparison to the
previous reports.
Source and Protocol: Vegetation Condition Class data come from the LANDFIRE
database and can be accessed through the Regional Fire Ecologist (as of 2012, Cathy
Stewart).
42
Lolo
Barren
Departure not calculated
NFS Lands
High Vegetation Departure
Non NFS Lands
Low Vegetation Departure
Forest Boundary
Moderate Vegetation Departure
5
10
Br
20 Miles
Florence
hy
Ba s
Ki
lle
Stevensville
d
Victor
k
Creek
12
Co lt
er
at
Lak e
Big
Fl
Clearwater
National
Forest
Cr
.
Fi
sh
Cr.
oo
se
C
S e l w a y
se
Fo rk
Nez Perce
National
Forest
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
Hamilton
Creek
Ma
rte
Darby
n
A r e a
Cre
p
er
ter
roo
t
White
Riv
r
Paradise
Creek
o
ve
p
ek
Ca
Ri
Bitterroot
National
Forest
Cu
ek
re
Tin
ek
Cre
C
ta n a
Mea do w
W i l d e r n e s s
r
Bea
Id ah
Selway Falls
ay
Creek
tt
B i t t e r r o o t
E.
Selw
Blo dg e
ek
93
Mo n
Creek
re
Moo
F
n
N.
Ma
or
k
M
Old
Creek
ee
sa
Riv
s
Cr
L
k
Will Pedde 10/30/12
h
oc
us
or
Id aho
0
Water
F
Lolo Pass
State Boundary
Snow / Ice
Sparsely Vegetated
Lolo
National
Forest
2008 LANDFIRE Vegetation Condition Class
Lolo Hot
Springs
Montana
Vegetation Condition Classes
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Bit
Red River
Hot Springs
USFS Region 1
Solitude or Primitive and Unconfined Recreation Quality
SOLITUDE
Remoteness from sights and sounds of people
Facilities that decrease self-reliant recreation
Management restrictions on visitor behavior
SOLITUDE OR PRIMITIVE AND
UNCONFINED RECREATION
•
•
•
REMOTENESS FROM SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF PEOPLE INSIDE
THE WILDERNESS
FACILITIES THAT DECREASE SELF-RELIANT RECREATION
MANAGEMENT RESTRICTIONS ON VISITOR BEHAVIOR
“...outstanding opportunites for solitude of a primitive and unconfined type of
recreation.”
The “solitude” quality of Wilderness Character describes visitors’ opportunity to
experience the land not only as it is, a Wilderness, but as they see fit for themselves as
travelers to that land. Restrictions on behavior, travel routes, crowding, and facilities that
decrease self-reliance all damage one’s personal experience of “Wilderness.” From a
management and monitoring standpoint, visitor use and its associated patterns and
developments must be understood to protect the quality. The indicators chosen to track
“Solitude” are:
- Remoteness from Sights and Sounds of People inside the Wilderness
o Acres of Wilderness Away from Roads and Trails
o Number of Parties Visiting During Primary Use Season
o Campsite Density
o Trail Encounters
o Soundscape
- Facilities that Decrease Self-Reliant Recreation
o Index of Recreation Facilities
o Index of Unauthorized Facilities
o Developed Trail Miles
o Outfitters and Guides Assigned Sites
- Management Restrictions on Visitor Behavior
o Index of Management Restrictions
o Number of Enforcement Actions
Trend relationship to Wilderness Character is measure-specific for the Solitude Quality;
some measures chosen for this report track positive change.
44
USFS Region 1
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Remoteness from Sights and Sounds of People Inside the Wilderness
Acres of Wilderness
away from Roads and Trails
THE WILDERNESS
Measure: ACRES OF WILDERNESS AWAY FROM ROADS AND
TRAILS
2011:
2011 Data Value: 1,323,998
Description: This is a measure of the number of acres within the SBW that
1,323,998
are at least ½ mile from motorized roads or trails. Of the 1,348,674* acres in
the Wilderness, 1,323,998 acres fit these bounds. This measure could be
impacted in the future by the addition or removal of motorized routes.
