Glendo Reservoir Finding of No Significant Impact

Transcription

DRAFT
Glendo Reservoir
Finding of No Significant Impact
and
Resource Management Plan/
Glendo State Park Master Plan
and
Environmental Assessment
April 2004
United States Department of the Interior
Bureau of Reclamation
Great Plains Region
Wyoming Area Office
Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites
Glendo State Park
Table of Contents
Chapter I.
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
Introduction
Chapter II.
I.
Error! Bookmark not defined.
Purpose and Scope ........................................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Authority ....................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
General Description and Location................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Policies and Guidelines ................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Administration............................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Process and Analysis ..................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Goals and Objectives..................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Management Framework ...................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Management Responsibilities........................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
A.
Bureau of Reclamation ............................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
B.
Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites............................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
C.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department..................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
D.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Chapter III.
Existing Environment ........................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
I.
General Setting.............................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
A.
General..................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
B.
Climate..................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
C.
Topography.............................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
D.
Soils ......................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
E.
Drainage................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
F.
Geology and Physiography ...................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
G.
Visual Resources...................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
H.
Water Operations ..................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
II. Resources ...................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
A.
Recreation ................................................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
B.
Land Management ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
C.
Water Resources ...................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
D.
Wildlife Resources................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
E.
Fish Resources ......................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
F.
Threatened and Endangered Species........................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
G.
Vegetation................................................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
H.
Socioeconomics ....................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
I.
Cultural Resources ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
J.
Indian Trust Assets .................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
K.
Environmental Justice .............................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Chapter IV.
Alternatives ........................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
I.
Alternative A - No Action Alternative .......................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
II. Proposed Alternative B – Natural Resource Conservation/Enhancement with Moderate Recreation
Development........................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
III. Proposed Alternative C – Natural Resource Conservation with Maximum Recreation Development.. Error!
Bookmark not defined.
Chapter V.
I.
Environmental Consequences............................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Resources ...................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
A.
Recreation ................................................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
B.
Land Management ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
C.
Alternative A – No Action..................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Alternative B – Moderate Recreational Development ........................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Alternative C – Maximum Recreational Development.......................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Alternative A - No Action ..................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Water Resources ...................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
D.
Wildlife Resources................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
E.
Fish Resources ......................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
F.
Threatened and Endangered Species........................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
G.
Vegetation................................................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
H.
Socioeconomics ....................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
I.
Cultural Resources ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
J.
Indian Trust Assets .................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
K.
Environmental Justice .............................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
1.
2.
3.
L.
M.
N.
Unavoidable Adverse Effects................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Cumulative Effects................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Chapter VI.
DRAFT Final Resource Management Plan .......Error! Bookmark not defined.
I.
Plan Development ......................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
II. Glendo Area Management Actions ............................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
III. Plan Implementation ..................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
A.
Funding .................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
B.
Schedules for Reviews and Updates ........................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Literature Cited
Tables
Table III-1. Boat ramp elevations. .............................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-2. Visitation to Glendo State Park ............................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-3. Total Visitors by Month at Glendo State Park ........................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-4. Projected Visitation at Glendo State Park ............................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-5. Fish species present in Glendo Reservoir in 2000................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-6. Percent by species of fish captured in experimental gill nets from 1996 through 2000, Glendo
Reservoir. ........................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-7. Harvest by species in 1981 and 2000, Glendo Reservoir. ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-8. Estimated number of anglers in1981 and 2000, Glendo Reservoir. ........ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table III-9. Concentration of mercury and selenium in collected fish tissue from Glendo Reservoir. .............. Error!
Bookmark not defined.
Table III-10. Population of communities near Glendo Reservoir and for the State of Wyoming.... Error! Bookmark
not defined.
Table IV - 1. Comparison of environmental consequences for each alternative. ....... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Figures
Figure III-1. Visitor use at Glendo over the past 20 years. ......................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Figure III-2. Visitor use by summer month for Glendo State Park............................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Attachments
Attachment A – Agreements and Memorandums
Attachment B – Species Common along the North Platte River in Wyoming and Nebraska
Attachment C – Consultation and Coordination
Attachment D – Environmental Commitments
Attachment E – Laws, Regulations, and Executive Orders
Attachment F – Distribution List
Attachment G – List of Preparers
List of Maps – Alternative B
B1 – Muddy Bay Area
B2 – Burnt Wagon, Broken Arrow, and Indian Ridge Areas
B3 – Island, Willow, and Cottonwood Areas
B4 – Dune area (Sandy Beach Campground)
B5 – Hytrek Draw Area
B6 – Narrows Bluff and Narrows Bay Areas
B7 – Slide Hill Area
B8 – North Platte River Basin Area and Glendo Dam Area
B9 – Two Moon Campground and Buffalo Pasture #1 Areas
B10 – Marina Area and Park Headquarters
B11 – Sagebrush Campground and Shelter Point Campground
B12 – Whiskey Gulch Campground and Buffalo Pasture #2 Areas
B13 – Entrance Area
B14 – Mule Hill, Gravel Point, and Colter Bay Areas
B15 – Custer Cover Campground
B16 – Soldier Rock Area
B17 – Cabin Lease Area
B18 – Reno Cove Campground
B19 – Red Hills Area
B20 – Waters Point Area
B21 – Bennett Hill Area
B22 – Goose Bay Area
B23 – Elkhorn Area
B24 – Byron Wilson Area
List of Maps – Alternative C
C1 – Muddy Bay Area
C2 – Burnt Wagon, Broken Arrow, Indian Ridge Areas
C3 – Island, Willow, Cottonwood Areas
C4 – Dune Area (Sandy Beach Campground)
C5 – Hytrek Draw Area
C6 – Narrows Bluff and Bay Areas
C7 – Slide Hill Area
C8 – North Platte River Basin Area and Glendo Dam Area
C9 – Two Moon Campground and Buffalo Pasture #1 Areas
C10 – Marina Area and Park Headquarters
C11 – Sagebrush and Shelter Point Campgrounds
C12 – Whiskey Gulch Campground and Buffalo Pasture #2 Areas
C13 – Mule Hill, Gravel Point, and Colter Bay Areas
C14 – Entrance Area
C15 – Custer Cove Campground
C16 – Soldier Rock Area
C17 – Cabin Lease Area
C18 – Reno Cove Campground
C19 – Red Hills Area
C20 – Waters Point Area
C21 – Bennett Hill Area
C22 – Goose Bay Area
C23 – Elkhorn Area
C24 – Byron Wilson Area
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Chapter I. Introduction
This integrated Glendo Reservoir Resource Management Plan (RMP), Glendo State Park
Recreation Master Plan (MP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) is a multi-purpose document
hereafter referred to as the RMP. Reclamation is to develop, monitor, and update resource
management plans for land directly managed by Reclamation and for lands cooperatively
managed with another Federal or non-Federal entity. The EA portion of this document was
prepared in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 and the
Council on Environmental Quality, and also under the current guidelines of the Bureau of
Reclamation (Reclamation).
I.
Purpose and Scope
The purpose of the RMP is to incorporate information pertinent to the future management of the
area in order to identify specific management actions to provide recreational facilities to
accommodate future use consistent with other resource uses. Reclamation, in partnership with
Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites (DSPHS), are to develop plans for land use,
resource management decisions, and the development and protection of natural, cultural, and
recreational resources at Glendo Reservoir. These decisions will be consistent with overall
management objectives and the needs of the public. This RMP, which supersedes the 1981 and
1987 RAMPs, sets goals and objectives for administering public lands under Reclamation
jurisdiction at Glendo Reservoir.
Reclamation is responsible for the management of Glendo Reservoir water, lands, and facilities
in cooperation with its managing partners, DSPHS and Wyoming Game and Fish Commission
(WGF). Reclamation’s land resource management policy is “to provide a broad level of
stewardship to both development and operation of project land and water areas and facilities to
ensure resource protection, conservation and to encourage multiple resource use. Management
practices and principles, in accordance with existing laws, regulations, and policies, will be
applied to provide for the protection of fish, wildlife and other natural resources, cultural
resources, public health and safety, public access, and a wide variety of outdoor recreational
opportunities to accommodate the increasing public demand to utilize Reclamation’s land and
water areas.”
Current Reclamation land resource management guidelines state: “Together with the managing
agency, Reclamation will prepare and implement comprehensive resource management plans
through the appropriate public involvement process to facilitate orderly, coordinated
development and management of all land and water areas under Reclamation jurisdiction.
These plans will address resource capabilities and management opportunities with emphasis on
multiple use and public access.” Furthermore, “Administration and management of
Reclamation’s resources will conform to applicable Reclamation policy, Federal laws,
regulations, and Executive Orders. If this requirement is not already included in existing plans
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and management agreements with State and local entities, it will be incorporated into new or
revised resource management and development plans, renewed management agreements, and
amendments to existing management agreements.”
Although not designed to provide specific design documents for facilities, this RMP will provide
Reclamation and DSPHS for the long-range development and administration of Glendo State
Park relevant to actual park development, restoration, and daily operations. It will also set goals
and objectives for administering Reclamation lands, identify types of land use management and
development.
II.
Authority
The Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program (P-SMBP) authorized the construction of the Glendo
Unit under the Flood Control Act of December 22, 1944, Public Law 534, which also approved
the general plan set forth in Senate Documents 191 and 475, as revised and coordinated by
Senate Document 247, 78th Congress, 2nd session. Construction was delayed while a
comprehensive plan was prepared and until a stipulation could be made to the U.S. Supreme
Court North Platte River decree. This stipulation, found in the case of Nebraska versus
Wyoming (325 U.S. 665), was agreed to by the United States and the states of Nebraska,
Wyoming, and Colorado. After the stipulation requirements were met, a joint resolution
providing for actual construction was enacted on July 16, 1954 (68 Stat. 486 Public Law 503,
83rd Cong. 2nd Sess.).
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) dated May 28, 1992, (see Appendix A) between
Reclamation and DSPHS provides DSPHS the responsibility of administering Reclamation lands
and facilities at five Reclamation reservoirs for recreation and related purposes for a 25-year
period. It assures the Wyoming legislature of Reclamation’s long-term commitment to
recreation lands and allows the state to make appropriations for capital improvements. This
MOU supersedes the lease, dated December 14, 1984, (Appendix B) Contract No. 5-07-70L2203, Glendo Reservoir, between Reclamation and the Wyoming Recreation Commission (now
called DSPHS).
In 1993, Reclamation and DSPHS discussed the recreation management of the area at the north
end of Glendo Reservoir. Reclamation and DSPHS agreed that recreation management of Muddy
Bay north around the reservoir to Elkhorn Bay be returned to Reclamation. Management areas
include the Byron Wilson and County Line areas. An updated MOU exhibit map of Glendo was
provided to DSPHS on July 14, 1994 however, no formal amendment was executed.
Authority for the development of the 2004 Glendo Master Plan by DSPHS is provided by the
Wyoming Annotated Statute 36-4-106. This statue states in part : “(a) The department of state
parks and cultural resources, in consultation with the commission, shall prepare, maintain and
keep up to date a comprehensive plan for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation
resources in the state.”
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MOU dated August 3, 1955, (see Appendix D) between the United States and the State of
Wyoming, granted the State of Wyoming and its departments, commissions or agencies,
authority to administer recreation, fish and wildlife conservation and management at five
Reclamation reservoirs in Wyoming. The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission controls and
protects, wild mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles at Glendo Reservoir under the
authority as directed in Wyoming Statute Title 23, Chapter 1, Section 302.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission as authorized in Wyoming Statue Title 36, Chapter
8, Section 104, designates hunting areas and seasons that firearms and other weapons may be
used. Reclamation and DSPHS can restrict the use of firearms and other weapons in areas of
reservoir lands. Field enforcement at Glendo Reservoir State Park and Reclamation land is
provided by Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGF) law enforcement officers as well as
other Wyoming peace officers.
WGF is authorized in Wyoming Statue Title 41 (W.S. 41-13-215) to regulate watercraft and
enforce the boating laws in Wyoming in addition to the rules and regulations of the Wyoming
Game and Fish Commission. Other Wyoming peace officers may also enforce these watercraft
laws.
Lease Agreement No. 98-AG-60-10380, dated December 12, 1998, (see Appendix A) between
the Bureau of Reclamation and the State of Wyoming Game and Fish Commission allows WGF
to manage habitat protection, habitat improvement, and hunter use in that portion of Pheasant
Area nine (9) on Glendo Reservoir lands known as the County Line/Byron Wilson area.
III. General Description and Location
Glendo Dam, Power Plant, and Reservoir, located on the North Platte River approximately 6
miles southeast of the town of Glendo, Platte County, Wyoming, were constructed between 1954
and 1958 as part of the P-SMBP. The Glendo Unit is a multi-purpose water development project
which furnishes irrigation water, electricity and flood control to surrounding towns and industry
in Wyoming and Nebraska. Other benefits of the dam include fish and wildlife enhancement,
recreation, and sediment retention.
Glendo Reservoir has a capacity of 789,402 acre-feet which includes 271,889 acre-feet of
exclusive flood-pool capacity. The surface area of the reservoir when the elevation is at the top
of the flood pool is 17,975 acres and 12,365 at the top of active conservation.
Glendo State Park provides 7 campgrounds (410 campsites), 2 day use areas, 27 cabin sites, 6
boat ramps, 2 public boat docks and 1 marina concession. The marina at Glendo Reservoir is
managed under a lease agreement between DSPHS and a private contractor. The marina
encompasses about 39.6 acres and, under the terms of the lease, includes a store (which provides
groceries, bait, sporting goods, etc.), boat rentals and sales, a 6-room motel, and 25 camp trailer
spaces.
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IV. Policies and Guidelines
DSPHS administers Reclamation land and facilities within Glendo State Park. Therefore,
management and development of this area, including the development of the master plan, falls
under the MOU and is subject to certain federal acts, laws and regulations. These federal acts,
laws and regulations are:
1. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA)
2. Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA)
3. Resource, Conservation, and Recovery Act (RCRA)
4. Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendment to RCRA 1984 (HSWA)
5. Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)
6. Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)
7. Clean Water Act (CWA)
8. Clean Air Act (CAA)
9. National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)
10. Archeological Resource Protection Act
11. American Indian Religious Freedom Act
12. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
13. Architectural Barriers and Rehabilitation Act of 1973
14. Federal Water Project Recreation Act of July 9, 1965, as amended
15. Reclamation Recreation Management Act of October 30, 1992
16. Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA)
DSPHS policies developed for the 2003-2008 Wyoming State Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan (SCORP), federal policies and guidelines, and DSPHS state park planning goals
and objectives were utilized to provide a strategy for the development and operation of Glendo
State Park.
The SCORP policies and the state park planning goals and objectives help determine the
recreational opportunities for the use and enjoyment of residents and visitors to Wyoming. They
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define the basic purpose of the state park system including future development. Planning goals
and objectives also provide direction for the protection of existing sites and facilities within the
DSPHS park system. The following are three (3) major issues identified in SCORP:
1. Funding
• Money/Funding
• Maintenance funding
• Restoration of existing facilities
• Additional personnel
2. Facility/Opportunities
• Additional facilities
• Trails and greenways
• Land acquisition
3. Community Support and Awareness
• Community support
• Community awareness
V.
Administration
Reclamation’s Wyoming Area Office in Mills, WY is responsible for management of
Reclamation lands at Glendo Reservoir. Reclamation staff oversee NEPA and cultural resource
compliance, minerals, dam safety, water management, law enforcement, security, facility
operation and maintenance, the Integrated Pest Management Program, issuing special-use
permits, other outgrants, public safety and accessibility improvements and compliance,
recreation land resource management, and the administration of contracts and agreements. Each
authorization is subject to specific terms and conditions covering the use of the Federal estate.
Lessees are restricted from conveying permitted use to another party without the approval of
Reclamation.
The DSPHS staff at Glendo State Park consists of the Park Superintendent (supervises the
maintenance, collection and law enforcement programs); two Assistant Superintendents–one
dedicated to law enforcement and supervision of seasonal employees and a second responsible
for the maintenance program and supervision of seasonal employees; the Facilities Maintenance
Specialist (responsible for the vehicle and equipment fleet; assists in general park maintenance
and the supervision of seasonal personnel ), and the Seasonal Collections Supervisor (accounts
for the camping and use fees; supervises the seasonal collectors).
VI. Process and Analysis
The effort to update the Glendo RMP was initiated in 2000 by DSPHS. A series of public
meetings were held in the fall of 2000. These meetings were facilitated and well attended;
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almost 100 participants from the public attended the meetings in both Cheyenne and Douglas.
The results of these meetings were compiled in “Glendo State Park Focus Group Meetings,
November 1, 2000”. In addition, focus groups were approached for specific input on respective
activities. Extensive time was also spent touring the park with DSPHS staff. Finally, planning
staff stayed in the park over the 2002 4th of July weekend and interviewed park visitors.
The DSPHS planning team visited Glendo State Park to map existing facilities and evaluate
existing conditions of facilities, and natural and cultural resources to determine the current
opportunities, strengths, and weaknesses in the park as a whole and in individual recreation or
management areas. The DSPHS planning team researched the historic use patterns at the park.
Visitor surveys were dispensed at the main fee booth entering the park and by park staff during
the summer of 2002.
Using Geographical Information System (GIS) equipment, a listing of facilities and locations
was compiled. DSPHS used this analysis to identify and evaluate the park’s facilities,
infrastructure and recreational site conditions. This information was then used to direct the
development of new plan alternatives for the master plan and to guide management actions in
regards to new facility construction and the improvement of existing facilities.
After using the GIS data collected for facility type and location, visitor use survey, and input
from the public meetings, DSPHS was able to determine the adequate numbers of facilities,
proper design, what facilities attract a particular level of use and what facilities were needed in
various locations.
After the initial data gathering was completed, DSPHS planning team worked with park staff and
Reclamation to develop three alternatives. Utilizing public input, and in compliance with
applicable state and federal laws, DSPHS worked with Reclamation to develop a final preferred
alternative.
VII. Goals and Objectives
From the two public meetings held in October 2000, in Douglas and Cheyenne, and from
surveys, complaints and individual meetings with users at Gendo State Park, DSPHS identified
public concerns regarding land use and recreation. Based on that information and the missions
of both Reclamation and DSPHS, the following goals and objectives were developed:
Goal I:
Enrich, educate and provide for the preservation, evaluation, and development of
natural and cultural resources under the stewardship of the Department of State Parks
and Cultural Resources. Intentional and inadvertent degradation of fragile natural and
cultural resources threatens the integrity and quality of those characteristics that make
Glendo Reservoir a special place.
Objective 1:
Accommodation of public interests within the Glendo Reservoir resource
area while protecting and conserving the values associated with the
landscape.
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Objective 2:
Goal II:
May 19, 2003
Maintain and enhance Glendo Reservoir’s natural appearance.
Establish Glendo State Park and the Glendo Reservoir Management Plan area as an
aesthetically pleasing, environmentally sound, and economically viable resource,
while accommodating the recreation needs of the visiting public. Recreation is an
activity that has components combining facilities, opportunities and activities. These
components contribute significantly to our quality of life.
Objective 1:
Optimize opportunities for public recreation development and use at
Glendo State Park.
Objective 2:
Provide for an ample level of public safety in future resource development
and management.
Objective 3:
Minimize operation and maintenance costs for future resource
management.
Objective 4:
Provide an orderly and appropriate schedule for resource development
within Glendo State Park and the Glendo Reservoir Management Plan
area.
Objective 5:
Prohibit unauthorized activities, educate public users concerning fragile
resources, and regulate usage in developed recreation areas.
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Chapter II. Management Framework
Administration of the land, water, and associated resources within the reservoir area requires a
coordinated effort between Reclamation and other entities that have varying degrees of
management responsibility. The purpose of this chapter is to describe the existing policies and
those agencies’ management responsibilities that may influence future development and
management framework.
I.
Management Responsibilities
A.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Maintains primary jurisdiction of the lands and associated resources within the reservoir
area and is responsible for the environmental resources. However, some of the resources,
such as oil, gas, and fisheries, are the responsibility of other entities.
Administers all land and water use authorizations, grazing, power plant and dam
operation and maintenance, dam safety, and the operations areas at Glendo Reservoir.
Oversees the DSPHS’s operation of Glendo State Park to ensure that the terms and
conditions of the management agreement are being met.
Works cooperatively with DSPHS and the WGF to provide public recreation and wildlife
habitat conservation.
Is responsible for implementing all Federal laws, regulations, and Executive Orders
(E.O.) dealing with natural resources, such as but not limited to, the Endangered Species
Act; Wetlands Protection Act; Archaeological Resources Protection Act; National
Historic Preservation Act; Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act; E.O. 13007, Sacred Sites;
and E.O.s 11644 and 11989, Off-Road Vehicles.
Has the ultimate responsibility for protecting and managing most of the resources within
the reservoir area.
Administers the use of its land and water areas and regulates the way lands are managed
now and in the future
Turn Back Areas – In 1994, due to budget constraints, DSPHS returned recreation management
responsibilities of lands on the north end of the reservoir to Reclamation for recreation
management. This includes lands from Elkhorn Bay to Muddy Bay. The Byron Wilson Area is
a part of these lands returned to Reclamation for management. This land is located in the
northwest area of the reservoir. There are no developed facilities present and it is a designated
day-use area. Prior to acquisition for Glendo Reservoir, these lands were irrigated farm lands.
Reclamation has resumed management of this area in coordination with a lease agreement with
the WGF for habitat protection, habitat improvement, and hunter use. This includes
identification of potential projects to protect, enhance, and develop habitat for pheasants and
other wildlife for current and future needs.
Recreation - Through Public Law (P.L.) 89-72, as amended, Reclamation is encouraged to seek
non-Federal partners in managing the recreation resources on its land. When neither a Federal
nor non-Federal partner can be obtained, Reclamation manages the land and resources pursuant
to existing laws and regulations and specific Reclamation authorities.
In May 1992, MOU# 2-AG-60-01660 consolidated all the individual agreements Reclamation
and DSPHS had entered into cooperatively. This MOU included recreational management of
Buffalo Bill, Boysen, Glendo, Guernsey, Seminoe, and Keyhole Reservoirs as state parks for a
term of 25 years (Attachment A). Previous MOUs include the following:
•
In August 1955, Reclamation entered into a MOU with the State of Wyoming (State)
whereby Reclamation would prepare reservoir management plans as necessary for each
reservoir under Reclamation’s jurisdiction in Wyoming while the State was to administer,
operate, develop and maintain these lands.
•
Contract No. 14-06-700-1640, dated June 4, 1959, was entered into between Reclamation
and the Wyoming Parks Commission for the administration and development of lands
and facilities at Glendo Reservoir for recreational purposes.
•
In December 1984, Reclamation and the Wyoming Recreation Commission entered into a
lease (Contract No. 5-07-70-L2203) for the administration and development of lands and
facilities at Glendo Reservoir for recreational purposes.
Outgrants - Most specific land-use activities on Reclamation lands and water areas are
authorized and managed by Reclamation under outgrants such as a license, lease, right-of-way
easement, special-use permit, and other legal and binding contracts. Each authorization is
subject to specific terms and conditions covering the use of the Federal estate. Lessees are
restricted from conveying their permitted use to another party without the approval of
Reclamation. Outgrants may be issued only when they do not interfere with Reclamation project
purposes and do not convey exclusive use of Federal lands. They are generally temporary in
nature and contain restrictive language that protects present and future Federal land interests.
The DSPHS administers the concession and cabin site leases at Glendo Reservoir. These leases
adhere to current Reclamation policy and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
A portion of Reclamation’s outgrant policy states that, “New outgrants for long- or short-term
exclusive private or semiprivate uses of Reclamation lands for purposes such as cabins, homes,
condominiums, townhouses, clubs, organized camps, material storage, miscellaneous buildings,
commercial businesses not associated with public or authorized project uses, boat docks,
waterfront recreational facilities, landscaping, patios, decks, porches, and other nonessential
private facilities will not be issued.”
Special-use permits are also considered for archeological investigations, airports, wells, grazing
and agriculture, mineral exploration and extraction (including sand and gravel), pipelines and
other activities. Pesticide application on Reclamation lands requires a plan and pesticide use
permit.
Disposition/Disposal of Reclamation Lands - Pursuant to Section 204 of the Federal Land
Policy and Management Act of October 21, 1976, Reclamation must review all of its withdrawn
lands to determine if they are needed for project purposes. Withdrawn lands not needed for
project purposes are reported to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and after the
withdrawal order is revoked, the lands are returned to the public domain for administration by
the BLM or reported to GSA for disposal.
Acquired lands are also periodically reviewed by Reclamation to determine if they are needed for
project purposes or are excess lands. Excess lands are reported to the General Services
Administration (GSA). GSA first offers the lands to other Federal, State, or local public entities;
if there is no interest, they are put up for sale through public bid to acquire fair market value for
the property.
No withdrawn or acquired lands have been identified as no longer needed for Reclamation
purposes at Glendo Reservoir.
Off-Road Vehicle Use – Off-road vehicle use regulation was codified in 43 CFR Part 420, “…
to protect the land resource, promote public safety, minimize conflict among land users, and
ensure that any permitted use would not result in significant adverse environmental impacts or
cause irreversible damage to existing ecological balances.” The regulation states that
“Reclamation lands are closed to ORV use except for an area or trail specifically opened to the
use of ORVs. . .” Areas permitted for ORV use are to be evaluated and the use judged to be
compatible with adjacent private and public lands. The regulation includes further rules and
restrictions for ORVs on permitted lands. E.O.s 11644, February 8, 1972, and 12608, September
9, 1987, provide further guidance on managing ORVs if such lands are officially opened to ORV
use. Currently there are no designated ORV usage areas on Glendo Reservoir lands or Glendo
State Park
Concessions - Reclamation authorizes and administers concessions on its lands pursuant to
Reclamation’s Concession Policy, Directives and Standards and management agreements.
Reclamation and any managing partners will ensure that concessions are developed and managed
to meet public needs, protect natural and heritage resources, provide stewardship of all land and
water resources, and to provide a variety of goods and services to the public while being
consistent with authorized project purposes.
Reclamation and DSPHS entered into MOU No. 2-AG-60-01660, dated May 28, 1992 which
authorized DSPHS to manage concessions. This MOU was later amended on February, 26,
1996, to include Reclamation’s Interim Concession Management Policy and Interim Guidelines
with clarification regarding application of the concession guidelines (Attachment A). The
amendment, which addresses concessions management, will remain in effect until the current
MOU is amended or expires in May 2017.
Grazing - In January 1995, the Wyoming Recreation Commission (now the Division of State
Parks and Historic Sites) returned the administration of all agricultural leases to Reclamation.
Reclamation currently administers four grazing leases and one agricultural lease at Glendo
Reservoir. These units are displayed as Units 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8 as indicated on the Grazing and
Agriculture Lease Map A6 in Chapter III. Grazing is used as a tool to manage vegetation to
provide maximum project authorized purposes and benefits for resource protection and wildlife
habitat.
Accessibility – Reclamation is required to comply with the provisions of Federal laws for the
purpose of providing access to Federal buildings, programs, or activities. Federally conducted
programs and buildings must conform to the requirements of the Architectural Barriers Act of
1968 (P.L. 90-480, 42 U.S.C. 4151 et seq.), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
(P.L. 93-112, 29 U.S.C. 701), as amended in 1978 (29 U.S.C. 792) and 1992 (P.L. 102-569, 29
U.S.C. 701 et seq.). Reclamation is committed to improving public environments for people
with disabilities and to provide the highest level of accessibility possible consistent with its
mission of managing water and related facilities. At Glendo Reservoir, Reclamation shares the
accessibility responsibilities with DSPHS. Reclamation provides access to established public
facilities in the Byron Wilson area.
Pest Management – Reclamation is responsible for the identification and proper management of
pests on Reclamation lands and at Reclamation-owned facilities in accordance with the national
policies set out in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), Federal
Noxious Weed Act, Carlson-Foley Act, and applicable State and local laws and standards.
DSPHS is responsible to control all noxious weeds within Glendo State Park. Reclamation
controls all noxious weeds within the operation areas, within all agricultural and grazing lease
lands, and on Reclamation land outside Glendo State Park. Both agencies work with the
Converse and Platte County Weed and Pest Districts to identify and control noxious weeds at
Glendo Reservoir.
B.
Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites
Recreational Facilities – In accordance with MOU No. 2-AG-60-01660, the Division of State
Parks and Historic Sites is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all facility structures
and park grounds within Glendo State Park. Responsibilities include the reparation of structures
and facilities as a result of vandalism.
User Revenue - In 1992, DSPHS established a user fee system at its state parks. At Glendo
State Park, DSPHS is responsible for collecting daily use fees and overnight camping fees. Per
legislation, Glendo State Park may use 80% of the monies collected for state park operations.
Additionally, the MOU allows DSPHS to collect and retain fees from leases or contracts
provided they are used for the development, operation and maintenance, and replacement of the
recreation areas and facilities.
Law Enforcement – DSPHS has the responsibility to provide enforcement of state laws and
park regulations. Trained and certified state park staff provides the primary law enforcement
within Glendo State Park.
The local county sheriff usually assumes the authority for major crime investigations, and search
and rescue operations. The State Highway Patrol also has jurisdictional authority within the park
and may patrol the park area. There is no Federal law enforcement at Glendo Reservoir.
Safety – The DSPHS has within the limits of its administration, the authority to make and
enforce rules and regulations as necessary and desirable to protect the health and safety of
persons using the park and for the preservation of law and order. In the interest of safety,
sanitation, and protection of property; regulations have been posted in conspicuous locations
informing the public and encouraging proper use of the reservoir area. The operations and
designs of all new projects emphasize the safety of the park visitor and comply with all
applicable Federal and State regulations.
The park headquarters is equipped with basic first aid equipment in case of an emergency.
Telephones for emergency use are located at park headquarters and the marina. The town of
Glendo is equipped with an ambulance, and the closest medical facilities are in the nearby towns
of Wheatland and Douglas. The park staff is trained and equipped to provide basic emergency
care until more advanced life support services from Douglas and Wheatland arrive.
Concession Leases and Management – DSPHS administers concession leases for Reclamation
in accordance with the MOU and is responsible for advertising upcoming available concession
contracts. Development of concession facilities is limited to facilities necessary and appropriate
for public use of Federal land and water resources consistent with current planning processes.
Protection, preservation and conservation of resources must be balanced with public use interests
when concession operations are being planned.
Accessibility – Outdoor recreational opportunities are considered public accommodation
programs with associated services or activities in the State of Wyoming. Therefore, there is no
exception to this law and providers have the mandated obligation to comply with the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II; Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibilities Guidelines
(ADAAG) and the Rehabilitation Act, Title V, Section 504. The ADA and ADAAG have been
adopted by the State of Wyoming as its standard for developing facilities that are accessible.
The guidelines cover new construction and alteration to existing facilities and structures.
Alterations to existing facilities and structures that could affect the usability of that facility or
structure must be made in an accessible manner to the maximum extent feasible.
Transportation Management – DSPHS is responsible for the development and maintenance of
roads as well as the appropriate informational signage within Glendo State Park. Reclamation
Sign Guidelines have been provided to cultivate a safe, consistent, and effective signing program
that meets Reclamation objectives and conveys to the public a favorable image of Reclamation
and other managing entities. The DSPHS regulates vehicle use within Glendo State Park. The
DSPHS regulations specify that vehicles of all types, including ORVs, are confined to
established roads and parking areas unless otherwise designated.
