United States 

Department of

Agriculture

Forest 

Service

Southwestern

Region

Prescott 

National 

Forest 

September 

2011

Prescott National Forest

Forest Plan Revision EIS

Terrestrial Viability Report

Submitted by: ___________________________

Noel Fletcher

Wildlife Biologist,

Prescott National Forest
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report i

Table of Contents

Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................1

Relevant Laws, Regulations, and Policy that Apply ............................................................................2

Methodology and Analysis Process .....................................................................................................2

Taxa Associated with Plan Revision ........................................................................................................3

Needs for Change Addressed in this Analysis..........................................................................................5

Need for Change 1................................................................................................................................5

Need for Change 2................................................................................................................................5

Summary of Alternatives..........................................................................................................................6

Habitat Elements.....................................................................................................................................10

Condition and Trend...........................................................................................................................12

Determining potential for risk to viability from management actions ...............................................17

Desert Communities PNVT ...............................................................................................................19

Desired Conditions for All Vegetation Types....................................................................................21

Ponderosa Pine vegetation types........................................................................................................22

Piñon /juniper vegetation types..........................................................................................................29

Grassland vegetation types.................................................................................................................34
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report ii

List of Tables

Table 1. Viability Risk Summary ...........................................................................................................1

Table 2. ESR Table of Mammals Associated with PNVTs or Special Features.....................................3

Table 3. ESR Table of Birds Associated with PNVTs or Special Features.............................................3

Table 4. Comparison of plan components or potential activities, by alternative....................................7

Table 5. Vegetation Groups Assessed on the Prescott NF, Coarse-Scale Analysis............................... 11

Table 6. PNVT Departure, Trend, and Disturbance in Relation to Reference Conditions...................13

Table 7. Viability risk assessment for species identified in ESR..........................................................13

Table 8. Revised Table of Species Associated with PNVTs or Special Features..................................16

Table 9. Riparian habitat activities, by alternative ...............................................................................18

Table 10. Rationale for species with no risk of viability from management actions............................20

Table 11. Potential activities in Ponderosa pine PNVTs, by alternative...............................................24

Table 12. Ponderosa pine/Gambel oak PNVT......................................................................................24

Table 13. Ponderosa pine/evergreen oak PNVT...................................................................................26

Table 14. Species associated with Ponderosa Pine PNVTs.................................................................27

Table 15. Habitat extent associated with Ponderosa Pine PNVTs.......................................................28

Table 16. Potential activities in Piñon-juniper PNVTs, by alternative .................................................30

Table 17. Piñon juniper/evergreen shrub (PJ/ES) PNVT .....................................................................30

Table 18. Species associated with Piñon /juniper PNVTs...................................................................32

Table 19. Habitat extent associated with Piñon /juniper PNVTs..........................................................33

Table 20. Potential activities in Grasslands PNVTs, by alternative......................................................36

Table 21. Piñon juniper/grasslands (JUG) PNVT ................................................................................36

Table 22. Semi-desert grassland (SDG) PNVT....................................................................................37

Table 23. Great Basin grassland (GB/GL) PNVT ................................................................................37

Table 24. Species associated with Grassland PNVTs..........................................................................38

Table 25. Habitat extent associated with Grassland PNVTs.................................................................39

Table 26. Potential habitat improvement activities, by alternative.......................................................41
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 1

Introduction

This report evaluates and assesses the risk of viability from management actions on the wildlife resources

that may result with the adoption of a revised land management plan. It examines, in detail, four different 

alternatives for revising the 1988 Prescott National Forest land management plan. 

Table 1. Viability Risk Summary

SPECIES Viability Risk Summary

Common name Coarse filter (PNVT Desired conditions)

Morafka’s desert tortoise

No risk – Desert communities DC Gilded flicker

Gila woodpecker

No risk – Riparian features & Desert communities DC Elf owl

Lucy's warbler No risk – Riparian & tree features. Desert communities DC

Flammulated owl

No risk – PNVT Desired conditions >Existing conditions

Purple martin

Grace's warbler

Northern goshawk

Juniper titmouse

Gray vireo

Pinyon jay

Virginia's warbler

Western burrowing owl

Western grasshopper sparrow

Gunnison’s prairie dog

Plains harvest mouse

Habitat feature desired conditions 

not enough to ensure viability Fine Filter (S&G’s for habitat feature or species status)

American peregrine falcon No risk – rock features w/ Guide-WL-1

Pale Townsend’s big-eared bat

No risk – rock features and buildings w/ Guide-WL-1

Pocketed free-tailed bat

Abert’s towhee No risk – Riparian DC w/ Guide-WL-1

Bell's vireo No risk – associated w/ Abert’s towhee habitat

Southwestern willow flycatcher No risk – Riparian DC w/ Std-WL-1 & riparian & tree feature guides

Western yellow-billed cuckoo No risk – Riparian DC w/ Std-WL-1 & riparian & tree feature guides

Common black hawk No risk – Riparian DC w/ Guide-WL-1 and 4 & riparian & tree feature 

guides

Western red bat No risk – Riparian DC w/ Guide-WL-1 & riparian & tree feature guides

Bald eagle No risk – Riparian DC w/ Std-WL-1 and 4 & riparian & tree feature guides

Coarse filter (Desired conditions) 

Low risk – PNVT Desired<Existing Fine filter (S&G’s)

Mexican spotted owl No risk – STd-WL-1

Red-faced warbler No risk – association to MSO

Cordilleran flycatcher No risk – association to MSO

Bendire’s thrasher No risk – not occurring on PNF

Pronghorn antelope No risk – Objectives 25-28, Guide-WL-2
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 2

Relevant Laws, Regulations, and Policy that Apply 

National Forest Management Act (NFMA) regulations, adopted in 1982, require that habitat be managed 

to support viable populations of native and desirable non-native vertebrates within the planning area (36 

CFR219.9). USDA regulation 9500-004, adopted in 1983, reinforces the NFMA viability regulation by 

requiring that habitats on national forests be managed to support viable populations of native and desired 

non-native plants, fish, and wildlife. For planning purposes, a viable population shall be regarded as one 

that has the estimated numbers and distribution of reproductive individuals to ensure its continued 

existence is well distributed in the planning area (36 CFR 219.19). Also, the 1982 planning provisions 

require that “Forest planning shall provide for diversity of plant and animal communities and tree species 

consistent with the over-all multiple-use objectives of the planning area” (36 CFR 219.26).

Methodology and Analysis Process

This viability evaluation focuses on information relevant to the Prescott National Forest (Prescott NF). 

Our goal for this evaluation is to use a clearly defined, transparent process to identify species for which 

there are substantive risks from management actions to maintenance of viable populations, and to ensure 

consideration of appropriate habitat management strategies to reduce those risks to acceptable levels 

where feasible.

Because NFMA regulations require providing habitat for species viability within the planning area, focus 

of this evaluation is on habitat provided on national forest system (NFS) land. Surrounding private lands 

may contribute to, or hinder, maintenance of species viability on national forest system land, but are not 

relied upon to meet regulation requirements. For this reason, habitat abundance was assessed based on 

conditions found on national forest system land. 

Evaluation of migratory birds and bats focused on breeding populations only, unless otherwise indicated. 

This focus does not mean that foraging, wintering and migrating populations were not considered during 

planning, but that viability evaluation makes most sense when viewed in terms of the relative stability of 

breeding populations.

The Ecosystem Sustainability Report (Forest Service 2009), provided information on the biological and 

physical environment of the Prescott NF and surrounding area. The report also described the diversity of 

ecosystems and species known to occur within the Prescott NF, and identified existing threats and 

associated risks to the long-term sustainability of those ecosystems and species. A comprehensive list of 

species with potential viability concern was compiled for the Prescott National Forest and was used for 

helping to develop the revision of the forest plan. The list includes those species found, or potentially 

found, on the Prescott National Forest from the following categories:

Species listed as proposed, threatened, or endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.

Species listed on the Region 3 Regional Forester’s Sensitive Species list.

Species identified as locally rare on the National Forest.

Birds of conservation concern as identified by (FWS) and Arizona Partners in Flight priority species

Declining species of high public interest 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 3

Taxa Associated with Plan Revision

The following tables display the species on the Prescott NF and their habitat associations carried forward 

from the ESR. 

Table 2. ESR Table of Mammals Associated with PNVTs or Special Features

SPECIES PNVTs Habitat Features PJ Grassland Semi-Desert Grassland Colorado Plateau

1

GrasslandRiparianTree featuresRock featuresBuildings & Bridges

Allen's lappet-browed bat X

Arizona myotis X X

Beaver X

Big free-tailed bat X X

Gunnison's prairie dog X X X

Pale townsend's big-eared bat X

Plains harvest mouse X X X

Pocketed free-tailed bat X X

Pronghorn antelope X X X

Spotted bat X

Western red bat X X X

Table 3. ESR Table of Birds Associated with PNVTs or Special Features

SPECIES PNVTs Habitat Features Desert Communities PJ Grassland Semi-Desert Grassland Colorado Plateau Grassland Ponderosa Pine Gambel oak

2

Ponderosa Pine Evergreen OakPJ Evergreen ShrubPJ WoodlandRiparianTree FeaturesRock FeaturesBuildings & Bridges

Abert’s towhee X

American peregrine falcon X

Bald eagle X

Bell's vireo X

Bendire’s thrasher X X X

Common black hawk X X

 

1 This PNVT was labeled Colorado Plateau in the ESR. In subsequent vegetation analyses it is referred to as Great 

Basin/CP grassland.