Significant Change: Any change in this measure will be considered a
(Baseline)
significant impact on Wilderness Character.
Frequency: This is a static measure and will be updated only at each 5-year
trend report.
Source and Protocol: Acreage data was obtained through GIS analysis (for 2012, Will
Pedde performed the calculation).
*acreages are based on GIS calculations and may differ from other acreage recorded for
the SBW.
45
USFS Region 1
REMOTENESS
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Number of Parties
Visiting During
Primary
Use
Season
REMOTENESS
FROM
SIGHTS
AND
SOUNDS OF PEOPLE INSIDE
THE WILDERNESS
Measure: NUMBER OF PARTIES VISITING WILDERNESS DURING
PRIMARY USE SEASON
2011 Data Value: 3533 people
Description: This measure tallies the number of visitors registered on
trailhead sign in sheets for 2011. While not a perfect representation of people
actually entering the Wilderness, increases or decreases in trailhead use
should give, over time, an indication of the solitude within the Wilderness.
Frequency: Data for this measure needs to be recorded for each year.
Source and Protocol: Trailhead sign-in data was obtained by Marty
Almquist at the West Fork Ranger Station.
2011:
3533
(Baseline)
46
USFS Region 1
REMOTENESS
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Campsite Density
THE WILDERNESS
Measure: CAMPSITE DENSITY
2011 Data Value: 526/813 (Out of Class/Inventoried)
2011:
Description: This measure records the number of inventoried campsites that
do not meet the opportunity class designated for their area. This data is taken
526/813
from the same campsite inventory used for “Campsite Impact” in the Natural
quality. The figure represents first the number of sites out-of-class, then the
total number of sites inventoried, as both will change over time.
Significant Change: This measure can either be updated annually with the
(Baseline)
campsite inventory, and tracked across those data points, or reassessed at
each Trend Report. ANY change in the score will be considered significant
and indicative of an improvement or degradation. (Remember: a lower score
describes an improvement in Wilderness Character).
Frequency: Campsite inventories are done towards an attempted 20% of sites
inventoried each year, thus every 5 years for any given site. Inventory data is updated on
a rolling basis.
Source and Protocol: Data was obtained through campsite inventory protocol and
spreadsheet collection.
47
USFS Region 1
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Facilities that Decrease Self-Reliant Recreation
FACILITIES
THAT DECREASE SELF-RELIANT RECREATION
Index of Recreation
Facilities
Measure: INDEX OF RECREATION FACILITIES
2011 Data Value: 35
Description: This measure tallies the features within the Wilderness that
facilitate recreation opportunities and make them easier, thus degrading the
primitive, unaided, and unconfined qualities that define Wilderness
Character. For the SBW this means bridges and airstrips. There are 29
bridges currently in the Wilderness, and 6 airstrips (3 public, 3 on
inholdings).
Significant Change: ANY change in the value of this measure will be
considered significant and indicative of trend.
Frequency: This is a static measure which will be reassessed at each 5-year
trend report to discover change.
Source and Protocol: This list was compiled through a combination of local and
regional databases, maps, and the cooperate knowledge of forest staff.
2011: 35
(Baseline)
48
Lolo
Bridge (29 total)
Airstrip (6 total)
Lolo Hot
Springs
Lolo
National
Forest
NFS Lands
Non NFS Lands
Forest Boundary
20 Miles
Ki
d
.
Cr
se
C
S e l w a y
Nez Perce
National
Forest
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
Hamilton
Creek
Ma
rte
Darby
n
er
Riv
White
ek
Tin
o
r
Paradise
p
re
ta n a
ve
Cu
ek
C
ter
roo
t
Creek
Ri
Bitterroot
National
Forest
Cre
Id ah
ek
North Star
(Private)
Shearer
Running Creek
(Private)
A r e a
Selway Lodge
(Private)
Cre
Mea do w
W i l d e r n e s s
r
Bea
Mo n
Selway Falls
Creek
tt
Fo rk
Moose
Creek
ay
Blo dg e
ek
B i t t e r r o o t
E.