Solid Waste Management - Litter and sanitation laws are enforced in Wyoming by all law
enforcement officers (W.S. 35-10-106). In state parks, these laws are enforced by county and
state officers (W.S. 36-8-105).
DSPHS is responsible for pick-up and disposal of solid waste within Glendo State Park. As of
May 2001, Glendo State Park received additional funding to conduct a pilot program through
Fiscal Year 2002 using machine-serviced dumpsters, freeing park staff from manually picking up
the trash from 55-gallon drum trash receptacles. Permanent funding for this program has been
included in Fiscal Years 2003 and 2004 DSPHS biennial budget request approved by the
Governor and scheduled for action during the February 2002 legislative session.
C.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department
All wildlife in Wyoming is the property of the State (Wyoming Statute Title 23, Chapter 1,
Section 103 (W.S. 23-1-103)). Title 23 states “It is the purpose of this act and the policy of the
state to provide an adequate and flexible system for control, propagation, management,
protection and regulation of all Wyoming wildlife.” Control and protection of wild mammals,
birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles on Glendo Reservoir lands are under the authority of the
WGF and their powers and duties as directed in Title 23, Chapter 1, Section 302. Included in
this statute are the powers to fix seasons and bag limits, to trap and remove, or to plant wildlife,
to regulate and designate the status of any species not already classified by law, to promulgate
orders to carry out the intent of the WFD, and to provide for wildlife-related law enforcement.
The WGF is authorized in Wyoming Statute Title 36, Chapter 8, Section 104, to designate
hunting areas and seasons in state parks. Field enforcement at Glendo State Park is provided by
WGF law enforcement officers as well as other Wyoming peace officers.
Wyoming Statute Title 41 (W.S. 41-13-215) regulates watercraft use in Wyoming and specifies
that WGF law enforcement officers shall enforce the boating laws in addition to the rules and
regulations of the WGF. Other Wyoming peace officers may also enforce these watercraft laws.
Glendo State Park is open to hunting during approved seasons with the exception of the southern
section where reservoir operations are located and where there are more visitors to Glendo State
Park facilities. Both hunting and fishing are permitted upon compliance with the laws, rules, and
regulations prescribed by the WGF. Hunting is subject to any additional closed/posted area
actions as determined by DSPHS and Reclamation.
Public programs on water safety and recommended methods that can be used to prevent
accidents on and around the water are the primary responsibility of the WGF. They receive
federal funds from the Coast Guard to promote boating safety and the WGF has offered the
boating safety program. The DSPHS periodically makes press releases to emphasize boating
safety.
D.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The Corps of Engineers (COE) operates within the Flood Control Regulations in accordance
with the Flood Control Act of December 22, 1944, for Glendo Reservoir. In 1971, Reclamation
entered into a working agreement with the COE regarding operation of Glendo Dam and
Reservoir. In this agreement, the COE will direct flood control releases when the water
elevation is above the top of the active conservation pool (elevation 4635 to 4653) and below
surcharge elevation. Reclamation’s Wyoming Area Manager will coordinate releases with the
COE District Engineer, as appropriate.
Glendo Reservoir RMP/MP
July 11, 2003
Chapter III. Existing Environment
This chapter discusses the existing physical, biological, and socioeconomic resources in the
study area. Resources such as climate, topography, geology, and project facilities and
appurtenances are described to characterize the general setting of the area. Maps A1 through A9
which describe the general setting are located at the end of this chapter.
I.
General Setting
This section addresses the resources not affected by the implementation of any of the
alternatives.
A.
General
Glendo Dam, Powerplant and Reservoir, located on the North Platte River approximately 6 miles
southeast of the town of Glendo, Platte County, Wyoming, were constructed between 1954 and
1958. Glendo Dam is an earthen structure constructed on the North Platte River as a multipurpose water development project which furnishes irrigation water for use in Wyoming and
Nebraska, and hydroelectric powerplant supplies power to surrounding towns and industry.
Other benefits of the reservoir include fish and wildlife enhancement, recreation, sediment
retention, and flood control. As of 1998, Glendo Reservoir has prevented approximately $49.6
million in flood damages.
During construction of Glendo Dam, no provisions were made to release water at low-flow rates.
With no provisions to release low flows, the river below Glendo Dam was essentially dewatered
from late September until early April. This caused degradation and loss of riparian and fishery
habitat along 20 miles of North Platte River between Glendo Dam and Guernsey Reservoir. In
1994, Reclamation installed a low-flow outlet through the dam to correct the design deficiency
and re-established an average flow of 25-40 cfs in the river below Glendo Dam, within existing
water rights and authorities. These releases are made year-round and are a redistribution of the
quantity of water historically moved from October to May. These releases also promote a viable
fishery in the 2-mile stretch of river channel between Glendo Dam and Glendo Powerplant in
addition to the river between Glendo Powerplant and Guernsey Reservoir.
There are about 10,197 acres of land and 12,365 acres of water within Glendo Reservoir
boundaries at the top of conservation elevation 4635.
The State of Wyoming owns some lands adjacent and near the reservoir. These lands are shown
on Map A1.
III-1
B.
Climate
The Glendo region is considered semi-arid. Prevailing winds are from the west/northwest and
are relatively strong, averaging 12 miles per hour. On occasion, strong winds of 30 to 40 miles
per hour can prevail for several days. Precipitation normally ranges from 9 to 16 inches
annually. Rainfall in the summer is usually in the form of showers with occasional cloudbursts.
Fall and winter snowfall ranges from 35 to 65 inches annually. Temperatures in the area
fluctuate widely, from -43ºF in the winter to 106ºF in the summer. Winters are long and
generally quite cold, while summers are characterized by frequent periods of extremely high
temperatures. The length of the growing season averages 140 days a year.
C.
Topography
The topographic relief around Glendo Reservoir varies from very steep slopes to rolling hills to
areas that are relatively flat. The dam site, as well as Red Canyon and the Platte River Canyon,
are uplift areas where the river has cut a deep gorge with very steep to vertical walls. Most of
the lands surrounding the reservoir are rolling with gentle slopes. Along the reservoir’s shoreline
are relatively flat grazing lands that become inundated during high water. Shallow draws,
formed by wind and water erosion, also occur throughout the reservoir area. Elevations around
the reservoir range from a high point of 5,085 feet at Elkhorn Mountain to a low elevation of
4,500 feet located on the North Platte River below the dam. A topography map of the Glendo
Reservoir area is shown on Map A2.
D.
Soils
Glendo soils are generally classified as either steep upland soils or floodplain soils. The
moderately steep upland soils occur on the flat-topped hills surrounding the reservoir. These
shallow soils develop from the weathering of soft sandstone with many rock outcrops present.
These soils support scattered stands of western juniper, ponderosa pine, and lodgepole pine
intermingled with grassland.
The soils on the floodplains adjacent to the reservoir are mostly deep, well-drained, sandy, loamy
and clayey. Along the major streams, soils are developing in alluvium, but along the small
streams, the parent materials are of local origin. These lowland soils support cottonwood trees
along with sagebrush and grasslands.
The permeability of the soil varies over a wide range depending on the location and the
underlying parent material. In the floodplain areas, where alluvium and clay deposits are
present, the permeability is moderately low. In the steep upland areas where these soils exist
over uplifted sedimentary rock, permeability is rated as moderate to moderately rapid. A soil
classification map is shown on Map A3.
III-2
In general, the thin soils developing in the steep upland sandstone areas are moderately to highly
susceptible to erosion. Any future development on these soils, such as trails, camp pads,
overlooks, should incorporate water bars that divert water off trails, or crushed rock to improve
drainage.
The alluvial clay loams and sandy clay loams in the floodplain areas are highly susceptible to
erosion. This is evident in areas where vegetation has been worn away and gullies have resulted
following intense seasonal rains.
Where practical, Reclamation and DSPHS employ erosion control practices such as placing riprap or vegetation enhancements.
E.
Drainage
The North Platte River basin above Glendo Dam encompasses 15,500 square miles in 10
counties in Wyoming and Colorado. To simplify river operations, the North Platte Basin is
divided into several basic divisions. The North Park (1,633 square miles), Saratoga (2,644
square miles), and Oregon Trail Divisions (6,098 square miles above Glendo Dam) are on the
main stem of the river and major tributaries are in the Medicine Bow (2,637 square miles) and
Sweetwater (2,488 square miles) Division.
The Oregon Trail Division above Glendo Dam is the largest drainage area in the North Platte
Basin, consisting of 6,090 square miles, or 30 percent of the area. The area includes portions of
Carbon, Natrona, Converse, Albany, Platte, and Niobrara Counties in Wyoming.
Water yield into Glendo Reservoir is controlled through the main stem of the North Platte River
by Gray Reef Reservoir located west of Casper. Downstream from Gray Reef Dam, the river
wanders through a broad flat valley and cuts a narrow gap bordered by high red bluffs at
Bessemer Bend.
Below Casper, the river winds principally through the High Plains country. No large tributaries
join the river in this reach from the north. To the south, tributaries rise in the northern extensions
of the Laramie Mountains which reach altitudes of more than 10,000 feet. The larger of these
tributaries in downstream order are Bates, Deer, Boxelder, La Prele, Wagonhound, and LaBonte
Creeks.
Ephemeral streams directly contributing to Glendo Reservoir include North Elkhorn Creek,
Elkhorn Creek, Lost Creek, and Muddy Creek. Fed by melting snows, these creeks rise in March
or April, usually peak in May and reduce to low base flow in June and July.
Records maintained by Reclamation on the North Platte River near Orin Junction, Wyoming,
which is just upstream from Glendo Reservoir, show the highest monthly flows into Glendo
Reservoir occur May through August. The mean monthly flows for May, June, July and August
are 177,950 acre-feet, 154,856 acre-feet, 144,572 acre-feet and 134,205 acre-feet, respectively,
for the period 1958 through 2002.
III-3
The highest mean monthly discharge on the North Platte River below Glendo Reservoir occurs in
July with an average July discharge of 301,675 acre-feet. The July and August reservoir releases
are generally made in response to irrigation demands. The mean monthly Glendo Reservoir
releases for May, June, July, and August are 135,562 acre-feet, 166,995 acre-feet, 301,675 acrefeet, and 299,160 acre-feet, respectively.
F.
Geology and Physiography
Glendo Dam and Reservoir are located in the North Platte River Basin within the physiographic
provinces of the Great Plains and the Southern Rocky Mountains. The western two-thirds of the
basin are dominated by scattered mountain ranges rising abruptly from plains of low relief to
comparatively flat intermountain basins. The high, level plains of the eastern third of the basin
are composed of recently deposited and poorly consolidated sediments (Mesozoic and Cenozoic
Eras).
Glendo Dam is located on the eastern edge of a synclinal basin in eastern Wyoming. The basin
was formed by the Hartville Uplift to the southeast and mountains to the northwest. The regional
dip of sediments in the area is to the southeast.
In the immediate area of the dam, the thick massive strata of the Cloverly Formation, Inyan Kara
Group (Jurassic Period) (Love and Christiansen, 1985), forms flat-topped uplands on both sides
of a narrow gorge through which the North Platte River flows. Morrison Formation shales and
limestones form the slopes of the gorge. The Sundance Formation shales, limestones, and
sandstones occur in the bottom of the canyon. At the middle and lower elevations of the canyon
walls, bedrock is partially to wholly covered with talus (slide rock). Below the dam, the talus
slopes end directly in the river or merge with the alluvial flats and river terraces.
Successively older sedimentary rocks outcrop upstream in the Red Canyon and Platte River
Canyon. These older formations are overlain unconformably throughout most of the area with
Tertiary sediments.
The reservoir basin is an erosional valley in gently dipping sedimentary rocks. The age of the
formation ranges from Permian in the upper reaches of the reservoir basin to Cretaceous at the
dam site. Tertiary sediments overlay the older sediments unconformably in the central part of
the area. The Tertiary formations consist of a group of horizontally bedded white to gray shales,.
In places, flat-topped knolls of this shale have been left as erosional remnants and are capped
with a thin veneer of stream gravels.
The river fill, which averages 35 feet in depth, is composed of sand, gravel, cobbles, and
boulders with some clay. Alluvial terraces composed of sand, silt, and a small amount of clay
occur in the reservoir basin.
III-4
G.
Visual Resources
Glendo Reservoir has several areas of scenic value. The primary visual resources in the area are
the red sandstone and shale and buff to gray sandstone and limestone that form the deep gorges
and steep cliffs at the dam site and upstream in the Red Canyon and the Platte River Canyon.
These uplifted sedimentary rock formations are fascinating areas to explore and provide many
vantage points overlooking scenic vistas. The Platte River Canyon, at the west end of the
reservoir, is a narrow gorge that connects the Byron Wilson Area with Elkhorn Bay. This area is
characterized by red and buff cliffs emanating from rolling tree covered hills. The Red Canyon
is similar in appearance to the Platte River Canyon with its red cliffs and forested hillsides. The
Glendo dam site is also within a steep narrow gorge with scenic red and buff cliffs and forested
back slopes.
Prior to the construction of any development, DSPHS and Reclamation considers the effect the
development would have on the aesthetics of the area.
H.
Water Operations
General Operations: Glendo Reservoir is operated by Reclamation in concert with other
Reclamation facilities on the North Platte River. Glendo Reservoir provides conservation
storage space of 517,485 acre-feet at elevation 4635 feet and an additional 271,917 acre-feet of
exclusive flood control space between elevations 4635 and 4653 feet.
Inflows into the reservoir are dependent upon the Alcova to Glendo river gain and the operation
of upstream reservoirs (Seminoe, Pathfinder, and Alcova Reservoirs) which result in releases at
Gray Reef Reservoir to the North Platte River. This system of Reclamation reservoirs is
operated to satisfy water rights, comply with U.S. Supreme court Decree Congressional
authorizations irrigation contracts, allow power generation without interference with water
rights, meet certain flow requirements such as maintaining a flow of 330 cfs in the North Platte
River through Casper, Wyoming, in accordance with P.L. 85-695 and maintaining a flow of 500
cfs in the North Platte River between Kortes Dam and Pathfinder Reservoir in accordance with
P.L. 92-146, and provide for recreation and fish and wildlife needs. The Alcova to Glendo river
gain contributes to the filling of the conservation pool of Glendo Reservoir. The 30-year average
annual contribution of the river gains between Alcova and Glendo to the inflow is about 231,000
acre-feet.
Glendo Reservoir is operated to store Alcova to Glendo river gains and relocate water stored
under upstream water storage rights during the winter months of October through April for later
release to meet demands during the irrigation season (May 1 through September 30). This
operation results in the filling of the reservoir over the winter months to a content of near the
517,485 acre-feet (4635 feet) conservation space by mid-June. The conservation space of the
reservoir is then evacuated in response to demands to an end of September content of
approximately 63,000 acre-feet or more (4570 feet). This schedule conserves irrigation storage
water and maximizes space available for power production during the non irrigation season at
upstream powerplants by providing space to recapture water from upstream releases. The
III-5
operations described above represent normal year conditions. The reservoir’s operations are
subject to high and low inflow conditions which affect the maximum content realized for the
year, the timing to reach the maximum content, and the resulting end of September content.
Releases from Glendo Reservoir are made in response to demands. During the non irrigation
season when the reservoir is storing river gains and recapturing releases from upstream reservoir,
releases from Glendo Reservoir are curtailed with the exception of the low flow outlet work at
the dam which provides a continuous release of 25 cfs to the river channel below Glendo Dam
for the enhancement of fish and wildlife habitat. The 30-year average annual discharge from
Glendo Reservoir is approximately 1,214,600 acre-feet.
Flood Operations: Glendo Reservoir is Reclamation’s only facility on the North Platte River
with storage space specifically allocated for flood control. The Flood Control Act of 1944
specifies that flood control operations while the storage is in the exclusive flood control space
(between elevations 4,635 and 4,653 feet) are under the jurisdiction of the COE.
When the water level in the reservoir rises above elevation 4,635 feet, Reclamation advises the
COE which in turn determines desired releases except for those releases needed for downstream
irrigation demands or to protect the safety of the structure. If the reservoir elevation rises to
exceed elevation 4,653 feet, the COE relinquishes its authority back to Reclamation. Releases
are then made to protect the structure until the water levels drop below elevation 4,653 feet.
The State of Wyoming 24 hour warning point and downstream sheriff departments are notified
when flooding is expected.
During flood conditions, Glendo Dam is monitored 24 hours per day, 7 days per week by remote
systems. Reclamation personnel remain at the dam continuously when the reservoir elevation
exceeds 4,653 feet or as requested by the Wyoming Area Office. Daily inspections of the dam
and dikes are made when the reservoir elevation is greater than 4,640 feet.
II.
Resources
This section addresses the resources that could potentially be affected by implementation of any
of the alternatives. Existing facilities in the recreational areas are displayed in Maps A10
through A34.
A.
Recreation
One of Wyoming’s most historic areas, Glendo State Park offers many activities from May
through October, but is open all year round. The park is best known for its excellent boating and
fishing opportunities. Other popular recreational activities include swimming, sun-bathing,
camping, hiking on trails, bird watching, photography, nature study, hunting, and trapping.
III-6
Facilities: Map A4 shows the locations of the state park management areas. There are seven
developed recreation areas located within Glendo State Park. Located along the southwest
shoreline are Reno Cove, Custer Cove, Whiskey Gulch, Shelter Point, Two Moon Campgrounds,
and Red Hills Day Use Area. Along the northwest shore is Sandy Beach Campground. An
inventory of recreation facilities at these seven campgrounds includes 165 campsites, one picnic
area with 27 tables, seven shelters, 36 restrooms, 14 water spigots, six boat ramps, and one trailer
dump station. Due to the fluctuations of the reservoir, several boat ramps include both high
water and low water ramps. Launching is dependent on the water level and length of the ramp as
well as the type and length of boat. Table III-1 lists the top and bottom elevations of five boat
ramps. The bottom elevation is the minimum water elevation needed for launching a boat.
Table III-1. Boat ramp elevations.
Boat Ramp
Top Elevation
Bottom Elevation
Elkhorn
4635’
4623’
Glendo Marina
4635’
4578’
Reno Cove
4635’
4560’
Whiskey Gulch
4635’
4578’
Bennett Hill
4635’
4610
The park headquarters, located at the southeast end of the reservoir, provides additional public
services and information. A marina, located south of the park headquarters, provides a
restaurant, motel, liquor store, fishing equipment and licenses, boat rentals, and a pay phone.
The park has one seasonal cabin area, located along the south shoreline next to Reno Cove that
provides 28 leased cabin sites.
Glendo State Park personnel are responsible for maintenance of all facility structures and park
grounds, with the exception of large construction projects which are administered through the
Planning and Construction Office of DSPHS. The small number of the park staff and limited
operation and maintenance budget are the major constraints limiting construction, restoration and
maintenance of park facilities. Maintenance of facilities is accomplished on an “as needed”
basis. Capital improvements are cost shared with Reclamation through Title 28 funding
authority.
Visitor Use Trends: A visitor use survey for Glendo State Park was last conducted in 1997.
The survey is used in determining trends in visitor use by providing a profile of the average
visitor. However, due to the quickly changing recreational preferences of visitors, this data was
not used. These projections assume that visitor tastes and preferences, as well as factors
affecting recreational behavior, would remain constant. For this reason, only visitor counts will
be given. A more updated survey should be used in the future for gathering visitor information.
Visitor counts, unless otherwise indicated, are acquired through electronic loop vehicle counters
placed at strategic locations within Glendo State Park. These raw counts are analyzed with
III-7
factors such as average number of persons per vehicle, length of stay, day user/camper ratios,
and the estimated number of visitors is calculated. These figures are analyzed and compared to
visitor use data collected over the past 20 years.
Visitor use statistics collected through the 2001 season indicate significant increases in the total
number of visitors to Glendo State Park. Visitor use has more than doubled at Glendo since
1981. Figure III-1 and Table III-2 shows the overall increases in visitor use during the past 20
years. The visitor season is defined as May 1 to October 31. Some additional visitation occurs
outside this season and is not included in the totals. Several years experienced slight declines in
visitor use. These declines can be attributed to a number of factors such as fluctuations in the
local economy, fire bans caused by drought conditions, or low water levels in the reservoir.
Figure III-1. Visitor use at Glendo over the past 20 years. Source: State of Wyoming, Parks and Cultural Resources,
Visitor Use Report
Glendo Visitor Use
250,000
200,000
Visitors
150,000
100,000
50,000
20
01
20
00
19
99
19
98
19
97
19
96
19
95
19
94
19
93
19
92
19
91
19
90
19
89
19
88
19
87
19
86
19
85
19
84
19
83
19
82
19
81
0
Year
Table III-2. Visitation to Glendo State Park
Year
Annual Visitors
1981
73,558
1982
82,638
1983
71,198
1984
82,108
1985
85,996
Year
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
III-8
Annual Visitors
122,480
123,489
116,368
126,084
126,632
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
98,641
97,212
90,402
103,270
113,897
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
129,203
132,384
156,343
167,447
175,639
173,839
Glendo has seen a sharp escalation in visitor use during the past four years. Situated between
Wyoming’s two most populated cities, Cheyenne and Casper, Glendo’s proximity makes it a
popular spot for Wyoming residents. The great majority of park users are from Cheyenne and
the Front Range areas in Colorado. Though Wyoming’s population growth rate has not kept
pace with Colorado’s, Cheyenne has seen a considerable amount of growth compared with the
rest of the state. Rising numbers of out-of-state users, a large percentage of which come from
Colorado, have led to recent increases at Glendo State Park. This increase is due in part to
temporary closure of Horsetooth Reservoir in Colorado and the banning of open alcohol
containers in Nebraska State Parks. Visitor use may subside once Horsetooth Reservoir is
reopened to the public.
The population boom along the Colorado Front Range has had a major impact on visitor use at
Glendo Reservoir. The building boom in recent years has seen Denver more than double in
population since 1960. More than a third of the city’s residents are between the ages of 35 and
54, giving it the highest percentage of baby boomers of any major U.S. city. Denver also has the
hightest percentage of high school and college graduates of any city in the country. This
corresponds to higher medium incomes and greater spending capacity for Colorado residents.
The active lifestyle, higher incomes, and booming population of the Front Range contribute
greatly to visitor use increases at Wyoming State Parks. Because of its proximity to the
Colorado border and a major interstate, Glendo has become a major attraction for Colorado
residents.
Visitor use is greatest during the summer months and crests around the 4th of July weekend.
Fishing tends to slow down as the summer weather warms the lake, bringing more recreational
boaters to the reservoir. From August through October, visitor use drops off significantly as
water levels recede. Table III-3 shows visitors by summer months for selected years.
Table III-3. Total Visitors by Month at Glendo State Park
Year
May
June
July
August
September October
1985
16,904
23,011
20,780
13,011
7,080
5,210
1990
22,072
24,461
33,844
17,073
10,173
6,274
1995
19,112
22,360
38,993
25,225
15,031
5,911
2000
29,963
44,147
51,637
28,357
13,962
7,573
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Figure III-2 shows a shift in the maximum visitation months, from June in 1985 to July in the
following years. This suggests a change in recreation preferences. Fishing still draws a large
number of visitors but with the advent of jet-skis and wave-runners, and the growing popularity
of water-skiing and wake-boarding, these activities are now becoming the main attraction to
Glendo reservoir.
Figure III-2. Visitor use by summer month for Glendo State Park. Source: State of Wyoming, Parks and Cultural
Resources, Visitor Use Report
Visitor Use by Month
60,000
50,000
Visitor Number
40,000
30,000
1985
1990
1995
2000
20,000
10,000
0
May
June
July
August
September
October
Month
Another trend occurring at Glendo Reservoir is the move toward larger, self contained watercraft
with all the amenities of a home. Coloradoans have the benefit of higher annual incomes and
their ability to purchase larger boats has resulted in a change in use at Glendo Reservoir. Large
sailboats and cabin cruisers now make up a large number of boats on the reservoir. As a result,
DSPHS has had to make modifications to park facilities in order to accommodate the larger
vessels. Bennett Hill Boat Ramp was installed to accommodate the larger sailboats and above
ground power lines had to be buried in order to launch the taller boats at the Marina Boat Ramp.
A floating sewage pumpout station was also installed to accommodate the larger water craft.
Based on a review of the past 20 years’ visitor use data, the average rate of growth of visitation
per year has been 5%. However, visitation growth rates over the same period have ranged from
-14% to 18%, making it difficult to effectively utilize historic growth rates in visitation
projections for Glendo Reservoir. Instead, visitation to Glendo was projected using a range of
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more probable growth scenarios; low, moderate, and high, reflecting an historic range of growth
patterns, as shown in Table III-4. This was done in an effort to effectively plan for future uses.
Glendo State Park has room for growth, but certain areas such as Sandy Beach, will become
overcrowded and measures need to be taken now to address growth throughout the park.
Table III-4. Projected Visitation at Glendo State Park
Year
Low Growth
Moderate Growth
1.5%
3.0%
2001 Base
173,839
173,839
2002
176,447
179,054
2003
179,093
184,426
2004
181,780
189,959
2005
184,506
195,657
2006
187,274
201,527
2007
190,083
207,573
2008
192,934
213,800
2009
195,828
220,214
2010
198,766
226,820
2011
201,747
233,625
2012
204,773
240,634
2013
207,845
247,853
2014
210,963
255,288
2015
214,127
262,947
2016
217,339
270,835
2017
220,599
278,961
2018
223,908
287,329
2019
227,267
295,949
2020
230,676
304,828
2021
234,136
313,973
2022
237,648
323,392
2023
241,213
333,094
2024
244,831
343,086
2025
248,503
353,379
2026
252,231
363,980
High Growth
5.0%
173,839
182,531
191,657
201,240
211,302
221,868
232,961
244,609
256,839
269,681
283,165
297,324
312,190
327,799
344,189
361,399
379,469
398,442
418,364
439,282
461,247
484,309
508,524
533,951
560,648
588,681
Recreation and Wildlife: Glendo Reservoir offers a diversity of nesting and feeding grounds
for a variety of wetland bird and wildlife species. Numerous amphibian, reptilian, mammalian
and avian habitats can be found within Glendo State Park. A large percentage of the wildlife
requires a marshy or shoreline habitat for survival. The marsh habitat is a major center for
wildlife activity, especially in the Muddy Bay area. The warm water of the reservoir provides an
abundance of fish, which attract fisherman from various areas.
III-11
In order to provide necessary habitat for wildlife, many areas are not developed with recreation
facilities. These areas range from small woodlots on riparian areas near campgrounds to larger
areas on the north end of the reservoir such as Airport and Muddy Bay and the Byron Wilson
areas.
Though Glendo State Park and other Glendo Reservoir lands encompass over 10,000 acres of
land and handle approximately 175,000 people annually, wildlife/human conflicts are rare.
Traffic is generally slow and visitors can usually avoid hitting deer and other animals on
roadways.
Concessions: All concessionaires make individual business decisions to enter into legal, binding
contracts with Reclamation and DSPHS, for operating commercial businesses on Federal lands
for a specific period of time. The right of renewal, fixed assets, trailer lease sites, and the length
of a contract are governed by existing terms and conditions of the contract. The terms of the
existing contract, Federal Acquisition Regulations, and Reclamation policy and Directives ad
Standards require competitive bidding of new concession opportunity upon expiration of an
existing contract. The existing concessionaire will have to compete with other bidders who
officially respond to the bid package (prospectus) sent out by the DSPHS. This prospectus will
contain enough detailed information to allow each bidder to submit their respective proposals for
the operation of a commercial business to Reclamation or the DSPHS for evaluation and
selection.
Concession leases are competitive. Six (6) months prior to the expiration of the current lease, the
DSPHS will advertise a new Request for Proposal (RFP) for the lease. The current
concessionaire will automatically be provided the new RFP.
The length of a concession lease shall be 20 years, or the balance of the term of MOU No. 2-SG60-01660 between Reclamation and DSPHS, which is in effect until May 27, 2017. The lease
payment shall be subject to review at the end of each five (5) year period during the 20-year
lease.
The DSPHS inspects the concessionaire annually to ensure compliance with contract
requirements, laws, ordinances, codes, rules, accounting systems, and regulations affecting
operations. Inspection forms are given to the concessionaire and filed with DSPHS for future
reference.
Any new concession lease shall contain the following financial obligation to the State of
Wyoming:
1) A concessionaire, whose operating gross is between $250,000 and $2,000,000
annually, will provide an annual financial statement on which a review has been
performed by an independent certified public accountant. The auditor’s report on the
review should accompany the financial statements.
2) Concessionaires whose operating gross is less than $250,000 will submit annual
financial statements that have been certified to be complete and correct.
III-12
The concessionaire will abide by insurance requirements as established by the Attorney
General’s Office and the Department of Administration and Information. Notification will be
given to current concessionaires as well as potential concessionaires of these requirements.
Current copies of the Certificate of Liability Insurance will be submitted by the concessionaire to
the DSPHS prior to the expiration of insurance coverage.
Current concessionaires, as well as potential concessionaires, must submit an independent
Master Plan for the concessionaire to DSPHS for future development of facilities. This plan will
include short-term plans and development (five years or less) as well as long-term plans and
development (ten years or more). The plan will be updated every five years to allow continued
correspondence and communications between the concessionaire and DSPHS.
Cabin Lease Sites: The DSPHS is responsible for administering the cabin lease program at
Glendo State Park. The cabins and appurtenant structures are privately owned and placed on
government-owned lands. Leases are issued on a five year renewable basis. Lessees pay fair
market value based on an independent appraisal and are paid annually. There are 28 cabin lease
holders, each approximately one acre in size. Each site has an independent water well and septic
system. Most of the cabins, however, obtain water through a certified water purveyor and 2-3
cabins fund and use a single well. The DSPHS must review and approve any exterior building
modifications and ground disturbances. The lessee is responsible for any improvements on the
site and compliance with all terms of the lease.
Currently, there is a moratorium on additional lease sites. Existing cabin sites are exempt from
this moratorium until the existing cabin lease is no longer valid, or it is determined that there is a
public need for the area.
Accessibility: DSPHS is currently working on expanding its outdoor recreation opportunities
and making them readily accessible for all Wyoming residents and visitors. A major
recommendation of the 2003 Wyoming SCORP is that state and local governments provide
recreation facilities that are accessible to and can be used by physically challenged individuals so
they can enjoy the same range of outdoor recreation as do non-physically challenged individuals.
Provisions are being provided for the physically challenged at existing facilities and are being
integrated in new facility development. All new construction projects will meet Uniform Federal
Accessibility Standards (UFAS). For instance, at least 5% of facilities or structures will meet
UFAS requirements. The DSPHS will work to upgrade or replace non-compliant facilities.
User Revenue: User fees are currently commensurate with the quality of service provided at
Wyoming state parks. Visitors to state parks pay a modest fee for daily use and overnight
camping that is established at a level adequate to recover a portion of the parks’ operation costs.
State legislature sets state park fees upon recommendation of the Joint Travel, Recreation,
Wildlife and Cultural Resource committee. In addition, DSPHS is bound by the National Park
Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund to not charge out of state users more than double
the resident fee.
III-13
Entrance fee booth stations facilitate the process of welcoming visitors and collecting these fees;
however, annual daily use and annual overnight camping permits can be obtained at all the state
parks and historic sites as well as various facilities around the state such as the DSPHS’
Cheyenne office.