2

Ponderosa pine/Gambel oak PNVT includes Mixed Conifer with Aspen habitat from ESR.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 4

Table 3. ESR Table of Birds Associated with PNVTs or Special Features

SPECIES PNVTs Habitat Features Desert Communities PJ Grassland Semi-Desert Grassland Colorado Plateau Grassland Ponderosa Pine Gambel oak

2

Ponderosa Pine Evergreen OakPJ Evergreen ShrubPJ WoodlandRiparianTree FeaturesRock FeaturesBuildings & Bridges

Cordilleran flycatcher X X X

Crissal thrasher X X X

Elf owl X X

Ferruginous hawk X X X

Flammulated owl X X X

Gila woodpecker X X X

Gilded flicker X

Grace's warbler X X

Gray vireo X X

Hairy woodpecker X X X

Juniper titmouse X X X

Lucy's warbler X X X

MacGillivray's warbler X X X X

Mexican spotted owl X X X X

Northern goshawk X X

Orange-crowned warbler X X

Pinyon jay X X

Purple martin X X X X X

Pygmy nuthatch X X X

Red-faced warbler X X X

Rufous-sided (spotted) towhee X X X

Southwestern willow flycatcher X

Swainson's hawk X X X

Virginia's warbler X X

Western burrowing owl X X X

Western grasshopper sparrow X X X

Western yellow-billed cuckoo X
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 5

Needs for Change Addressed in this Analysis

Revision topics are fully described in the DEIS. Those pertaining to terrestrial wildlife and habitats are 

described below.

Need for Change 1

Restore vegetation structure, composition, and desired characteristics of fire to selected 

ecosystems, while responding to citizen concerns related to smoke emissions.

Issues applicable to terrestrial wildlife habitats

Current disturbance patterns (namely fire) in grassland ecosystems are much less frequent than 

those identified in desired conditions, resulting in undesired tree and brush encroachment; 

Several vegetation ecosystems, especially ponderosa pine, are at risk of high severity, 

uncharacteristic wildland fires which can negatively impact the health of those ecosystems as 

well as human safety; 

Changes in ecosystem conditions and trends, such as the presence of non-native vegetation, may 

be affecting the diversity and viability of wildlife and plant species. 

Ecosystem resilience needs to be promoted to respond to climate change. 

Need for Change 2

Retain or Improve watershed integrity to provide desired water quality, quantity, and timing of 

delivery.

Watershed condition is defined as the state of a watershed based upon physical and biological 

characteristics and processes affecting hydrologic and soil functions3. Watershed condition integrity, 

for purposes of this document, is a wholeness or completeness of the watershed in providing water 

quality, quantity, and timing of delivery. It is influenced by soil function, biological function, and 

geomorphology. 

Issues applicable to terrestrial wildlife habitats

Management activities are needed to help vegetation structure and composition, disturbance 

regimes, and recreational activities trend toward desired conditions. This would result in 

improved watershed function (such as surface flows, groundwater recharge, and maintenance of 

ground water dependent seeps and springs) and mitigation of potential impacts of recreation 

activity. 

Management methods that help retain or improve the function of riparian areas, seeps, and 

springs need to be identified. 

Desired water quality, quantity, and timing of delivery need to be maintained for municipal 

watersheds and for aquatic and riparian species habitat.

 

3

As defined in FSM 2521.05.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 6

Ecosystem resilience, in both uplands and near water bodies, needs to be promoted to respond to 

climate change.

Summary of Alternatives

A total of four alternatives are described in the DEIS. Brief descriptions and a summary comparison of 

projected outputs pertaining to terrestrial wildlife habitats (Table 4) are provided. 

Alternative A: 1987 Forest Plan direction

Under Alternative A, the existing Plan would continue to guide management of the Prescott National 

forest. 

Alternative B: The Proposed Revised Plan

Alternative B is represented by the revised Plan. It also represents approximately 1-2 years of 

collaborative work with citizens, agencies, and Prescott NF employees in an iterative manner to respond 

to suggested changes in proposed plan components. It includes a mixture of proposed treatments

(referred to as objectives) for vegetation, watershed, recreational opportunities, open space, and wildlife 

providing a mixture of benefits. 

Alternative C: Vegetation and Wildlife Emphasis

Alternative C includes many of the same components of Alternative B, however, it responds to public 

comments to increase emphasis on vegetation trends within both grassland vegetation types and 

ponderosa pine. This focus improves vegetation conditions within important wildlife habitats and places 

less emphasis on some vegetation communities and recreational components. In addition, Alternative C 

includes more management treatment for native fish and other aquatic species and pronghorn habitats; 

there is much less emphasis on recommendation of potential wilderness areas.

Alternative D: Dispersed Recreation Emphasis

Alternative D includes an emphasis on providing increased dispersed recreation opportunities. Vegetation 

treatments would be similar to those in Alternative B or slightly reduced. Emphasis on pronghorn and 

native fish would be identical to Alternative B. Within recreational opportunities, there would be reduced 

emphasis on developed recreation, such as campgrounds, and increased emphasis on dispersed recreation 

such as adding trails, improving trailheads and adding designated dispersed sites. This alternative also 

includes recommendation of the highest number of potential wilderness areas. 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 7

Table 4. Comparison of plan components or potential activities, by alternative

Activities Alternative A4 Alternative B5 Alternative C Alternative D

Vegetation:

Planned and unplanned ignitions 

to meet resource objectives in 

Semi-Desert Grasslands 13,300 acres

25,000 to 65,000 

acres

65,000 to 

85,000 acres

25,000 to 

65,000 acres

Planned and unplanned fire 

ignitions to meet resource 

objectives in Great Basin/CP

Grasslands 400 acres

1,000 to 5,000 

acres

5,000 to 10,000 

acres

1,000 to 5,000 

acres

Mechanical treatments or planned 

and unplanned ignitions to meet 

resource objectives in Juniper 

Grasslands and Piñon-Juniper 

Evergreen Shrub

25,000 ac 

Fire

3,100 ac 

Mech. Trtmt.

20,000 to 90,000 

acres

20,000 to 40,000 acres

Mechanical treatments, biomass 

removal, or planned and 

unplanned fire ignitions to meet 

resource objectives in Interior 

Chaparral

44,400 ac 

Fire

1,600 ac 

Mech. Trtmt.

40,000 to 

100,000 acres

40,000 to 60,000 acres

Timber harvest in Ponderosa pine 5,600 acres

2,500 to 8,000 acres

Planned and unplanned fire 

ignitions to meet resource 

objectives in Ponderosa pine 24,300 acres

25,000 to 50,000 

acres

30,000 to 

65,000 acres

25,000 to 

50,000 acres

Management of Non-native 

Invasive plant species

1,240 acres of 

treatment

Control or eradicate 75 to 95% of populations within 1-2 

years of detection.

Management of sensitive plant 

species

Project level 

mitigations 

during 

analysis of 

site specific 

projects

Guidelines –

Plants- 1 to 3

Guidelines –

Plants- 1 to 3 plus 

an additional 

guideline for 

species 

associated with 

the Verde 

Formation.

Guidelines – Plants1 to 3

 

4

Figures reflect average per 10 years based on data collected 1993 to 2009 unless otherwise indicated.

5

Figures for Alternatives B-D are estimated for a 10 year period unless indicated otherwise.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 8

Table 4. Comparison of plan components or potential activities, by alternative

Activities Alternative A4 Alternative B5 Alternative C Alternative D

Watershed Integrity

Projects to Improve Watershed 

Conditions.

4,180 acres, 3 

miles, and 2 

other projects 

done. Estimate 8 

to 12 projects 20 – 50 projects

Improve conditions in identified 

improperly functioning and at risk 

riparian areas within 1-5 years of 

detection.

10 acres and 17 

segments 

improved. Timing 

unknown. 10-40 % of identified riparian areas

Maintain or repair designated 

motorized roads or trails that 

impact watershed integrity

30 miles, 2 

erosion control 

projects and 62 

acres improved 20 to 100 miles of road or trail

Obliterate, close, recontour, or 

revegetate unauthorized routes 

that impact watereshed integrity

23 miles and 14 

acres obliterated Minimum of 10 miles of routes

Improve stream or drainage 

crossings by roads or trails

2 crossings 

improved 15 to 25 crossings

Enhance and restore ground 

water dependent ecosystem sites 

(seeps and springs). 12 sites 25 to 55 sites

Recreation

Additional Developed Recreation 

areas No areas 2 to 5 areas 1 or 2 areas

Additional Designations of 

dispersed camping areas No areas 1 to 4 areas 2 to 6 areas

Percent eduction in maintenance 

backlog – Developed Recreation 

sites 88% 80-90% of maintenance backlog

50-60% of 

maintenance 

backlog

Percent reduction in maintenance 

backlog

No reduction 

expected 

increase

50 to 75% of 

maintenance 

backlog

35 to 50% of 

maintenance 

backlog

50 to 75% of 

maintenance 

backlog

Designated target shooting areas

1 area exists: 

permit will not 

be renewed 1 area
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 9

Table 4. Comparison of plan components or potential activities, by alternative

Activities Alternative A4 Alternative B5 Alternative C Alternative D

Improvement in trailheads

None 

reported 5 to 20 trailheads

5 to 10 

trailheads

10 to 25 

trailheads

Annual recreation sign 

maintenance

3 to 5% of 

signage 

maintained

10 to 20 % of signage maintained

Maintain or enhance fishing 

opportunities

2 lake 

treatments

2 lakes or ponds maintained or enhanced

Enhance means of 

communication with visitors No

Develop 2 to 5 additioanl methods

Improved identification of 

designated wilderness boundaries

1 miles 

marked

2 to 5 at-risk areas

Add protective measures where 

there is evidence of resource 

damage due to Recreation sites 

or use. 2 locations

2 to 5 locations

Trail improvement to meet desired 

conditions

No 

documented 

actions

5 to 10 actions

5 to 15 actions, 

includes 10 to 

20 miles of new 

trail, and up to 5 

miles of trail 

decommission

Number of areas and total 

acreage of potential wilderness 

recommended. 0

8 areas

43,330 acres 0

16 areas

116,260 acres

Number of eligible Wild and 

Scenic River segment 

recommended

No segments

Number of Research Natural 

Areas recommended

No areas/acres

Aquatic and Terrestrial Species Habitat

Improve habitat for native fish

76 acres of 

tamarisk 

treatment along 

Verde W/S River

Work with 

AZGFD to 

improve 2 or 3 

stream reaches

Work with 

AZGFD to 

improve 4 to 6 

stream reaches

Work with 

AZGFD to 

improve 2 or 3 

stream reaches
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 10

Table 4. Comparison of plan components or potential activities, by alternative

Activities Alternative A4 Alternative B5 Alternative C Alternative D

Improvement of pronghorn 

habitat:

Modification or fence removal.