Selw
re
Moo
F
Creek
N.
n
se
or
k
oo
93
Lak e
Fi
sh
Cr.
Ma
Victor
Big
at
Clearwater
National
Forest
M
Old
Stevensville
Fl
Fish
Lake
lle
Creek
k
Creek
Co lt
er
s
ee
sa
Ba s
Cr
L
h
oc
12
hy
Will Pedde 10/29/12
Riv
us
Florence
Id aho
10
Br
k
p
5
Note: Some feature locations are approximate
due to scale limitations of this map.
or
Ca
0
F
Lolo Pass
State Boundary
Montana
Bridges and Airstrips
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Bit
Red River
Hot Springs
USFS Region 1
`
Facilities
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE RECREATION
Index of Unauthorized Recreation Facilities
Measure: INDEX OF UNAUTHORIZED FACILITIES
2011 Data Value: 0
Description: Unauthorized facilities are found through law enforcement
records. In 2011, none of the citations issues were considered to be
“recreation facilities.”
office. This is best done through the Regional Wilderness Specialist (as of
2012, Chris Ryan) who will contact them.
2011: x
(Baseline)
50
USFS Region 1
Facilities
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Trail Miles in Developed Condition Classes 3 to 5
Measure: TRAIL MILES IN DEVELOPED CONDITION CLASS 3-5
2011 Data Value: 494.86
Description: This measure totals the mileage of all trails in condition classes
3, 4, and 5. Such trails receive greater maintenance, are easier to travel on
and welcome heavier traffic.
Significant Change: ANY addition or subtraction of maintained trail miles
will be considered significant.
Frequency: This is a static piece of data, but any change it undergoes should
be noted in Management plans and updated to the INFRAwild database.
Source and Protocol: Trail class is designated in the area’s General
Management Plan, dictated on the INFRAwild database, and held in local
records.
2011:
494.86
(Baseline)
51
Lolo
Lolo Hot
Springs
2011 Trail Developement Classes
Trail Class
TC1 - MINIMALLY DEVELOPED (159 mi.)
TC2 - MODERATELY DEVELOPED (607 mi.)
NFS Lands
Non NFS Lands
State Boundary
10
20 Miles
Br
Ba s
Co lt
er
Ki
lle
Stevensville
Victor
at
Lak e
Big
Fl
Cr
.
Fi
sh
Cr.
se
C
S e l w a y
Fo rk
Nez Perce
National
Forest
Lost
Ho rs e
Creek
Hamilton
Creek
Ma
rte
Darby
n
A r e a
Cre
p
er
ter
roo
t
White
Riv
r
Paradise
Creek
o
ve
p
ek
Ca
Ri
Bitterroot
National
Forest
Cu
ek
re
Tin
ek
Cre
C
ta n a
Mea do w
W i l d e r n e s s
r
Bea
Id ah
Selway Falls
ay
Creek
tt
B i t t e r r o o t
E.
Selw
Blo dg e
ek
93
Mo n
Creek
re
Moo
F
n
se
or
k
oo
N.
Ma
Creek
d
Clearwater
National
Forest
M
Old
s
k
Creek
hy
ee
sa
Florence
Cr
L
h
oc
12
k
Will Pedde 10/29/12
Riv
us
or
Id aho
5
F
Lolo Pass
Forest Boundary
Note: In 2011 there were no trails in
Classes 4 and 5
Montana
TC3 - DEVELOPED (495 mi.)
0
Lolo
National
Forest
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Fo rk
Bit
Red River
Hot Springs
USFS Region 1
Facilities
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Outfitters and Guides Assigned Sites
Measure: OUTFITTERS AND GUIDES ASSIGNED SITES
2011 Data Value: 31
Description: This measure tallies the number of assigned outfitter camps
permitted by the Forests each year. In 2011, there were 31 such campsites
(out of a total of 38- 7 were outside the Wilderness). These were issued to
Paradise Pack Station, Wildlife Adventures, Storm Creek Outfitters, Selway
Wilderness Outfitters, Boulder Creek, Lochsa River Outfitters, Kohls
Outfitting, Lost Lakes Outfitters, Richie, Bear Creek, Quarter Circle A,
Flying B, Meadow Creek, and Birch Creek.