Currently, Wyoming state statutes require that the DSPHS user fee revenue be divided between
the State’s “General Fund” and “Capital Enterprise Account”, 20/80 respectively. These state
statues provide a sound policy of fee collection that fosters confidence among legislative
decision-makers when proposals for capital and operating budgets are considered. The return of
user-generated funds to the state parks strengthens relations between the park users and park
staff. Park visitors witness their fees being directly applied to improvements to the park and its
operations. In addition, the MOU allows DSPHS to collect and retain fees from leases or
contracts, provided they are used for the development, operation and maintenance, and
replacement of the recreation areas and facilities.
Daily use and overnight camping permits are required at Glendo State Park and most other
Wyoming state parks. Daily use fees must be paid for each day/vehicle at the parks and per
person at historic sites. Resident daily use park fees are currently $2 and non-resident daily use
fees are $4. An annual day use park permit can be purchased for $25(resident) or $40 (nonresident). Overnight camping fees must be paid each day, per vehicle where camping is allowed.
Daily camping fees for residents are currently $6 per night while daily camping fees for nonresidents are $12. An annual resident overnight camping permit may be purchased for $30 and a
nonresident annual camping permit is $60.
During Fiscal Year 2001, DSPHS generated $1,331,914.27 from users’ fees - $514,669 alone at
Glendo State Park. Since January 1, 2001, 80% of the user-fee revenue is deposited into the
State's "Capital Enterprises Account"--a capital construction account within the "Enterprise
Fund" which may be expended by the DSPHS for capital construction projects subject to
approval by the legislature. DSPHS also receives matching federal grants to this funding for
construction costs only.
Law Enforcement: Current staffing for law enforcement is limited. The enforcement and
education of rules and regulations is a major constraint on present and proposed developments
within the park. Education may play a vital role in the law enforcement. People are usually
willing to obey rules and regulations when they have an understanding of why the rules are in
place. Adopting rules and regulations to guide park development and use serves no function if
enforcement is not assured and education is not provided. Providing a more extensive law
enforcement team and education program would increase park operation expenses but could save
money in vandalism costs and provides for a more pleasant visitor experience.
Transportation Management: The present road system within the park has occurred as a result
of spontaneous development in order to satisfy visitor demand for additional access to the
reservoir. DSPHS needs to review the present park road system and initiate action to upgrade
the system by developing an overall road plan as a part of the park development plan. Failure to
do so could severely limit the ability of the park to meet future demands for reservoir access and
facility development.
III-14
Five traffic counters located on access routes within the park's boundaries (Map A5) have
determined traffic volume estimates. The estimates derived from the counters indicate general
areas where high and low use patterns occur. Information from this data is used to determine
where to locate facilities and potential management problems of the park’s resources.
According to current traffic counts, the main entrance received 68% of the park’s traffic volume.
This area is an ideal location for a park headquarters/visitor center due to the amount of traffic
that enters Glendo State Park at that location. Traffic volumes can also be used to identify areas
where future development is not desirable because of low visitor use.
Wyoming Department of Transportation (WDOT) maintains Glendo Park Road, County Road
17, around the reservoir except across the dam. Reclamation maintains County Road 17 in the
portion that crosses the dam, as part of the operation and maintenance of the dam. Reclamation
has coordinated with WDOT on safety features of the road such as guardrails and rockfall
removal.
Off-Road Vehicle (ORV): Currently, there are no authorized ORV off road use areas at Glendo
Reservoir, but is likely that some unauthorized ORV use occurs at Glendo State Park. Off-road
vehicle use regulation was codified in 43 CFR Part 420 which states “Reclamation lands are
closed to ORV use except for an area or trail specifically opened to the use of ORVs …”. Per
43 CFR Part 420, ORV use is not allowed on the beaches, shoreline, and below the high water
line on Reclamation lands. However, ORVs are allowed on enrolled, maintained roadways
providing the ORV displays the Wyoming ORV sticker. Off-road use continues to be a concern
at Glendo State Park, especially along the dune area at Sandy Beach. The unregulated use of
ORVs can cause erosion, with resulting denudation of native vegetation. This allows invasive,
non-native species to proliferate. High ORV noise levels can create conflict between park users
and can adversely affect wildlife. In 2002, Wyoming Statute 31-5-1601 was put into effect to
generate funding to assist with problems associated with managing and maintaining ORV trails
and use. This statute requires the $15 purchase of an annual ORV sticker, with $14 being
reinvested into the State Trails Program.
Signage: Well designed highway signs can play a major role in the marketing of a park’s
opportunities to potential visitors. Highway signage will announce to the unfamiliar traveler the
park’s distance ahead and its major services. A signage program should consist of simple
directional and informational signs strategically placed to aid visitors in understanding and using
the park.
DSPHS is responsible for all state park related signs. If signs are within the state park but at a
Reclamation site, then DSPHS will acknowledge Reclamation as a partner. WGF are
responsible for posting fishing regulations at Glendo. Reclamation is responsible for signage
around the dam, powerplant, and other secured facilites.
Vandalism: Acts of vandalism are dispersed throughout the developed areas of the park with
the majority of damage to signs, shelters, picnic tables, and cooking grills. A substantial portion
III-15
of the vandalism is associated with local resident use of park facilities during evening hours and
low periods of use.
Factors associated with vandalism at Glendo include:
1) The large size of the park
2) Lack of law enforcement and surveillance personnel
3) Lack of education within the park
4) Isolated location of the park
Information on annual expenditures for vandalism is not available. Presently the state insurance
program covers most vandalism and DSPHS is reimbursed for repairs or replacements of
structures damaged by vandalism. A “Property Loss Notice” report is issued to the state’s
insurance company through their accounting department for any damage from accidents,
vandalism, or acts of nature (natural phenomenon).
B.
Land Management
Prior Rights and Reservations: The reservoir lands were acquired by Reclamation subject to:
1) any coal or mineral rights reserved to, or outstanding in, third parties at the time of
acquisition; and 2) any existing rights-of-way in favor of the public or in third parties for roads,
railroads, telephone lines, transmission lines, ditches, conduits, or pipelines on, over, or across
these lands. A search of available records does not indicate any other prior rights and
reservations other than the obvious, such as utility lines.
Government-Acquired Access Rights-of-Way: No rights-of-way have been acquired by the
Government for the specific purpose of gaining additional access to the land originally acquired
for Glendo Reservoir.
Outgrants – Most specific land use activities on Reclamation lands and water areas are
authorized and managed by Reclamation under outgrants such as special use permits, leases,
easements, and other legal and binding contracts. If the requested action affects, or has the
potential to affect, Glendo State Park, DSPHS is notified and are usually a signatory to the action
document. Each authorization is subject to specific terms and conditions covering the use of the
Federal estate. Lessees are restricted from conveying their permitted use to another party
without the approval of Reclamation. Outgrants may be issued only when they do not interfere
with Reclamation project purposes and do not convey exclusive use of Federal lands.
Noncompetitive use authorizations are generally issued at not less than market value. In addition
to the use fee, direct and indirect administration costs are collected. Administrative costs are
recovered in accordance with 43 CFR Part 429 and represent costs actually expended in granting
and administering the use right, both direct and indirect.
Through the outgrant process with outside entities, emphasis is placed on minimizing impacts to
the environment. Placement and construction of utilities are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Reclamation requires new utility powerlines be buried.
III-16
Recreation and Grazing: The land area around Glendo Reservoir is predominately used for
recreation and grazing. Administration of the recreation area, Glendo State Park, is the
responsibility of the DSPHS. Grazing within the management areas is permitted by Reclamation
through agreement with the DSPHS when such activities are an effective tool in vegetation
management and do not conflict with major land use objectives. However, in general, grazing is
not permitted in developed management areas. All livestock grazing on Glendo Reservoir lands
is administrated by Reclamation. Lands where grazing is currently used to manage vegetation
are predominately along the north, south and west sides of the reservoir. There are five active
leases (agricultural and grazing) at Glendo Reservoir (Map A6).
Most grazing occurs from April 1 through June 15. The leases are issued through a competitive
bidding process for a specific amount of time and available forage every year with an option to
renew the lease for four (4) additional 1-year periods. Animal unit months (AUM) are used to
regulate the time and amount of forage to be removed. An AUM is equal to a cow/calf pair
grazing for one month.
Concessions: Reclamation is responsible for maintaining the highest possible standards for
concessions management and establishing the standard for concessions management on all land
and water under its jurisdiction. The Bureau of Reclamation Interim Concession Management
Guidelines and Policy Statement were adopted by the State of Wyoming, Department of
Commerce-State Parks and Historic Sites through a February 26, 1996 Amendment to the
existing Memorandum of Understanding. The Department of Commerce Concession Rules
complies with the directives contained in the Amendment. The DSPHS determines which
services are needed by the public and issues and administers an exclusive concession contract at
Glendo State Park. This includes the selection of a concessionaire through the competitive
bidding process, annual reviews and evaluations of the services provided, and ensuring
concessionaire compliance with the terms of the concession contract.
The current concessionaire has exclusive concessions rights at Glendo State Park and operates
the Glendo Reservoir Marina under the terms of a December 1, 1989, lease with the option of
four, five-year renewals terminating on December 14, 2009. The concessions operate under the
terms of the lease and the existing Glendo Marina Master Plan.
Mineral Exploration: Lands for the operation of Glendo Reservoir have been withdrawn from
the public domain or acquired from private parties to prevent mineral entry within the reservoir
boundary. In those cases where minerals were not acquired with the surface rights, the deeds
contain clauses which prohibit exploration or removal of minerals without the approval of the
Bureau of Reclamation.
Wildlife: All wildlife in Wyoming is the property of the State of Wyoming. Glendo Reservoir
offers a diversity of nesting and feeding grounds for a variety of bird and wildlife species.
Numerous amphibian, reptilian, mammalian and avian habitats can be found within the reservoir
area. Non-consumptive wildlife activities include bird-watching, photography, and nature study.
Consumptive activities include big game hunting, small and upland game hunting, migratory bird
III-17
hunting, trapping, and fishing. Lands at Glendo Reservoir are managed to provide wildlife
habitats wherever possible.
Hunting and Fishing: Hunting, fishing and watercraft activities are regulated and enforced by
the WGF. It is the policy of the WGF to supply manpower and equipment to provide reasonable
enforcement and safety for the benefit of both the public and the wildlife using Glendo State
Park and Glendo Reservoir Area. Most developed recreation areas in Glendo State Park are
closed to hunting as are Reclamation Operations areas. These areas are generally posted as such
during the particular hunting seasons. There are several areas such as the Airport Bay, Muddy
Bay and the Byron Wilson areas where hunting is allowed.
The Glendo Reservoir fishery is managed under the wild concept. Management activities direct
effects toward providing anglers the opportunity to catch fish. The majority of game fish in
Glendo are wild, supported by some stocking as needed. The existing fishery is maintained by
drift and natural reproduction in the river and reservoir.
Fire Management: Public use areas have the highest fire susceptibility due to human
carelessness. Wildland fires have a greater probability of occurring during the summer months
(June through September) when ground fuel has been dried by warm temperatures and low
humidity. There are no designated fuel breaks in the Glendo area; however, access roads, roads
within the recreational areas, trails and natural terrain may serve as fuel breaks.
The decision to control or prohibit campfires in Glendo State Park during periods of extreme
susceptibility will be determined by DSPHS. Reclamation also has the responsibility to make
decisions regarding prohibiting campfires on Glendo Reservoir lands not managed by DSPHS.
The May 28, 1992 Memorandum of Understanding directs the DSPHS to “. . . assist in the
prevention, control, and suppression of fires in the vicinity of the transferred premises. . .”
Additionally, on July 21, 1998, Reclamation entered into an agreement with the Bureau of Land
Management for wildland fire suppression on Reclamation lands in Wyoming which includes
Glendo Reservoir.
C.
Water Resources
Water Quality: Section 303(d) and Section 305(b) are important components of the Clean
Water Act. Section 305(b) requires that a report be prepared on a biennial basis by each
respective state that describes the water quality of all navigable waters of the state. From the
305(b) report and other sources of information, a 303(d) list is prepared of those streams that are
impaired or threatened from meeting assigned beneficial uses. The Clean Water Act describes
those waterbodies on the 303(d) list as waterbodies in need of a Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) calculation for pollutants of concern. The TMDL is an assessment of the loading of a
particular pollutant that a stream can sustain and still provide for assigned beneficial uses.
Glendo Reservoir is encompassed within the Glendo Watershed, HUC10180008, as designated
by the WDEQ in Wyoming’s 2002 305(b) State Water Quality Assessment. The Glendo
Watershed includes all the drainages entering the North Platte River below LaPrele Creek (above
III-18
Douglas) and above the Fort Laramie Canal (below Guernsey). The Glendo Watershed was not
listed in the 2002 303(d) list for water quality impairments.
DSPHS operates and maintains five potable water systems within the Glendo State Park and are
located in the Headquarters area, Red Hills, Whiskey Gulch, Reno Cove, and Sandy Beach
campgrounds. The water systems are considered as transient/non-community potable water
systems and sampled quarterly. Samples are tested for coliforms, pathogens, and nitrates in
addition to a general potability test. Within the last four years, 1999-2002, no samples have been
outside acceptable limits. Each well is connected to a chlorine injection system to ensure
potability. As an option, DSPHS periodically conducts a chlorine test to check for residual
chlorine.
Approximately 2-3 cabins fund and use a single well. The other cabins in the lease area obtain
water through a certified water purveyor located outside of the state park in Custer Cove
Campground. Each cabin has its own septic system.
In 2001, DSPHS obtained a floating sewer dock to service an increased number of larger
watercraft as a result of a temporary closure of Horsetooth Reservoir in Colorado.
Approximately 239 gallons were pumped in 2001, 2,410 gallons in 2002, and 2,475 gallons in
2003. DSPHS intends to continue the service.
Glendo generally does not have significant algae blooms, although at the end of the year and
usually during hot years, algae can form dense mats.
D.
Wildlife Resources
Glendo Reservoir and its surrounding lands support an abundant and diverse fauna year-round.
Federal lands associated with the reservoir are limited to a narrow (less than 1.0 mile) border
around the reservoir and mobile terrestrial mammals and birds move easily on and off the unit.
There are approximately 10,197 acres of land between the normal high water line of the reservoir
and the boundary line.
Non-consumptive wildlife activities include bird watching, photography, and nature study.
Consumptive activities include big game hunting, small and upland game hunting, migratory bird
hunting, trapping, and fishing. Hunting is allowed with appropriate WGF licenses at Glendo in
the Byron Wilson, North Shore, Muddy Bay, and Airport Bay Areas.
A number of amphibian, reptilian, mammalian, and avian species inhabit the lands around
Glendo Reservoir (see Attachment B). The report entitled “A Description of Wildlife Resources
Found along the North Platte River in Wyoming and Nebraska” by Lynn Fisher (1980b) relates
wildlife species to vegetative communities.
Big Game. Glendo Reservoir and surrounding is designated by the WGF as winter/yearlong
habitat for deer, elk and pronghorn. Big game species that inhabit the lands around Glendo
Reservoir are mule deer, white-tailed deer, and pronghorn. The Red Canyon Area is considered
III-19
severe winter relief range and the Byron Wilson Area is considered crucial winter range during
the big game winter user period November 15-April 30 (WGF, Written Communication, October
2, 2003)
Deer - Mule deer are abundant around the reservoir. White-tailed deer are less common because
of the limited amount of riparian vegetation along the shores of the reservoir. These animals use
all of the existing habitats; however, white-tails have a stronger affinity for riparian areas. The
upland shrub communities and the ponderosa pine woodlands provide good deer cover and
browse. Glendo Reservoir and surrounding area is designated as winter/yearlong habitat for the
Laramie Peak mule deer herd, winter/yearlong habitat for the Goshen Rim mule deer herd, and
yearlong habitat for the Rawhide elk herd.
Pronghorn - Pronghorn are users of some of the reservoir lands, but mainly as temporary visitors
and in relatively low numbers. Pronghorn stay mostly on rangeland and associated agricultural
lands adjacent to the reservoir. Glendo Reservoir and surrounding area is designated as crucial
winter/yearlong habitat and severe winter relief habitat for the Dwyer pronghorn herd, and
winter/yearlong and yearlong habitat for the Meadowdale pronghorn herd.
Small Game: Small game mammals found at Glendo, such as cottontails and fox squirrels, are
common on Glendo Reservoir lands and both species are hunted within Reclamation lands.
Cottontails use all habitats and squirrels use all those habitats associated with deciduous trees.
Predatory animals: Predatory animals, as defined by Wyoming law, include coyotes,
jackrabbits, porcupines, raccoons, red fox, skunks, and stray cats. These species can be found in
the area surrounding Glendo Reservoir.
Furbearers: Furbearers in the Glendo Reservoir area include badger, beaver, bobcat, mink, and
muskrat.
Terrestrial furbearers - The terrestrial furbearers associated with Glendo Reservoir, the badger
and bobcat, are generally common in all habitat types. The rough terrain around much of the
reservoir is excellent bobcat habitat. These cats and the other furbearers support a substantial
amount of trapping activity in and around the park. Most of these species are predators.
Aquatic furbearers - Aquatic furbearers are probably most limited by the drastic annual changes
in the reservoir water level. Beaver are established in Muddy Creek and in the Byron Wilson
area at the upper end of the reservoir. Muskrats are present wherever adequate habitat exists.
Rodents: A variety of inconspicuous smaller mammals are also present in the area. The more
common species are the least chipmunk, Richardson s ground squirrel, white-tailed prairie dog,
Ord’s kangaroo rat, bush-tailed wood rat, and deer mouse.
Waterfowl: A variety of waterfowl and aquatic birds use Glendo Reservoir during most of the
year. The reservoir is important for reproduction, migration, and wintering. Waterfowl species
in the Glendo area include blue-wing teal, gadwall, American widgeon, mergansers, mallards,
and Canada geese.
III-20
During part of the winter months, the Glendo hydroelectric plant keeps portions of the North
Platte River from freezing. This open water habitat provides food for waterfowl and bald eagles.
Aquatic, shore, and wading birds move easily on and off the reservoir to the North Platte River,
its tributaries, and other nearby bodies of water. The mobility of these species and the seasonal
changes in abundance of migratory birds make population estimates for many species on
reservoir lands difficult.
Upland Game Birds: Several species of upland game birds inhabit reservoir lands; however,
they are generally in low abundance and are not well distributed around the reservoir. Upland
game birds include pheasants, sage grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, wild turkey, chukar, Hungarian
partridge, bobwhite quail, and mourning doves. Doves appear to be fairly common in the area.
Observances of turkeys and pheasants are seasonal in nature. As projects and needs arise,
Reclamation and WGF work together to develop the Muddy Bay, Byron Wilson, and Airport
Bay areas for upland game bird and other wildlife habitat.
Pheasants – Pheasants occupy three principal locations: the Muddy Bay, Byron Wilson, and
Airport Bay areas. In 2002, WGF released a total of 3,649 pheasants in these three locations.
The pheasants are released primarily for fall hunting. A direct benefit of the release is to
supplement the small resident population.
Sage grouse and sharp-tailed grouse - Both these upland game birds are low in abundance in the
vicinity of Glendo Reservoir. Sage grouse have been sighted in the upland sagebrush-grass
communities between Muddy Bay and Sandy Beach. .
Wild turkeys - Turkeys use the riparian zones and ponderosa pine woodlands on the north and
south ends of Glendo Reservoir. Recently, turkeys have been documented in Muddy Bay also.
These birds are nomadic and spend most of their time off reservoir lands.
Chukar, Hungarian partridge, and Bobwhite quail - These birds are rare in the Glendo Reservoir
area. Hungarian partridge are present, but uncommon. They have been sighted in the Airport
area and near Muddy Bay. These species are not abundant in southeast Wyoming and have
limited potential for population increases. .
Mourning dove - Mourning doves are common summer residents using most habitats around
Glendo Reservoir. Although many doves remain in the area until mid-fall, most migrate south in
early September.
Raptors: Birds of prey are common on reservoir lands during all seasons. Although many
species move south during the winter, some are year-round residents and others use the area only
during the winter or on migration stopovers. The diversity of the habitats and prey species; the
many cliffs, rock outcrops, and trees for nesting and roosting; and the reservoir’s location along a
major migration route make it attractive to raptors.
III-21
Common raptors observed near the reservoir include red-tailed hawk, Swainson’s hawk, prairie
falcons, American kestrels, ferruginous hawk, golden eagles, turkey vultures, and great horned
owls. The rough-legged hawk is a common winter resident.
Prior to 1994, a pair of osprey took residence on a distribution line power pole adjacent to the
Glendo Dam spillway outlet. In 1996, Western Area Power Administration (Western) and
Reclamation cooperated to relocate the nest due to the increased potential electrocution hazard to
the nesting birds and their offspring, and safety hazards associated with maintenance of the
electrical equipment. The Fish and Wildlife Service issued a permit to Western to relocate the
osprey nest. The nest was successfully moved to a man-made nesting platform in the vicinity of
the original nest site. The National Audubon Society was instrumental in site selection and
provided nesting platform plans.
Non-game Birds: Conspicuous and commonly occurring non-game birds include the white
pelican, great blue heron, killdeer, black-billed magpie, horned lark, western meadowlark,
spotted sandpiper, California gull, blackbird spp., swallow spp., Townsend’s solitaire, American
robin, black-capped chickadees, common nighthawk, lark sparrow, eastern and western
kingbirds, Brewer s sparrow, and double-crested cormorant.
At least 30 species of birds found in the Glendo Reservoir area are cavity nesters. Many other
birds use snags for perching or feeding. Presently, many of these species are relatively common
on the reservoir lands.
Glendo Reservoir is in an area of overlap of the ranges of many eastern and western bird species.
It is located along a major migration route and is surrounded by a variety of habitats of which its
riparian zone is the most important. These conditions attract a large number of summering,
wintering, and migrating birds.
Reptiles and Amphibians: A number of reptiles and amphibians occur in or around the
reservoir lands. Little data is available on species occurrences, population estimates, or habitat
affinities. The more common species are the tiger salamander, leopard frog, sagebrush lizard,
bull snake (gopher snake), common garter snake, and prairie rattlesnake.
E.
Fish Resources
The water level of Glendo Reservoir can fluctuate greatly during any given year. At full
conservation pool, the reservoir has a surface area of 12,365 acres. The large fluctuation is
typical of the water management at Glendo Reservoir and at least part of the high productivity of
the reservoir can be attributed to these fluctuations. When the water level declines, large
expanses of vegetation grow in the exposed floodplain and likely contribute to the next years’
productivity when it is inundated in the spring (Mavrakis, 2001).
Reservoir operations can affect the quality of habitat or space and can include severe stress
factors associated with the drawdown of water, such as change in food supply and water depth,
increased suspended silt, and flushing of plankton.
III-22
Although water level fluctuations appear to contribute to increased productivity, the magnitude
of fluctuations appears to affect fisheries. The fishery appears to benefit when end of water year
storage in late summer is closer to 100,000 acre-feet rather than 65,000 acre-feet (Mavrakis,
2001). The current water management with low storage in late summer and high storage in the
spring appears to benefit the fishery. These benefits include increased productivity, essentially a
“new reservoir effect”, every year and provides good spawning for nearly all fish in the
reservoir. Stable or increasing storage levels from April 1 through July 1 each year coincides
with the period when most fish in the reservoir spawn and young fish begin development.
The Glendo Reservoir fishery is monitored by WGF personnel using a standardized sampling
program associated with the North Platte reservoir system. Comparative data collected by the
WGF provides information on fish population trends and is used to develop management
strategies.
The fish species in Glendo Reservoir are listed in Table III-5. Tables III-6 and III-7 show the
percent composition by species as indicated by gill net captures and harvest by species,
respectively. Table III-8 provides information on angler growth trends.
Table III-5. Fish species present in Glendo Reservoir in 2000.
(Mavrakis, 2001)
Common Name
Relative Abundance
Scientific Name
Walleye
Abundant
Sander vitreus
Yellow Perch
Abundant
Perca flavescens
Channel Catfish
Abundant
Ictalurus punctatus
Black Crappie
Rare
Pomoxis nigromaculatus
White Crappie
Rare
Pomoxis annularis
Rainbow Trout
Rare
Oncorhynchus mykiss
Brown Trout
Rare
Salmo trutta
Largemouth Bass
Rare
Micropterus salmoides
Green Sunfish
Rare
Lepomis cyanellus
Common Carp
Common
Cyprinus carpio
Emerald Shiner
Abundant
Notropis atherinoides
Fathead Minnow
Common
Pimephales promelas
Gizzard Shad
Abundant
Dorosoma cepediannum
Iowa Darter
Rare
Etheostoma exile
Johnny Darter
Rare
Etheostoma nigrum
III-23
Longnose Sucker
Rare
Catostomus catostomus
Quillback
Common
Carpiodes cyprinus
Red Shiner
Rare
Cyprinella lutrensis
River Carpsucker
Rare
Carpiodes carpio
Sand Shiner
Common
Notropis stramineus
Spottail Sucker
Abundant
Notropis hudsonius
White Sucker
Common
Catostomus commersoni
Brook Stickleback
Rare
Culaea inconstans
Black Bullhead
Rare
Ictalurus melas
Shorthead Redhorse
Common
Moxostoma macrolepidotum
Table III-6. Percent by species of fish captured in experimental gill nets from 1996 through
2000, Glendo Reservoir. (Mavrakis, 2001)
Species
2000
1999
1998
1997
1996
Walleye
43%
38%
29%
52%
35%
Yellow Perch
11%
35%
55%
23%
39%
Channel Catfish
7%
4%
2%
1%
7%
Crappie (black and white)
7%
1%
2%
0%
1%
Carp
16%
10%
3%
5%
3%
Shorthead Redhorse
3%
3%
4%
3%
1%
Quillback
5%
6%
2%
11%
5%
Gizzard Shad
8%
1%
2%
5%
5%
White Sucker
2%
2%
2%
0%
3%
Longnose Sucker
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Total
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
III-24
Table III-7. Harvest by species in 1981 and 2000, Glendo Reservoir. (Mavrakis, 2001)
1981
2000
Species
Total Harvest %
Total Harvest %
Crappie (Black and white)
0
0.0
575
0.6
Channel Catfish
160
0.2
1,780
1.9
Carp
6,090
7.8
855
0.9
Largemouth Bass
0
0.0
20
0.0
Rainbow Trout
6,404
8.2
363
0.4
Walleye
21,000
26.9
88,112
92.5
Yellow Perch
44,272
56.8
3,598
3.8
All Species
77,926
95,301
Table III-8. Estimated number of anglers in1981 and 2000, Glendo Reservoir.
1981
(Mavrakis, 2001)
2000
Bank
Boat
All
Bank
Boat
All
April
1,855
1,316
3,171
1,164
2,024
3,189
May
1,290
4,730
6,029
2,103
14,166
16,269
June
3,081
6,766
9,847
2,637
17,830
20,466
July
3,989
4,918
8,907
1,205
7,245
8,449
August
2,273
2,171
4,444
648
2,051
2,600
September 2,295
1,200
3,495
354
1,046
1,401
Total
21,101
35,893
8,111
44,363
52,474
14,783
The presence of a diverse age structure among fish species indicates that the fishery is recharged
by drift and in-reservoir spawning. Walleye thrive in Glendo Reservoir and are supported
through natural reproduction. Yellow perch are reproducing naturally in Glendo Reservoir.
Perch are not stocked in the reservoir or river. Crappie (black and white) and largemouth bass
are naturally reproducing in the reservoir.
Channel catfish may reproduce naturally in Glendo Reservoir and in the North Platte River
immediately upstream of the reservoir. The WGF has not stocked catfish in Glendo Reservoir
since 1998, and in the North Platte River above Glendo since 2000.
III-25
The various non-game, minnow, and forage species in Glendo Reservoir (Table III-5) are
sustained through natural reproduction in the reservoir and through drift from the upstream riverreservoir complex. The younger age classes of minnow and non-game species provide an
important source of forage for the large game species. However, the largest contributor to the
forage base is the gizzard shad (WGF, Written Communication, October 2003). Although some
natural reproduction occurs, during a “normal” winter (approximately 60 days of ice cover) most
of the gizzard shad will perish. When this occurs, WGF stocks adult gizzard shad from
Nebraska.
Historically, Glendo Reservoir was managed under a basic yield trout fishery concept which
directs efforts toward producing fish to be harvested by fishermen. Abundant yellow perch in
the reservoir were detrimental to trout survival and the reservoir was treated with rotenone in
1966 and 1972. Glendo Reservoir was then restocked with rainbow trout and walleye. Walleye
were introduced as a biological control on yellow perch and to provide angling opportunities. As
the walleye population increased, rainbow trout survival declined and trout stocking ended in
1981. WGF management focus switched to walleye, yellow perch, and channel catfish. Walleye
are supported by natural reproduction and no longer stocked. Channel catfish and gizzard shad
are occasionally stocked (Mavrakis, 2001).
The WGF conducts creel surveys on Glendo Reservoir (Table III-8). The primary game fish has
switched from yellow perch in 1981, to walleye in 2000. In 1981 and 2000, walleye made up
27% and 93% of the harvest, respectively (Mavrakis, 2001) (Table III-7).
Game fish species found in Glendo Reservoir consist mostly of walleye, channel catfish, yellow
perch, and black and white crappie. Rainbow trout have not been stocked in Glendo Reservoir
since 1981, but are stocked in the North Platte River approximately 15 miles upstream of the
reservoir. Rainbow, brown and brook trout are incidental game fish in Glendo Reservoir. Their
presence in Glendo Reservoir probably coincides with high flows in upstream tributaries of the
North Platte River and of the river proper that flush the fish downstream.
During the 2000 and 2001 field season, WGF collected fish from 30 water bodies in Wyoming,
including Glendo Reservoir (Wolff, 2002). Collected fish were analyzed for mercury and
selenium with screening values of 0.40 ppm and 20 ppm, respectively. Based on the preliminary
data collected, it does not appear that mercury and selenium are a concern at Glendo Reservoir.
Table III-9 shows the results from the study.
Table III-9. Concentration of mercury and selenium in collected fish tissue from Glendo
Reservoir.
Species
Black Crappie
Mean
Length (in)
11.0
Mercury
(Hg) (ppm)
0.14
Selenium
(Se) (ppm)
1.66
Channel Catfish
15.0
0.15
0.85
Walleye
16.5
0.10
1.60
Yellow Perch
8.5
0.15
1.88
III-26
The 25 cfs release below Glendo Dam into the wetland complex has established a warm water
fishery in the wetland and benefited the fishery in the North Platte River to Guernsey Reservoir.
This flow has also substantially increased the emergent vegetation and wildlife habitat.
F.
Threatened and Endangered Species
The Service has identified four federally listed threatened or endangered species and one
proposed species, that may be present in or around the reservoir lands or the immediate vicinity
(Correspondence from Service, December 31, 2001). These species are the bald eagle
(threatened), black-footed ferret (endangered), Preble’s meadow jumping mouse (threatened),
Ute ladies’-tresses (threatened), and mountain plover (proposed). Also included are water
depletions to the North Platte River system and the black tailed prairie dog, a candidate species.
Bald Eagle: The bald eagle is associated with aquatic ecosystems throughout most of its range.