None reported; 

estimated at 2 

miles 3 to 5 miles 10 to 15 miles 3 to 5 miles

Improvement of pronghorn 

habitat:

Habitat quality 4,750 ac

15,000 to 90,000 

acres

50,000 to 

85,000 acres

15,000 to 

90,000 acres

Improvement of pronghorn 

habitat:

Migration corridors.

Little focus on 

corridors 

specifically 2 to 3 corridors 3 to 6 corrodors 2 to 3 corridors

Improve water developments with 

AZGFD 5 3 to 15 5 to 15 3 to 15

Acres of northern goshawk habitat 112,000 acres

Acres of pronghorn habitat 270,000 acres

Miles of aquatic macroinvertebrate habitat

193 miles

Open Space

Act on opportunities to acquire 

land near Verde River and other 

areas to retain open space and 

enhance riparian habitat

1 opportunity Up to 10 opportunities

Visual Integrity Objectives within 

Grief Hill and Black Canyon areas

Moderate High

Habitat Elements

Habitat elements consist of environmental structures and conditions within which species carry out life 

history requirements. At a coarse scale, habitat elements can be represented by broad vegetation groups. 

The ESR evaluated sustainability of vegetation associations grouped as Potential Natural Vegetation 

Types (PNVTs). A total of 13 PNVTs were identified for the Prescott National Forest. Under this 

analysis, the total PNVTs is reduced to 11 via incorporation of two groups into existing larger groups. 

Table 10 summarizes amounts and descriptions of PNVTs assessed under the ESR. Vegetation consisting 

of Pinyon-Juniper (PJ) evergreen Shrub, Interior chaparral, PJ grassland, and Semi-desert grassland 

account for about 83% of vegetation acres on the Prescott NF. Lesser amounts of Ponderosa pine forest, 

Ponderosa pine – evergreen oak, PJ woodland, and Colorado Plateau grassland are present, individually 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 11

ranging from about 3-5% of forest acres. Relatively small amounts (< 10,000 acres) of Encinal Woodland

and Desert Communities PNVTs are present on the forest (Table 10). 

Table 5. Vegetation Groups Assessed on the Prescott NF, Coarse-Scale Analysis

Vegetation Group 

(PNVT) PNF Acres

Percent 

of PNF 

Acres

Description

Semi-Desert 

Grassland 125,712 10.0%

Low elevation grasslands (3,000 to 4,500 ft) include a mix of 

cool and warm season species. Species composition and 

dominance varies based on soils and topography, including 

gramas, tobosa and giant sacaton species. Desired shrub 

cover is less than 10 percent from species such as creosote, 

catclaw acacia, mimosa, burroweed, broom snakeweed, and 

mesquite. Desired fires regime is every 10-15 years favoring 

regrowth and germination of native grasses and forbs and 

limiting shrub cover.

Colorado Plateau 

Grassland 38,389 3.1%

Mid-elevation grasslands (4,700 to 7,600 feet) that are 

climatically cooler and moister than semi-desert grasslands. 

Composition consists of grasses and forbs with interspersed 

shrubs. Grasses include threeawns, needle grass, Indian 

ricegrass, blue grama, bottlebrush squirreltail and dropseed. 

Shrub and half-shrub species include saltbush, snakeweed, 

winterfat and buckwheat. Desired fires regime is every 10-

30 years favoring regrowth and germination of native 

grasses and forbs and limiting shrub cover.

Pinyon-Juniper 

Grassland 137,274 10.9%

Grass and forb dominated understory and scattered 

overstory trees, occurring on flats, gentle sloping foothills, 

and transitional valleys at lower elevations. Soils are deep 

and productive. Desired fires regime is every 1-35 years 

favoring regrowth and germination of native grasses and 

forbs.

Pinyon-Juniper 

Woodland 36,263 2.9%

Persistent tree overstory and a sparse discontinuous 

understory of some grasses and/or shrubs. Occurs on flats, 

ridgetops, rugged uplands, and steep slopes at various 

elevations and on soils that are shallow and rocky. Less 

frequent fires occur at intervals from 35-200+ years.

Pinyon-Juniper 

Evergreen Shrub 463,296 36.9%

Mix of trees and shrubs and herbaceous vegetation 

occurring on landscape as discrete groups. Understory is 

dominated by low to moderate density of shrubs species. 

Occurs on elevated and lowland plains, hills, and lowermountain slopes. Soils are variable and include those 

derived from granite, limestone, basalt, sandstone, and 

alluvium. Desired fires regime is mixed severity averaging 

every 35-100 years.

Interior Chaparral 315,445 25.2%

Chaparral occurs on foothills and lower mountain slopes at 

mid-elevation (3,400 to 6,600 feet). Overstory has a uniform 

dense structure dominated by evergreen shrubs. Grasses 

are a minor component. Desired fire regime is high severity 

every 35-100 years. 

Ponderosa PineGambel Oak 49,052 3.9%

Open forest structure with a mosaic of young to old trees 

occurring at higher elevations (5,500 to 9,000 feet). 

Dominated by ponderosa pine and Gambel oak and 

sometimes locust, juniper, pinyon, and firs. Understory 

includes grasses and forbs with occasional shrubs. Desired 

fire regime is low severity occurring every 1 to 15 years.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 12

Table 5. Vegetation Groups Assessed on the Prescott NF, Coarse-Scale Analysis

Vegetation Group 

(PNVT) PNF Acres

Percent 

of PNF 

Acres

Description

Ponderosa PineEvergreen Oak 63,539 5.1%

Open forest structure with a mosaic of young to old trees 

occurring at higher elevations (6,000 to 7,500 feet). 

Dominated by ponderosa pine trees with evergreen oak 

species well-represented. Understory is dominated by 

evergreen shrubs. Desired fire regime is low severity, with 

some mixed-severity, occurring every 6 to 12 years.

Riparian 

Gallery/Forest 12,439 1.0%

Vegetation varies by elevation, substrate, stream gradient, 

and depth to groundwater, forming a mix of riparian forest, 

woodland, and shrubland communities. Common 

associations include cottonwood – willow and mixed 

broadleaf deciduous trees (sycamore, ash, alder, walnut, 

box elder). Oaks, pines, and junipers may occur from 

upstream and adjacent uplands. Natural disturbance regime 

includes frequent flooding and variable frequency of fire 

depending on the extent of historic native American use.

Desert Communities 5,919 0.5%

Sparse to dense vegetation cover of cacti, succulents, 

leguminous trees and shrubs. Grass cover is inherently low. 

Natural disturbances are infrequent from drought, frost and 

wind. Fire is very rare or absent.

Madrean Encinal 

Woodland 5,593 0.5%

Open stands of evergreen oak species with denser stands 

occurring on north facing slopes and in drainages (elevation 

ranges from 3,600 to 6,500 feet). Pine and juniper trees and 

chaparral shrub patches intermingle with this vegetation 

type on the landscape. Regeneration of oak species is 

primarily due to re-sprouting following a disturbance with 

little regeneration from acorns. Desired fire regime is mostly 

low-severity with some mixed severity occurring every 1 to 

23 years.

Condition and Trend

Vegetation Associations

Existing condition of PNVTs in relation to reference condition portrays the level of similarity/departure of 

habitats in relation to those historical (pre-settlement) conditions under which species evolved. Each 

PNVT was assessed in the ESR for departure of existing vegetation condition and disturbance regime 

(Table 6). Of the 11 PNTs, eight show an estimated low departure for overall structural condition. Trend 

is stable or toward reference conditions for all PNVTs with low departure, with the exception of PJ 

grassland and Madrean Encinal woodland communities. Departure of vegetation structure within the 

remaining PNVTs is characterized as High with neutral trend. No trend data was available for Riparian 

Gallery/Forest. Disturbance regime, represented by fire frequency, is altered for all groups, with the 

exception of Interior chaparral. 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 13

Table 6. PNVT Departure, Trend, and Disturbance in Relation to Reference Conditions

Potential Natural Vegetation 

Type (PNVT)

Vegetation Structure Fire Frequency (years)

Departure6

Trend7

Reference Current

Short-Term 

(1-20 yrs)

Long-Term 

(40-80 yrs)

Interior Chaparral Low Stable Stable 1:35-100 1:84

PJ Evergreen Shrub High Toward Stable 1:35-100 1:233

PJ Woodland Low Toward Toward 1:200+ 0

PJ Grassland Moderate Stable Toward 1:1-35 1:714

Semi-Desert Grassland High Toward Stable 1:10-15 1:94

Colorado Plateau Grassland Low Stable Away 1:10-30 0

Ponderosa Pine-Evergreen Oak High Toward Stable 1:6-12 1:51

Ponderosa Pine-Gambel Oak High Stable Stable 1:1-15 1:74

Desert Communities Low Stable Stable 1:998 1:106

Madrean Encinal Woodland Low Toward Toward 1:1-23 0

Riparian Forest Low No data No data 1:20-600+ 1:76

Table 7. Viability risk assessment for species identified in ESR

Scientific Name Common Name Federal/Regional/Forest 

Other Status

Assess viability risk 

based on PNVT/Habitat

Mammals

Antilocapra americana Pronghorn antelope MIS8

Yes

Castor canadensis Beaver None

Secure in AZ (AGFD

2011a)- Dropped from 

further consideration

Corynorhinus townsendii 

pallescens 

Pale Townsend's 

big-eared bat R3 Sensitive Yes

Cynomys gunnisoni Gunnison's prairie dog R3 Sensitive 

(PNF historic range) Yes

Euderma maculatum Spotted bat

R3 Sensitive

(Not listed for PNF – listed 

on adjacent forests)