Frequency: Number of sites will be counted for each year.
Source and Protocol: Data was obtained by Will Pedde through outfitter permit
references.
2011: 31
(Baseline)
53
Lolo
Lolo Hot
Springs
2011 Outfitter and Guide Assigned Sites
Lolo
National
Forest
Assigned Outfitter Camps
NFS Lands
State Boundary
20 Miles
Creek
.
Cr
k
C
B i t t e r r o o t
Nez Perce
National
Santa
Forest
Creek
Darby
A r e a
Cu
ek
p
re
ek
Tin
Cre
C
er
Riv
ta n a
o
roo
t
8-Mile
ter
Burnt
Strip
Id ah
Coopers
Flat
White
Mo n
Indian
Hill
Cayuse
F r a n k
W i l d e r n e s s
o f N o
A r e a
R e t u r n
We
st
Beaver
Jack
Bit
ek
Cliff
Creek
Lower Bad
Goat
Luck
Bitterroot
Ridge
National
Running
Forest
Ri
ve
Mountain
r
Spot
Mountain
Creek
Twin
Bald Buttes
Hills
Pettibone
Cre
Red River
Hot Springs
Ho rs e
Hamilton
Wahoo
r
Bea
Green
Ridge
Lost
Creek
Cub
Flats
Air
Strip
Paradise
Creek
Creek
tt
Fo rk
E.
W i l d e r n e s s
Prospect
Point
Blo dg e
ek
Fo rk
East
Moose
n
Indian
Hill
re
se
or
Weasel
Creek
rte
Mea do w
Jims
Creek
se
Dog
Creek
Ma
Sel
w ay
oo
93
Lak e
sh
Big Rock
Old Man
Meadow
Old Man
Lake
Selway Falls
Fi
S e l w a y
Big
Moo
Creek
M
F
n
Victor
Clearwater
National
Forest
North
Moose
N.
Ma
d
Cr.
Old
Arrowhead
Moose
Camp
Beaver
Creek
at
Pass
Creek
Stevensville
Fl
Fish
Lake
Warm
Springs
lle
Creek
k
Gold
Meadows
Beaver
Ridge
s
ee
L
sa
Ki
Ba s
Cr
Wilderness
Gateway
h
oc
Co lt
er
Riv
12
hy
Will Pedde 10/25/12
Florence
Id aho
10
k
p
5
us
Br
or
Ca
0
F
Lolo Pass
Forest Boundary
Montana
Non NFS Lands
USFS Region 1
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Management Restrictions on Visitor Behavior
MANAGEMENT
RESTRICTIONS ON VISITOR BEHAVIOR
Index of Management
Restrictions
Measure: INDEX OF MANAGEMENT RESTRICTIONS
2011 Data Value: 10
2011: 10
Description: This measure is a simple count of user regulations within the
Wilderness, a figure with little historical or foreseen change, but
representative of one’s unhindered feeling in the area. The current
restrictions are brief enough to be listed:
- Wagon, cart or other vehicles prohibited
- No free trailing of stock
(Baseline)
- Salting prohibited
- Shortcutting switchbacks prohibited
- Caching of equipment prohibited
- Maximum number of stock (20)
- Maximum length of stay (14 consecutive days in a given location)
- Maximum group size (20)
- Disposing of debris prohibited
- Stock feed restricted
Significant Change: This is a static measure, and will be rerecorded at each report. ANY
change in the number of regulations will be considered significant.
Source and Protocol: Data can be found in the INFRA database, which can be accessed
locally or through the RO Wilderness Specialist (as of 2011, Chris Ryan). Information
may also be known at the Forest level.