Nesting usually occurs near water. Fish predominate the diet of the bald eagle, but other types of
prey are often taken including waterfowl and small mammals. Dead animals or carrion are also
taken when available. Fisher, et al (1981) conducted bald eagle surveys in 1979, 1980, and
1981, with an average of 3, 4, and 13 eagles, respectively, using the reservoir, and a peak of 19
using the reservoir in 1981. Bald eagles use the reservoir during migration and wintering for
roosting and foraging.
Black-footed ferret: Black-footed ferrets are mostly nocturnal carnivores that live in burrows
made by prairie dogs and use prairie dogs for food. Black-footed ferrets are known to inhabit
black- and white-tailed prairie dog colonies. Although the black-footed ferret has not been
documented on Glendo Reservoir lands, the reservoir area is within their historic ranges.
Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse: The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse is believed to exist
in southeastern Wyoming and could occur in Albany, Converse, Laramie, and Platte Counties.
The mouse inhabits grass and forb prairie habitats, abandoned fields, and open woodlands. They
seem to prefer the moist grass and sedge meadows and thickets of willow that grow near streams
and potholes. Habitat components consist of low, dense cover which may be provided by grass,
sedges, or low-growing broad-leaved plants. The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse eats buds,
leaves, berries, or fruits when available. Insects and other invertebrates can also be sources of
food. There have been no studies or surveys on Glendo Reservoir lands for the Preble’s meadow
jumping mouse. It is not known if the species inhabits Glendo Reservoir lands.
Ute Ladies’-Tresses: The Ute ladies’-tresses is an orchid which is endemic to moist soils in
mesic or wet meadows near springs, lakes, or perennial streams (Federal Register, 1992). The
elevation range of known Ute ladies’-tresses occurrences is 4,300 to 7,000 feet. Most are found
along riparian habitat edges, gravel bars, old oxbows, and moist to wet meadows along perennial
streams (Service, 1995). Ute ladies’-tresses seem to require “permanent sub-irrigation”
indicating an affinity with floodplain areas where the water table is near the surface throughout
the growing season and into the late summer or early autumn. The orchid occurs primarily in
areas where the vegetation is relatively open and not overly dense or overgrown (Service, 1995).
III-27
There have been no studies or surveys on Glendo Reservoir lands for the Ute ladies’-tresses
orchid.
Mountain Plover: The mountain plover is a shorebird proposed for listing that breeds in arid
short grass prairie and appears to avoid water. Mountain plovers feed primarily on insects such
as spiders, beetles, grasshoppers, crickets and ants. The mountain plover can thrive without
drinking free-standing water (surface water). Sufficient water is obtained from its food.
Mountain plovers prefer expansive arid flats with very short grass and a high proportion of bare
ground. In parts of its breeding range, the mountain plover selectively nests in prairie dog towns
(Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, 1994). There have been no studies or surveys on
Glendo Reservoir lands for the mountain plover.
On September 9, 2003, the Service published in the Federal Register their withdraw of their 1999
and 2002 proposed rule and 2002 proposed special rule to list the mountain plover as threatened.
North Platte River Water Depletions: The following species are threatened or endangered in
central Nebraska and may be affected by water depletions to the Platte River system. Currently,
water depletions which may affect the whooping crane, interior least tern, piping plover, and
pallid sturgeon are addressed through the “Cooperative Agreement for Platte River Research and
Other Efforts Relating to Endangered Species Habitats Along the Central Platte River,
Nebraska”.
The endangered whooping crane (Grus Americana), occurs in the central Nebraska area during
the spring migration. Whooping cranes migrate through central Nebraska in mid-April to early
May and may stay for a few days. Whooping cranes prefer wide open expanses of riverine and
wetland habitat for roosting, feeding and loafing.
The endangered interior least tern (Sterna antillarum), occurs in central Nebraska along Platte
River sandbars and beaches. This species uses riverine nesting sites which are dry, flat, sparsely
vegetated sand and gravel bars within a wide, unobstructed, water-filled river channel and
consume small fish captured in the shallow water of rivers and lakes.
The threatened piping plover (Charadrius melodus), utilize wet shorelines for feeding on small
invertebrates and a dry sandy, relatively flat area for nesting. These areas include sparsely
vegetated sandbars, aggregate mining spoil piles, and reservoir shorelines.
The endangered pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) is associated with large, turbid, freeflowing river habitat with rocky or sandy substrate. The range of the pallid sturgeon is primarily
the Missouri River and the Mississippi River downstream of the junction with the Missouri
River, however, the pallid sturgeon also inhabits the lower Plate River in Nebraska.
The endangered Eskimo curlew (Numenium borealis) is a medium-sized shorebird which has a
migration route from the Canadian Arctic tundra of the Northwest Territories to southern Brazil
and Uruguay and Argentina in South America. The historic record indicates that wet meadows
and similar prairie grassland vegetation were used most often by the curlew while migrating
III-28
through Nebraska during early April to late May. A principal spring migration staging area
includes Hall, Hamilton, Merrick, and York Counties, Nebraska.
The threatened western prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera praeclara) can be found in the central
Platte River area of Nebraska. It occurs most often in remnant native prairies and meadows but
has also been observed at disturbed sites, subirrigated prairies and swales in sand dune
complexes. A Hall County, Nebraska, population of western prairie fringed orchid is the only
population presently known to occur in wet meadows adjacent to the Platte River in central
Nebraska.
Black-tailed prairie dog: The black-tailed prairie dog is a candidate species for listing that may
be found on Glendo Reservoir lands. Prairie dogs use dry, flat open grasslands with low,
relatively sparse vegetation. There have been no studies or surveys on Glendo Reservoir lands
for the black-tailed prairie dog.
G.
Vegetation
General: The diversity of plant species inhabiting the lands at Glendo Reservoir are of three
vegetation types which are grasses, shrubs and forbs, and trees. General locations of these
vegetation types are shown on Map A7. These vegetation types are further grouped into nine
major plant communities. These communities include: Conifers, mountain shrub, sagebrush,
prairie grasslands, open park, open cottonwood, closed cottonwood, cottonwood-willow, and
willow (Fisher, 1980a).
Conifer: The conifer communities occupy the higher elevations around Glendo Reservoir.
These communities are usually dominated by Rocky Mountain juniper or ponderosa pine.
Juniper may dominate a site or occur as an understory with ponderosa pine. Ponderosa pines
usually grow clumped on hillsides or rock outcrops.
Limber pines are often scattered among the ponderosa pine communities, dominating the higher,
rockier, more exposed mountain outcrops.
Conifer Understory: Sagebrush and mountain shrub communities are common and intermixed.
Important shrubs include big sage, silver sage, fringed sage, rabbitbrush, currant, skunkbush,
mountain mahogany, wild rose, and bitterbrush.
Ground vegetation is sparse and varies with elevation and site conditions. Kentucky bluegrass,
western wheatgrass, blue grama, needle-and-thread, and junegrass are common grasses. Other
species often found in the ground cover include yucca, broom snakeweed, Indian paintbrush,
cinquefoil, strawberry, geraniums, yarrow and threadleaf sedge.
Mountain shrub: On the edges of escarpments and bluffs, mountain shrub communities are
often found between conifers and sagebrush or grasslands. Along the North Platte River, they
are most common on the drier south facing slopes.
III-29
Mountain mahogany, skunkbush, snowberry, rabbitbrush, and wild currant often dominate shrub
communities adjacent to or amidst conifers. Other common shrubs include red osier dogwood,
buckthorn, wild rose, bitterbrush, greasewood, common juniper, snakeweed, big and silver
sagebrush.
The dominant ground cover includes prairie junegrass, brome, cheatgrass, needle-and-thread,
three-awn and bluegrass. Common forbs include yucca, wild licorice, thistle, cactus, dove-plant,
phlox, and miner s candle.
Sagebrush: Sagebrush communities dominate vast acreages and are the most common habitat
in southeastern Wyoming. Species, density, height, and understory vary with elevation, soil
type, topography, climate and land use.
Big sage dominates the drier, high rocky soils of the Upper North Platte River. Rabbitbrush is
often found with big sage and may dominate the community at some sites. Grasses commonly
found in the understory include needle-and-thread, junegrass, sand dropseed, blue grama, and
three-awn. Thread-leaf sedge, yucca, miner s candle, prairie sage, phlox and cactus may also be
important.
Moist drainages and sandy flood plains are often dominated by silver sage. Around Glendo
Reservoir, rabbitbrush, snakeweed, and fringed sage may be intermingled. Scurf pea, grayia,
wild rose, sumpweed, yucca, cactus, needle-and-thread and prairie sandreed are also found in the
area.
Prairie grasslands: Prairie grasslands in the Glendo area include mid-grass prairie over most of
the area and limited tall grasses along the river bottom lands. Dominant species depend upon the
depth of the water table, climate, drainage, salinity, topography, and land use. Grazing and
irrigation practices have altered the species composition and character of many prairie grasslands
in the area.
Mid-grass and prairie species require more moisture and may occur on north or east facing
slopes or in lower areas. Wheatgrass species dominate with needle-and-thread, dropseed, little
bluestem, wild rye, prairie sandreed, brome, psoralea, sweet clover, Mentzelia, broom
snakeweed, fringed sagebrush, prairie sage, bush morning glory, Indigo bush, yucca, sedge, and
cactus being common. Cover and height are usually higher than in short grass prairie. These
types often integrate into sagebrush communities as shrubs increase.
In bottomlands along the river, the water tables may be within 10 to 60 inches of the ground
surface during most of the growing season, allowing tall grasses to dominate. Big bluestem,
switchgrass, prairie cordgrass, Indian grass, Kentucky bluegrass, Canada wildrye, prairie
sandreed, redtop, dropseed, and foxtail barley are common, along with lamb s quarter, docks,
licorice, western ragweed, milk vetch, vervain, thistles, and goldenrod.
The five remaining plant community types, open park, open cottonwood, closed cottonwood,
cottonwood-willow, and willow, occur predominately along river bottom lands.
III-30
Open Park: Open parks are typically grasslands with occasional large cottonwood trees. They
are characterized by the presence of very few trees or large shrubs, thickets or smaller shrubs and
tall forbs. The trees are often larger than those growing in other nearby wooded communities,
due to the open character of this type. Species include cottonwoods, peachleaf willows, elm, and
Russian olive.
Small shrub thickets of snowberry, rose, skunkbush and licorice are frequently covered by
Virgin s bower, Virginia creeper, and poison ivy. Russian olive, silver and big sage,
buffaloberry and rabbitbrush are scattered in some areas. Ground cover includes fields of
sunflowers, ragweed, thistle, horsetail, aster, milkweed, sweet clover, western wheatgrass, foxtail
barley, dropseed, needle-and-thread, and bluegrass.
The trees in open parks are usually surrounded by prairie grassland or sagebrush communities.
Woodlands, agricultural lands and urban areas border many open parks.
Open Cottonwood: Open cottonwood types are defined as those deciduous communities with
less than 50 percent canopy cover and little or no shrub understory (Masek, 1979, Fitzgerald,
1978). Large, widely spaced trees usually cover 10 to 30 percent of the ground. Dominant tree
species (for all cottonwood types) vary with altitude, topography, and longitude.
Shrubs found on the edges and within openings in open cottonwood communities include
snowberry, skunkbush, currant, wild rose, buffaloberry, and rabbitbrush. Bluegrass, wheatgrass,
brome, nutgrass, spike rush, sedges, smartweed, milkweed, golden aster, horsetail, virgin s
bower, ragweed, ironweed, sweet clover, poison ivy, wild licorice, catnip, and thistle are
abundant.
Closed Cottonwood: Deciduous tree communities with over 50 percent canopy cover are
considered closed cottonwood types. A second type of closed cottonwood stand is comprised of
decadent cottonwoods. After 30 or 40 years, cottonwood stands begin to decline because
cottonwood seedlings cannot survive in the shade of parent trees (Aronson and Ellis, 1979).
Cottonwood species distribution is the same as that described for the open cottonwood type.
Cottonwood-willow: Once willows stabilize the sandbars, cottonwoods begin to invade.
Intolerant of shade, willows subsequently die off and leave open cottonwood communities. It is
not uncommon on the North Platte to find decadent, dying or dead willows under cottonwoods.
These communities tend to be linear in extent and may follow the edge of permanent or
intermittent water or serve as a transition area between willow and cottonwood communities.
The overstory of larger trees is usually dominated by narrowleaf cottonwoods. Peachleaf
willow, Russian olive, green ash, and buffaloberry form an understory. These species may also
be present in or dominate the overstory.
A variety of willow species usually dominates a dense shrub understory. Snowberry, Indigo
bush, wild licorice, poison ivy, wild rose, virgin s bower, and currant are also common in this
III-31
strata. Ground cover may be dominated by foxtail barley, redtop, wheatgrass, horsetail,
ragweed, impatiens, dogbane, thistle, smartweed, milkweed, sweet clover, and lambs quarter.
Willows : Willows are usually the first woody vegetation to colonize riverbanks and lakeshores.
Occupying the wettest deciduous type, these communities often form dense thickets. Tree
saplings (usually peachleaf willow or Russian olive), salt cedar and various species of willow
will co-dominate.
Low numbers of snowberry, currant, wild rose, and licorice may be present intermingled with the
willows or in thicket openings. Common reed, foxtail barley, rabbitfoot grass, rice cutgrass,
cordgrass, redtop, reed canary grass, and wheatgrass are commonly found in the herbaceous
cover with sweet clover, horsetail, sedges, goldenrod, milkweed, cattails, mint, and rushes.
As sandbars and islands are stabilized by willows, there may be a transition from low shrub to
tall shrub communities. More flood-tolerant sandbar willows usually remain on the perimeter
and peachleaf willow, buffaloberry, and Russian olive invade the drier ground. Skunkbush,
virgin’s bower, rabbitbrush, prairie sage, poison ivy, indigo bush, bush morning glory, wild
plum, and grape may be present in addition to the species mentioned above. Ground cover
providing 100 percent cover include foxtail barley, redtop, common reed, cordgrass, brome
cheatgrass, dropseed, wheatgrass, thistle, horsetail, ragweed, clover, goldenrod, sweet clover,
dogbane, mint and milkweed. Characterized by a multi-layered structure, this mixed community
often represents a successful stage of riparian vegetation.
Wetlands:
Muddy Bay
Muddy Bay is a shallow embayment on the northeast side of Glendo Reservoir, and features a
fluctuating reservoir shoreline with associated littoral vegetation and wildlife. Two small creeks,
Muddy Creek and Willow Creek, flow through the area and contribute to supporting riparian
habitats. Muddy Creek is the larger of the two creeks and flows throughout the year while
Willow Creek has seasonal flow characteristics. Two ponds form when the reservoir water level
drops during irrigation season. The ponds support vegetation such as cattails, sedges, and
willows. A marshy area within the wide banks near the Muddy Creek outlet supports emergent
vegetation including cattails and sedges.
The area was overgrown in weeds and the public had pioneered several roads through the area.
The Muddy Bay Wetlands Interpretive Trail at Glendo Reservoir was developed to provide
controlled public access to a natural area for the purpose of public education and recreation and
resource protection. The opportunity exists to view wetland areas, beaver ponds, cattail
communities, grassland areas, riparian habitats, mature tree stands and recently inundated
emergent land areas.
The interpretive trail consists of approximately 1¾ mile compacted gravel trail which is five feet
wide. The entire trail is handicapped accessible. There are 13 interpretive signs which were
developed cooperatively with the WGF which interpret the environmental diversity of the
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wetlands. Approximately 50 acres of the Muddy Bay wetland area was abandoned farm lands in
the 1950’s. Several select locations were reseeded into native grasses and wildflowers.
Glendo Dam Wetlands
When Glendo Dam was constructed in 1955-1958, the dam and powerplant were designed so
that any water releases would be routed through a tunnel from the reservoir and exit through the
powerplant before reaching the North Platte River. Water would usually only be released for
irrigation and power generation. At the time of construction, little environmental regard was
given to the 2.0 mile stretch of river between the dam and powerplant and the 20 miles of river
below the powerplant to Guernsey Reservoir. As a result, there was no flow except seepage in
the river between the dam and the powerplant, and no releases were made at the river outlet and
powerplant during the non-irrigation season. The seepage which did occur was enough for a
wetland area to become established between the dam and the powerplant but the seepage was not
sufficient to maintain significant habitat during the winter below Glendo Powerplant.
The lack of flow in the river was identified as a design deficiency of the project as the outlet
works was not capable of providing low flows which could be restored downstream in Guernsey
Reservoir. To remedy the situation, a low flow outlet was constructed in 1992-1993 through
Glendo Dam to provide a discharge of 25-40 cfs for fisheries and wildlife habitat. On March 24,
1993, Reclamation tested the new Glendo Low Flow Outlet. The mechanics and operation of the
outlet was evaluated for proper operations and the flow was initiated.
The objective of the low flow outlet project was to provide a reliable water source for fisheries
and wildlife habitat between the dam and Guernsey Reservoir. The area below the dam was
enhanced with a wetlands interpretive trail complex.
The interpretive trail complex includes a low water crossing near the powerplant constructed in
1992, through cost sharing with the WGF. The crossing was designed to allow the water level in
the upstream wetland area to be controlled by use of a stoplog check structure. The check
structure provides the ability to adjust the water level in the wetland immediately upstream of the
water crossing for habitat enhancement. The WGF determines the water level of the wetland
area.
The interpretive trail also includes approximately 3.4 miles of trail and 9 interpretive signs
describing wildlife in the area, habitat requirements, wetland and riparian areas and local
geology. The trail is handicapped accessible and provides six resting benches, and two
observation/fishing piers. An accessible restroom is located near the parking area at the trail
head. A footbridge across the river approximately 0.4 mile upstream of the trailhead forms a
loop on the downstream end of the trail. The DSPHS maintains the restroom facility while
Reclamation maintains the trail.
Following the low water crossing across the river is a short loop gravel road which enables the
public to access the river downstream of the wetland area. A small watercraft boat launching
pad is available to the public to access the river.
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Hunting, off-road vehicle use, and camping are not allowed in the wetland and trail areas as it is
in Reclamation’s operation and maintenance area. Boating is also not allowed in the wetland
area as the activity may pose a disturbance to nesting waterfowl, fish and other wildlife, and
would detract from the experience of those using the trail. Fishing is allowed from the bank and
piers, and the use of hip waders and float tubes are acceptable.
Noxious weeds:
In conformance with Federal, State, and County regulation, Reclamation is responsible for
noxious weed control on agricultural and grazing lease lands and turn back areas formerly
managed by DSPHS. DSPHS is responsible for weed control on Reclamation lands they manage
for recreation at Glendo Reservoir. There are Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plans for each
of the areas as mandated by 609 Departmental Manual 1-June 26, 1995, and Secretarial Order
No. 3190, June 22, 1995, which require the use of IPM concepts and practices. These practices
include chemical, biological, and mechanical control of designated noxious weeds.
Weed control at Glendo Reservoir is conducted in conformance with the Glendo Vegetation
Management Plan (GVMP). Both agencies control weeds with the assistance of the Platte
County Weed and Pest District. The DSPHS conducts their own weed control and Reclamation
contracts with private commercial applicators and the Platte County Weed and Pest District. The
major weed control areas are shown on Map A8.
H.
Socioeconomics
Transportation
Glendo Reservoir, located in Platte County is served by a network of roads, highways, and motor
freight lines. Interstate Highway 25 divides Platte County along a north-south axis. The state
primary system includes Highway 26 in the east central part of the county. State secondary
roads include Route 270 in the northeast, Route 319 in the north (paralleling the interstate),
Route 316 in the central portion, Route 34 in the southwest, and Routes 313 and 314 in the
southeast.
The best route to Glendo Dam is from I-25 to the town of Glendo, then southeast 5.3 miles on a
paved road to a junction. The dam is located 0.7 miles ahead and the powerplant may be reached
by turning right and traveling 1.1 miles. The developed recreation areas are accessible by gravel
roads.
Platte and Converse Counties are served by rail lines, roads, and highways. Interstate 25 and
State Highway 319 parallel much of Glendo Reservoir on the west side. The Burlington
Northern Santa Fe Railroad provides freight service in the area. The trains primarily transport
coal from the Thunder Basin Coal Fields to coal fueled powerplants in various states.
The nearest commercial airports are located in Casper, Wyoming, 80 miles from Glendo Dam;
Cheyenne, Wyoming, 102 miles from the dam; and Scottsbluff, Nebraska, about 98 miles from
III-34
the dam. There are also airports at Douglas, Wyoming, 27 miles away and in Wheatland,
Wyoming, 32 miles away. There is a small dirt-runway airfield located about one mile north of
the town of Glendo along U.S. Highway 26/87. This airfield serves local use on a limited basis.
Administration and Management
Glendo Reservoir is located mostly in Platte County. Platte County is governed by a county
commission. Wheatland, the county seat, is the largest of five incorporated towns in the county.
The other four include Guernsey, on the eastern edge of the county, Chugwater, in the southern
part of the county, Hartville, a few miles north of Guernsey, and Glendo, only six miles from
Glendo Dam. A small part of the upper end of the reservoir is located in the southeastern part of
Converse County, near Douglas, Wyoming. Douglas is the county seat of Converse County.
Education
Platte County has two school districts with a total number of 13 schools. Approximately 2,000
students are enrolled from elementary level through high school. An adult community education
program is provided in Wheatland
Converse County has two school districts. In Douglas, 1,680 students attend two elementary
schools (K-2), one intermediate school (3-5), one middle school (6-8), one high school (9-12)
and 6 rural schools (K-8). In Glenrock, 800 students attend one elementary school (K-4), one
middle school (5-8), one high school (9-12) and one rural school. Community and adult
education programs are offered through Eastern Wyoming College in Douglas and Glenrock for
students seeking higher education foundation and vocational training in broad fields. College
courses through the University of Wyoming at Casper are available to commuters. In addition,
the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy in Douglas provides training to law enforcement
agencies state-wide and provides training programs for civilians pursuing law enforcement
careers (Converse County Education 1/17/2003).
Employment
Platte County: Construction of the Laramie River Power Station produced rapid economic
growth between 1978 and 1980, especially in the Wheatland area. Most of this growth was only
temporary since it was a by-product of the construction phase. Since completion of the power
station, Platte County has returned to a slow, steady growth rate.
In 2000, the total population of Platte County was 8,807 people. The percent change in
population from 1990 to 2000 was an increase of 8.1%. In 2000 the employed civilian
population 16 years and over was 4,334.
Types and percent of workforce profiled in the 2000 Census are:
• Management, professional, and related occupations - 30.3%
• Sales and office occupations - 19.4%
• Service occupations -18.0%
• Construction, extraction, and maintenance – 14.5%
III-35
•
•
Production, transportation, and material moving – 13.2%
Farming, fishing, and forestry – 4.5%
Converse County: The state-wide boom in the mineral industry during the late 1970’s affected
Converse County since oil, coal, and uranium are all found in the County.
In 2000, the total population of Converse County was 12,052 people. The percent change in
population from 1990 to 2000 was an increase of 8.3%. In 2000 the employed civilian
population 16 years and over was 5,951.
Types and percent of workforce profiled in the 2000 Census are:
• Management, professional, and related occupations – 23.2%
• Sales and office occupations – 21.4%
• Construction, extraction, and maintenance - 17.9%
• Service occupations – 17.7%
• Production, transportation, and material moving – 17.1%
• Farming, fishing, and forestry – 2.6%
Income
Platte County income for 2000 was: Per Capita income $17,530; Median Household income
$33,866, and Median Family income $41,905 (Census 2000)
Converse County income for 2000 was: Per capita income $18,744; Median Household income
$39,603; and Median Family income $45,905 (Census 2000).
Industry
Platte County: There is very little industry in Platte County. The Laramie River Power Station
coal-fired generating plant has a total installed capacity of 1,710 megawatts and is located six
miles northeast of Wheatland. It represents one of the largest consumer-owned regional joint
power supply programs in the United States. Grayrocks Dam and Reservoir, located six miles
east of the plant, supplies water for steam cooling. Since the iron ore mine near Hartville closed,
the only mining is quarrying limestone. There is also some jade in northwestern Platte County.
Although there are some sub-bituminous coal deposits in the southeastern part of the county,
there has never been any commercial coal production. There are no oil, gas, or uranium
resources in the county.
Manufacturing employed only 141 people in 2000 (Census 2000)
Converse County: The main industry in Converse County is mining. Oil and gas extraction, and
coal mining are important industries in the county Manufacturing employed only 137 people in
2000 (Census 2000). A 750-megawatt coal fired powerplant, Dave Johnston Powerplant, is
located near Glenrock, also in Converse County.
III-36
Land Ownership
Converse County contains 4,255 square miles (2,723,200 acres), and Platte County contains
2,085 square miles (1,334,400 acres) (2000 Census; (http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/56/).
Federal land ownership is 394,776 acres (14.5%) in Converse County, and 106,459 acres (8.0%)
in Platte County (http://www.blm.gov/pilt/pymt_result). In comparison, the State of Wyoming
land area is 62,343,000 acres and federal land ownership is 30,455,000 acres (48.9%)
(http://www.wstpc.org/Publications/FedLandWest.htm).
In Converse County there are 348 farms and ranches covering 2,515,290 acres (92.4% land area).
Converse County cropland is 79,000 acres (2.9%). An average size ranch or farm in Converse
County is 7,228 acres (1997 Census of Agriculture, http://www.nass.usda.gov/wy).
In Platte County there are 461 farms and ranches covering 1,285,000 acres (96.3% land area).
Platte County cropland is 170,000 (12.7%). An average size ranch or farm in Platte County is
2,787 acres (1997 Census of Agriculture, http://www.nass.usda.gov/wy).
Medical Facilities
Platte County Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home in Wheatland serves the county’s medical
needs. Designed with a 43-bed capacity, Memorial Hospital provides full hospital service
including surgery, pediatrics, osteopathics, and obstetrics. In Douglas, Memorial Hospital of
Converse County also provides full hospital services and has a 44-bed capacity.
Population
The Converse County 2001 population estimate was 12,186, and the Platte County 2001
population estimate was 8,782 (U.S. Census Bureau). There is no Metropolitan area in either
Converse or Platte Counties. Douglas is the largest town near the Glendo Reservoir area.
Communities in Platte County are small and widely separated. The population of these
communities is shown in Table III-10. Since 1990, the trend of declining population has
reversed with both Counties showing small increases in population.
The development of the Wheatland Irrigation Project, in the early part of this century, and the
success of dry land farming encouraged substantial population growth. This growth peaked in
1930 with a population of about 9,000 people. Then the nation-wide trend of farm
mechanization began and the number of small farms like those in Platte County declined. Many
of the smaller communities have disappeared.
Some of the population growth of the late 1970s resulted from the construction of a new coal
fired electric generating facility near Wheatland. Employment related to operation and
maintenance activities of the generating facility led to permanent growth. Much of current trend
in population growth in the Douglas area is due to activity in the oil and gas industry and coal
mining.
III-37
Table III-10. Population of communities near Glendo Reservoir and for the State of Wyoming.
Location
1970
1980
1990
2000
Chugwater
187
282
192
244
Glendo
210
367
195
229
Guernsey
793
1,512
1,155
1,147
Hartville
246
149
78
76
Wheatland
2,498
5,816
3,271
3,548
Platte County
6,486 11,975
8,717
8,807
Douglas
2,677
6,030
5,076
5,288
Converse County
6,268 14,069 11,128 12,052
Wyoming
332,416 469,557 500,263 493,782
I.
Cultural Resources
Human occupation of the North Platte River valley in the vicinity of present day Glendo Dam
and Reservoir extends back into prehistoric time, probably 10,000 years or more. According to
Frison (1991), this area is included in the Northwestern Plains Culture Area, and witnessed the
lifeways of Native Americans during the prehistoric Paleoindian Period, Early, Middle, and Late
Archaic Periods, Late Prehistoric Period, and during the Protohistoric and Historic Periods. With
the defeat of the Indians in the latter part of the 19th Century, their removal to various
reservations, and the near extinction of bison upon which they depended, the only indication of
prior Indian occupation was the trace remnant materials left on the ground surface, in some
cases, buried by fluvial or aeolian forces, and later re-exposed to view from erosion. The
prehistoric archaeological sites in the Glendo area are characteristic of nomadic high plains
hunters and foragers, and include but are not limited to stone circles from abandoned tipi villages
and campsites, associated food procurement (hunting and gathering) sites, lithic quarries from
which stone was obtained for tool making, scatters of such tools and associated debris, and
occasional human burials and ceremonial sites. One such quarry and lithic source site is the
“Spanish Diggings” which was apparently used from prehistoric through protohistoric time by
various Indian tribes living in or passing through the area. Spanish Diggings is generally known
to consist of high quality cherts and quartzites in several outcrop locations in the Glendo
Reservoir vicinity.
With the arrival of the white man in the early 1800’s, additional cultural materials and sites
became part of the landscape, such as emigrant trails, associated graves, homesteads, telegraph
lines, and trash scatters. Branches of the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails, which closely
followed the North Platte River, fall within the reservoir below the mouth of Elkhorn Creek and
near Willow Creek. A Pony Express station, an Overland Stage station, and the first
transcontinental telegraph line were all located within a few miles of Glendo Dam. The site of
Bridger’s Ferry (established in 1864) is located just north of the reservoir near present day Orin
Junction. Also, a section of the old Fort Fetterman Road more or less follows the present route
of Interstate Highway 25 and U.S. Highway 26-87, along the northwest side of the reservoir.
III-38
Many of these prehistoric archaeological and historical sites, some of which were identified in
1946 – 1947 during the Smithsonian Institution’s Missouri Valley Project, River Basin Surveys,
were inundated by Glendo Reservoir. Several cultural resource Class III (field-intensive)
inventories conducted in recent years on lands surrounding Glendo Reservoir, and within Glendo
State Park, have identified additional, previously undocumented sites from prehistoric and
historic times. Although none have been formally listed in the National Register of Historic
Places (NRHP), some are considered NRHP eligible and are afforded the same protection as
listed properties.
Perhaps the best potential for prehistoric archaeological sites is in the Holocene age soils around
Glendo Reservoir. However, the exact location of these soils is not known. There may be a
greater likelihood for Holocene soils in alluvial/colluvial contexts as opposed to higher, more
open wind-swept areas where accumulation of these soils is slower and less likely, but these
lower areas may be more subject to water erosion.
It is speculated that there is a high to moderate potential for prehistoric archaeological sites in
upland portions (conifer, mountain shrub, sagebrush, open park, and prairie grassland vegetation
zones) at Glendo Reservoir, particularly atop flat terraces at or above 4,700 feet elevation. There
is a considered moderate to low potential for sites in the open and closed cottonwood zones, with
low potential in the cottonwood-willow, willow-sandbar zones, largely because of the likelihood
that greater water erosion has occurred in these areas in comparison to the higher altitude zones.
Of course, erosion can and does expose to view buried sites which may have been hidden from
view years before. Therefore, sites located in these floodplain areas could be exposed.
Predicting where archaeological sites will occur remains problematical. Sites often turn up where
they are not expected, and are often not where they are predicted to be. It is doubtful that
prediction of site locations can be done with a high degree of reliability. Correlating site
locations with or within environment settings, vegetative zones, landforms or topography, soil
types, water sources, etc. remains a possible approach to determining site locations short of
actual field investigations. In a reservoir setting, some of these variables will be limited because
they will be out of reach (underwater). For example, the predictability of some upland sites
might depend upon knowledge of sites which are inaccessible (inundated).