Not known to occur on PNF 

(AGFD 2003d) –

Dropped from further 

consideration

Idionycteris phyllotis Allen's lappet-browed bat

R3 Sensitive

(Not listed for PNF – listed 

on adjacent forests)

Not known to occur on PNF 

(AGFD 2001a) –

Dropped from further 

consideration

Lasiurus blossevillii Western red bat R3 Sensitive Yes

Myotis occultus Arizona myotis None Known from Mingus Mtn 

(AGFD 2011c) – Yes

Nyctinomops 

femorosaccus Pocketed free-tailed bat R3 Sensitive Yes

 

6 Departure Ratings: Trace = <1%, Low = 1-33%, Moderate = 34-66%, High = 67-100%

7 Trend direction in relation to reference conditions.

8 Management Indicator Species
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 14

Table 7. Viability risk assessment for species identified in ESR

Scientific Name Common Name Federal/Regional/Forest 

Other Status

Assess viability risk 

based on PNVT/Habitat

Nyctinomops macrotis Big free-tailed bat None

Not known to occur on PNF 

(AGFD 2011d) –

Dropped from further 

consideration

Reithrodontomys 

montanus Plains harvest mouse R3 Sensitive Yes

Birds

Coccyzus americanus 

occidentalis

Western yellow-billed 

cuckoo

Candidate/ R3 Sensitive/ 

PIF9 Yes

Falco peregrinus anatum American peregrine 

falcon R3 Sensitive / BOCC10 Yes

Accipiter gentiles Northern goshawk R3 Sensitive / MIS / PIF Yes

Ammodramus 

savannarum perpallidus

Western grasshopper 

sparrow

BOCC / PIF Yes

Athene cunicularia 

hypugaea Western burrowing owl BOCC / PIF Yes

Baeolophus ridgwayi Juniper titmouse BOCC / PIF Yes

Buteo regalis Ferruginous hawk BOCC

Not known to occur on PNF 

(AGFD 2001b) –

Dropped from further 

consideration

Buteo swainsoni Swainson's hawk

R3 Sensitive 

(not listed for PNF) / 

PIF

Not known to occur on PNF 

(AGFD 2001c) –

Dropped from further 

consideration

Buteogallus anthracinus Common black hawk R3 Sensitive / BOCC / PIF Yes

Cardellina rubrifrons Red-faced warbler BOCC / PIF Yes

Colaptes chrysoides Gilded flicker BOCC / PIF Yes

Dendroica graciae Grace's warbler BOCC Yes

Empidonax occidentalis Cordilleran flycatcher PIF Yes

Gymnorhinus 

cyanocephalus Pinyon jay BOCC / PIF Yes

Melanerpes uropygialis Gila woodpecker BOCC Yes

Micrathene whitneyi Elf owl BOCC Yes

Oporornis tolmiei MacGillivray's warbler PIF 

Not documented on the 

PNF – (Corman & WiseGervais 2005) 

Dropped from further 

consideration

Otus flammeolus Flammulated owl BOCC Yes

Picoides villosus Hairy woodpecker

None

(Former MIS)

No longer relevant for 

consideration -

Dropped from further 

consideration

Pipilo aberti Abert’s towhee R3 Sensitive Yes

Piplio maculatus Rufous-sided (spotted) 

towhee

None

(Former MIS)

No longer relevant for 

consideration -

Dropped from further 

consideration

Progne subis Purple martin PIF Yes

 

9 Arizona Partners in Flight priority species

10 FWS Bird species of Conservation Concern
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 15

Table 7. Viability risk assessment for species identified in ESR

Scientific Name Common Name Federal/Regional/Forest 

Other Status

Assess viability risk 

based on PNVT/Habitat

Sitta pygmaea Pygmy nuthatch

None

(Former MIS)

No longer relevant for 

consideration -

Dropped from further 

consideration

Toxostoma bendirei Bendire’s thrasher BOCC Yes

Toxostoma crissale Crissal thrasher None Dropped from further 

consideration

Vermivora celata Orange-crowned warbler None Dropped from further 

consideration

Vermivora luciae Lucy's warbler BOCC / PIF Yes

Vermivora virginiae Virginia's warbler PIF Yes

Vireo bellii Bell's vireo BOCC Yes

Vireo vicinior Gray vireo BOCC / PIF Yes

Empidonax traillii extimus Southwestern willow 

flycatcher Endangered Yes

Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald eagle Eagle Act / R3 Sensitive Yes

Strix occidentalis lucida Mexican spotted owl Threatened / PIF Yes

Reptiles

Gopherus morafkai Morafka’s desert 

tortoise11 R3 Sensitive Yes

 

11 Morafka’s desert tortoise was not considered in ESR. Added here as a R3 sensitive species for the PNF.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 16

PNVT and habitat associations were reviewed and updated and may differ from original assignments in 

the ESR. These reflect a review of the AZGFD HDMS, BBA, and Hoffmeister.

Table 8. Revised Table of Species Associated with PNVTs or Special Features

SPECIES PNVT Habitat Feature Desert Communities PJ Grassland Semi-Desert Grassland Great Basin Grassland Ponderosa Pine Gambel oak Ponderosa Pine Evergreen Oak PJ Evergreen Shrub PJ Woodland Riparian Tree Features Rock Features

Buildings & Bridges

Pale Townsend’s big-eared bat X X

Pocketed free-tailed bat X X

American peregrine falcon X

Bald eagle X X X

Western red bat X X X

Common black hawk X X

Abert’s towhee X

Bell's vireo X

Southwestern willow flycatcher X

Western yellow-billed cuckoo X

Gila woodpecker X X X

Lucy's warbler X X X

Elf owl X X

Morafka’s desert tortoise X

Gilded flicker X

Flammulated owl X X X

Purple martin X X X X X

Grace's warbler X X

Northern goshawk X X X

Mexican spotted owl X X X

Red-faced warbler X X

Cordilleran flycatcher X X

Juniper titmouse X X X

Gray vireo X X

Pinyon jay X X

Virginia's warbler X X X

Bendire’s thrasher X X X X

Western burrowing owl X X X X

Western grasshopper sparrow X X X

Pronghorn antelope X X X

Gunnison’s prairie dog X X X

Plains harvest mouse X X X X
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 17

Determining potential for risk to viability from management actions

For there to be a risk to viability from management actions, management actions must occur within a 

particular PNVT and/or somehow impact a particular PNVT or habitat feature. The first step will be to 

assess primary threats to the four habitat features identified in the ESR.

Buildings and bridges

The primary purpose for these features is to function for the purposes for which they were designed, as 

buildings and bridges, not to provide wildlife habitat. Construction, maintenance, and removal of the 

structures would be designed and implemented within the laws, policy, and direction for NFS 

management. There are no proposed objectives (treatments/management actions/projects) for these 

habitat features in any of the alternatives.

Rock features

These habitat features can vary greatly from cliffs, ledges, and canyons to caves and mines. Primary 

threats to these features include some sort of human presence or activity that either alters the character or 

nature of the features or, by mere presence, renders the features unavailable for wildlife use. Where the

types of human activity in or on these features are regulated through some sort of permit defining 

appropriate operating parameters for the activity relevant to the purpose and the resources of concern, site 

specific resource and wildlife species needs are addressed. There are no proposed objectives 

(treatments/management actions/projects) relevant to these habitat features in any of the alternatives. 

Tree features

Different types of tree features identified in the ESR include cavities, snags, leaves, bark, and downed 

logs. Tree features of one kind or another can be found in practically every PNVT. The primary threats 

to these features vary by PNVT, type of feature, and the nature of activities proposed within these PNVTs. 

Most of these tree features are associated with decadence within the system. The various types of tree 

features are mentioned in the desired conditions for all vegetation types (DC-Veg-1, DC-Veg-4), all of the 

forested PNVTs and grasslands (DC-Veg-6, 7, 9, 13, 17, and 22) and watershed integrity (DC-Watershed3). In ALTs B-D, guidelines for tree features occur in soils (Guide-soils-2) and wildlife (Guide-WL-3, and 

5). For snag habitat elements, both the existing forest plan (ALT A) in Appendices F, G, and H, and the 

proposed revision (ALTs B-D) in Guide-WL-3 include guidelines providing for the protection and 

management of snag habitat elements. There are no proposed objectives (treatments/management 

actions/projects) relevant to these habitat features in any of the alternatives. Objectives 3, 4, 5 and 6 

involve both timber harvest activities as well as prescribed fire activities to manage vegetation conditions 

within forested habitat PNVTs. While timber harvest may increase the amount of down woody material, 

prescribed fire has the potential to reduce this habitat feature. With snags and downed logs included in 

the desired conditions for all forested PNVTs, these features should be incorporated into the project 

designs and should continue to be present at appropriate levels across the landscape after project 

implementation.

Riparian features 

Specific aspects or features of riparian habitat were not identified in the ESR. For the purposes of this 

report, the focus of the assessment will be on the “terrestrial” aspect of riparian habitat features, the 

vegetation associated with riparian habitats. Primary threats to these features are actions that degrade the 

quality or decrease the quantity of the desired habitat. A wide variety of management actions involving 

humans, machinery/equipment, animals, or fire may occur in or impact riparian habitat features. The 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 18

existing condition of the riparian habitat on the Prescott NF is a “low” departure from reference 

conditions; or, to state that another way, it closely resembles reference or historic conditions. There are 

no proposed objectives (treatments/management actions/projects) for riparian habitats in any of the 

alternatives.