55
USFS Region 1
Management restrictions
SOLITUDE/PRIMITIVE
RECREATION
Number of Enforcement Actions
MANAGEMENT RESTRICTIONS ON VISITOR BEHAVIOR
Measure: NUMBER OF ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS
2011 Data Value: 9
2011: 9
Description: This measure is a count of the number of tickets issued by law
enforcement each year for violations in the Wilderness. In 2011, 9 were
issued:
- 4 chainsaw uses
- 1 helicopter landing
- 1 dispensing of debris (salt)
(Baseline)
- 1 unremoved outfitter camp
- 1 unattended campfire
- 1 bicycle possesion
Frequency: Number of citations will be recorded for each year.
Source and Protocol: Law enforcement records come from the LEIMARS database,
which needs to be accessed through the regional law enforcement office. This is best
done through the Regional Wilderness Specialist (as of 2012, Chris Ryan) who will
contact them.
56
USFS Region 1
CONCLUSIONS
Conclusions
The author would like to express several comments and concerns regarding this
baseline report and its subsequent monitoring protocol:
-
Many of the measures chosen as indicative of Wilderness Character need to be
drawn every year. I speculate that some of these yearly data points can, and will,
simply be compiled with the next trend report in 5 years. For some measures,
however, this may not be so easily done. Efforts should be taken to store and
update data each year. Wilderness Character Monitoring needs to not be forgotten
between trend reports.
-
Similarly, trend in measures with yearly data points needs to be evaluated by
statistical regression. How this will be done remains a question to be tackled as
the monitoring progresses.
-
This document is intended to be used as a template for future reports: I formatted
it in the hopes that data values be updated (perhaps old values still referenced) and
trends indicated in future printings of the documents.
-
The trial run of data collection was in some ways convoluted or slow. For future
reports, as many of the same participants as possible should be sought out to
recollect data, and the process could be greatly streamlined. Emphasis should be
made on simply collecting the exact same data; this monitoring process is
intended to be “plug-and-assess.”
-
This process is intended to be repeated for other Region 1 Wilderness areas. Much
of the data can be found by the exact same references. Regional employees who
participated in this report should be prepared to research similar data in the future.
Again, emphasis on “plugging in” repeated numbers, as some values may
eventually need to be recorded annually for multiple Wildernesses.
57
USFS Region 1
APPENDIX A: MEASURES NOT USED
Appendix A: Measures Not Used
There were a number of measures discussed in the process of compiling this report
that were not ultimately included. The following summarizes these ideas and the
reasons they did not work out, but may be able to in the future.
-
Stream Water Quality
The idea of using some or all of the stream water analysis that is currently
collected was discussed for this monitoring process, but not carried out.
Data collected on water quality is very site- and time-specific, and it was
concluded that no sufficient figure was currently available that would be
indicative of Wilderness Character as a whole. Should an indexing system
or other useful analysis of water data arise in the future, this measure
should be reconsidered.
-
Trail Encounters
A strong desire to monitor the relative solitude within the Wilderness was
expressed, but no system is currently in place to do such monitoring. A
system of regular monitoring by staff while in the backcountry has been
discussed but not yet implemented. Once in place, and if done with
regularity and statistical confidence, this measure should be included in
the Wilderness Character Monitoring reports.
-
Soundscape
Similarly, ideas have been discussed to record instances of airplane and
other extraneous, modern sounds while inside the Wilderness. As yet no
such monitoring is being done, but a recording process could be developed
and done regularly. Once in place this measure should be included in the
Wilderness Character Monitoring reports.
58
USFS Region 1
-
Cultural Artifacts Protected
One project is currently being discussed on the Nez-Perce/Clearwater
National Forest which would build a fortified embankment along the
Selway river to prevent the erosion of historical Nez-Perce artifacts.
Should this project or any similar ones be undertaken, they are exactly
what Wilderness Character Monitoring is meant to observe. A fifth
Quality, “Cultural Resources,” has been included in the process in other
locations and should be if this project hits the ground. The preservation of
important cultural artifacts is worthy of denotation as an improvement in
Wilderness Character, yet at the same time the embankment would have to
be recorded as an additional structural development, with construction,
maintenance and any associated motor uses recorded in the Monitoring.