Without reliable predictive models (some of which require such effort in compiling
environmental data that one might as well just conduct a Class III inventory), it may be
reasonable to just assume that sites could occur almost anywhere intact Holocene (or perhaps
even Late Pleistocene) soils exist, and move on to addressing concerns of differential
preservation of sites within such deposits (provided that they can be located). Predicting the
locations of historic era sites may be equally as difficult.
Reclamation and DSPHS’s goal is to avoid disturbing all significant sites during construction,
planning, operation, and maintenance phases and to develop recreational facilities away from
such sites. To comply with relevant state and Federal antiquities laws and regulations,
Reclamation policy is to require Class III cultural resource surveys before undertaking any
activity that involves land disturbance in order to: 1) locate and record cultural resources within
III-39
proposed right-of-ways; 2) evaluate their significance and eligibility to the National Register of
Historic Places; and 3) if necessary, to formulate a plan to mitigate adverse effects to any eligible
sites which may be impacted by proposed construction.
At Glendo Reservoir, there are approximately 10,197 acres of land surrounding the reservoir. Of
these, approximately 8,125 acres and 130,950 lineal feet (24.5 miles) have received Class III
surveys. Almost all of the management areas have been surveyed. About 80% of the land
(2,072 acres), have not been surveyed at Glendo, however, as funding permits, these lands will
also be surveyed until all Reclamation lands at Glendo have been surveyed. The areas which
have been surveyed are shown on Map A9.
J.
Indian Trust Assets
The United States has an Indian trust responsibility to protect and maintain rights reserved by or
granted to Native American tribes or Native American individuals by treaties, statutes, and
executive orders. This trust responsibility requires that all Federal agencies take all actions
reasonably necessary to protect trust assets. Reclamation’s policy is to protect Indian trust assets
from adverse impacts of Reclamation programs and activities. Indian trust assets (ITA) are legal
interests in property held in trust by the United States for Indian tribes or individuals. Indian
trust assets are, but not limited to, lands, minerals, hunting and fishing rights, and water rights.
No ITAs have been identified at Glendo.
There are not any Indian reservations in close proximity to Glendo Reservoir. The nearest
reservations are the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, approximately 190 miles to the northeast in
southwest South Dakota, and the Wind River Indian Reservation, approximately 190 miles west
in west central Wyoming.
K.
Environmental Justice
Executive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority
Populations and Low-Income Populations, dated February 11, 1994, requires agencies to identify
and address disproportionately adverse human health or environmental effects of their actions on
minorities and low income populations and communities, as well as the equity of the distribution
of the benefits and risks of their decisions. Environmental justice addresses the fair treatment of
people of all races and incomes with respect to actions affecting the environment. To comply
with the environmental justice policy, agencies are to identify and evaluate any anticipated
effects, direct or indirect, from the proposed project, action, or decision on minority and lowincome populations and communities, including the equity of the distribution of the benefits and
risks.
Platte County, where Glendo Reservoir resides, has a low minority population where 96.2% of
the population is categorized as White (Census Bureau, 2000). The minority population was
categorized as African American (0.2%), American Indian (0.5%), Asian (0.2%), some other
III-40
race (1.7%) and two or more races (1.3%). Hispanic/Latino (5.3%) may be of any race (double
counted), so also are included in applicable race categories.
In 1999, the percent of Platte County population below poverty was (11.7) which is about the
same as in the State of Wyoming (11.4%). The median household income in 1999 for Platte
County was $33,866 and $37,892 for the State of Wyoming.
III-41
List of Maps – Existing Conditions
A1 – State Land Distribution Map
A2 – Topography Map
A3 – Soil Classification Map
A4 – Glendo Management Areas
A5 – Traffic Volume Map
A6 – Grazing and Agricultural Lease Map
A7 – Vegetation Map
A8 – Noxious Weed Map
A9 – Cultural Resource Survey Areas
A10 – Muddy Bay Area
A11 – Indian Ridge, Broken Arrow, Burnt Wagon Areas
A12 – Willow, Island, and Cottonwood Areas (Sandy Beach Campground)
A13 – Sandy Beach – Dune Area Campground
A14 – Hytrek Draw Area
A15 – Narrows Bluff and Bay Areas
A16 – Slide Hill and Glendo Dam Areas
A17 – North Platte River Basin Area
A18 – Two Moon Campground and Buffalo Pasture #1 Areas
A19 – Marina and Park Headquarters
A20 – Sagebrush and Shelter Point Campgrounds
A21 – Whiskey Gulch Campground and Buffalo Pasture #2 Areas
A22 – Gravel Point, Mule Hill, and Colter Bay Areas
A23 – Entrance Area
A24 – Custer Cover Campground
A25 – Soldier Rock Area
A26 – Cabin Lease Area
A27 – Reno Cove Campground
A28 – Red Hills Area
A29 – Waters Point Area
A30 – Bennett Hill Area
A31 – Goose Bay Area
A32 – Red Canyon Area
A33 – Elkhorn Area
A34 – Byron Wilson Area
III-42
43
Chapter IV. Alternatives
The DSPHS has projected an increase in Glendo State Park usage with or without increased
recreational improvements or developments. Reclamation and DSPHS have worked together to
determine appropriate development and management alternatives. The alternatives described
here address three levels of recreational developments and general management to meet public
needs at Glendo Reservoir, they are:
1. No Action Alternative (Alternative A)
2. Natural Resource Conservation/Enhancement with Moderate Recreation Development
(Alternative B) (Preferred Alternative)
3. Natural Resource Conservation with Maximum Recreation Development (Alternative C)
Alternative A is the basis of comparison for the action alternatives and describes future
conditions if none of the action alternatives are implemented. Alternative B – Natural Resource
Conservation/Enhancement with Moderate Recreation Development, is the preferred alternative
which meets the goals and objects of the Plan through a moderate level of development.
Alternative C is another alternative evaluated which also meets the goals and objectives and
consists of the maximum level of development. Alternatives B and C are compared to
Alternative A which provides a baseline measurement of effects. Table IV-1 at the end of this
chapter displays a comparison of environmental consequences for each alternative.
Current inventory data containing a comprehensive listing of all facilities and their locations has
been compiled using the latest in GIS equipment and software. An inventory and analysis was
conducted to identify and evaluate the park’s facilities and infrastructure and recreational site
conditions. The facilities inventory will be used to direct the development of new plan
alternatives for the recreation master plan and to guide management actions in regards to new
facility construction and the improvements of existing facilities.
By using current GIS data collected for facility type and location, and with visitor use surveys,
adequate numbers of properly designed facilities located in appropriate areas can be determined,
in addition to which facilities attract a particular level of use and which facilities are needed at
various locations. Inadequate or improperly located facilities could cause overcrowding and/or
abuse to the land and facilities.
The RMP is intended to be as site specific as possible so that the RMP could be a useful working
document. It is likely that actions proposed in the preferred alternative would be reasonably
forseeably undertaken within the time frame of the RMP, which is 10 years.
NEPA and NHPA compliance is intended to be completed, to the maximum extent possible, by
way of this RMP. In accordance with 36 CFR 800, implementing regulations for NHPA Section
106, as amended in 1992, and additional direction provided by the National Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation (ACHP), Reclamation and DSPHS are combining required NHPA
consultation with this RMP. Pursuant to 36 CFR 800.1(c), Reclamation should initiate Section
106 consultation early in the planning process. In addition, pursuant to 36 CFR 800.8, Federal
agencies are encouraged to coordinate Section 106 consultation with the NEPA process. The
ACHP also encourages Federal agencies to manage cultural resources in a comprehensive
manner. Coordinating NHPA with this RMP will allow for Section 106 consultation early in the
planning stages to combine review processes and to take a broad view of cultural resources
management at Glendo Reservoir, rather than on a case-by-case basis.
Many of the actions proposed under this RMP have the potential to affect the characteristics of a
historic property qualifying it for inclusion in or eligibility for the NRHP. It is the intention of
this RMP to supply sufficient detail for site specific proposals to complete required Section 106
consultation. Most of the proposed project areas have been previously surveyed to Class III
standards for cultural resources and the subsequent survey reports have been reviewed and
commented on by SHPO. Attachment H contains location maps, NRHP eligibility status of all
known sites, and a list of all previous Class III cultural resource surveys at Glendo Reservoir.
Pursuant to Section 304 of the NHPA, Authority to Withhold from Disclosure Archaeological
Information, Attachment H will only be available to Reclamation, SHPO and DSPHS. For those
actions proposed within this RMP that are in areas previously surveyed to Class III standards and
no NRHP eligible or unevaluated cultural resources exist, SHPO concurs that these actions have
a finding of No Historic Properties Affected and NHPA compliance would be completed.
Future block cultural resource surveys, and all other cultural resource surveys for Glendo, when
completed, would become a part of the RMP and included in Attachment H. No further Section
106 consultation would be required on areas surveyed with a finding of No Historic Properties
Affected. If cultural resources are discovered during construction activities, construction shall be
halted until Reclamation’s archeologist is notified and assesses the situation in consultation with
the SHPO and/or ACHP.
If determined necessary, formal Section 106 consultation would be completed for those actions
proposed in areas that have not been previously surveyed to Class III standards, that have the
potential to affect known NRHP eligible or unevaluated properties, or for actions not identified
within this RMP.
The RMP is quite site specific and aerial photographs greatly aided in facility analysis at Glendo
Reservoir. The aerial photographs, shown in this document as maps, were used to show existing
conditions as well as proposed modifications. Maps A10 through A34 in Chapter III show
existing conditions of the resource areas at Glendo and are associated with Alternative A. Maps
B1 through B24 reflect proposed management actions associated with Alternative B and Maps
C1 through C24 reflect proposed management actions associated with Alternative C. Maps
associated with Alternatives B and C show the proposed actions for the respective alternative and
all existing features are not necessarily shown. Maps for Alternatives B and C are located at the
end of this chapter.
Future recreation improvements and development must consider features such as, but not limited
to, access, road standards, and campsites. Both Alternatives B and C consist of facility
maintenance and upgrades of roads and campsites. Common terms used in this chapter to
describe the types of actions include:
•
•
•
•
Roadway improvements would likely consist of crowning and ditching, flat blading or
adding gravel material or applying asphalt paving.
Roadway developments would likely include scraping, grubbing, and filling in addition
to activities with roadway improvements.
Campsite improvements would likely consist of, but not limited to, replacing fire rings,
installing picnic tables and grills, leveling spaces for tent pads and campers, and
improving access roadways to existing campsites.
Campground developments include the formalizing of numerous campsites into one
campground by possibly improving roadways and installing fire rings, picnic tables and
grills at new sites.
Specific management principles were established to achieve stated goals and objectives in the
time frame the RMP is in effect. Management actions associated with recreation are primarily
the responsibility of Reclamation’s managing agencies (specifically DSPHS) through existing
and future management agreements with Reclamation. The following management principles for
each goal and objective are to be followed by Reclamation and DSPHS to facilitate management
of Glendo Reservoir. Each alternative was developed consistent with these principles, including
the No Action Alternative.
Goal I:
Enrich, educate and provide for the preservation, evaluation, and
development of natural and cultural resources within the Glendo Reservoir
area.
Objective 1: Accommodate public interests within the Glendo Reservoir resource
area while protecting and conserving the values associated with the
landscape and environment.
Management Principle:
Optimize aesthetic values by utilizing designs that blend with the
surrounding area and reservoir.
Management Principle
Use accepted industry standards to establish and adhere to a
carrying capacity for Glendo Reservoir.
Lessen seasonal impacts on the reservoir by continuing to promote
off-season use of existing facilities and create a diverse range of
recreational opportunities
Increase public awareness of the importance of protecting the
natural and cultural resources of Glendo Reservoir through
educational and interpretational activities and media.
Design improvements to avoid impacts to archeological and
historic sites, as well as environmentally sensitive habitats and
critical wildlife areas.
Promote resource protection oriented rules and regulations in a
consistent manner.
Comply with Federal laws and regulations in an efficient manner.
Operate the Byron Wilson Area and the North Shore of Glendo
Reservoir for multi-purposes for which the project was authorized.
Coordinate management actions with managing partners to avoid
conflicts.
Land use decisions will be made for the benefit of the project and
the general public, and preferential treatment will not be given to
adjacent landowners or special interest groups.
Objective 2: Maintain and enhance Glendo Reservoir’s natural and historic
appearance.
Function as an advocate for quality protection and management of
Glendo Reservoir’s natural and cultural resources.
Before initiation of a project, lands will be reviewed by
Reclamation’s archeologist to determine potential affect to cultural
resources.
If cultural resources are discovered during construction activities,
construction will stop until Reclamation’s archeologist is notified
and assesses the situation.
Retain the overall natural qualities of Glendo Reservoir by
providing for a large amount of undisturbed open space with native
vegetation.
Enhance the wildlife values of Glendo Reservoir by improving
existing and providing new terrestrial and aquatic wildlife habitats.
Provide a revegetation scheme that will complement existing park
features and be aesthetically pleasing and environmentally
appropriate for the region.
Provide adequate interpretation, signing, and where appropriate,
barriers to protect sensitive natural areas.
Continue to prohibit off-road vehicle use off established roads,
including below the high water line, to prevent erosion and protect
shorelines. Closed areas will be revegetated, and erosion control
structures will be placed in areas of ongoing erosion and areas that
have the potential for erosion.
Continue to coordinate with WGF to provide for adequate upland
game bird release areas and habitat.
Coordinate with managing entities to enhance wildlife habitat areas
as opportunities become identified.
Coordinate with WGF to establish food plots, when appropriate,
for wildlife habitat.
Continue to coordinate with WGF to regulate hunting at Glendo
Reservoir and enforce hunting laws, rules, and regulations.
Continue to coordinate with WGF to identify opportunities for
enhancement of fisheries habitat.
Continue to require all new powerlines constructed in the reservoir
area be buried.
Provide for protection of raptors on those powerlines that cannot
be buried.
Care shall be taken to minimize any disturbance to threatened and
endangered species.
DSPHS will continue to follow, and update according to schedule,
the current Integrated Pest Management plan to control noxious
weeds within the state park.
Reclamation will continue to contract for the control of noxious
weeds with the Platte County Weed and Pest Control District.
Grazing will continue to be used as a management tool.
Trespass grazing will be controlled.
Objective 3:
Assess and evaluate environmental conditions and identify changes
within the Glendo Reservoir area.
Reclamation will conduct a water quality monitoring study to
determine current water quality conditions. Data collected would
include nutrient samples, zooplankton, phytoplankton, chlorophyll,
and water column profiles. This information may be used in the
preparation of a TMDL assessment.
Reclamation will contract for the survey of threatened and
endangered species as necessary.
Contract for cultural resource class III surveys until all of Glendo
Reservoir area lands are surveyed.
Goal II:
Accommodate recreational needs of the visiting public and maintain Glendo
State Park and the Glendo Reservoir Management Plan area as an
aesthetically pleasing, environmentally sound, and economically viable
resource.
Objective 1: Optimize opportunities for public recreation development and use at
Glendo State Park.
Continue to manage recreation under the current MOU.
Adhere to existing and future Federal, State, and county laws,
regulations, and ordinances, including accessibility regulations and
guidelines.
Comply with Reclamation’s most up-to-date version of the
Concession Policy, Directives and Standards; Facility Design
manual; Sign manual; and Visitor Center Policy, Directives and
Standards to guide their management of Glendo Reservoir.
Address current and future recreation needs while maintaining the
natural environment of the reservoir.
Rehabilitate existing recreational areas before initiating expansion
efforts.
Provide additional recreation opportunities including day use and
overnight camping facilities for visitors to the park.
Provide multiple use recreation facilities that are appropriate for
the reservoir and meet projected recreation demand.
Address conflicting recreational uses within the resource area and
institute corrective measures to prevent further conflicts.
Increase public awareness of year-round recreation opportunities at
the park.
Develop recreational sites that will optimize the use of non-water
based recreation.
Provide appropriate weather protection at developed recreational
sites within the park including the use of windbreaks, shelters,
protected coves, and other measures.
When appropriate, provide public use needs for service through
future concession developments at the park.
Optimize the use of the reservoir by allowing various types of
boating and fishing opportunities by proper development of boat
ramps and other facilities in conjunction with WGF rules and
regulations.
Utilize creative design concepts to accommodate the large water
level fluctuations that are caused by water regulation by
Reclamation in concert with other Reclamation facilities on the
North Platte River. This system of Reclamation reservoirs is
operated to satisfy water rights, irrigation contracts, allow power
generation without interference with water rights, meet minimum
flow requirements, and provide for recreation and fish and wildlife
needs.
Consider development features that will optimize the economic
importance of the park to the region and the state.
Recreational facility developments within Glendo State Park will
be based on public need, accessibility, enhancing the visitor
experience, and the social, physical, environmental, and facility
carrying capacity limits.
Provide accessibility for the physically challenged so they are not
segregated from other park visitors.
Optimize the recreation experience of the park visitor by providing
a good mix of interpretive facilities and services.
Partnerships will continue to be sought for management of the
Byron Wilson and North Shore Areas.
DSPHS will continue to manage the fee stations according to state
park rules and regulations.
Consult with WGF on no wake buoys at swim beaches, boat
ramps, developed day-use areas, campgrounds, sheltered fishing
bays, environmentally sensitive areas and other areas as necessary
to prevent user conflicts and resource damage.
WGF will regulate watercraft use at Glendo Reservoir and enforce
boating laws, rules, and regulations.
Objective 2: Provide for an ample level of public safety in future resource
development and management.
Utilize appropriate signing, visitor information services, controls,
and supervision to ensure park visitors are afforded a safe
recreation experience.
Provide for adequate fire control, police protection, solid waste
disposal, wastewater management and other measures that reduce
park hazards.
Balance the need for access, with safety and aesthetic
considerations in the design of the park transportation network.
Visitor health and safety will be the primary focus when
constructing or upgrading needed facilities and providing visitor
use opportunities.
Objective 3: Minimize operation and maintenance costs for future resource
management.
Conduct annual reservoir facility reviews of existing facilities at
Glendo State Park to identify deficiencies and rehabilitation needs.
Utilize durable, recyclable, if possible, and easily maintained
materials and facilities.
Design park facilities to discourage vandalism.
Provide easy maintenance access to all developed park facilities.
Cluster high maintenance facilities.
Remove unneeded obsolete structures as necessary.
Take into consideration changing technology and recreational
trends in future park development.
Incorporate a wide selection of low maintenance and drought
tolerant vegetation.
Avoid developing areas that are characterized by unstable soils,
steep slopes, or have other development limitations.
Maintain and upgrade existing facilities as needed.
Objective 4: Provide an orderly and appropriate schedule for resource
development within Glendo State Park and the Glendo Reservoir
Management Plan area.
Conduct periodic land management and recreation reviews to
ensure that the lands are being managed pursuant to the existing
agreements and land use authorizations.
Conduct surveys within the 10-year planning period to provide
information to assist in evaluating recreational carrying capacity
limitations and to justify planned developments.
Conduct annual concession evaluations of existing concession
operations to determine if the terms and conditions of the
concession permits are being adhered to. The evaluations will be
conducted according to established guidelines.
Inventory existing recreation facilities at the park to identify those
that should be replaced or removed.
Prepare a comprehensive schedule that is integrated with managing
partners to implement new park developments.
Encourage the development of policies that will promote
public/private partnerships and self-sufficient outdoor recreation
facilities and opportunities.
Actively encourage alternative long term funding sources for the
development of the park.
I.
Alternative A - No Action Alternative
Management Actions
Alternative A includes actions necessary for Reclamation and DSPHS to maintain recreation
resources at Glendo Reservoir. Existing recreation facilities and lands would be managed and
operated at the same level as they are currently being managed and operated. A non-federal
managing partner would continue to be sought for areas not managed by DSPHS.
Reclamation and DSPHS would continue to conform with all applicable Federal, State, and
County laws, rules and regulations as in the past.
DSPHS will continue to be Reclamation’s managing agency for recreation.
Recreational pursuits such as hunting, fishing, hiking and boating would be allowed to continue.
No new opportunities would be provided and no new facilities would be planned or constructed
unless there is a specific public health and safety need. Existing accessible facilities would be
maintained.
There would be no substantial change in the level of effort to protect the health and safety of
visitors or to provide law enforcement personnel to enforce rules and regulations governing the
use of Reclamation lands and associated resources.
Reclamation would continue to work with WGF to cooperatively manage the Byron Wilson area
and other areas outside Glendo State Park for fish and wildlife purposes, pursuant to the existing
lease between both agencies.
Reclamation will continue to work with WGF to identify opportunities for habitat enhancement.
Reclamation would continue to coordinate the integrated pest management method of noxious
weed control with Converse and Platte County Weed and Pest Districts. This includes the
control of noxious weeds with biological, chemical, and mechanical control methods.
Reclamation would continue to maintain the “pack your own trash” policy on Reclamation lands
outside of the Glendo State Park lands.
Reclamation will continue to conduct block cultural resource surveys as funding permits.
DSPHS will review existing cultural resource documents prior to construction activities to verify
the presence/absence of cultural resources in the area to be disturbed.
Reclamation will continue to conduct NHPA Section 106 consultation on a case-by-case basis.
Reclamation will continue to require utility powerlines to be buried unless exempted by
Reclamation’s Great Plains Region.
Reclamation will continue to issue outgrants, such as special use permits and grazing leases, on a
case-by-case basis to ensure the requested use does not interfere with the functions of
Reclamation or its ability to maintain its facilities, and potential to affect Glendo State Park
facilities and functions. Reclamation retains the discretion to reject inappropriate siting requests
and assures adequate protection of public property. When considering use authorizations that
would allow commercial telecommunication facilities to be placed on Reclamation lands,
Reclamation will include consideration of environmental and historic preservation issues.
Reclamation will continue to prohibit the use of off-road vehicles off of established and
maintained roads.
DSPHS will continue to manage the marina concessionaire and cabin lease site contracts. No
changes are suggested at this time.
Reclamation may conduct a baseline water quality study of the reservoir as funding permits. The
DSPHS will continue to monitor groundwater and Glendo State Park water system for potability.
Reclamation will continue to contract with the BLM for fire suppression on Reclamation lands.
II. Proposed Alternative B – Natural Resource
Conservation/Enhancement with Moderate Recreation
Development
Alternative B was developed to address projected growth and adhere to the public’s wishes to
not overdevelop the park. Park visitation has increased by an average of five percent per year
over the last 20 years. If this trend continues into the future, park visitation will more than
double in the next 20 years. The public has made it clear they like the rustic nature of the park
and do not want massive campground and park development. Alternative B seeks to address
projected growth while maintaining the rustic nature of the park.
To accomplish this, DSPHS proposes to upgrade existing informal campsites which should limit
the impact on natural resources while accommodating the recreational uses of the visitor.
Alternative B also proposes to expand recreational opportunities for non-water based activities
such as hiking trails, scenic overlooks, group shelters, nature trails, and a visitor center.
Alternative B includes each of the maintenance and management actions described in Alternative
A plus actions for Reclamation and DSPHS to moderately expand recreation resources at Glendo
Reservoir to address future growth in the park.
Management Actions
A non-federal managing partner would continue to be sought for Glendo Reservoir areas not
managed by DSPHS.
New recreational opportunities and facilities would be provided.
Reclamation and DSPHS will ensure that at least 5% of facilities and structures meet UFAS
requirement.
lease between both agencies and to identify opportunities for habitat enhancement.
Reclamation and DSPHS will continue to consider threatened and endangered species during
planning and construction. In order to reduce potential effects to the bald eagle, the Service
(Written correspondence October 7, 2003) states that “a disturbance-free buffer zone of 0.5 mile
during the summer should be maintained around winter roosting sites to protect their structural
integrity. A buffer zone of 1 mile should be maintained around nest sites. Activity within 1 mile
of an eagle nest or roost may disturb the eagles and result in take. If construction disturbance
occurs during the winter, a buffer zone of 1 mile should be maintained around winter roost sites.
If a disturbance-free buffer zone of 1 mile is not practicable, then the activity should be
conducted outside of February 15 through August 15 to protect nesting birds and November 1
through April 15 to protect roosting birds.” Because of the importance of cottonwoods and other
mature trees as roosting and perching sites for bald eagles and other raptors, the Service
recommends that Reclamation and DSPHS take “all possible measures to protect trees from
destruction during the construction and development process. Of particular importance are trees
at and around roosting sites because of their thermal buffering function, and trees close to the
reservoir waterline which provide important perches for hunting eagles and other raptors.”
For those actions proposed within this RMP that are in areas previously surveyed to Class III
standards and no NRHP eligible or unevaluated cultural resources exist, SHPO concurs that these
actions have a finding of No Historic Properties Affected and NHPA compliance would be
completed.
halted until Reclamation’s archeologist is notified and assesses the situation, in consultation with
within this RMP.
Reclamation would continue to conduct block cultural resource surveys as funding permits.
Reclamation and DSPHS will review Attachment H of this RMP during project planning prior to
disturbance.
DSPHS would continue to provide Reclamation detailed information, including site plans, of
proposed activities for Reclamation land management purposes and NEPA documentation.
DSPHS will obtain necessary permits for their proposed actions, i.e. Clean Water Act permits.
Reclamation will continue to prohibit the use of off-road vehicles off of established maintained
roads. Alternative B proposals would allow ORV use on designated roads and campgrounds
within the park. However, all other areas other than designated roads and campgrounds would
be closed to motorized travel.
DSPHS will continue to manage the road system in Glendo State Park. Road improvements
would be implemented while other two track side roads would be eliminated. As larger vehicles
and boats use the reservoir, alterations to existing roadways would be required to accommodate
their use. Improvements would include widening and straightening roadways, developing
shoulders, paving and resurfacing roads, and expanding parking areas.
DSPHS will continue to manage the marina concessionaire and cabin lease site contracts.
DSPHS will continue to replace, install, and remove signs as necessary to inform park visitors of
interpretive and cultural aspects of the park. DSPHS will install signs where ORV use occurs off
established roads.
DSPHS intends to develop a hiking trail to provide opportunities for non-water based
recreational activities.
Reclamation and DSPHS will coordinate vegetation plantings and removal activities with WGF
to evaluate any effects, advantages and disadvantages, or benefits of the action. Native species
will be used whenever possible when reseeding or replanting.
Best management practices (BMP) will be used management and construction actions to reduce
sedimentation and erosion. BMP include but are not limited to: installation of sediment and
erosion control devices; adequate and continued maintenance of sediment and erosion control
devices to insure their effectiveness; minimize the construction disturbance area to further avoid
streams, wetlands, and riparian areas; located equipment staging, fueling, and maintenance areas
outside of wetlands, streams, riparian areas, and floodplains, and reseed with native species.
Soil conditions and other environmental factors would be taken into consideration when
developing facilities within the Glendo Reservoir area.
All necessary permits will be obtained prior to initiating construction.
When designing roadway construction and improvements, Reclamation and DSPHS will ensure
adequately sized culverts be installed as needed to minimize bank erosion, channel scouring, and
aquatic wildlife species.
Management Areas
Descriptions of proposals for the different recreational management areas under Alternative B
are shown on recreational area Maps B1 through B24 at the end of this chapter.
North Shore of Glendo Reservoir
- The area is currently undeveloped and there is no public access to the area other than by
boat or crossing private land. North Shore is being utilized as year round wildlife habitat
and for grazing during the months of April and June.
- This area would be maintained for wildlife habitat for the duration of the RMP.
Muddy Bay Area (Map B1)
Re-gravel and reshape the existing roadway
This area would be maintained for wildlife habitat
-
The Muddy Bay trail and day use area would continue to be managed by Reclamation.
Burnt Wagon Area (Map B2)
- Install new previously approved UFAS toilet
- New campsite development
- Existing roadway improvements
Broken Arrow Area (Map B2)
- Remove several existing two-track roadways by installing a barrier across the roadways
and revegetating the area with native species.
- Install a new previously approved UFAS toilet in center of camping loop
Indian Ridge Area (Map B2)
- Install new previously approved low and high water boat ramps
Cottonwood Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B3)
- Establish willow encroachment controls. DSPHS will coordinate with WGF on
vegetation plantings.
- Spade/plant trees to move tree line back up off of high water and provide more areas for
campsite development
- New campsite development around inlet
Island Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B3)
Willow Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B3)
- Spade/plant trees to move tree line back up off of high water for new campsite
development
- Gravel “Sandy Main” roadway
Dune Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B4)
- “Sandy Main” roadway improvements
- Develop a host campsite
- Install a beach rinse-off near “Sandy Main” Road
- Construct a maintenance shop, staff residence and first aid station at Sandy Beach
entrance
- Spade/plant trees to move tree line back up off of the high water line and to provide areas
-
for new campsites
Create campsite improvement with new BBQs, larger cement pads and new tables
Post and cable off the south end of the beach from “Sandy Main” to Hytrek Draw with
gate access for special events and periods of low water. This section of the beach will be
for day-use only. Vehicle access will be restricted on this portion of the beach.
Develop reservation cul-de-sac style campground
Realign existing roadways
Install a trail head, group shelter with vegetative screening, toilet and drinking water
adjacent to Hytrek Draw; extend water line to this area for drinking water.
Hytrek Draw Area (Map B5)
- Create boat-in day-use only areas
- Create boat-in campsite areas
- Extend trail up from Narrows Bluff Area
- DSPHS to acquire and/or obtain easement of state land for proposed trail
Narrows Bluff Area (Map B6)
- Develop a trail that extends from Narrows Bluff north into the Hytrek Draw area
- Create a new access roadway and trailhead with parking area for proposed trail head
- State land acquisition and or easement may be necessary for the trail development
- Develop lookout area on point at end of trail
- Maintain as a primitive day-use only area
- Install an ADA restroom adjacent to the trail head
Narrows Bay Area (Map B6)
- Create boat-in only campsites
- Maintain as a primitive area
Slide Hill Area (Map B7)
Glendo Dam Area (Map B8)
- No developments suggested
North Platte River Basin Area (Map B8)
- Expand existing trail system on east side of river
- Improve “Sand Draw” roadway to potential picnic area
- Install an ADA fishing pier near the existing boat dock
Buffalo Pasture One (Map B9)
- Remove livestock well #3
- Upgrade pasture fencing
- Construct corrals in two areas and supply water
Two Moon Campground (Map B9)
-
Roadway expansion, resurfacing and direction designation
Remove several sections of roadway and two upper entrance roadways
Install two gravel connector roadways
Install two group shelters with vegetative screening
Designate three campsites as full ADA compliant sites
Upgrade all restrooms to be ADA compliant
Designate one loop for campsite reservation system
Remove several existing campsites
Upgrade Glendo Dam overlook area
Relocate all above ground utility lines underground
Include paved RV campsites with full hookups and a dump station
Fully develop campsites including playgrounds, showers, flush toilets and electricity
Establish designated camping
Establish reservation camping
Incorporate campground hosts
Marina Area (Map B10)
- Expand gravel previously approved overflow parking area and designate short and long
term parking
- DSPHS may acquire management of parking areas and boat ramp from concessionaire
when the marina 5-year lease renewal expires in 2004
Park Headquarters (Map B10)
- Refurbish sewer system man-holes
- Relocate the park headquarters to the main entrance
- Replace existing shop building
- Permanently close off well #2
- Dredge the cell lagoon
Shelter Point Campground (Map B11)
- Develop existing campsites
- Spade/plant trees to provide shade for new campsites. DSPHS will coordinate with WGF
on vegetation plantings.