All alternatives include a desired condition relevant to riparian habitat in DC-Watershed-2 and DCAquatic-1. For watershed integrity, Alternatives B-D include 6 different objectives (O18-23) that would 

improve the riparian habitats associated with the site specific projects. 

For riparian habitat elements, both the existing forest plan (ALT A) on pages 30-31 and 35, and the 

proposed revision (ALTs B-D) in Guide-WS-4, Guide-WS-10, Guide-Wildland Fire-8, Guide-Locatable 

minerals-1 and 2, Guide-Mineral materials-1, Std-Range-2, Guide-Range-1 and 5, include guidelines

and/or standards providing for the protection and management of riparian habitat including the riparian 

vegetation. 

Table 9. Riparian habitat activities, by alternative

Activities Alternative A12 Alternatives B, C, & D13

Watershed Integrity

Projects to Improve Watershed 

Conditions.

4,180 acres, 3 miles, and 2 other 

projects done. 

Estimate 8 to 12 projects

20 – 50 projects

Improve conditions in identified 

improperly functioning and at risk 

riparian areas within 1-5 years of 

detection.

Timing of treatmts unknown; 

10 acres and 17 segments improved.

10-40 %

Enhance and restore ground 

water dependent ecosystem sites 

(seeps and springs).

12 sites 25 to 55 sites

All of these projects are proposed for the objective of improving watershed integrity. While 

implementing any of these projects may have localized, short term impacts including displacement of 

animals or changing of current riparian vegetation habitat features, these projects would all be designed 

with the long term objective and intent of improving riparian vegetation habitat quality as either a means 

or a result of improving watershed integrity.

For the vegetation, recreation, and wildlife habitat objectives, all of the relevant desired conditions and 

guidelines for riparian features would be applied in project design and implementation, thus protecting 

and providing these habitat features. 

 

12 Figures reflect average per 10 years based on data collected 1993 to 2009 unless otherwise indicated.

13 Figures for Alternatives B-D are estimated for a 10 year period unless indicated otherwise.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 19

Desert Communities PNVT

The existing condition for the desert communities PNVT is a low departure from reference conditions or, 

similar to historic conditions. The alternatives include a desired condition relevant to desert communities 

in DC-Veg-22. There are no proposed objectives (treatments/management actions/projects) for desert 

communities PNVT in any of the alternatives. 

In addition to desired conditions, objectives, standards, and guidelines relevant to these various habitat 

features, all of the alternatives include guidance for species of various statuses.

The desired conditions relevant to federally listed species are found in DC-Veg-3 and 4. For federally 

listed species, both the existing forest plan (ALT A) on page 28, and the proposed revision (ALTs B-D) in 

Std-WL-1 include direction to implement recovery plans for listed species. It is presumed that managing 

habitat for federal species per the current Recovery Plan for that species would inherently contribute to 

providing for the viability of the species within those lands under NF management. Other direction 

relevant to federally listed species includes guidelines in Alternative A on pages 27 and 28 and in 

Alternatives B-D in Std-Plants-2. 

All alternatives are required to be in compliance with current laws, including the Bald and Golden Eagle 

Protection Act of 1940 (the Eagle Act). Alternatives B-D reiterate this in Std-WL-1. Also, Guide-WL-4 

would provide additional protection for any eagle nests on the Prescott NF. 

For sensitive species, all alternatives would implement and be in compliance with FSM 2600 direction 

relevant to sensitive species management. The existing forest plan (ALT A) on pages 27 and 28 gives 

sensitive species management priority over non-sensitive species. The proposed revision (ALTs B-D)

includes guidelines in Guide-WL-1, Guide-Fish-1, Guide-Locatable minerals-2, Guide-Minerals 

materials-6 providing for the protection and management of sensitive species and their habitats so as not 

to trend towards listing. Guidelines providing for bat surveys and habitat protection occur in the Wildlife 

(Guide-WL-5) section of Alternatives B-D.

Design features or mitigations measures mentioned in the guidelines for sensitive species might include 

breeding season timing restrictions on activities, buffer zones around sensitive sites, changing project 

location or design or implementation tool, or any other parameter that could alleviate or eliminate impacts 

to sensitive species or their habitats.

The following table assesses the threats and risk to viability for species associated with the habitat 

features discussed thus far. Considering the desired conditions, objectives, standards, and guidelines 

discussed thus far, with no management objectives targeting these habitat features, none of the species 

associated with these habitat features would be considered to be at risk of viability from the impacts of 

management actions. 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 20

Table 10. Rationale for species with no risk of viability from management actions

SPECIES PNVT Habitat Feature Desert Communities PJ Grassland Semi-Desert Grassland Great Basin Grassland Ponderosa Pine Gambel oak Ponderosa Pine Evergreen Oak PJ Evergreen Shrub PJ Woodland Riparian Tree Features Rock Features Buildings & 

Bridges

Pale Townsend’s big-eared bat X X

Pocketed free-tailed bat X X

American peregrine falcon X

These three species are associated with rock features and/or buildings and bridges. There are no objectives or desired 

conditions for these habitat features. None of these features are expected to be changed in abundance, distribution, or 

condition as a result of management actions in any of the alternatives. All three species are R3 Forester’s Sensitive 

species; therefore sensitive species direction would be applicable to projects where these species might occur, thus 

their habitat needs considered and provided.

Considering all of these factors, these three species are not at risk of viability due to management actions. 

Abert’s towhee X

Bell's vireo X

Southwestern willow flycatcher

(SWWF) X

Western yellow-billed cuckoo (YBC) X

These four species are associated exclusively with riparian habitat and its associated features. Both the SWWF and the YBC are 

federally protected species under the ESA. Complying with the relevant management direction for these species including the SWWF 

Recovery Plan would ensure that key habitat features are provided and available for these species. Management direction for 

sensitive species would apply for the Abert’s towhee. The habitats for the Abert’s towhee and Bell’s vireo are similar (Corman & WiseGervais 2005). Managing habitat to meet the needs for the sensitive Abert’s towhee will also provide habitat for the Bell’s vireo. The 

habitat considerations, guidelines, requirements and results would apply for the riparian features for all three species. 

Considering all of these factors, these four species are not at risk of viability due to management actions.

Bald eagle X X X

Western red bat X X X

Common black hawk X X

These three species include a combination of habitat features from the first two groups as well as the addition of tree features. The 

habitat considerations, guidelines, requirements and results would apply for the riparian and rock features as well as the sensitive 

species management direction for all three species. The bald eagle is also afforded additional protection under the Eagle Act, and thus 

Std-WL-1 in ALTs B-D. With regard to the tree feature habitat elements with which these species are associated, the specific tree 

features needed or used by the species would be expected to be identified and managed for in project specific design and 

implementation by virtue of the sensitive species needs where these species occur. The black hawk and bald eagle would also gain 

additional protection around nest sites under Guide-WL-4.

Considering all of these factors, these three species are not at risk of viability due to management actions.

Gila woodpecker X X X

Lucy's warbler X X X

Elf owl X X

Morafka’s desert tortoise X

Gilded flicker X

The Gila woodpecker, Lucy’s warbler and elf owl are all BOCC species. The riparian discussions above would be 

relevant for these three species. The Gila woodpecker and Lucy’s warbler are both cavity nesters. Designing projects to 

move towards desired conditions and comply with standards and guidelines would be expected to provide the tree 

features needed for these species. All five species are associated with the desert communities PNVT. The desert 

tortoise is a R3 sensitive species, thus the habitat considerations, guidelines, requirements and results would apply for 

the sensitive species management direction for this species. The gilded flicker primarily nests in cavities in saguaro.

cactus. With no proposed actions within this PNVT, this key habitat component would not be impacted by any of the 

alternatives.

Considering all of these factors, these five species are not at risk of viability due to management actions.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 21

The next step is to look at the existing conditions, desired conditions, and disclose the anticipated changes

to the various PNVT habitats by alternative and assess any threats to viability for those species associated 

with the respective PNVTs. Three main vegetation types representing seven different PNVTs have both 

species at risk associated with them as well as objectives identified in the various alternatives: Ponderosa 

pine (PP/GO and PP/EO), Piñon juniper (PJ/ES and PJ/Woodland), and Grasslands (JUG, SDG, and 

GBDG). Existing conditions for each PNVT are taken from the Vegetation and Fire Ecology Specialist 

Report. Desired conditions are for all of the alternatives of the proposed plan revision and are taken from 

the Draft LMP. These desired conditions are based on historic proportions of the various stages, 

conditions, and characteristics within each PNVT.

Desired Conditions for All Vegetation Types

Landscape Scale (10,000 acres or greater)

DCVeg-1

Each vegetation type contains a mosaic of vegetative conditions, densities, and structures. This 

mosaic occurs at a variety of scales across landscapes and watersheds. The distribution of 

physical and biological conditions is appropriate to the natural disturbance regimes affecting the 

area.

Vegetative conditions are resilient to the frequency, extent, and severity of disturbances, especially 

fire. Natural and human disturbances (e.g., planned and unplanned fire, mechanical vegetation 

treatments) provide desired overall plant density, structure, species composition, coarse woody 

debris, and nutrient cycling. Desired disturbance regimes are restored where practical.

Native plant communities dominate the landscape, while invasive species are non-existent or in 

low abundance. Establishment of invasive plant species new to the Prescott NF is prevented. 

Existing invasive plant species are prioritized for eradication, containment, or control.

Vegetation provides favorable conditions, including appropriate densities, for water flow and 

quality.

The composition, abundance, and mosaic of organic ground cover and herbaceous vegetation 

protects soil provides moisture infiltration, and contributes to plant and animal diversity and 

ecosystem function.