-
Access-point spread of Invasive Species
While data exists for the current weed-related measures, from a
management standpoint it would be valuable to assess the process by
which invasive species enter the Wilderness through trailheads and other
access points. If a feasible and relevant way were developed to monitor
the increasing or decreasing presence of weeds at these locations
specifically, and ideally how active management may influence these
trends, a measure could be developed that would be indicative of
Wilderness Character. NRIS data, which currently exists, could be
overlaid spatially with access-points, and changes in this relationship
assessed, but no effective way of doing so was developed in time for this
baseline report.
59
USFS Region 1
APPENDIX B: DATA SOURCES AND PROTOCOLS
Appendix B: Data Sources and Protocols
Quality
Indicator
Untrammeled
Actions
authorized by
Federal land
manager that
manipulate the
biophysical
environment
Measure
Data Source/Protocol
Vegetation
management
actions
The regional botanist (as of 2012, Steve Shelly)
was tasked with assessing the management within
the wilderness.
Fisheries
Management
actions
The Regional Fish Biologist (as of 2012, Beth
Hahn) contacted biologists on each Forest district
for the Wilderness, who in turn checked with state
agencies for projects within the Wilderness.
The Regional Wildlife Biologist (as of 2012, Beth
Hahn) contacted biologists on each Forest district
for the Wilderness, who in turn checked with state
agencies for projects within the Wilderness.
Records of fire actions was pulled by Stu Hoyt,
Fuels Specialist in the Regional Office.
Wildlife
Management
actions
Number of
Natural Starts
Suppressed
Acres burned
with prescribed
fire
FACTS database.
60
USFS Region 1
Undeveloped
Number of
Natural Starts
with on-ground
management
actions
Number of lakes
and other water
bodies stocked
with native fish
in waters that
were naturally
fishless
Idaho fish stocking records are held on the Fish
and Game website:
They can be searched by year or 5-year intervals.
Montana records were obtained through email
with MT FWP (in 2012, with Chris Clancy).
Actions not
authorized by
the Federal
land manager
to manipulate
the biophysical
environment
Number of
unauthorized
actions
Law enforcement records come from the
LEIMARS database, which needs to be accessed
through the regional law enforcement office. This
is best done through the Regional Wilderness
Specialist (as of 2012, Chris Ryan) who will
contact them.
Nonrecreational
installations,
structures,
developments
Index of
authorized
physical
developments
This list was compiled through a combination of
local and regional databases, maps, and the
cooperate knowledge of forest staff.
unauthorized
development
contact them.
Acres of land
within wilderness
that are
inholdings
authorized use
Location and acreage data for these inholdings
was determined using the Automated Lands
Program.
unauthorized use
contact them.
Inholdings
Use of motor
vehicles,
motorized
equipment and
mechanical
transport
Index can be referenced by the Regional
Wilderness Specialist; data comes from the
INFRAwild database- its ‘Motorized
Equipment/Mechanical Transport Use
Authorization Report.’
61
USFS Region 1
Natural
Plant and
animal species
and
communities
Percentage of
Wilderness acres
with invasive
plant species that
are not
indigenous to the
wilderness
Number of Lakes
stocked with fish
that are not
indigenous to the
Wilderness
Data can be obtained through the Regional
Botanist (as of 2012, Steve Shelly) or Regional
FIA data steward (as of 2012, Renate Bush).
WestslopeCutthroat Trout
Hybridization
Data can be pulled at the regional level, through
the Regional Fish Biologist (as of 2012, Scott
Spaulding). GIS data-sets from the MFISH
database (and possibly another source for Idaho)
may need to be trimmed to find hybridization
figures.
Data can be found in the INFRA database, which
can be accessed locally or through the RO
Wilderness Specialist (as of 2011, Chris Ryan).
Information may also be known at the Forest level.
Number of acres
of active grazing
allotment with
authorized use
Physical
Resources
Data can be obtained through the RO Fish
Biologist (as of 2011, Scott Spaulding).