- Replace existing log barricades with post and cable
Sagebrush Campground (Map B11)
- Expand parking area and develop an adjacent trailer parking lot
- Install a small to medium sized group shelter, ADA accessible with vegetative screening,
playground equipment and a parking lot
Whiskey Gulch Campground (Map B12)
- Install gravel roadway for pull through campsite development
- Close off existing old railroad grade
- Install a large group shelter with vegetative screening, ADA accessible restroom,
-
playground equipment, BBQ and drinking water
Remove several roadways to create a new camping loop
Develop campsites in the new camping loop area
Willow abatement. DSPHS will coordinate with WGF on vegetation removal.
Install a fish cleaning station
Buffalo Pasture Two (Map B12)
- Existing grazing leases and land will be managed and operated at current levels and no
developments are suggested.
Entrance Area (Map B13)
- Replace existing fee booth and fee canister with a fee station and visitor center.
- Develop new superintendents office and life station
- Realign roadway for access to new facility
- DSPHS may acquire or lease state land for new facility
Mule Hill Area (Map B14)
- Install gravel roadway to develop a new camping loop
Gravel Point Area (Map B14)
- Install signs to restrict ORV use in the area
- Replace existing toilet
Colter Bay Area (Map B14)
- Install a new shower house
- Install a new previously approved UFAS toilet
- Improve access roadways
- Install new gravel connector roadway with small group camping loops
- Install RV camping loop with full hookups
Custer Cove Campground (Map B15)
- Install new well
- Remove existing roadway that runs to the point
- Remove two campsites inundated by high water on the point
- Install a new gravel camping loop
Soldier Rock Area (Map B16)
- Install new well
Cabin Lease Area (Map B17)
- Remove roadway and campsite that crosses cabin lease boundaries
Reno Cove Campground (Map B18)
- Expand boat and boat-trailer parking
- Upgrade roadway and pave roadway on hill
- Remove campsite by boat ramp
- Install a fish cleaning station
Red Hills Area (Map B19)
- Create a hike-in camping area with a trail, trailhead, and parking area
- Replace existing toilet with a previously approved UFAS toilet
- Install a new roadway to create a camping loop
- Develop new and existing campsites and install a group shelter near the point in new
camping loop
Waters Point Area (Map B20)
- Install new gravel roadways and remove several existing roadways to develop a new
camping loop and campsites
- Install post and cable to remove existing roadway to the point
Bennett Hill Area (Map B21)
- Modify existing roadways
- Remove unnecessary existing roadways
- Install post and cable
- Install new gravel roadways to develop new camping loops
- Spade trees in areas of new development. DSPHS will coordinate with WGF on
- Install a group shelter with vegetative screening
Goose Bay Area (Map B22)
- Extend non-motorized area from the Goose Island area back to the last WGF parking lot
- Develop existing WGF parking lots
- Gravel and shape existing roadway and relocate above high water level
Red Canyon Area
- No developments suggested. Human use should be minimized as much as possible
during winter big game use
Elkhorn Area (Map B23)
- Remove the old highway and existing toilet
- Realign the existing roadway by the fee canister to allow for wider turns by larger
-
vehicles and vehicles in tow
Level and gravel existing roadways
Develop existing campgrounds with pull-through campsite development
Spade/plant trees to provide aesthetically pleasing areas for new campsites. DSPHS will
coordinate with WGF on vegetation plantings
Byron Wilson Area (Map B24)
- Install a UFAS restroom adjacent to an existing parking area.
- Place several non-movable park benches and picnic tables near the river and/or other sites
as necessary.
- No overnight camping facilities would be constructed nor would trash pickup or potable
water be made available.
- Manage to conserve and enhance wildlife habitat.
- Do not lease the area for grazing unless it is determined to be an effective vegetation
management tool which would benefit wildlife production.
- Plant vegetation to form hedgerows along certain sections of boundary fence to provide
cover for wildlife.
- Plant small grain food plots and/or mast producing trees and shrubs.
- Prevent unauthorized grazing and protect the existing wildlife habitat areas by
maintaining fences and/or build additional fence as needed.
- Continue to pursue a non-Federal managing partner for the Byron Wilson Area.
- This area is considered by WGF as crucial winter range for big game winter use and
human use should be minimized as much as possible.
III. Proposed Alternative C – Natural Resource
Conservation with Maximum Recreation Development
Alternative C was developed to address projected growth but does not strictly adhere to the
general public’s wish to maintain the rustic nature of the park. This alternative proposes a more
traditional recreational development of the park (i.e. elimination of most dispersed camping,
creation of large campgrounds, resort type development, etc.). Many of the proposed actions in
this alternative are not reasonably foreseeable within the time frame of the RMP though are
feasible. Alternative C includes maintenance actions associated with Alternative A and items
associated with Alternative B in addition to actions for developing a maximum number of dayuse and camping facilities and recreation opportunities.
Management Actions
Under Alternative C, management of Glendo Reservoir lands would largely remain unchanged
unless Reclamation enters into an agreement with a non-federal managing partner for those lands
not within the state park.
Some of the proposed improvements are subject to the concessionaire, since they have the right
of first refusal. The end of a 5-year renewal period for the marina concession lease expires
November 2004, after which the DSPHS may implement these proposals.
New developments and improvements to the state park lands would include, but are not limited
to, new hiking and boardwalk trails, paved access roads, expanded parking areas, campgrounds
and campsite areas, installation of more UFAS restroom and facilities, floating bathroom
facilities and floating concession areas to provide easier access for park visitors and present less
congestion at the major campgrounds. An off-season boat storage facility at the marina is
proposed as well as DSPHS acquiring, constructing and refurbishing two golf courses with resort
style amenities to accompany each course. Additional boat ramps, fish cleaning and trailer dump
stations, paved RV campsites with full hookups, and additional shower facilities are also
proposed. All primitive campsites would be further developed.
Under Alternative C, improvements would be provided as necessary to correct infrastructure
deficiencies related to visitor health and safety, and significantly improve visitor use facilities,
recreation areas and resource areas. Alternative C includes the outsourcing of law enforcement
and the implementation of campground hosts at the major campgrounds within Glendo State
Park to better meet safety requirements.
Management Areas
Descriptions of proposals for the different recreational management areas under Alternative C
are shown on recreational area Maps C1 through C24 at the end of this chapter.
Alternative C includes all actions identified under alternative B, plus the following:
- Incorporate North Shore area into Glendo State Park
- Eliminate non-designated camping
Muddy Bay Area (Map C1)
- Pave entrance roadway along east shore of the reservoir
- Develop boardwalk system around wetland area with benches and interpretive signs
Burnt Wagon Area (Map C2)
- Pave roadway along east shore of the reservoir
- Install boat ramp
- Establish designated camping
Broken Arrow Area (Map C2)
- Roadway improvements
Indian Ridge Area (Map C2)
- Install fish cleaning station near boat ramp
- Pave roadway along east shore
Cottonwood Area (Sandy Beach) (Map C3)
Island Area (Sandy Beach) (Map C3)
Willow Area (Sandy Beach) (Map C3)
Dune Area (Sandy Beach) (Map C4)
- Pave roadway along east shore of the reservoir to “Sandy Main” entrance
- Include paved RV campsites with full hookups and a dump station
- Fully develop campsites including showers, flush toilets and electricity
- Reservation camping
- Develop host campsite
- Beach would be designated as day use only and campsites in tree area only.
Hytrek Draw Area (Map C5)
- Add bench areas along proposed trail
- Acquire surrounding state lands to expand the park boundary
Narrows Bluff Area (Map C6)
Alternative C includes all actions identified under alternative B, plus the following
- Add bench areas along proposed trail
- Acquire surrounding state lands to expand the park boundary
- Pave parking lot and access route to overlook area
Narrows Bay Area (Map C6)
- DSPHS to acquire surrounding state lands to expand the park boundary
Slide Hill Area (Map C7)
Glendo Dam Area (Map C7)
North Platte River Basin Area (Map C8)
- Add bench areas and interpretive signs along trail
- Install fish cleaning station near boat dock
Buffalo Pasture One (Map C9)
Two Moon Campground (Map C9)
- Develop cabin sites for rent
Marina Area (Map C10)
- Construct boat storage facility
- Construct docked gas pumps
Park Headquarters (Map C10)
Shelter Point Campground (Map C11)
Sagebrush Campground (Map C11)
Whiskey Gulch Campground (Map C12)
- Establish reservation camping
- Incorporate campground hosts
- Fully develop campsites including playgrounds, showers, flush toilets and electricity
- Construct a paved pathway on old railroad grade roadway
Buffalo Pasture Two (Map C12)
Mule Hill Area (Map C13)
- Pave “Lakeshore Drive” along west shore of reservoir
- Construct a paved pathway on old railroad grade roadway
Gravel Point Area (Map C13)
- Gravel and shape roadway down to the point
Colter Bay Area (Map C13)
Entrance Area (Map C14)
Custer Cove Campground (Map C15)
Soldier Rock Area (Map C16)
Cabin Lease Area (Map C17)
Reno Cove Campground (Map C18)
Red Hills Area (Map C19)
Waters Point Area (Map C20)
- Gravel and shape roadway to Waters Point
Bennett Hill Area (Map C21)
- Pave “Lakeshore Drive”
- Develop new campsites in camping loops with pull-throughs and UFAS toilet
- Construct new gravel roadway to boat ramp
Goose Bay Area (Map C22)
- DSPHS to acquire adjacent land to restore a golf course to be included within Glendo
State Park
- Relocate existing roadway above high water mark
Red Canyon Area
Elkhorn Area (Map C23)
- DSPHS to acquire adjacent property for golf course resort to be included within Glendo
State Park
Byron Wilson Area (Map C24)
- Incorporate Byron Wilson area into Glendo State Park
Table IV - 1. Comparison of environmental consequences for each alternative.
Alternative A – No Action
Alternative B – Moderate
Alternative C – Maximum
Recreation Development
RECREATION
Recreational developments would be
maintained at current conditions.
Some improvements would occur
due to safety and accessibility needs.
No new recreational opportunities
would be provided.
Visitors would gradually feel a sense
of overcrowding as visitation
increased.
Human/human and human/wildlife
conflicts could increase due to an
increased number of visitors.
Maintaining current facilities would
not be adequate to meet increased
visitation use needs.
Recreational areas would be
developed. Facilities would be
replaced, repaired, and constructed.
Quality of visitor’s recreation
experience would increase because
of improved facilities and
opportunities.
Dispersion of recreation activities
would alleviate some potential
feeling of overcrowding.
Restricted ORV use would prevent
soil erosion and protect wildlife
habitat.
Potential for increased
human/wildlife conflicts due to
increased visitor use.
Vandalism could increase.
Recreation areas proposed in
Alternative B would be expanded.
Quality of visitor’s recreation
experience would increase because
of increased and improved facilities
and opportunities.
Dispersion of recreation activities
would alleviate some potential
feeling of overcrowding.
Restricted ORV use would prevent
soil erosion and protect wildlife
habitat.
The “rustic” primitive outdoor
experiences enjoyed by many
visitors would be foregone.
Potential for increased
human/wildlife conflicts due to
increased visitor use and expanded
recreational areas.
Improved paved roads would likely
lead to increased traffic speeds and
result in vehicle/vehicle,
vehicle/pedestrian and
vehicle/wildlife accidents.
Vandalism could increase.
LAND MANAGEMENT
Land management and use are not
expected to change.
Natural areas and wildlife habitat
could be negatively affected if
recreation usage outgrows the
provided services.
Land management and use would
change where land use would
change from wildlife habitat to
developed lands for recreation.
Land management and use would
change where land use would
change from wildlife habitat to
developed lands for recreation.
Most management areas would have
some recreational developments.
An unquantified amount of land
would be converted from wildlife
habitat to newly developed
recreation areas.
WATER RESOURCES
Water quality is not expected to
change.
change.
DSPHS would continue to use
floating sewer docks and maintain
potable water systems.
floating sewer docks and maintain,
develop and expand potable water
systems.
change. However, if visitor use
increases, then water quality of the
reservoir may decrease as a result of
increased sewage from boaters, and
increase occurrences of small oil and
gas releases while fueling water
craft.
floating sewer docks and maintain,
develop and expand potable water
systems.
WILDLIFE RESOURCES
Wildlife resources are not expected
to change.
Hunting areas would continue to be
managed by WGF.
managed by WGF.
managed by the WGF.
Byron Wilson and Muddy Bay areas
would largely remain undeveloped
and managed for wildlife habitat.
An unquantified area of land would
be used for expanded recreational
purposes.
More land in addition to Alternative
B, would be used for recreational
purposes.
Wildlife would likely be displaced
from newly developed areas
previously used for forage and
cover.
Wildlife would likely be displaced
from newly developed and expanded
areas previously used for forage and
cover.
As visitor use increases,
overcrowding at existing recreation
areas would cause visitors to expand
to undeveloped areas and displace
wildlife.
Human/wildlife conflicts may
develop.
Human/wildlife conflicts may
develop.
Paved roads could result in increased
traffic speeds and an increase in
vehicle/wildlife accidents.
FISH RESOURCES
Fisheries would continue to be
managed by WGF. Current fishing
and stocking regimes are expected to
continue.
managed by WGF.
managed by WGF.
Implementation of Alternative B
would not affect fish resources.
Implementation of Alternative C
would not affect fish resources.
WGF may change fishery
management based on fish studies
should fishing pressure increase.
WGF may change fishery
management based on fish studies
should fishing pressure increase.
THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES
No adverse impacts to threatened
and endangered species are
expected.
expected.
expected.
VEGETATION
Management of vegetation would
remain unchanged. Vegetation
would continue to be managed to
provide grazing, wildlife habitat,
recreation and aesthetics.
Noxious weeds would continue to be
controlled.
Vegetation would continue to be
managed to provide grazing, wildlife
habitat, recreation and esthetics.
Vegetation would continue to be
managed to provide grazing, wildlife
habitat, recreation and esthetics.
controlled.
controlled. Additional weed control
could be required due to increased
ground disturbance activities.
The amount of vegetation is some
areas would decrease due to
developments such as campsites,
roads, and trails.
Some roads would be closed and
revegetated while new roads would
be developed.
Prohibiting ORV use would have a
positive effect on vegetation and
decrease potential for erosion.
DSPHS would plant vegetation in
specified recreation areas.
The amount of vegetation is some
areas would decrease due to
developments such as campsites,
roads, and trails.
Some roads would be closed and
revegetated while new roads would
be developed.
Prohibiting ORV use would have a
positive effect on vegetation and
decrease potential for erosion.
DSPHS would plant vegetation in
specified recreation areas.
SOCIOECONOMICS
Socioeconomic condition is not
expected to change.
An increase in local economic
activities could be expected, as well
as an increase in local employment
and income.
An increase in local economic
activities could be expected, as well
as an increase in local employment
and income.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
No effect to National Register
eligible cultural resources is
expected.
National Register eligible cultural
resources are not likely to be
affected by an increase in
recreational developments because
the areas would have been
previously surveyed for cultural
resources. If cultural resources are
found, construction would stop until
the site can be further evaluated.
National Register eligible cultural
resources are not likely to be
affected by an increase in
recreational developments because
the areas would have been
previously surveyed for cultural
resources. If cultural resources are
found, construction would stop until
the site can be further evaluated.
INDIAN TRUST ASSETS
No ITAs would be affected.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
No environmental justice issues
have been identified.
Chapter V. Environmental Consequences
This chapter discusses the anticipated environmental effects (environmental consequences) on
specific resources discussed in Chapter III, within the study area. Only the resources potentially
affected within the study area are analyzed for environmental consequences.
I.
Resources
This section addresses the resources that could potentially be affected by implementation of any
of the alternatives.
A.
Recreation
1.
Facilities Existing facilities in the seven developed recreation areas would be maintained at the current
level. Facilities would be replaced or repaired as necessary. Few additional facilities would be
constructed to meet increased use demands. No new recreational opportunities would be
provided.
Visitor Use Trends Visitor use is expected to increase regardless of the level of new or maintained recreational
developments at Glendo Reservoir. Human/human conflicts could increase due to overcrowding
as visitor use increases. Maintaining current facilities are not expected to be adequate to meet
increased visitor use needs.
Recreation and Wildlife – Under the no action alternative, human/wildlife conflicts may
increase due to an increased number of visitors, since conditions are not expected to change.
Areas would not be developed and the public would likely create informal campsites. A
decrease in wildlife habitat and an increase in soil erosion could occur.
Concessions Under the no action alternative plan for Glendo State Park, concessions would continue to be
administered as in the past.
Cabin Lease Sites DSPHS would continue to administer the cabin lease program at Glendo State Park. Because of
the moratorium on site leases, additional cabin sites would not be leased.
Accessibility Accessibility at Glendo State Park would continue to be a priority under the no-action alternative
in that existing accessible facilities would be maintained.
User Revenue Under the no-action alternative plan, user revenues would continue to be managed by DSPHS as
in the past. Daily use and camping fees are not expected to change, but are subject to change by
the Wyoming legislature.
Law Enforcement Law enforcement would continue as before under the no-action alternative.
Transportation Management The DSPHS would continue maintenance and management of roadways within Glendo State
Park. DSPHS may not develop an overall road plan and access to the reservoir and facilities may
be limited.
Off-Road Vehicle No changes would be made concerning off-road vehicle use within Glendo State Park as part of
the no-action alternative. ORV use would continue to be restricted to maintained roadways,
providing the ORV displays the Wyoming ORV sticker.
Signage The DSPHS would maintain the current signage around Glendo State Park as part of the noaction alternative. Reclamation and WGF would also maintain their current level of signage.
Vandalism Vandalism is expected to increase as visitor use increases, especially if law enforcement and
education within the park remains relatively unchanged.
2.
Alternative B – Moderate Recreational Development
Facilities –
Existing facilities in the developed recreation management areas would be replaced or repaired
as necessary. Quality of visitor’s recreation experience would increase because of improved
facilities and opportunities. By carefully designing and planning developments, the rustic feel of
Glendo Reservoir could be maintained.
Visitor Use Trends –
Visitor use is expected to increase regardless of the level of new or maintained recreational
developments at Glendo Reservoir. Development of Glendo State Park facilities may contribute
to the expanding growth of visitors to the park, although development of facilities would be
primarily to meet user needs. Dispersion of recreational activities by construction of additional
areas would alleviate some potential feeling of overcrowding.
Recreation and Wildlife –
Human/wildlife conflicts may increase somewhat due to the development of recreational areas
and increased visitor use.
Concessions Concession leases would continue under Alternative B as they had in the past under Alternative
A. No changes are suggested at this time.
Cabin Lease Sites –
DSPHS would continue to administer the cabin lease program at Glendo State Park. No changes
are suggested at this time.
Accessibility –
Within Alternative B, accessibility to facilities would be greatly enhanced. As the general
population grows older, park facilities would be developed to meet this growing demographic.
Persons with disabilities would be able to enjoy Glendo State Park and an outdoor setting.
User Revenue –
User revenues would continue to be managed by DSPHS. User revenue is expected to increase
in conjunction with increased visitor use to Glendo State Park. Daily use and camping fees are
not expected to change, but are subject to changes by the Wyoming legislature.
Law Enforcement As more people visit Glendo State Park each year, one would expect a corresponding increase in
violators. However, the proposed modifications suggested under alternative B would help to
keep the park more manageable for law enforcement personnel, while at the same time educating
visitors to park regulations and functions. No anticipated increases in law enforcement personnel
are forecasted for the foreseeable future. DSPHS may possibly contract with law enforcement
personnel as necessary.
Transportation Management Many changes are proposed in Alternative B concerning the alignment and location of roadways
within Glendo State Park. The purpose of these changes is to keep vehicles on the roadways
while protecting the landscape from unauthorized vehicle travel. Road improvements would
likely reduce soil erosion. Some undeveloped lands would be used for roads, and some roads
would be closed and revegetated.
Off-Road Vehicle ORV use would continue to be restricted at Glendo State Park under alternative B. Any areas
informally used for off-road use would be signed as being restricted to off-road use. Soil erosion
would be reduced and wildlife habitat would be protected.
Signage Excessive signage could be alleviated if the proposed visitor center is constructed. The public
would be more aware of park rules and recreational opportunities.
Vandalism –
Vandalism would be expected to increase as visitor use increase. It is believed that some
additional signs could alleviate some vandalism, however, increased facilities provides increased
vandalism opportunities.
3.
Alternative C – Maximum Recreational Development
Facilities As the number and quality of facilities increase, the overall rustic feel of the area would
decrease. Some historic users would leave and others would be attracted by extra
accommodations and facilities.
Visitor Use Trends –
Visitor use is expected to increase regardless of the level of new or maintained recreational
developments at Glendo Reservoir. Development to Glendo State Park may further the
expanding growth of visitors to the park. Some historic users would leave and others would be
attracted by extra accommodations and facilities. Dispersion of recreational activities would
alleviate some potential feeling of overcrowding.
Recreation and Wildlife –
Human/wildlife conflicts would likely increase due to the expanded development of recreational
areas. There would be less undisturbed area for wildlife around the reservoir
Concessions Concession leases would continue as they had in the past under Alternative A. No changes are
suggested at this time.
Cabin Lease Sites –
DSPHS would continue to administer the cabin lease program at Glendo State Park. No changes
are suggested at this time.
Accessibility Within Alternative C, accessibility to facilities would be greatly enhanced. As the general
population grows older, park facilities would be developed to meet this growing demographic.
Persons with disabilities would be able to enjoy Glendo State Park and an outdoor setting.
User Revenue –
User revenue is expected to increase in conjunction with increased visitor use to Glendo State
Park. Increased visitor use would aid funding for new facilities and developments in the park.
Daily use and camping fees are not expected to change, but are subject to change by the
Wyoming legislature.
Law Enforcement -
The developments proposed under Alternative C are designed to spread out visitor use within
Glendo State Park, rather than limiting visitors to the more popular camp spots. It is believed
that this proposal would help alleviate problems frequently encountered by law enforcement
officials. The proposed modifications suggested under alternative C would help to keep Glendo
State Park more manageable for law enforcement personnel, while at the same time educating
visitors to park regulations and functions.
Transportation Management Road improvements would be implemented to accommodate increased use. The purpose of
these changes is to keep vehicles on the roadways while protecting the landscape from
unauthorized vehicle travel and to provide smooth ingress and egress into campgrounds. Paved
roads would likely lead to increased traffic speeds and could result in vehicle/vehicle,
vehicle/pedestrian, and vehicle/wildlife accidents.
Off-Road Vehicle ORV use would continue to be restricted at Glendo State Park under alternative C. Restricted
ORV use would reduce soil erosion and protect vegetation and wildlife habitat.
Signage Excessive signage could be alleviated if the proposed visitor center is constructed. With
additional signs, the public would be more informed of park rules and recreational opportunities.
Vandalism –
Vandalism would be expected to increase as visitor use increase. It is believed that some
additional signs could alleviate some vandalism, however, an increase in the number of facilities
provides an increase in vandalism opportunities.
B.
Land Management
1.
Alternative A - No Action
Under the no action alternative, Reclamation and DSPHS would continue to manage the lands
adjacent to Glendo Reservoir for multi-purpose uses within the constraints of existing
agreements and Federal regulations. Land use and management would remain unchanged unless
a non-federal managing partner agrees to manage reservoir lands outside the state park.
Recreation, outgrants, grazing, concessions, mineral rights, wildlife, hunting and fishing, and fire
management would remain unchanged. Natural areas and wildlife habitat could be negatively
affected if recreational usage outgrows the provided services.
2.
Reclamation and DSPHS would continue to manage the lands adjacent to Glendo Reservoir for
multi-purpose uses within the constraints of existing agreements and Federal regulations. In
general, land uses and land management would remain unchanged unless a non-federal
managing partner agrees to manage reservoir lands outside the state park. Outgrants, grazing,
concessions, mineral rights, wildlife, hunting and fishing, and fire management would remain
unchanged. Recreational areas would be expanded and developed. Certain areas would not be
developed, or further developed, to provide natural areas for wildlife habitat, esthetics, and areas
for non-motorized recreation activities. These areas are Muddy Bay, Byron Wilson, and North
Shore areas. Land management and use would change where land use would change from
wildlife habitat to developed lands for recreation.
3.
Reclamation and DSPHS would continue to manage the lands adjacent to Glendo Reservoir for
multi-purpose uses within the constraints of existing agreements and Federal regulations. In
general, land uses and land management would remain unchanged unless a non-federal
managing partner agrees to manage reservoir lands outside the state park. Most non-agricultural
areas would have some recreational developments constructed such as a restroom or campsite.
Natural areas and wildlife habitat could be negatively affected as could some types of
recreational activities. DSPHS would determine the need and process to acquire other state
lands, such as at Narrows Bay, to be included in Glendo State Park. Land management and use
would change where land use would change from wildlife habitat to developed lands for
recreation.
C.
Water Resources
1.
Under the no action alternative, Reclamation would continue to operate Glendo Reservoir for
multi-purposes within water right constraints. The reservoir would continue to experience high
fluctuations within the reservoir pool.
Maintaining recreational resources at Glendo Reservoir would not affect water resources. Water
quality is not expected to change as a result of Reclamation and DSPHS management of the area.
DSPHS would continue to use floating sewer docks, and maintain the potable water systems.
Depending on available funding, Reclamation may conduct a water quality study on Glendo
Reservoir as a baseline in which to measure any future changes.
Alternative A would not affect water storage or water rights.
2.
Reclamation would continue to operate Glendo Reservoir for multi-purposes within water right
constraints under the moderate recreational development alternative. The reservoir would
continue to experience high fluctuations within the reservoir pool.
DSPHS would continue to use floating sewer docks, and maintain the potable water systems.
New water developments are proposed for sites that do not have water wells, such as Whiskey
Gulch, Colter Bay, Custer Cove, and Soldier Rock. Water line extensions are proposed for the
Sandy Beach Dune Area.
Reservoir as a baseline in which to measure any future changes. Water quality monitoring would
help identify water quality problems.
Undertaking a moderate level of recreational development at Glendo Reservoir is not expected to
measurably change the water quality of the reservoir. Any change could be attributed to a steady
increase of visitor use of the reservoir, especially in boating activities.
Alternative B would not affect water storage or water rights.
3.
Under maximum recreational development C, Reclamation would continue to operate Glendo
Reservoir for multi-purposes within water right constraints. The reservoir would continue to
experience high fluctuations within the reservoir pool.
DSPHS would continue to use floating sewer docks, and maintain potable water systems,
including those listed under Alternative B. Additional water line extensions would be needed for
installation of fish cleaning stations at numerous sites.
Reservoir as a baseline in which to measure any future changes. Water quality monitoring would
help identify water quality problems.
Undertaking a maximum level of recreational development at Glendo Reservoir in itself, would
not affect water quality of the reservoir. However, any change could be attributed to a steady
increase of visitor use of the reservoir, especially in boating activities.
Alternative C would not affect water storage or water rights.
D.
Wildlife Resources
1.
Reclamation would continue to manage the lands adjacent to Glendo Reservoir for multi-purpose
uses within the constraints of existing agreements and Federal regulations. Hunting activities
will continue to be managed by the WGF. Most of the developed recreation areas and all of
Reclamation operations areas will continue to be closed to hunting. WGF will continue to stock
pheasants at the Airport Bay and Muddy Bay, and the Byron Wilson areas at their discretion.
Current hunting activities are expected to continue as in the past. Wildlife resources are not
expected to change under Alternative A, although overcrowding at existing recreation areas
could cause visitor usage to expand to undeveloped areas and displace wildlife.
2.
uses within the constraints of existing agreements and Federal regulations. Current WGF
management of hunting would continue. Areas, such as Byron Wilson and Muddy Bay areas,
would not be significantly developed so as to provide natural areas for wildlife habitat, esthetics,
and areas for non-motorized recreation activities. The vegetation in some of these areas would
be enhanced to provide additional wildlife habitat. These would include dense nesting cover and
food plot plantings.
An unquantified area of land would be used for recreational purposes such as campgrounds,
campsites, parking area and roads. With the anticipated increase in visitors to the park, it is
expected that there may be increase affects to wildlife, and human/wildlife conflicts. Wildlife
would likely be displaced from areas previously used for forage and cover and an increase in
roadkill birds and animals could be expected with an increase in visitor use.
3.
uses within the constraints of existing agreements and Federal regulations. Current WGF
management of hunting would continue. Additional recreational facilities would be constructed
in several currently undeveloped areas which would negatively affect wildlife habitat. Hunting
in these recreation areas would likely be prohibited.
More land area would be used for recreational purposes such as campgrounds, campsites,
parking areas and roads. With the anticipated increase in visitors to the park, it is expected that
there may be increased affects to wildlife and human/wildlife conflicts. Wildlife would likely be
displaced from areas previously used for forage and cover and an increase in roadkill birds and
animals could be expected. Paved roads could result in increased traffic speeds and an increase
in vehicle/wildlife accidents. Certain areas would not be developed to provide natural areas for
wildlife habitat, esthetics, and areas for non-motorized recreation activities.
E.
Fish Resources
1.
Under the no action alternative, Glendo fisheries and stocking regimes would continue to be
managed by the WGF. Any changes in management of the resource would be at their discretion.
However, it is anticipated the WGF would continue to manage the fisheries as in the recent past.
constraints.
2.
Implementation of Alternative B would not affect the fisheries at Glendo Reservoir. Current
WGF management of fishing and stocking regimes would continue. There is no construction or
development proposed for fish enhancement at Glendo Reservoir. Reclamation would continue
to operate Glendo Reservoir for multi-purposes within water right constraints. WGF would
determine if additional fishing pressure required an increase in the stocking rate. It is anticipated
that WGF management of the Glendo fishery would be primarily directed at enhancing and
maintaining game fish populations and subsequent sport fishing opportunities. The fish
populations in Glendo Reservoir would likely be sampled annually, at the discretion of the WGF,
to determine abundance and physical conditions. Management decisions would be based on the
results. New species would not be introduced to the reservoir unless they are proven to be
compatible with the existing fishery. New forage fish species may be introduced as needed to
support existing game species or to correct weaknesses detected in the food chain.
3.
WGF management of fishing and stocking regimes would continue. Any changes in
management of the resource would be at their discretion. If visitor use increases at Glendo as
projected, fishing pressure is also expected to increase. WGF would determine if additional
fishing pressure required an increase in the stocking rate and/or reduction of the creel limits.
constraints.
F.
Threatened and Endangered Species
1.
No effects to threatened and endangered species are expected under the no action alternative.
Alternative A would not lead to any water depletions in the North Platte River system.
Bald Eagle: Since the bald eagle could potentially be found within the Glendo area, care would
be taken to minimize any disturbance to the species should they be in the area during any
construction. Any known bald eagle use areas at Glendo would be taken into consideration
during design and potential development of new recreational facilities. Continuation of current
management activities to maintain existing facilities and contracts would have no effects on the
bald eagle because bald eagles generally use Glendo Reservoir for foraging in the winter and are
not in the area during the summer when most of the recreational use takes place.
During the planning and construction of a project, Reclamation and the DSPHS will follow the
Service’s directions regarding the bald eagle, as stated in Chapter IV.
Black-footed Ferret: The black-footed ferret does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands.
Locations of black-footed ferret populations are well documented, and the closest wild
population is in the Shirley Basin, approximately 90 miles west of Glendo and which is on the
other side of the Laramie Mountains. Continuation of current management activities at Glendo
Reservoir to maintain existing facilities and contracts would have no effect on the black-footed
ferret.
Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse: The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse is not likely to be
found on Glendo Reservoir lands. Habitat conditions for this mouse do not occur at Glendo
(Personal Communication with Martin Hicks, WGF, 2/2003). The water levels of the reservoir
fluctuate too much to provide favorable habitat conditions. Continuation of current management
activities to maintain existing facilities and contracts would have no effect on the Preble’s
meadow jumping mouse.
Ute Ladies’-Tresses: The Ute ladies’-tresses orchid is not likely to be found on Glendo
Reservoir lands. Habitat conditions for this plant species do not occur at Glendo (Personal
Communication with Martin Hicks, WGF, 2/2003). The cottonwood and willow trees and other
tall, dense cover would choke out the orchid. Continuation of current management activities to
maintain existing facilities and contracts would have no effect on the Ute ladies’-tresses.
Mountain Plover: The mountain plover is not likely to be found on Glendo Reservoir lands.
Habitat conditions for this bird species do not occur at Glendo (Personal Communication with
Martin Hicks, WGF, 2/2003). Continuation of current management activities to maintain
existing facilities and contracts would have no effect on the mountain plover. As of September
9, 2003, the Service no longer considers the mountain plover proposed for listing.
North Platte River Water Depletions: Threatened and endangered species in Nebraska would
not be affected by recreational management and development at Glendo Reservoir. There are no
water depletions associated with Alternative A. Continuing to maintain recreational
development at the current level would not change water operations of the reservoir and there
would be no new depletions to the Platte River system.
Black-tailed Prairie Dog: There are no known black-tailed prairie dog colonies on Glendo
Reservoir lands. Continuation of current management activities to maintain existing facilities
and contracts would have no effect on the black-tailed prairie dog.
2.
No effects to threatened and endangered species are expected under this alternative. Alternative
B would not lead to any water depletions on the North Platte River system.
management activities in addition to developing a moderate number of day-use and camping
facilities would have no effect on the bald eagle because bald eagles generally use Glendo
Reservoir for foraging in the winter and are not in the area during the summer when most of the
recreational use takes place.
Black-footed Ferret: The black-footed ferret does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands since it
has not been introduced or reintroduced in the area. Continuation of current management
activities in addition to developing a moderate number of day-use and camping facilities would
have no effect on the black-footed ferret.
Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse: The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse does not inhabit
Glendo Reservoir lands since habitat conditions for this mouse do not occur at Glendo (Personal
Communication with Martin Hicks, WGF, 2/2003). Continuation of current management
activities in addition to developing a moderate number of day-use and camping facilities would
have no effect on the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. If this species were to be found on
Glendo Reservoir lands, further development of recreational facilities would be evaluated to
determine any affects to the mouse.
Ute Ladies’-Tresses: The Ute ladies’-tresses does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands. Habitat
conditions for this plant species do not occur at Glendo (Personal Communication with Martin
Hicks, WGF, 2/2003). Continuation of current management activities in addition to developing a
moderate number of day-use and camping facilities would have no effect on the Ute ladies’-
tresses. If this species were to be found on Glendo Reservoir lands, further development of
recreational facilities would be evaluated to determine any affects to this plant.
Mountain Plover: The mountain plover does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands. Habitat
conditions for this bird do not occur at Glendo (Personal Communication with Martin Hicks,
WGF, 2/2003). Continuation of current management activities in addition to developing a
moderate number of day-use and camping facilities would have no effect on the mountain
plover. If this species were to be found on Glendo Reservoir lands, further development of
recreational facilities would be evaluated to determine any affects to the mountain plover.
As of September 9, 2003, the Service no longer considers the mountain plover proposed for
listing.
water depletions associated with Alternative B. Implementing a moderate level of recreational
development would not change water operations of the reservoir and there would be no new
depletions to the Platte River system.
Black-tailed Prairie Dog: The black-tailed prairie dog does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands.
Continuation of current management activities in addition to developing a moderate number of
day-use and camping facilities would have no effect on the black-tailed prairie dog. If this
species were to be found on Glendo Reservoir lands, further development of recreational
facilities would be evaluated to determine any affects to the black-tailed prairie dog.
3.
No effects to threatened and endangered species are expected under this alternative. Alternative
C would not lead to any water depletions on the North Platte River system.
management activities in addition to developing the maximum number of day-use and camping
facilities would have no affect the bald eagle depending on type of use by the eagle because bald
eagles generally use Glendo Reservoir for foraging in the winter and are not in the area during
the summer when most of the recreational use takes place.
Black-footed Ferret: The black-footed ferret does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands for the
same reason as stated for Alternative B. Continuation of current management activities in
addition to developing a maximum number of day-use and camping facilities would have no
effect on the black-footed ferret.
Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse: The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse does not inhabit
Glendo Reservoir lands for the same reason as stated for Alternative B. Continuation of current
management activities in addition to developing a maximum number of day-use and camping
facilities would have no effect on the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. If this species were to
be found on Glendo Reservoir lands, further development of recreational facilities would be
evaluated to determine any affects to the mouse.
Ute Ladies’-Tresses: The Ute ladies’-tresses does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands for the
same reason as stated for Alternative B. Continuation of current management activities in
addition to developing a maximum number of day-use and camping facilities would have no
effect on the Ute ladies’- tresses. If this species were to be found on Glendo Reservoir lands,
further development of recreational facilities would be re-evaluated to determine any affects to
the plant.
Mountain Plover: The mountain plover does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands for the same
reason as stated for Alternative B. Continuation of current management activities in addition to
developing a maximum number of day-use and camping facilities would have no effect on the
mountain plover. If this species were to be found on Glendo Reservoir lands, further
development of recreational facilities would be evaluated to determine any affects to the bird.
As of September 9, 2003, the Service no longer considers the mountain plover proposed for
listing.
water depletions associated with Alternative C. Implementing a maximum level of recreational
development would not change water operations of the reservoir and there would be no new
depletions to the Platte River system.
Black-tailed Prairie Dog: The black-tailed prairie dog does not inhabit Glendo Reservoir lands.
Continuation of current management activities in addition to developing a maximum number of
day-use and camping facilities would have no effect on the black-tailed prairie dog. If this
species were to be found on Glendo Reservoir lands, further development of recreational
facilities would be evaluated to determine any affects to the black-tailed prairie dog.
G.
Vegetation
1.
Under the no action alternative, vegetation communities of grasslands, upland shrub, forest and
riparian vegetation would continue to be managed to provide for multiple uses such as
recreation, esthetics, grazing, and wildlife habitat. Further recreational developments are not
proposed for the North Shore, Muddy Bay, and Byron Wilson areas or Glendo Dam Wetlands.
Noxious weeds would continue to be controlled through biological, chemical and mechanical
efforts by Reclamation and DSPHS.
Grazing lease regimes would remain unchanged.
2.
Vegetation communities of grasslands, upland shrub, forest and riparian vegetation would
continue to be managed to provide for multiple uses such as recreation, esthetics, grazing, and
wildlife habitat. In some areas proposed for development, the amount of vegetation area would
decrease due to developments such as campsites, roads, and trails, while in other areas, roads
would be closed and revegetated. Vegetation enhancements such as food plots, hedgerows and
other vegetation plantings for the Byron Wilson, Cottonwood, Island, Willow, and Bennett Hill
areas will increase forage and roost opportunities for birds and other animals, and to control
potential erosion. Restricting ORV use would prevent soil erosion and protect vegetation.
efforts by Reclamation and DSPHS.
3.
Vegetation communities of grasslands, upland shrub, forest and riparian vegetation would
continue to be managed to provide for multiple uses such as recreation, esthetics, grazing, and
wildlife habitat. In several areas, vegetation would decrease due to more aggressive recreation
developments. The proposed boardwalk along the Muddy Bay Wetland trail would protect
existing vegetation by encouraging visitors to use the boardwalk. In general, esthetics of natural
open areas could be negatively affected by the loss or change in vegetation. Restricting ORV
use would prevent soil erosion and protect vegetation.
efforts by Reclamation and DSPHS. Additional noxious weed control may be required due to
increased ground disturbance activities.
H.
Socioeconomics
1.
Under the no action alternative, the existing socioeconomic condition is not expected to change.
2.
A moderate level of recreational development would likely change the current socioeconomic
condition somewhat. An increase in economic activities would be expected. An increase in
reservoir and park users would likely cause an increase in local employment and income through
the expansion and/or establishment of businesses, and additional park labor.
3.
A maximum level of recreational development could change the current socioeconomic
condition. For instance, DSPHS would likely hire additional laborers, or contract out, to
maintain the additional facilities. Additional private businesses may develop in Glendo to take
advantage of the expected increase in visitors to the area. Temporary employment would likely
occur during construction of the boat storage facility and golf courses.
I.
Cultural Resources
1.
Reclamation, as the Federal landowner, will obtain site specific SHPO concurrence for proposed
activities on a case-by-case basis.
Under Alternative A, maintenance of existing facilities, it is unlikely any NRHP eligible cultural
resources would be discovered or affected. If cultural resources are found during maintenance
activities or construction, work shall halt immediately and Reclamation’s archeologist shall be
notified and will assess the site in consultation with the SHPO and/or ACHP, before work can
resume.
2.
Under Alternative B, it is unlikely any NRHP eligible cultural resources would be discovered or
affected during maintenance of existing facilities. If cultural resources are found during
maintenance activities or construction, work shall halt immediately and Reclamation’s
archeologist shall be notified and will assess the site in consultation with the SHPO and/or the
ACHP, before work can resume.
Descriptions and locations of each proposed activity are shown on recreational area maps, Maps
B1 through B24. Recreational developments would be planned and constructed to avoid known
cultural resource sites.
3.
Under Alternative C, it is unlikely any NRHP eligible cultural resources would be discovered or
affected during maintenance of existing facilities. If cultural resources are found during
maintenance activities or construction, work shall halt immediately and Reclamation’s
archeologist shall be notified and will assess the site in consultation with the SHPO and/or
ACHP, before work can resume.
Descriptions and locations of each proposed activity are shown on recreational area maps, Maps
C1 through C24. Recreational developments would be planned and constructed to avoid known
cultural resource sites.
J.
Indian Trust Assets
1.
No ITAs have been identified at Glendo, therefore ITAs would not be affected by the no action
alternative.
2.
No ITAs have been identified at Glendo, therefore, moderate development activities associated
with Alternative B would not have an effect on ITAs.
3.
No ITAs have been identified at Glendo, therefore, maximum development activities associated
with Alternative C would not have an effect on ITAs.
K.
Environmental Justice
1.
There are no adverse environmental justice effects identified under the no action alternative.
Multi-purpose uses of Glendo Reservoir are not expected to raise environmental justice issues.
2.
With moderate recreational development at Glendo Reservoir, it could be expected there would
be some increase in economic activities in the area, including an increase in income and
employment. An increase in recreation could have beneficial environmental justice effects on
minority and low-income workers in that new or additional work opportunities could develop in
the area.
3.
Anticipated environmental justice effects associated with this alternative would likely be
beneficial and similar to Alternative B, with more employment opportunities for which minority
and low-income individuals could compete.
L.
Unavoidable Adverse Effects
Unavoidable adverse effects to resources could be long-, short-term, or temporary. Unavoidable
adverse effects associated with implementation of the RMP would include temporary
construction impacts during recreational site improvement and development, and potential longterm displacement of wildlife in these areas.
Human/wildlife conflicts would likely increase as visitor use increases and recreational areas are
developed.
M.
Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources
Implementation of structural actions associated with any of the alternatives would involve a
commitment of labor, natural resources, and monetary resources and generally considered as
irretrievable. Loss of wildlife habitat as a result of recreational developments at Glendo would
be irretrievable.
Irreversible commitment or resources would be attributed to the use of federal lands for the
original construction of the dam, reservoir and powerplant. These resources have been
irreversibly committed for the life of the Glendo Unit of the P-SMBP. Implementation of any of
the alternatives may result in irreversible loss of prehistoric archaeological/historical sites, if
avoidance of such is not feasible.
N.
Cumulative Effects
Implementation of any of the alternatives could result in some cumulative effects of resources at
Glendo.
With an anticipated increase in visitor use at Glendo, additional recreational sites would be
improved and developed to meet visitor needs. Additional recreational sites would tend to
encourage greater visitor use and also result in increased traffic on park roads and some
congestion at the boat ramp areas. Increases in traffic may occur mostly during the recreational
season with the heaviest concentrations occurring on weekends and holidays. Wildlife,
vegetation, cultural resources and soils may deteriorate as visitor use increases. Development of
recreational sites would be provided to aid in the control, monitoring and protection of resources
while providing visitor needs.
Chapter VI. DRAFT Final Resource Management
Plan
Reclamation and DSPHS reviewed possible management alternatives for Glendo Reservoir and
Glendo State Park. Of the three alternatives reviewed, Alternative B was selected by both
management agencies as the preferred management alternative. Alternative B was selected
because the actions proposed at each site 1) met the scope, goals and objectives; 2) appeared to
meet public comment concerns, and could reasonably be expected to be funded. The preferred
management alternative is the proposed final RMP for Glendo Reservoir.
Chapter I identified the purpose and scope for completing the RMP, provided the authority,
policies and guidelines, general description and location, administration, and goals and
objectives. Chapter II identified the different agencies involved in the management of Glendo
Reservoir and their roles and responsibilities. Chapter III described the existing environment at
Glendo Reservoir. Chapter IV described the different management alternatives in detail and
provided a summary comparison of each action alternative to the No Action Alternative.
Chapter V described the environmental consequences of the different management alternatives
on the resources and other environmental parameters. This chapter, Chapter VI, is the final
RMP. It describes the management actions to achieve the goals and objectives for Glendo
Reservoir.
I.
Plan Development
Reclamation has the primary responsibility to manage lands under its jurisdiction in accordance
with existing laws, policies, and guidelines. In cases where Reclamation lands are directly
managed by another entity, (e.g., DSPHS), Reclamation exercises oversight responsibility to
ensure the agency fulfills its responsibilities pursuant to terms and conditions of the management
agreement between both parties.
Primary objectives for resource management at Glendo Reservoir include providing for outdoor
recreation; protecting fish, wildlife, and biodiversity; protecting the health and safety of visitors
and preserving the environmental resources and cultural values of historical places. These
objectives, as well as management actions, must be met in an environmentally and economically
sound manner.
In developing the RMP for Glendo Reservoir, Reclamation and DSPHS identified public and
agency concerns. Based on the public involvement comments and agency concerns,
Reclamation and DSPHS identified goals and objectives and potential management actions to
address the concerns and resolve identified problems. Pursuant to NEPA requirements, potential
environmental effects of implementing management actions were analyzed and the results
disclosed in Chapter V. Management actions were selected that were perceived to be acceptable
to the public and agency personnel, that could be implemented without significant environmental
conflicts, that are within the environmental resource limitations, and consistent with existing
policy, laws, project purposes, and the RMP goals and objectives.
The RMP presumes that the existing rules and regulations of Reclamation and DSPHS for
managing Glendo Reservoir and State Park will continue to be applied.
II.
Glendo Area Management Actions
Natural Resource Conservation/Enhancement with Moderate Recreation
Development
Alternative B was developed to address projected growth and adhere to the public’s wishes to
not overdevelop the park. Park visitation has increased by an average of five percent per year
over the last 20 years. If this trend continues into the future, park visitation will more than
double in the next 20 years. The public has made it clear they like the rustic nature of the park
and do not want massive campground and park development. Alternative B seeks to address
projected growth while maintaining the rustic nature of the park.
To accomplish this, DSPHS proposes to upgrade existing informal campsites which should limit
the impact on natural resources while accommodating the recreational uses of the visitor.
Alternative B also proposes to expand recreational opportunities for non-water based activities
such as hiking trails, scenic overlooks, group shelters, nature trails, and a visitor center.
The RMP is intended to be as site specific as possible so that the RMP could be a useful working
document. It is likely that actions proposed in the preferred alternative would be reasonably
forseeably undertaken within the time frame of the RMP, which is 10 years.
NEPA and NHPA compliance is intended to be completed, to the maximum extent possible, by
way of this RMP. In accordance with 36 CFR 800, implementing regulations for NHPA Section
106, as amended in 1992, and additional direction provided by the National Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation (ACHP), Reclamation and DSPHS are combining required NHPA
consultation with this RMP. Pursuant to 36 CFR 800.1(c), Reclamation should initiate Section
106 consultation early in the planning process. In addition, pursuant to 36 CFR 800.8, Federal
agencies are encouraged to coordinate Section 106 consultation with the NEPA process. The
ACHP also encourages Federal agencies to manage cultural resources in a comprehensive
manner. Coordinating NHPA with this RMP will allow for Section 106 consultation early in the
planning stages to combine review processes and to take a broad view of cultural resources
management at Glendo Reservoir, rather than on a case-by-case basis.
Many of the actions proposed under this RMP have the potential to affect the characteristics of a
historic property qualifying it for inclusion in or eligibility for the NRHP. It is the intention of
this RMP to supply sufficient detail for site specific proposals to complete required Section 106
consultation. Most of the proposed project areas have been previously surveyed to Class III
standards for cultural resources and the subsequent survey reports have been reviewed and
commented on by SHPO. Attachment H contains location maps, NRHP eligibility status of all
known sites, and a list of all previous Class III cultural resource surveys at Glendo Reservoir.
Pursuant to Section 304 of the NHPA, Authority to Withhold from Disclosure Archaeological
Information, Attachment H will only be available to Reclamation, SHPO and DSPHS. For those
actions proposed within this RMP that are in areas previously surveyed to Class III standards and
no NRHP eligible or unevaluated cultural resources exist, SHPO concurs that these actions have
a finding of No Historic Properties Affected and NHPA compliance would be completed.
within this RMP.
Alternative B includes each of the maintenance and management actions described in Alternative
A plus actions for Reclamation and DSPHS to moderately expand recreation resources at Glendo
Reservoir to address future growth in the park.
Management Actions
A non-federal managing partner would continue to be sought for Glendo Reservoir areas not
managed by DSPHS.
New recreational opportunities and facilities would be provided as outlined in the Management
Areas section below.
Reclamation and DSPHS will ensure that at least 5% of facilities and structures meet UFAS
requirement.
lease between both agencies and to identify opportunities for habitat enhancement.
Reclamation and DSPHS will continue to consider threatened and endangered species during
planning and construction. In order to reduce potential effects to the bald eagle, the Service
(Written correspondence October 7, 2003) states that “a disturbance-free buffer zone of 0.5 mile
during the summer should be maintained around winter roosting sites to protect their structural
integrity. A buffer zone of 1 mile should be maintained around nest sites. Activity within 1 mile
of an eagle nest or roost may disturb the eagles and result in take. If construction disturbance
occurs during the winter, a buffer zone of 1 mile should be maintained around winter roost sites.
If a disturbance-free buffer zone of 1 mile is not practicable, then the activity should be
conducted outside of February 15 through August 15 to protect nesting birds and November 1
through April 15 to protect roosting birds.” Because of the importance of cottonwoods and other
mature trees as roosting and perching sites for bald eagles and other raptors, the Service
recommends that Reclamation and DSPHS take “all possible measures to protect trees from
destruction during the construction and development process. Of particular importance are trees
at and around roosting sites because of their thermal buffering function, and trees close to the
reservoir waterline which provide important perches for hunting eagles and other raptors.”
For those actions proposed within this RMP that are in areas previously surveyed to Class III
standards and no NRHP eligible or unevaluated cultural resources exist, SHPO concurs that these
actions have a finding of No Historic Properties Affected and NHPA compliance would be
completed.
proposed in areas that have not been previously surveyed to Class III standards, have the
potential to affect known NRHP eligible or unevaluated properties, or actions not identified
within this RMP.
Reclamation would continue to conduct block cultural resource surveys as funding permits.
Reclamation and DSPHS will review Attachment H of this RMP during project planning prior to
disturbance.
DSPHS would continue to provide Reclamation detailed information, including site plans, of
proposed activities for Reclamation land management purposes and NEPA documentation.
DSPHS will obtain necessary permits for their proposed actions, i.e. Clean Water Act permits.
Reclamation will continue to prohibit the use of off-road vehicles off of established maintained
roads. Alternative B proposals would allow ORV use on designated roads and campgrounds
within the park. However, all other areas other than designated roads and campgrounds would
be closed to motorized travel.
DSPHS will continue to manage the road system in Glendo State Park. Road improvements
would be implemented while other two track side roads would be eliminated. As larger vehicles
and boats use the reservoir, alterations to existing roadways would be required to accommodate
their use. Improvements would include widening and straightening roadways, developing
shoulders, paving and resurfacing roads, and expanding parking areas.
DSPHS will continue to manage the marina concessionaire and cabin lease site contracts.
DSPHS and Reclamation will continue to replace, install, remove signs as necessary to inform
park visitors of rules, regulations, and interpretive and cultural aspects of Glendo State Park and
Glendo Reservoir lands. DSPHS will install signs where ORV use occurs off established roads.
DSPHS intends to develop a hiking trail to provide opportunities for non-water based
recreational activities.
Reclamation and DSPHS will coordinate vegetation plantings and removal activities with WGF
to evaluate any effects, advantages and disadvantages, or benefits of the action. Native species
will be used whenever possible when reseeding or replanting.
Best management practices (BMP) will be used for management and construction actions to
reduce sedimentation and erosion. BMP include but are not limited to: installation of sediment
and erosion control devices; adequate and continued maintenance of sediment and erosion
control devices to insure their effectiveness; minimize the construction disturbance area to
further avoid streams, wetlands, and riparian areas; located equipment staging, fueling, and
maintenance areas outside of wetlands, streams, riparian areas, and floodplains, and reseed with
native species.
Soil conditions and other environmental factors would be taken into consideration when
developing facilities within the Glendo Reservoir area.
When designing roadway construction and improvements, Reclamation and DSPHS will ensure
adequately sized culverts be installed as needed to minimize bank erosion, channel scouring, and
aquatic wildlife species.
Management Areas
Descriptions of proposals for the different recreational management areas under Alternative B
are shown on recreational area Maps B1 through B24 at the end of this chapter.
- The area is currently undeveloped and there is no public access to the area other than by
boat or crossing private land. North Shore is being utilized as year round wildlife habitat
and for grazing during the months of April and June.
- This area would be maintained for wildlife habitat for the duration of the RMP.
Muddy Bay Area (Map B1)
Re-gravel and reshape the existing roadway
This area would be maintained for wildlife habitat
The Muddy Bay trail and day use area would continue to be managed by Reclamation.
Burnt Wagon Area (Map B2)
- Existing roadway improvements
- Install a new boat ramp
Broken Arrow Area (Map B2)
- Remove several existing two-track roadways by installing a barrier across the roadways
and revegetating the area with native species.
- Install a new previously approved UFAS toilet in center of camping loop
Indian Ridge Area (Map B2)
-
Install new previously approved low and high water boat ramps
New campsite development
Cottonwood Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B3)
- New campsite development around inlet
Island Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B3)
Willow Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B3)
- Spade/plant trees to move tree line back up off of high water for new campsite
development
- Gravel “Sandy Main” roadway
Dune Area (Sandy Beach) (Map B4)
- “Sandy Main” roadway improvements
- Develop a host campsite
- Install a beach rinse-off near “Sandy Main” Road
- Construct a maintenance shop, staff residence and first aid station at Sandy Beach
entrance
- Spade/plant trees to move tree line back up off of the high water line and to provide areas
for new campsites
- Create campsite improvement with new BBQs, larger cement pads and new tables
- Post and cable off the south end of the beach from “Sandy Main” to Hytrek Draw with
gate access for special events and periods of low water. This section of the beach will be
for day-use only. Vehicle access will be restricted on this portion of the beach.
- Develop reservation cul-de-sac style campground
- Realign existing roadways
- Install a trail head, group shelter with vegetative screening, toilet and drinking water
adjacent to Hytrek Draw; extend water line to this area for drinking water.
Hytrek Draw Area (Map B5)
- Create boat-in day-use only areas
- Create boat-in campsite areas
- Extend trail up from Narrows Bluff Area
-
DSPHS to acquire and/or obtain easement of state land for proposed trail
Narrows Bluff Area (Map B6)
- Develop a trail that extends from Narrows Bluff north into the Hytrek Draw area
- Create a new access roadway and trailhead with parking area for proposed trail head
- State land acquisition and or easement may be necessary for the trail development
- Develop lookout area on point at end of trail
- Maintain as a primitive day-use only area
- Install an ADA restroom adjacent to the trail head
Narrows Bay Area (Map B6)
Slide Hill Area (Map B7)
Glendo Dam Area (Map B8)
North Platte River Basin Area (Map B8)
- Expand existing trail system
- Improve “Sand Draw” roadway to potential picnic area
- Develop a day-use picnic area
- Install an ADA fishing pier near the existing boat dock
Buffalo Pasture One (Map B9)
- Remove livestock well #3
- Upgrade pasture fencing
- Construct corrals in two areas and supply water
Two Moon Campground (Map B9)
- Roadway expansion, resurfacing and direction designation
- Remove several sections of roadway and two upper entrance roadways
- Install two gravel connector roadways
- Install two group shelters with vegetative screening
- Designate three campsites as full ADA compliant sites
- Upgrade all restrooms to be ADA compliant
- Designate one loop for campsite reservation system
- Remove several existing campsites
- Upgrade Glendo Dam overlook area
- Relocate all aboveground utility lines underground
- Eliminate non-designated camping
-
Establish reservation camping
Incorporate campground hosts
Marina Area (Map B10)
- Expand gravel previously approved overflow parking area and designate short and long
term parking
- DSPHS may acquire management of parking areas and boat ramp from concessionaire
when the marina 5-year lease renewal expires in 2004
Park Headquarters (Map B10)
- Refurbish sewer system man-holes
- Relocate the park headquarters to the main entrance
- Replace existing shop building
- Install a new superintendent’s house and improve existing roadway
- Permanently close off well #2
- Dredge the cell lagoon
Shelter Point Campground (Map B11)
- Spade/plant trees to provide shade for new campsites. DSPHS will coordinate with WGF
on vegetation plantings.
- Replace existing log barricades with post and cable
Sagebrush Campground (Map B11)
- Expand parking area and develop an adjacent trailer parking lot
- Install a small to medium sized group shelter, ADA accessible with vegetative screening,
playground equipment and a parking lot
Whiskey Gulch Campground (Map B12)
- Install gravel roadway for pull through campsite development
- Install a large group shelter with vegetative screening, ADA accessible restroom,
playground equipment, BBQ and drinking water
- Remove several roadways to create a new camping loop
- Develop campsites in the new camping loop area
- Willow abatement. DSPHS will coordinate with WGF on vegetation removal.
Buffalo Pasture Two (Map B12)
- Existing grazing leases and land will be managed and operated at current levels and no
developments are suggested.
Entrance Area (Map B13)
- Replace existing fee booth and fee canister with a fee station and visitor center.
- Develop new superintendents office and life station
- Realign roadway for access to new facility
- DSPHS may acquire or lease state land for new facility
Mule Hill Area (Map B14)
- Install gravel roadway to develop a new camping loop
Gravel Point Area (Map B14)
- Install signs to restrict ORV use in the area
- Replace existing toilet
Colter Bay Area (Map B14)
- Install a new shower house
- Install new gravel connector roadway with small group camping loops
- Install RV camping loop with full hookups
Custer Cove Campground (Map B15)
- Install new well
- Remove existing roadway that runs to the point
- Remove two campsites inundated by high water on the point
- Install a new gravel camping loop
Soldier Rock Area (Map B16)
- Install new well
Cabin Lease Area (Map B17)
- Remove roadway and campsite that crosses cabin lease boundaries
Reno Cove Campground (Map B18)
- Expand boat and boat-trailer parking
- Upgrade roadway and pave roadway on hill
- Remove campsite by boat ramp
Red Hills Area (Map B19)
- Create a hike-in camping area with a trail, trailhead, and parking area
- Replace existing toilet with a previously approved UFAS toilet
- Install a new roadway to create a camping loop
- Develop new and existing campsites and install a group shelter near the point in new
camping loop
Waters Point Area (Map B20)
- Install new gravel roadways and remove several existing roadways to develop a new
camping loop and campsites
- Install post and cable to remove existing roadway to the point
Bennett Hill Area (Map B21)
- Modify existing roadways
- Remove unnecessary existing roadways
- Install post and cable
- Install new gravel roadways to develop new camping loops
- Spade trees in areas of new development. DSPHS will coordinate with WGF on
- Install a group shelter with vegetative screening
- Pave “Lakeshore Drive”
Goose Bay Area (Map B22)
- Extend non-motorized area from the Goose Island area back to the last WGF parking lot
- Develop existing WGF parking lots
- Gravel and shape existing roadway and relocate above high water level
Red Canyon Area
- No developments suggested. Human use should be minimized as much as possible
during winter big game use
Elkhorn Area (Map B23)
- Remove the old highway and existing toilet
- Realign the existing roadway by the fee canister to allow for wider turns by larger
vehicles and vehicles in tow
- Level and gravel existing roadways
- Develop existing campgrounds with pull-through campsite development
- Spade/plant trees to provide aesthetically pleasing areas for new campsites. DSPHS will
coordinate with WGF on vegetation plantings
Byron Wilson Area (Map B24)
- Install a UFAS restroom adjacent to an existing parking area.
- Place several non-movable park benches and picnic tables near the river and/or other sites
-
as necessary.
No overnight camping facilities would be constructed nor would trash pickup or potable
water be made available.
Manage to conserve and enhance wildlife habitat.
Do not lease the area for grazing unless it is determined to be an effective vegetation
management tool which would benefit wildlife production.
Plant vegetation to form hedgerows along certain sections of boundary fence to provide
cover for wildlife.
Plant small grain food plots and/or mast producing trees and shrubs.
Prevent unauthorized grazing and protect the existing wildlife habitat areas by
maintaining fences and/or build additional fence as needed.
Continue to pursue a non-Federal managing partner for the Byron Wilson Area.
This area is considered by WGF as crucial winter range for big game winter use and
human use should be minimized as much as possible.
III. Plan Implementation
A.
Funding
Implementation of the RMP is primarily the responsibility of Reclamation; however, this
document also serves as the DSPHS recreation Master Plan. Approval and acceptance of the
RMP by involved agencies include a commitment by Reclamation, and other entities, where
appropriate, to seek financial, program, and staffing resources necessary to implement the
proposed management actions. Because funding is uncertain, implementation of specific
management actions will require close coordination between Reclamation and other managing
agencies.
Sources of funding for management actions are Reclamation funds appropriated by Congress for
specific projects, and programs within the projects, such as the Land Resource Management
program of the Glendo Unit of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Project. Reclamation also has the
authority to cost share with DSPHS through Public Law 89-72, as Amended by Public Law 102575, Section 2804 commonly known as Title 28.
In addition to cost sharing with Reclamation on certain activities, the DSPHS has other sources
of funding in which to operate under.
•
Enterprise Account
In 1991, the State of Wyoming initiated a pilot program to collect entrance fees at Wyoming
State Parks and Historic Sites. The following year this program was formalized in W.S. 36-4121 to provide for permanent collection of entrance and camping fees at certain Wyoming State
Parks and Historic Sites. Initially all of the fees collected were deposited in the state general
fund. In 1999, the law was amended to allow eighty percent (80%) of the fees collected, subject
to annual legislative approval, to go toward an enterprise account for capital construction
projects within Wyoming’s State Parks and Historic Sites.