Diverse vegetation structure, species composition, and densities, provide quality habitat for native 

and desirable non-native plant and animal species throughout their lifecycle and at multiple spatial 

scales. Landscapes provide for the full range of ecosystem diversity at multiple scales, including 

habitats for those species associated with old growth conditions.

DCVeg-2

Vegetation provides sustainable amounts of products, such as wood fiber or forage, for local and 

regional needs. 

Herbivory aids in sustaining or improving native vegetation cover and composition. Livestock 

grazing and wood fiber harvest activity contribute to aspects of the social, economic, and cultural 

structure and stability of rural communities.

DCVeg-3

Vegetation conditions for federally listed species are consistent with existing recovery plans. 

Southwestern Region Sensitive Species and species identified as culturally important are valued 

and therefore enhanced and protected.

Ecological conditions provide habitat for associated federally-listed species. Habitat conditions 

generally contribute to survival and recovery and contribute to the de-listing of species under the 

Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 (P.L. 93-205).
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 22

Mid Scale (1,000 acres or greater)

DCVeg-4

The composition, density, structure, and mosaic of vegetative conditions reduce the threat of 

uncharacteristic wildfire hazard to local communities and ecosystems.

Snags are present in adequate numbers to provide habitat features including cavities, loose bark, 

etc. 

Improved habitats for Candidate and Proposed species help preclude species listings as 

Threatened or Endangered under ESA.

Potentially suitable habitat for sensitive plant species helps retain functional stability of the species.

Fine Scale (less than 100 acres)

DCVeg-5

Locally endemic plant communities are intact and functioning.

Unique plant community habitats (e.g., limestone cliffs, margins of seeps and springs, Verde Valley 

Formation, basalt-lava flows/cinders, calcareous soil/alkaline clay, canyons/cliffs and ledges, 

granitic soils/igneous rocks, sandstone rocks/soils and riparian forest) are present to maintain welldistributed populations of associated native plant species. 

Native plants provide nectar, floral diversity, and pollen throughout the seasons that pollinator 

species are active. Desired habitat conditions promote pollinator success and survival.

Ponderosa Pine vegetation types

PNVT: Ponderosa pine/Gambel oak (PP/GO) 49,052 acres

Existing condition: Ponderosa pine-Gambel oak is a minor vegetation type on the Prescott NF, covering 

approximately 49,000 acres. This forest type generally occurs at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 9,000 

feet on hills, mountain slopes, and some elevated plains. It is dominated by ponderosa pine and Gambel 

oak and commonly includes other species such as New Mexico locust, juniper, and piñon. Occasionally, 

species such as aspen, Douglas-fir, and white fir may be present, especially in relatively moist or shady 

areas. There is typically an understory of grasses and forbs with occasional shrubs. This forest type is 

currently severely departed from reference conditions. Fuel loads have accumulated on the forest floor. 

There are too many young and mid-aged trees and not enough old trees. The natural fire regime is 

severely departed from the reference conditions found prior to Euro-American settlement.

Desired Conditions for Ponderosa Pine-Gambel Oak Forest

Landscape Scale

DCVeg-17

At the landscape scale, the ponderosa pine-Gambel oak forest is a mosaic of structural stages 

ranging from young to old trees. Forest structure is variable but generally uneven-aged and 

open in appearance. 

The forest arrangement consists of small clumps and groups of trees interspersed within 

variably-sized openings of grasses, forbs, and shrubs. The size, shape, and number of trees per 

group and the number of groups per area vary across the landscape. Tree density may be 

greater in some locations, such as north-facing slopes and steep-sided valleys at higher 

elevation. 

Vegetation composition resembles historic situations including ponderosa pine overstory with 

Gambel oak occupying the lower tree canopy. Aspen or Gambel oak patches occur. There is 

typically an understory of grasses and forbs with occasional shrubs. Where it naturally occurs, 

Gambel oak is present with all age classes represented. It is reproducing to maintain or expand 

its presence on suitable sites across the landscape.

Old growth occurs as groups of old trees mixed with groups of younger trees or occasionally as 

a patch composed of mostly of old trees. Some large contiguous patches (100-300 acres) of old 

growth, with all its components (snags, logs, and dense canopies), are present. Old growth is 

dynamic in nature and the location of these patches tends to shift across the landscape over 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 23

time.

The ponderosa pine-Gambel oak forest is composed predominantly of vigorous trees, but 

declining, top-killed, lightning-scarred, and fire-scarred trees provide snags and coarse woody 

debris (greater than 3-inch diameter). A variety of snag species and coarse woody debris are 

well-distributed throughout the landscape. Snags are typically 18 inches or greater DBH and 

average 1 to 2 per acre. Logs (greater than 12-inch diameter at mid-point and greater than 8 

feet long) average 3 per acre within the forested area of the landscape. Coarse woody debris, 

including logs, ranges from 3 to 10 tons per acre. 

Grasses, forbs, shrubs, needle cast (fine fuels), and small trees support the natural fire regime. 

The greater proportion of ground cover is composed of grasses and forbs as opposed to needle 

cast. 

Frequent, low severity fires, occurring every 1 to 15 years, are characteristic of this forest 

including throughout the range of northern goshawks and Mexican spotted owls.

Mid Scale

DC-Veg-18

Ponderosa pine-Gambel oak forest is characterized by variation in the size and number of tree 

groups depending on elevation, soil type, aspect, and site productivity. The more productive 

sites contain more trees per group and more groups per area. Tree density within forested 

areas generally ranges from 20 to 80 square feet basal area per acre. The openings 

surrounding tree groups, containing grass, forb, and shrub vegetation, are variably-shaped and 

typically range from 10 to 70 percent of the mid-scale area. Patches of even-aged forest 

structure are present. 

Fires burn primarily on the forest floor and do not spread between tree groups as crown fire. 

Basal area per mature tree group in northern goshawk post-fledging family areas (PFAs) is 10 

to 20 percent higher than northern goshawk foraging areas and the general forest. Northern 

goshawk nest areas have multi-aged forest structure, dominated by large trees with relatively 

dense canopies consistent with current technical guides for northern goshawk in the 

southwestern U.S.

DC-Veg-19

To reduce wildfire behavior and hazards to life and property:

Vegetation conditions within the wildland urban interface (WUI) may be composed of younger 

and more widely-spaced shrub patches and tree groups. 

The frequency of disturbance (e.g., prescribed fire, vegetation treatments) within the wildland 

urban interface (WUI) may be more often than for the same vegetation types located outside of 

WUI areas 

Fine Scale

DC-Veg-20

Trees typically occur in irregularly-shaped groups and are variably-spaced with some tight 

clumps. Crowns in the mid- to old-aged stages are interlocking or nearly interlocking. Openings 

surrounding tree groups are composed of a grass, forb, and shrub mix. Some openings 

contain individual trees. Trees within groups are of similar or variable ages and may contain 

species other than ponderosa pine. Tree groups are typically less than 1 acre, and at the 

mature and old stages consist of approximately 2 to 45 trees.

Objectives

These are the list of proposed treatments designed to move the vegetative conditions towards the desired 

conditions.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 24

Table 11. Potential activities in Ponderosa pine PNVTs, by alternative

Activities Alternative A14 Alternative B15 Alternative C Alternative D

Timber harvest in Ponderosa pine 5,600 acres 2,500 to 8,000 acres

Planned and unplanned fire 

ignitions to meet resource 

objectives in Ponderosa pine

24,300 acres

25,000 to 50,000 

acres

30,000 to 

65,000 acres

25,000 to 50,000 

acres

Changes by alternative

Table 12. Ponderosa pine/Gambel oak PNVT

Tree size16 Canopy 

closure

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A 

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

Seed/sapling Open/closed 981 981 6,867 7,358 – 8,339 7,358 – 8,829

Small open 0 981 491 491 491-981

Small closed 18,149 981 13,244 12,754 – 11,772 12,754 – 11,772

Medium/ 

Large open 491 38,751 3,924 3,924 – 5,396 3,924 – 5,886

Medium/ 

Large closed 26,488 7,358 24,526 24,526 - 22,564 24,035 – 21,583

Alt A 

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

Seed/sapling Open/closed 8,339 8,829 – 9,810 8,829 – 10,301

Small open 491 491 491 - 981

Small closed 11,772 11,282 11,282

Medium/ 

Large

open 4,905 5,396 – 6,377 5,396 – 6,867

Medium/ 

Large

closed 23,545 23,054 – 21,092 23, 054 – 19,621

 

14 Figures reflect average per 10 years based on data collected 1993 to 2009 unless otherwise indicated.

15 Figures for Alternatives B-D are estimated for a 10 year period unless indicated otherwise.

16 Tree size and canopy closures are used as defined in the vegetation model results (PR Doc#?). Acres are from the 

same document.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 25

PNVT: Ponderosa pine/evergreen oak (PP/EO) 63,539 acres

Existing condition: Ponderosa Pine - Evergreen Oak forests cover more than 63,500 acres of the Prescott 

NF at elevations ranging from approximately 6,000 to 7,500 feet. It is dominated by ponderosa pine and 

can be distinguished from the Ponderosa Pine-Gambel Oak PNVT by one or more well-represented 

evergreen oak species (e.g., Emory oak and Arizona white oak), juniper species, piñon pine species, and 

Arizona cypress in some locations. This forest type on the Prescott NF has an understory of primarily 

evergreen shrubs including manzanita, turbinella oak, sumac species, and mountain mahogany species. 

This forest type is currently severely departed from reference conditions. Fuel loads have accumulated on 

the forest floor. It has too many young and mid-aged trees and shrubs growing closely together. There are 

not enough old trees. The natural fire regime is severely departed from pre-EuroAmerican settlement 

reference conditions.