Information on Montana lakes comes from the
state FWP (contact 2012: Chris Clancy) or can be
found in the “Cooperative Agreement for Fish,
Wildlife and Habitat Management on National
Forest Wilderness Lands in Montana” document.
Information on Idaho lakes can be found on the
Fish and Game website:
Number of
invasive plant
species
Loss of
Whitebark Pine
Weed data can be obtained through the RO
Botanist (as of 2011, Steve Shelly).
Concentration of
sulfur in wet
deposition
All air quality measures can be obtained through
the Regional Air Quality Specialist (as of 2012,
Thomas Dzomba). Yearly averages for each
Concentration of
nitrogen in wet
deposition
Average
Deciview
Lichen- Letharia
Vulpina- Sulfur
Content
Data can be obtained through the Regional
Botanist (as of 2012, Steve Shelly) or Regional
FIA data steward (as of 2012, Renate Bush).
62
USFS Region 1
Lichen- Letharia
VulpinaNitrogen Content
Campsite impact
on soils and
physical features
Biophysical
Processes
Solitude
Remoteness
from sights and
sounds of
people inside
the wilderness
Facilities that
decrease selfreliant
recreation
Management
Restrictions on
visitor behavior
Data was obtained through campsite inventory
protocol and spreadsheet collection.
Vegetation
departure from
historical
conditions based
on modeling
Number of acres
of wilderness
away from access
or travel routes
Vegetation Condition Class data come from the
LANDFIRE database and can be accessed through
the Regional Fire Ecologist (as of 2012, Cathy
Stewart).
Number of
parties visitng a
wilderness
during the
primary use
season
Campsite
Density
Trailhead sign-in data was obtained by Marty
Almquist at the West Fork Ranger Station.
index of
recreation
facilities
This list was compiled through a combination of
local and regional databases, maps, and the
cooperate knowledge of forest staff.
index of
unauthorized
recreation
facilities
contact them.
Number of trail
miles in
developed
condition classes
3 to 5
Outfitters and
guides assigned
sites
Index of
restrictions on
visitor behavior
(regulations)
Trail class is designated in the area’s General
Management Plan, dictated on the INFRAwild
database, and held in local records.
Acreage data was obtained through GIS analysis
(for 2012, Will Pedde performed the calculation).
Data was obtained through campsite inventory
protocol and spreadsheet collection.
Data was obtained by Will Pedde through outfitter
permit references.
Data can be found in the INFRA database, which
can be accessed locally or through the RO
Wilderness Specialist (as of 2011, Chris Ryan).
Information may also be known at the Forest level.
63
USFS Region 1
Number of
enforcement
actions
contact them.
64
USFS Region 1
APPENDIX C: EFFORT ASSESSMENT AND MEASURE
COMMENTS
Appendix C: Effort Assessment
and Measure Comments
This table summarizes the challenges associated with keeping track of each
measure.
Quality
Untrammeled
Indicator
Actions
authorized by
Federal land
manager that
manipulate the
biophysical
environment
Measure
Effort Involved
Vegetation
management
actions
A fair amount of effort is involved in project
counts. Regional specialist must coordinate
communication with forest-level staff and they
often with State agencies to keep track of
management actions. This must be done for
each year, and someone's professional
judgement must be used to decide what
qualifies as an individual "project."
Fisheries
Management
actions
Wildlife
Management
actions
Number of Natural
Starts Suppressed
Simple data pull but number needs to be
recorded for each year.
Acres burned with
prescribed fire
Number of Natural
Starts with onground
management
actions
65
USFS Region 1
Undeveloped
Natural
Number of lakes
and other water
bodies stocked
with native fish in
waters that were
naturally fishless
Considerable effort involved in baseline
assessment. Lakes in state stocking records
needed to be cross-referenced with a map.
Future updates need only check for changes in
stocking practices against the current list,
however.
Actions not
authorized by the
Federal land
manager to
manipulate the
biophysical
environment
Number of
unauthorized
actions
Law enforcement data is a simple list of each
year's citations, which can be obtained through
the Regional Law Enforcement office. Easy.