•
Motor Boat Gas Tax
The State of Wyoming collects a state tax on all motor fuel purchased within Wyoming. The
motor boating public pays this tax when they purchase fuel for their motorboats; however, they
derived little benefit from the monies collected. In 1991, the Motor Boat Gas Tax account (W.S.
41-13-102) was enacted. This law recognizes that a certain percentage of the state gas tax should
go toward the benefit of the motor boating public. It was calculated that each registered boater
purchases 125 gallons of gas annually; hence, DSPHS receives $0.13 per gallon tax times 125
gallons for a total of $16.25 per registered boat per year. It is also acknowledged that out-ofstate boaters purchase gas in Wyoming, therefore, the law added 5,000 boats per year to the
equation to account for out-of-state-boaters.
•
State Park Road Account
In accordance with W.S. 24-14-102, each even numbered year, the Wyoming Department of
Transportation (WDOT) sets aside money for the construction and maintenance of roads within
Wyoming’s state parks and historic sites. Prior to receipt of these funds, DSPHS provides a
prioritized list of projects for road construction and repairs to WDOT, which then oversees and
implements these projects.
B.
Schedules for Reviews and Updates
Reclamation may revise or amend portions of the RMP within the established 10-year planning
period. Portions that directly affect DSPHS will not be amended without the DSPHS input and
agreement.
The RMP is expected to be completely reviewed and revised at the end of the 10-year planning
period.
Draft Glendo Reservoir RMP
April 6, 2004
Consultation and Coordination
10/3/00
Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites (DSPHS) held a Public
Focus Group Meeting in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to gather public input regarding
future management and needs of Glendo State Park.
10/5/00
DSPHS held a Public Focus Group Meeting in Douglas, Wyoming, to gather
public input regarding future management and needs of Glendo State Park.
2/26/01
Reclamation sent letter to DSPHS and Wyoming Game and Fish Department
(WGF) inviting the agencies to a meeting to identify and discuss concerns and
interests in future management of the Glendo Reservoir area.
3/8/01
Reclamation met with the DSPHS and WGF to bring together those agencies
which have responsibilities to manage Reclamation lands at Glendo Reservoir and
to identify concerns and interests in future management of the area.
3/16/01
Reclamation sent a follow up letter of the March 8, 2001, meeting to the WGF in
which WGF agreed to provide fish and wildlife inventory information and review
draft material provided by Reclamation.
4/1/01
WGF Wildlife Biologist provided Reclamation comments on materials previously
submitted to the WGF for review.
4/6/01
WGF Fisheries Biologist provided Reclamation comments on materials
previously submitted to the WGF for review.
4/17/01
WGF Game Warden provided Reclamation comments on materials previously
4/19/01
WGF Habitat Biologist provided Reclamation comments on materials previously
12/13/01
Reclamation requested a list of threatened and endangered species which may
occur in the vicinity of Glendo Reservoir from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
12/17/01
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service submitted a list of threatened and endangered
species to Reclamation of species that may occur in the vicinity of Glendo
Reservoir.
2/6/02
Reclamation provided the DSPHS, at their request, federal guidelines and policies
April 6, 2004
that must be adhered to during the preparation and implementation of a resource
management plan at Glendo Reservoir. The material included a copy of the MOU
between Reclamation and DSPHS and included Reclamation’s Concession
Management policy, and pertinent sections of 43 Code of Federal Regulations.
2/20/03
Reclamation sent a follow up letter to WGF from a telephone conversation
regarding wildlife and threatened and endangered species at Glendo Reservoir.
3/5/03
WGF sent a letter to Reclamation concurring with the information provided in the
follow up letter sent to them on February 20, 2003.
9/11/03
Preliminary Draft RMP was distributed for interagency review.
10/1/03
Reclamation received internal comments from Reclamation’s Great Plains Region
on the Preliminary Draft RMP
10/3/03
Reclamation received comments on the Preliminary Draft RMP from WGF
10/9/03
Reclamation received comments on the Preliminary Draft RMP from the Service.
The preliminary draft RMP was distributed to the identified public entities displayed in the
distribution list for a period of three weeks for comment. After receipt of comments from
interested public entities, the comments were addressed and the draft RMP was distributed for a
30-day public review.
DRAFT
for the
Glendo Reservoir
Resource Management Plan
FONSI# WY-4000-03-01
April 6, 2004
United States Department of the Interior
Great Plains Region
Wyoming Area Office
Draft Glendo Reservoir RMP/FONSI
April 6, 2004
Glendo Reservoir Resource Management Plan
DRAFT Finding of No Significant Impact
FONSI # WY-4000-03-01
PROPOSED ACTION
Reclamation and Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites (DSPHS)
coordinated the preparation of an integrated resource management plan (RMP),
recreation master plan, and environmental assessment for Glendo Reservoir. The
purpose of the document is to develop and implement plans for land use, resource
management decisions, and the development and protection of natural, cultural, and
recreational resources at Glendo Reservoir and evaluate the associated environmental
effects. Reclamation and DSPHS proposes to implement moderate recreational
developments as described in Alternative B of Chapter IV of the Glendo Reservoir RMP.
BACKGROUND
Reclamation is to develop, monitor and update resource management plans for lands
directly managed by Reclamation and for lands cooperatively managed with another
Federal or non-Federal entity. DSPHS, through their State Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan guidelines, is to develop recreational master plans for each of the state
parks. Much of the same information is needed for both the RMP and the recreational
master plan. A cooperative interagency decision was made to incorporate all pertinent
information into one document.
The DSPHS is Reclamation’s primary recreation managing agency at Glendo Reservoir.
DSPHS manages certain lands for recreation at Glendo Reservoir as Glendo State Park.
DSPHS collected extensive information regarding Glendo State Park. This information
was used in the development of plan alternatives for the recreational master plan and to
guide management actions in regards to new facility construction and the improvements
of existing facilities. The information was used to develop the following three
management alternatives for Glendo Reservoir and state park: 1) No action Alternative
(Alternative A); 2) Natural Resource Conservation/Enhancement with Moderate
Recreation Development (Alternative B) (Preferred); and 3) Natural Resource
Conservation with Maximum Recreation Development (Alternative C). Alternatives B
and C meet the goals and objectives of the RMP.
Draft Glendo Reservoir RMP/FONSI
April 6, 2004
Alternative B was developed to address projected growth and adhere to the public’s
wishes to not overdevelop the park. To accomplish this DSPHS, in coordination with
Reclamation, proposes to upgrade existing and informal campsites, campgrounds, and
roadways, expand recreational opportunities for non-water based activities such as hiking
trails, scenic overlooks, group shelter, nature trail, and a visitor center. Some areas,
notably on the northern end of the reservoir would largely remain undeveloped for
wildlife habitat. Proposed actions described in Alternative B depend on available
funding and are reasonably foreseeable within the 10-year timeframe of the RMP.
Alternative C was also developed to address projected growth, but included a maximum
amount of development. This alternative proposes more amenities such as in a resort
type development, and the public may view this alternative as overdeveloping the park.
Many of the proposed actions in this alternative are not reasonably foreseeable within the
10-year timeframe of the RMP.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
Reclamation makes the following environmental commitments associated with the
Glendo Reservoir Resource Management Plan (RMP):
1.
Reclamation and DSPHS will consider threatened and endangered species
during planning and construction. Care will be taken to minimize any
disturbance to threatened and endangered species.
2.
Reclamation will consult with the State Historic Preservation Office on effects
of the preferred alternative in the RMP in compliance with the National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended in 1992. Cultural resource
compliance for those items not covered by SHPO concurrence in their
correspondence to Reclamation will be evaluated on a case by case basis. If
cultural resources are discovered during construction activities, construction
shall be halted until Reclamation’s Wyoming Area Office archeologist is
notified and assesses the situation.
3.
DECISION
Decision to be made following public review.
April 6, 2004
LAWS, REGULATIONS and EXECUTIVE ORDERS
List of laws, regulations, and executive orders that have special application to the Glendo
Reservoir RMP/MP:
1.
Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1958 – The objective of this Act is to
provide that wildlife conservation receives equal consideration and be
coordinated with other features of water resource development programs.
Reclamation will consult and coordinate its programs with the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service.
2.
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205) – Section 7 of this Act requires
Reclamation to ensure that all federally associated Reclamation activities
within the United States do not have adverse impacts on the continued
existence of threatened or endangered species or on designated critical
habitats. Reclamation will consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to
determine potential impacts a project may have on protected species.
3.
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (P.L. 89-665), as amended (P.L.
95-515) – An evaluation will be conducted prior to construction activities to
determine whether a proposed action will affect sites or structures listed in or
eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (National
Register). If any are found, it is then determined whether the project effects
are adverse.
4.
Clean Water Act – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for
dredge and fill permits (under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act) affecting
the waters of the United States. The State Department of Environmental
Quality is responsible for water quality permits under Sections 401 and 402
for actions affecting discharges and water pollution. Reclamation would be
required to coordinate all proposed activities affecting water quality with the
Corps and DEQ, applying for and receiving required permits before any
construction occurs.
5.
Executive Order 11988 – requires each Federal agency to determine whether
the proposed action will occur in a flood plain, consider alternatives, and if no
practical alternative is found, it requires minimizing harm, notifying the public
why the action must be located in the flood plain, and provides for public
review and comment. (RI 376) (43 CFR 6030) (RI 215.13)
6.
Executive Order 11990 – protection of wetlands, provides for a process to
improve and coordinate Federal plans, functions, programs, and resource use
April 6, 2004
in a manner to attain beneficial use without impacting on wetlands by
requiring the agency head to find that there are no practical alternatives to
such construction and that the proposed action includes all practical measures
to minimize impacts to wetlands. (RI376)
7.
Executive Order 12898 – “Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice
in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations.” Requires each
Federal agency (specifically in EISs) to “provide full and fair discussion of
significant environmental impacts and shall inform decision-makers and the
public of reasonable alternatives which would avoid or minimize adverse
impacts or enhance the quality of the human environment.” (40 CFR1502.1)
Mission Statements
Department of the Interior
The mission of the Department of the Interior is to protect and
provide access to our Nation’s natural and cultural heritage and
honor our trust responsibilities to tribes.
The mission of the Bureau of Reclamation is to manage, develop,
and protect water and related resources in an environmentally and
economically sound manner in the interest of the American Public
Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources
To provide excellent quality recreational and cultural lands and
opportunities for Wyoming’s residents and visitors and to be
responsible stewards of these resources.
Division of State Parks and Historic Sites
A) Provide a wide range of recreation opportunities at State Parks
and Historic Sites
B) Protect and manage the natural and cultural resources under
our stewardship
C) Assist communities in the development of local recreational
facilities
D) To interpret the State Historical Sites and educate the public
about Wyoming’s history and heritage
E) Develop and maintain motorized and non0motorized trails in
cooperation with federal and community partners
April 6, 2004
LIST of PREPARERS
This RMP was prepared by the Bureau of Reclamation Wyoming Area Office and the
Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites. Listed below are those who made
significant contributions to the preparation of the document:
Name
Participation
Qualifications
Laura Schwieger – WYAO
NEPA Coordinator, document
preparation
B.S. Natural Resources;
Environmental Specialist, 19 yrs
w/ Reclamation
George Neuberger – WYAO
Document review and
preparation
B.S. Wildlife Biology; ChiefLand Management Branch; 17
yrs w/ Reclamation
Harry Morrow – WYAO
Document Preparation
B.S. Human Ecology; Natural
Resource Specialist,
Accessibility Coordinator, 1 yr
w/ Reclamation
Dale Austin – WYAO
Area Archeologist
B.A. Anthropology; M.S.
Recreation & Park
Administration, 13 yrs w/
Reclamation
Todd Thibodeau – DSPHS
Document review and
preparation
B.A. History; B.A.
Anthropology; M.A. Legal
History/Environmental Planning,
10 yrs w/State
Jonathon Teichert – DSPHS
GIS, document review and
preparation
B.S. Physical Education; M.P.A.
Planning Specialist, DSPHS
Mandy Bingaman
Document Preparation
B.S. Geography and
Environmental Planning;
Planning Specialist, DSPHS
SPECIES COMMON ALONG THE NORTH PLATTE RIVER
IN WYOMING AND NEBRASKA
Amphibians
Common Name
Scientific Name
Bullfrog
Tiger salamander
Woodhouse’s toad
Boreal toad
Boreal chorus frog
Plains spadefoot toad
Northern leopard frog
(Rana catesbeiana)
(Ambystoma tigrinum)
(Bufo woodhousei)
(Bufo boreas boreas)
(Pseudacris triseriata maculata)
(Scaphiopus bombifrons)
(Rana pipiens)
Reptiles
Common Name
Northern earless lizard
Northern sagebrush lizard
Red-lipped prairie lizard
Eastern short-horned lizard
Plains hognose snake
Eastern yellow-belly racer
Bullsnake
Red-sided garter snake
Wandering garter snake
Prairie rattlesnake
Snapping turtle
Ornate box turtle
Western spiny softshell turtle
Western painted turtle
Prairie-lined racerunner
Many-lined skink
Northern prairie lizard
Pale milk snake
Western plains garter snake
Scientific Name
(Holbrookia maculata maculata)
(Sceloporus graciosus graciosus)
(Sceloporus undulatus erythrocheilus)
(Phrynosoma douglassi brevirostre)
(Heterodon nasicus nasicus)
(Coluber constrictor flaviventris)
(Pituophis melanoleucus sayi)
(Thamnophia sitalis parietalis)
(Thamnophis elegans vagrans)
(Crotalus viridis viridis)
(Chelydra serpentina serpentina)
(Terrapene ornata ornata)
(Trionyx spiniferus hartwegi)
(Chrysemys picta belli)
(Cnemidophorus sexlineatus viridis)
(Eumeces multivirgatus)
(Sceloporus undulatus garmani)
(Lampropeltris triangulum multistrata)
(Thamnophia radix haydeni)
Mammals
Common Name
Scientific Name
Water Shrew
Merriam’s Shrew
Short – tailed Shrew
(Sorex palustris)
(Sorex merriami)
(Blarina brevicauda)
Eastern Mole
(Scalopus aquaticus)
Little Brown Myotis
Keen’s Myotis
Small-footed Myotis
Long-legged Myotis
Fringed Myotis
Red Bat
Hoary Bat
Townsend’s Big-eared Bat
Big Brown Bat
Silver-haired Bat
(Myotis lucifugus)
(Myotis keenii)
(Myotis leibii)
(Myotis evotis)
(Myotis thysanodes)
(Lasiurus borealis)
(Nycteris cinerea)
(Plecotus townsendii)
(Eptesicus fuscus)
(Lasionycteris noctivagans)
White-tailed Jackrabbit
Black-tailed Jackrabbit
Eastern Cottontail
Nuttall’s Cottontail
Desert Cottontail
(Lepus townsendii)
(Lepus californicus)
(Sylvilagus floridanus)
(Sylvilagus nuttalli)
(Sylvilagus audubonii)
Wyoming Ground Squirrel
Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
Spotted Ground Squirrel
Fox Squirrel
Least Chipmunk
Black-tailed Prairie Dog
White-tailed Prairie Dog
(Spermophilus elegans)
(Spermophilus tridecemlineatus)
(Spermophilus spilosa)
(Sciurus niger)
(Eutamias minimus)
(Cynomys ludovicianus)
(Cynomys leucurus)
Northern Pocket Gopher
Plains Pocket Gopher
Olive-backed Pocket Mouse
Silky Pocket Mouse
Hispid Pocket Mouse
Ord’s Kangaroo Rat
(Thomomys talpoides)
(Geomys bursarius)
(Perognathus fasciatus)
(Perognathus flavus)
(Perognathus hispidus)
(Dipodomys ordii)
Common Name
Scientific Name
Western Harvest Mouse
Deer Mouse
White-footed Mouse
Northern Grasshopper Mouse
Plains Pocket Mouse
House Mouse
Bushy-tailed Wood Rat
Gapper’s Red-backed Vole
Long-tailed Vole
Sagebrush Vole
Meadow Vole
Prairie Vole
(Reithrodontomys megalotis)
(Peromyscus maniculatus)
(Peromyscus leucopus)
(Onychomys leucogaster)
(Perognathus flavescens)
(Mus musculus)
(Neotoma cinerea)
(Clethrionomys gapperi)
(Microtus longicaudus)
(Lagurus curtatus)
(Microtus pennsylvanicus)
(Microtus ochrogaster)
Meadow Jumping Mouse
Western Jumping Mouse
(Zapus hudsonius)
(Zapus princeps)
Beaver
Muskrat
(Castor canadensis)
(Ondatra zibethicus)
Porcupine
(Erethizon dorsatum)
Mink
(Mustela vison)
Gray Fox
Swift Fox
Red Fox
(Urocyon cinereoargenteus)
(Vulpes velox)
(Vulpes vulpes)
Opossum
(Didelphis marsupialis)
Long-tailed Weasel
Badger
Striped Skunk
Spotted Skunk
(Mustela frenata)
(Taxidea taxus)
(Mephitis mephitis)
(Spilogale putorius)
Raccoon
(Procyon lotor)
Coyote
(Canis latrans)
Bobcat
(Lynx rufus)
Elk
Mule Deer
White-tailed Deer
Pronghorn
(Cervus elpahus)
(Odocoileus hemionus)
(Odocoileus virginianus)
(Antilocapra americana)
Birds
Common Name
Western Grebe
Eared Grebe
Pied-billed Grebe
White Pelican
Double-crested Cormorant
Green-backed Heron
Great Blue Heron
Black-crowned Night Heron
American Bittern
Canada Goose
Mallard
Blue-winged Teal
Green-winged Teal
Cinnamon Teal
Pintail
Gadwall
Ring-necked Duck
American Wigeon
Shoveler
Wood Duck
Redhead
Greater Scaup
Lesser Scaup
Ruddy Duck
Common Merganser
Bufflehead
Turkey Vultures
Red-tailed Hawk
Swainson’s Hawk
Rough-legged Hawk
Northern Harrier
Goshawk
Golden Eagle
Bald Eagle
Kestrel
Sage Grouse
Sharp-tailed Grouse
Blue Grouse
Scientific Name
(Aechmophorus occidentalis)
(Podiceps nigricollis)
(Podilymbus podiceps)
(Pelecanus erythrorhynchos)
(Phalacrocorax auritus)
(Butorides striatus)
(Ardea herodias)
(Nycticorax nycticorax)
(Botaurus lentiginosus)
(Branta canadensis)
(Anas platyrhynchos)
(Anas discors)
(Anas carolinensis)
(Anas cyanoptera)
(Anas acuta)
(Anas strepera)
(Aythya collaris)
(Anas americana)
(Spatula clypeata)
(Aix sponsa)
(Aythya americana)
(Aythya marila)
(Aythya affinis)
(Oxyura jamaicensis)
(Mergus merganser)
(Bucephala albeola)
(Cathartes aura)
(Buteo jamaicensis)
(Buteo Swainsoni)
(Buteo lagopus)
(Circus cyaneus)
(Accipiter gentillis)
(Aquila chrysaetos)
(Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
(Falco sparverius)
(Centrocercus urophasianus)
(Tympanuchus phasianellus)
(Dendragapus obscurus)
Common Name
Bobwhite Quail
Ring-necked Pheasant
Turkey
Sandhill Crane
Virginia Rail
Sora
American Coot
Killdeer
Upland Sandpiper
Willet
Common Snipe
Yellowlegs
Long-billed Curlew
Spotted Sandpiper
Solitary Sandpiper
Baird’s Sandpiper
Least Sandpiper
Long-billed Dowitcher
American Avocet
Wilson’s Phalarope
Franklin’s Gull
Ring-billed Gull
California Gull
Herring Gull
Black Tern
Forster’s Tern
Band-tailed Pigeon
Rock Dove
Morning Dove
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Great-horned Owl
Burrowing Owl
Screech Owl
Whip-poor-will
Poor-will
Common Nighthawk
White-throated Swift
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
Belted Kingfisher
Flicker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Red-headed Woodpecker
Scientific Name
(Colinus virginianus)
(Phasianus colchicus)
(Meleagris gallopavo)
(Grus canadensis)
(Rallus limicola)
(Porzana carolina)
(Fulica americana)
(Charadrius vociferus)
(Bartramia longicauda)
(Catoptrophorus semipalmatus)
(Capella gallinago)
(Totanus sp.)
(Numenius americanus)
(Actitis macularia)
(Tringa solitaria)
(Calidris bairdii)
(Calidris minutilla)
(Limnodromus scolopaceus)
(Recurvirostra americana)
(Phalaropus tricolor)
(Larus pipixcan)
(Larus delawarensis)
(Larus californicus)
(Larus argentatus)
(Chlidonias niger)
(Sterna forsteri)
(Columba fasciata)
(Columba livia)
(Zenaida macroura)
(Coccyzus americanus)
(Bubo virginianus)
(Athene cunicularia)
(Otus asio)
(Caprimulgus vociferus)
(Phalaenoptilus nuttallii)
(Chordeiles minor)
(Aeronautes saxatalis)
(Selasphorus platycercus)
(Ceryl alcyon)
(Colaptes auratus)
(Picoides pubescens)
(Picoides villosus)
(Melanerpes erythrocephalus)
Common Name
Eastern Kingbird
Western Kingbird
Western Flycatcher
Western Wood Pewee
Say’s Phoebe
Flycatchers
Horned Lark
Rough-winged Swallow
Tree Swallow
Barn Swallow
Violet-green Swallow
Cliff Swallow
Bank Swallow
Blue Jay
Steller’s Jay
Pinyon Jay
Black-billed Magpie
Raven
Common Crow
Clark’s Nutcracker
Black-capped Chickadee
Mountain Chickadee
Plain Titmouse
Pygmy Nuthatch
Red-breasted Nuthatch
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Dipper
Canyon Wren
Rock Wren
Mockingbird
Gray Catbird
Brown Thrasher
Swainson’s Thrush
Hermit Thrush
Mountain Bluebird
Townsend’s Solitaire
American Robin
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Rudy-crowned Kinglet
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Water Pipit
Loggerhead Shrike
Northern Shirke
Starling
Scientific Name
(Tyrannus tyrannus)
(Tyrannus verticalis)
(Empidonax difficilis)
(Contopus sordidulus)
(Sayornis saya)
(Empidonax sp.)
(Eremophila alpestris)
(Stelgidopteryx serripennis)
(Tachycineta bicolor)
(Hirundo rustica)
(Tachycineta thalassina)
(Hirundo pyrrhonota)
(Riparia riparia)
(Cyanocitta cristata)
(Cyanocitta stelleri)
(Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus)
(Pica pica)
(Corvus corax)
(Corvus brachyrhynchos)
(Nucifraga columbiana)
(Parus atricapillus)
(Parus gambeli)
(Parus inornatus)
(Sitta Pygmaea)
(Sitta canadensis)
(Sitta carolinensis)
(Certhia americana)
(Cinclus mexicanus)
(Salpinctes mexicanus)
(Salpinctes obsoletus)
(Mimus polyglottos)
(Dumetella carolinensis)
(Toxostoma rufum)
(Hylocichla ustulata)
(Catharus guttatus)
(Sialia currucoides)
(Myadestes townsendi)
(Turdus migratorius)
(Regulus satrapa)
(Regulus calendula)
(Polioptila caerulea)
(Anthus spinoletta)
(Lanius ludovicianus)
(Lanius excubitor)
(Sturnus vulgaris)
Common Name
Warbling Vireo
Solitary Vireo
Virginia’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warbler
Yellow Warbler
Myrtle Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
Yellow-breasted Chat
Black-throated Gray Warbler
Orange-crowned Warbler
Oven Bird
MacGillivray’s Warbler
Western Meadowlark
Rusty Blackbird
Red-winged Blackbird
Baltimore Oriole
Orchard Oriole
Common Grackle
Brown-headed Cowbird
Bobolink
Brewer’s blackbird
Western Tanager
Cardinal
Black-headed Grosbeak
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Lazuli Bunting
Evening Grosbeak
Green-tailed Towhee
Rufous-sided Towhee
Lark Sparrow
House Finch
Cassin’s Finch
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch
White-crowned Sparrow
Lark Bunting
Savannah Sparrow
Grasshopper Sparrow
Vesper Sparrow
Sage Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
Chipping Sparrow
Tree Sparrow
Brewer’s Sparrow
Lincoln’s Sparrow
Song Sparrow
McCown’s Longspur
Chestnut-collared Longspur
Scientific Name
(Vireo gilvus)
(Vireo solitarius)
(Vermivora virginiae)
(Wilsonia pusilla)
(Dendroica petechia)
(Dendroica coronata)
(Geothlypis trichas)
(Icteria virens)
(Dendroica nigrescens)
(Vermivora celata)
(Seiurus aurocapillus)
(Oporornis tolmiei)
(Sturnella neglecta)
(Euphagus carolinus)
(Agelaius phoeniceus)
(Icterus galbula)
(Icterus spurius)
(Quiscalus quiscula)
(Molothrus ater)
(Dolichonyx oryzivorus)
(Euphagus cyanocephalus)
(Piranga ludoviciana)
(Cardinalis cardinalis)
(Pheucticus melanocephalus)
(Pheucticus ludovicianus)
(Passerina amoena)
(Coccothraustes vespertinus)
(Pipilo chlorurus)
(Pipilo erythrophthalmus)
(Chondestes grammacus)
(Carpodacus mexicanus)
(Carpodacus cassinii)
(Carduelis pinus)
(Carduelis tristis)
(Zonotrichia leucophrys)
(Calamospiza melanocorys)
(Passerculus sandwichensis)
(Ammodramus savannarum)
(Pooecetes gramineus)
(Amphispiza belli)
(Junco hyemalis)
(Spizella passerina)
(Spizella arborea)
(Spizella breweri)
(Melospiza lincolnii)
(Melospiza melodia)
(Calcarius mccownii)
(Calcarius ornatus)
Abbreviations and Acronyms
ACHP
ADA
ADAAG
AUM
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
Americans with Disabilities Act
Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines
Animal Unit Month
BLM
CERCLA
CFR
cfs
CAA
CWA
COE
Bureau of Land Management
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability
Act
Code of Federal Regulations
cubic feet per second
Clean Air Act
Clean Water Act
U.S. Corps of Engineers
DSPHS
Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites
EA
E.O.
ESA
Environmental Assessment
Executive Order
Endangered Species Act
FIFRA
FONSI
FWCA
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act
Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act
GIS
GSA
GVMP
Geographic Information System
General Services Administration
Glendo Vegetation Management Plan
HSWA
Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendment to RCRA 1984
IPM
ITA
Integrated Pest Management
Indian Trust Assets
MOU
Memorandum of Understanding
NEPA
NHPA
NRHP
National Environmental Policy Act
National Historic Preservation Act
National Register of Historic Places
ORV
off-road vehicle
P-SMBP
P.L.
Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Project
Public Law
Reclamation
RCRA
RFP
RMP
Resource, Conservation, and Recovery Act
Request for Proposal
Resource Management Plan
SDWA
SCORP
Service
SHPO
State
Safe Drinking Water Act
State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
State Historic Preservation Office
State of Wyoming
TMDL
Total Maximum Daily Load
UFAS
Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards
WDEQ
WDOT
WGF
W.S.
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality
Wyoming Department of Transportation
Wyoming Game and Fish Department
Wyoming Statute
April 6, 2004
LITERATURE CITED
Aronson, J.G. and S.L. Ellis. 1979. “Monitoring, Maintenance, Rehabilitation, and
Enhancement of Critical Whooping Crane habitat, Platte River, Nebraska.” In The
Mitigation Symposium. Colorado State University, Fort Collins. pp. 168-180.
Federal Register, 1992. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Rule to List the
Plant Spiranthes diluvialis (Ute Ladies’-Tresses) as a Threatened Species. Federal
Register. Volume 57, No. 12. January 17, 1992.
Fisher, Lynn E. 1980 a. “Vegetative Community Descriptions for the North Platte River in
Wyoming and Nebraska.” U.S.D.I. Water and Power Resource Service. Denver,
Colorado, 42 pp.
Fitzgerald, James P. 1978. “Vertebrate Associations in Plant Communities Along the South
Platte River in Northeastern Colorado.” In Lowland River and Stream Habitat in
Colorado: A Symposium. University of Northern Colorado, Greeley.
Frison, George C. 1991. Prehistoric Hunters of the High Plains, Second Edition. Academic
Press, Inc., San Diego, California.
Hicks, Martin. 2003. Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Wildlife Biologist. Telephone
Conversation. February 11, 2003.
Love, J.D. and Ann Coe Christiansen. 1985. Geologic Map of Wyoming. U.S. Geological
Survey. Denver, Colorado.
Masek, J. 1979. Vegetation Community Descriptions for the South Platte River in Colorado
and Nebraska. U.S.D.I. Water and Power Resources Service. 23 pp.
Mavrakis, Paul. 2001. “Programmed Creel Survey of Glendo Reservoir, Platte County, 2000”.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Fish Division, Administrative Report. April
2001. 29 pp.
Mavrakis, Paul. 2001. Letter to the Bureau of Reclamation, April 6.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. 1994. Nebraska’s Threatened and Endangered Species
Mountain Plover. Published by NEBRASKAland Magazine and Nebraska Game and
Parks Commission. July 1994.
State of Wyoming. 1985. Wyoming Data Handbook. Division of Research and Statistics,
Department of Administration and Fiscal Control. Cheyenne, 201 pp.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1995. Ute ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes diluvialis) recovery plan.
April 6, 2004
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Denver, Colorado. 46 pp.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2003. Letter to Bureau of Reclamation. October 7, 2003.
Wolff, Steve. 2002. “Mercury and Selenium in Fish: Results of a Baseline Survey in
Wyoming”. Wyoming Game and Fish Department, May 2002. 14 pp.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department. 2003. Letter to Bureau of Reclamation regarding the
Preliminary Draft Glendo Reservoir Management Plan/Glendo State Park Master Plan and
Environmental Assessment. October 2, 2003.
April 6, 2004
DISTRIBUTION LIST
Federal Agencies
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation*
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service*
State Agencies
Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites*
Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office*
Wyoming Game and Fish Department*
Wyoming Office of the Governor
Wyoming Department of Transportation*
Communities and Counties
Mayor of Glendo
Platte County Public Library
Natrona County Public Library
Converse County Library
Laramie County Library
Denver Central Library
Fort Collins Public Library
Groups and Individuals
The Nature Conservancy
North Platte Walleyes Unlimited
DSPHS sent notice of availability of the RMP to approximately 200 individuals who
attended and/or provided comments during scoping meetings.
* Received preliminary draft RMP for a three week review period
April 6, 2004
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
Reclamation makes the following environmental commitments associated with the
Glendo Reservoir Resource Management Plan (RMP):
1.
Reclamation and DSPHS will consider threatened and endangered species
during planning and construction. Care will be taken to minimize any
disturbance to threatened and endangered species.
2.
Reclamation will consult with the State Historic Preservation Office on effects
of the preferred alternative in the RMP in compliance with the National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended in 1992. Cultural resource
compliance for those items not covered by SHPO concurrence in their
correspondence to Reclamation will be evaluated on a case by case basis. If
cultural resources are discovered during construction activities, construction
shall be halted until Reclamation’s Wyoming Area Office archeologist is
notified and assesses the situation.
3.

Glendo Reservoir Finding of No Significant Impact

Transcription

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