Desired Conditions for Ponderosa Pine – Evergreen Oak Forest

Landscape Scale

DCVeg-13

At the landscape scale, the ponderosa pine-evergreen oak forest is a mosaic of structural 

stages ranging from young to old trees. Forest structure is variable but generally uneven-aged 

and open in appearance. The forest arrangement consists of small clumps and groups of trees 

interspersed within variably-sized openings of moderate to high density shrubs and limited 

grass cover. The size, shape, and number of trees per group and the number of groups per 

area vary across the landscape. Tree density may be greater in some locations, such as northfacing slopes and canyon bottoms. 

Vegetation composition resembles historic situations including ponderosa pine overstory. 

Evergreen oaks are well represented and juniper, piñon pine and Arizona cypress can be 

found in the lower tree canopy. Understory species consist of evergreen shrubs (manzanita, 

turbinella oak, sumac species, mountain mahogany species) and grass as scattered ground 

cover.

Old growth occurs as groups of old trees mixed with groups of younger trees or occasionally as 

a patch composed mostly of old trees. Some large contiguous patches (100-300 acres) of old 

growth, with all its components17 (snags, logs, and dense canopies), are present. Old growth is 

dynamic in nature and the location of these patches tends to shift across the landscape over 

time.

The ponderosa pine-evergreen oak forest is composed predominantly of vigorous trees and 

shrubs, but declining, top-killed, lightning-scarred, and fire-scarred trees provide snags and 

coarse woody debris (greater than 3 inch diameter). A variety of snag species and coarse 

woody debris are well-distributed throughout the landscape. Snags are typically 18 inches or 

greater diameter at breast height (DBH) and average 1 to 2 per acre. Logs (greater than 12 

inch diameter at mid-point and greater than 8 feet long) average 3 per acre within the forested 

area of the landscape. Coarse woody debris, including logs, ranges from 3 to 10 tons per acre. 

Where it naturally occurs, Emory oak and Arizona white oak are present with all age classes 

represented. Old trees occur as dominant individuals or small groups in openings.

Limited grasses, forbs, and a moderate density of shrubs, and needle cast (fine fuels), support 

the natural fire regime. 

Fires of low severity and occasionally mixed severity, occurring every 6 to 12 years, are 

characteristic of this PNVT including throughout the range of northern goshawks.

 

17 Old Growth is usually described as groups of trees that show signs of aging such as large diameters, dead standing 

trees (snags), fallen trees (logs) or those with broken tops, and large tree tops (canopies) that interlace with each 

other (dense canopies). 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 26

Mid Scale

DC-Veg-14

Ponderosa pine-evergreen oak forest is characterized by variation in the size and number of 

tree groups depending on elevation, soil type, aspect, and site productivity. The more 

productive sites contain more trees per group and more groups per area. Desired tree density 

within forested areas generally ranges from 40 to 80 square feet basal area per acre. In 

occasional marginal sites, basal area could be as low as 20 square feet basal area per acre. 

Openings surrounding tree groups are variably shaped and comprised of shrub, grass, forb 

mixture. Openings typically range from 10 percent in more productive sites to 70 percent in the 

less productive sites. Occasionally, patches of even-aged forest structure are present. 

Fires burn primarily on the forest floor, with some spread between tree groups as crown fire. 

Crown fires occur in small patches.

Basal area per mature tree group in northern goshawk post-fledging family areas (PFAs) is 10 

to 20 percent higher than northern goshawk foraging areas and the general forest. Northern 

goshawk nest areas have multi-aged forest structure, dominated by large trees with relatively 

dense canopies consistent with current technical guides for northern goshawk in the 

southwestern U.S. 

DC-Veg-15

To reduce wildfire behavior and hazards to life and property:

Vegetation conditions within the wildland urban interface (WUI) may be composed of younger 

and more widely-spaced shrub patches and tree groups. 

The frequency of disturbance (e.g., prescribed fire, vegetation treatments) within the wildland 

urban interface (WUI) may be more often than for the same vegetation types located outside of 

WUI areas 

Fine Scale

DCVeg-16

Trees typically occur in irregularly-shaped groups and are variably-spaced with some tight 

clumps. Openings surrounding tree groups are composed of shrubs and limited grass cover. 

Some openings contain a high density of shrubs and/or individual trees. 

Trees within groups are of similar or variable ages and may contain species other than 

ponderosa pine. Tree groups are typically less than 1 acre, and at the mature and old stages, 

consist of approximately 2 to 40 trees. 

Changes by alternative

Table 13. Ponderosa pine/evergreen oak PNVT

Tree size Canopy 

closure

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

Grass NA 7,625 2,542 2,542 2,542 – 3,812 2,542 – 4,448

Seed/sapling Open/closed 1,906 3,177 6,354 6,354 – 7,625

Small open 635 15,249 3,812 4,448 – 5,083

Small closed 29,863 1,906 17,156 15,885 – 16,520 15,885 – 12,708

Medium/ 

Large

open

1,271 38,123 15,249 13,343 – 16,520 13,343 – 17,156

Medium/ 

Large

closed

22,239 2,542 18,426 20,968 – 17,156 20,968 – 16,520
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 27

Table 13. Ponderosa pine/evergreen oak PNVT

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

Grass NA 1,271 1,906 – 3,812 1,906 – 4,448

Seed/sapling Open/closed 6,354 8,895 – 10,802

Small open 3,812 3,177 – 3,812 3,812

Small closed 13,979 12,708 – 10,166 12,072 – 9,531

Medium/ 

Large

open

17,791 15,249 – 18,426 15,249 – 19,062

Medium/ 

Large

closed

17,156 21,603 – 16,520 21,603 – 15,885

The vegetative conditions within the ponderosa pine PNVTs will shift from the existing closed canopy 

conditions toward desired more open canopy conditions. The largest shift is the increase in 

seedling/sapling stage. The second most considerable change in vegetative conditions is the increase in 

open canopied areas with medium/large trees. The relative amounts of medium/large trees with a closed 

canopy, while considerably out of proportion to desired amounts, only decrease by a small proportion 

within 40 years of implementing the plan due to the longevity of ponderosa pine trees and their slow 

response to treatments. 

Table 14. Species associated with Ponderosa Pine PNVTs

SPECIES PNVT Habitat Feature Desert Communities PJ Grassland Semi-Desert Grassland Great Basin Grassland Ponderosa Pine Gambel oak Ponderosa Pine Evergreen Oak PJ Evergreen Shrub PJ Woodland Riparian Tree Features Rock Features

Buildings & Bridges

Flammulated owl X X X

Purple martin X X X X X X

Grace's warbler X X

Northern goshawk X X

Mexican spotted owl (MSO) X X X

Red-faced warbler X X

Cordilleran flycatcher X X X X X
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 28

Table 15. Purple Martin, Flammulated owl, Grace’s warbler

Purple martin – This species frequently forages over open water (Corman & Wise-Gervais 2005). On the PNF, it 

nests in woodpecker cavities in ponderosa pine trees. In order to provide suitable cavities, the trees would need to be 

medium/large size trees. A more open canopy cover is an important habitat characteristic for purple martins to provide 

opportunities for foraging on insects. 

Flammulated owl- Flammulated owls prefer ponderosa pine stands with large or mature trees with snags for nesting. 

Their primary prey is moths with other arthropods. An open canopy is conducive to supporting the oak vegetation for 

prey species as well as providing the space for maneuvering during foraging.

Grace’s warbler – Grace’s warblers prefer mature open stands of ponderosa pine. They put their nest out on a 

branch high above the ground and away from the trunk of the pine tree. These birds also forage on insects above the 

canopy.

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

PP/QUGA & PPE: Medium/large 

trees w/ open canopy 1,762 76,874 19,173 17,267– 21,916 17,267– 23,042

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

22,696 20,645-24,803 20,645-25,929

For these species, all alternatives increase acres with the habitat features important for them: medium to large or 

mature trees and an open canopy for prey species and foraging. With the desired conditions and guidelines for snags 

in all alternatives, the purple martin and flammulated owl would not be in jeopardy of viability risk from any 

management actions in any alternative. Increasing these habitat characteristics would also ensure viability for the 

Grace’s warbler.

Table 16. MSO, Cordilleran flycatcher, red-faced warbler:

All of these species prefer moist, cool sites with medium to large size ponderosa pine trees with a more closed canopy 

to maintain the preferred coolness and moisture. Snags are important for nesting for the cordilleran flycatcher and the 

MSO. The red-faced warblers nest on the ground. 

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

PP/QUGA: Medium/large trees with 

closed canopy 26,448 7,358 24,526 24,526– 22,564 24,035– 21,583

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

23,545 23,054– 21,092 23,054– 19,621

All of these species are associated with a vegetative state or condition that is extremely over-represented across the 

landscape relative to historic proportions. The change in acres of this particular combination of habitat characteristics 

is relatively small in all alternatives. As landscapes are restored to historic proportions, species may begin to use 

heretofore underrepresented and/or unavailable habitat characteristics and conditions. Desired conditions and 

guidelines for snags would ensure the presence of snags across the landscape. Complying with the laws and forest 

plan direction for federally listed species would ensure that the current habitat requirements for the MSO are met in 

project design and implementation. Given that both the red-faced warbler and cordilleran flycatcher occupy essentially 

the same habitat as the MSO, their viability as it relates to reliance on this condition of this PNVT would be ensured.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 29

Table 17. Northern goshawk

Northern goshawk: The goshawk is associated with ponderosa pine forests; using the closed canopy sites for nest 

locations and the open canopied areas for foraging. It is also associated with tree features such as downed logs for 

prey species habitat.