Non-recreational
installations,
structures,
developments
Index of
authorized
physical
developments
Simple data pull. Future reports need only
update removal/addition of developments.
unauthorized
development
Inholdings
Acres of land
within wilderness
that are inholdings
Easy. Inholdings are static and have both
written and spatial records. Measure need only
be updated at each report.
Use of motor
vehicles,
motorized
equipment and
mechanical
transport
authorized use
Simple data pull but number of authorizations
needs to be recorded as a data point for each
year. Some managerial descretion as to how to
count projects (and their associated motor uses)
as one or more authorizations.
unauthorized use
Plant and animal
species and
communities
Percentage of
Wilderness acres
with invasive plant
species that are not
indigenous to the
wilderness
Number of Lakes
stocked with fish
that are not
indigenous to the
Wilderness
Considerable effort involved in baseline
assessment. Lakes needed to be searched for on
maps and cross-referenced with State stocking
data. Future updates should remain simple, with
only the State records rechecked for changes.
WestslopeCutthroat Trout
Hybridization
Effort at the Regional level. Fish Biologist must
pull sampling data and analyze for
hybridization. Doing so repeatedly, and only at
5-year reports, however, is not a steep demand.
66
USFS Region 1
Number of acres
of active grazing
allotment with
authorized use
Number of
invasive plant
species
Physical
Resources
Loss of Whitebark
Pine
Concentration of
sulfur in wet
deposition
Concentration of
nitrogen in wet
deposition
Average deciview
Lichen- Letharia
Vulpina- Sulfur
Content
Lichen- Letharia
Vulpina- Nitrogen
Content
Campsite impact
on soils and
physical features
Biophysical
Processes
Solitude
Remoteness
from sights and
sounds of people
inside the
wilderness
Vegetation
departure from
historical
conditions based
on modeling
Number of acres
of wilderness
away from access
or travel routes
Number of parties
visitng a
wilderness during
the primary use
season
Easy. Forest-level decisions and record keeping
will always know of any grazing allotments.
Minimal effort at Regional level. Botanist must
pull weed data, but speices list is simple and
static. Only assessed at 5-year reports.
Effort at Regional level. Air Quality specialist
must pull data and average for each year, but
sampling is done in a regular and reliable
fashion.
fashion.
fashion.
fashion.
fashion.
Heavy effort involved. Campsite inventory data
needs to be recorded in one place by all Forests.
Data needs to be consistent and updated
annually. Campsite impact ratings are then
tallied and scored from this Wilderness-wide
inventory.
Simple data pull from RO and LANDFIRE
database. Vegetation Class acreages need to be
scored using simple multiplication index.
GIS data-work was considerable in assessing
this measure, but the figure should remain static
barring changes in trail/road infrastructure.
Should travel routes change, this work will need
to be done again.
Difficult. Visitor counts from trailhead sign-ins
must be kept and recorded from their paper
format to a digital format, to count totals. These
records need to be collected from both Forests,
and recompiled each year, so a system of
communication and data entry needs to be
established.
67
USFS Region 1
Facilities that
decrease selfreliant recreation
Management
Restrictions on
visitor behavior
Campsite Density
Heavy effort involved. Campsite inventory data
needs to be recorded in one place by all Forests.
Data needs to be consistent and updated
annually. Campsite out-of-class statuses are
then tallied and scored from this Wildernesswide inventory.
index of recreation
facilities
Simple data pull that will need to be reassessed
for changes at each new report.
index of
unauthorized
recreation facilities
Number of trail
miles in developed
condition classes 3
to 5
Fairly simple. Totals for this measure were
pulled through GIS data, and changes will only
be noted at 5-year reports, should any new trails
be opened or old ones undesignated.
Outfitters and
guides assigned
sites
Index of
restrictions on
visitor behavior
(regulations)
Number of
enforcement
actions
Simple data pull from INFRA; measure should
remain static but changes noted in each report.
68
USFS Region 1
69

Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, Wilderness

Transcription

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