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

PP/QUGA & PPE: Medium/large 

trees 50,489 86,774 62,125 62,761– 61,636 62,761– 61,145

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

63,397 65,302– 62,415 65,302– 61,975

The vegetative conditions required by the goshawk will continue to be available across the landscape. The relative 

proportions will change as the conditions shift from existing to desired vegetative conditions. Both the Gamble oak and 

evergreen oak components of the ponderosa pine PNVTs contain desired conditions specific to meeting the goshawk 

habitat needs (DC-Veg-13,14,17, and 18) including forest stand structure as well as down woody material for prey 

species habitat needs and complying with current technical guides for the goshawk in the southwest. Sensitive 

species direction and guidelines would also apply to those places where goshawks are known to occur. Implementing 

projects designed to meet desired conditions specific for the goshawk and to comply with the guidelines providing for 

sensitive species habitat needs would ensure that goshawk habitat needs are met and would provide for the 

goshawk’s viability. By moving the landscape toward more historic conditions, the alternatives would provide for the 

viability of the goshawk.

Piñon /juniper vegetation types

PNVT: Piñon juniper/evergreen shrub (PJ/ES) 463,296 acres

Existing condition: Covering more than 463,000 acres, this is the most common piñon-juniper type on 

the Prescott NF. Current conditions within the piñon-juniper evergreen shrub type are highly departed 

from estimates of reference conditions. For example, within-group tree and shrub density is higher than 

expected, and shrub canopy cover lacks variability. There is a higher proportion of recently disturbed, 

open-canopy grass-forb-shrub state than expected. This is likely due to management activities during the 

1950s-70s that involved “juniper pushes”. Current fire frequency is moderately departed, but fire severity 

when fires occur, is similar to reference conditions.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 30

Desired Conditions for Piñon-Juniper Evergreen Shrub

Landscape Scale

DC- Veg-7

The piñon-juniper evergreen shrub type is a mix of trees and shrubs and herbaceous vegetation 

occurring on the landscape as discrete groups. Trees occur as individuals or in smaller groups 

ranging from young to old. Juniper species are always present while piñon trees are occasionally 

absent. Typically, there is a mosaic of groups of trees that are even-aged in structure with all ages 

represented across the landscape. 

The understory is dominated by low to moderate density shrubs. Shrub canopy cover is variable 

(10 to 65 percent). The shrub component consists of one or a mix of evergreen shrubs including 

oak, manzanita, mountain mahogany, cliffrose, and other shrub species, which are welldistributed. Native perennial grasses and annual and perennial forbs are present in the 

interspaces.

Snags (dead standing trees) and old trees with dead limbs/tops are scattered across the 

landscape. Coarse woody debris is present.

Fires are typically of mixed severity while some evergreen shrub types exhibit occasional high

severity fires. Regardless of the level of severity, fires occur with an average frequency of 35 to 

100 years.

Mid-Scale

DC-Veg-8

To reduce wildfire behavior and hazards to life and property:

o Vegetation conditions within the wildland urban interface (WUI) may be composed of 

younger and more widely-spaced shrub patches and tree groups. 

o The frequency of disturbance (e.g., prescribed fire, vegetation treatments) within the wildland 

urban interface (WUI) may be more often than for the same vegetation types located outside 

of WUI areas. 

Objectives

Table 17. Potential activities in Piñon-juniper PNVTs, by alternative

Activities Alternative A Alternatives B, C & D

Mechanical treatments or planned and unplanned

ignitions to meet resource objectives in Juniper 

Grasslands and Piñon-Juniper Evergreen Shrub

25,000 ac Fire

3,100 ac Mech. 

Treatment

20,000 to 90,000 acres

Changes by alternative

Table 18. Piñon juniper/evergreen shrub (PJ/ES) PNVT

Tree size Canopy 

closure

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alt B

@ 20 yrs

Alts C & D 

@ 20 yrs

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

NA 125,090 23,165 78,760 106,558 –

74,127 69,494 – 74,127

Seed/sapling Open/closed 46,330 254,813 46,330 46,330 – 46,330 41,697 – 46,330
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 31

Small open

Small closed 55,596 0

46,330 41,697 – 46,330

Medium/ 

Large

open 64,861 185,318 129,723 171,420 –

129,723

Medium/ 

Large

closed 171,420 0

162,154 138,989 – 166,787

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alt B

@ 40 yrs

Alts C & D 

@ 40 yrs

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

NA

50,963 92,659 – 50,963 69,494 – 50,963

Seed/sapling 

Small

Open/closed 

open 41,697 46,330 41,697 – 46,330

Small closed 41,697 37,064 – 41,697 41,697

Medium/ 

Large

open

166,787 171,420 –

166,787

Medium/ 

Large

closed

162,154 120,451 –

162,154

138,989 –

162,154

The most notable change in the vegetative conditions within the PJ/ES PNVT is the substantial increase in 

acres with medium/large trees with an open canopy. While all of the alternatives are similar on the low 

end of acres changed, Alternatives C and D have the potential to increase the number of acres 

considerably more than Alternatives A and B. The other notable change is the decrease in acres with 

grass/forb/shrub. While the Alternatives have ranges of acres changed, Alternatives C and D could 

potentially change the most acres. There is some decrease in the amount of acres with small trees and a 

closed canopy as well as the medium/large trees with a closed canopy. Again, Alternatives C and D create

the wider range of change and a more extensive change than Alternatives A and B. As all of the 

alternatives move the vegetative conditions towards desired conditions, Alternatives C and D affect the 

greater change in habitat conditions.

PNVT: Piñon juniper/woodland (PJ/woodland) 36,263 acres

Existing condition: Covering about 36,000 acres of the Prescott NF, the woodland type has a persistent 

tree overstory and a sparse discontinuous understory of some grasses and/or shrubs. It generally occurs on 

flats, ridge tops, rugged uplands, and steep slopes at various elevations and on soils that are shallow and 

rocky.

Current vegetative conditions and fire regimes within the piñon-juniper woodlands are similar to 

reference conditions (i.e. pre-Euro American settlement period). Fire in this vegetation type is less 

frequent than in the juniper grassland and evergreen shrub types and variable due to differences in ground 

cover.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 32

Desired Conditions for Piñon-Juniper Woodlands

Landscape Scale

DC-Veg-9

The piñon-juniper woodland is a mosaic of even-aged patches of juniper and variable amounts of 

pinion that are persistent across the landscape. Piñon trees are occasionally absent, but one or 

more juniper species is always present. Old growth is dynamic in nature and occurs as patches on 

the landscape that shift across the landscape over time. Very old trees (> 300 years old) are 

present. 

Tree density is variable and mid-to-old age groups of trees have greater than 40 percent canopy 

cover, shrubs are sparse, and herbaceous cover is low and discontinuous. 

Snags and older trees with dead limbs and/or tops are scattered across the landscape. Coarse 

woody debris generally averages two to five tons per acre.

Fire in this vegetation type is less frequent than in the juniper grassland and evergreen shrub types 

and variable due to differences in ground cover. The fires that do occur have mixed to high severity 

effects and return intervals that range from 35 to 200+ years.

Mid-Scale

DC-Veg-10

To reduce wildfire behavior and hazards to life and property:

o Vegetation conditions within the wildland urban interface (WUI) may be composed of younger 

and more widely-spaced shrub patches and tree groups. 

o The frequency of disturbance (e.g., prescribed fire, vegetation treatments) within the wildland 

urban interface (WUI) may be more often than for the same vegetation types located outside of 

WUI areas. 

Objectives

There are no fire and vegetation treatment objectives in any of the developed alternatives for these 

vegetation types, recognizing the limited capacity for treatment during the planning period.

Changes by alternative

Since there are no objectives developed for this vegetation type, no meaningful comparison of alternatives 

is possible, and it is not analyzed in the Vegetation and Fire Ecology report.

Table 19. Species associated with Piñon /juniper PNVTs

SPECIES PNVT Habitat Feature
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 33

Table 20. Habitat extent associated with Piñon /juniper PNVTs

Gray vireo and Juniper titmouse: Both species prefer mature stands of PJ with an open canopy (AGFD 1999). 

Vireos construct their nests while titmice are obligate secondary cavity nesters. For these species, habitat would 

occur in PJ/ES and JUG. PJ/woodland typically has canopy cover >40% which would not be considered an open 

canopy.

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alt B

@ 20 yrs

Alts C & D 

@ 20 yrs

PJ/ES & JUG:

Medium/large trees with open 

canopy

93,689 253,955 180,514 181,887 –

180,514

223,584 –

180,514

Alts A & B

@ 40 yrs

Alts C & D 

@ 40 yrs

229,933 234,566 – 229,933

For the juniper titmouse nesting habitat, desired conditions and guidelines for snags would ensure the presence of 

snags across the landscape in all alternatives. For all of the alternatives there is a considerable increase in the amount 

of acres providing medium/large pinyon and juniper trees with an open canopy. Alternatives C and D come close to 

meeting desired conditions in the first 20 years after implementing the forest plan. All four alternatives come relatively 

close to meeting desired conditions within 40 years after implementing the plan. All four alternatives would provide for 

the viability of these two species.

Pinyon jay: These birds are closely tied to the distribution of pinyon juniper habitat. They seem to be most closely tied 

to the medium/large trees that produce seeds, their primary food source. They construct a nest and are omnivorous 

when pinyon seeds are not available. Habitat for this species could be found in PJ/ES, PJ/woodland, and JUG. 

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alt B

@ 20 yrs

Alts C & D 

@ 20 yrs

PJ/woodland: all of it

PJ/ES & JUG: Medium/large trees

w/ open & closed canopy

324,709 303,945 402,268 379,103 –

406,901

420,406 –

406,901

All of these numbers include the 36,236 acres of 

PJ/woodland for which there are no proposed objectives 

(treatments/actions) and no expected changes in habitat 

conditions throughout the analysis period.

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alt B

@ 40 yrs

Alts C & D 

@ 40 yrs

454,432 409,984 –

454,432

433,155 –

454,432

Desert CommunitiesPJ GrasslandSemi-Desert GrasslandGreat Basin GrasslandPonderosa PineGambel oakPonderosa Pine Evergreen OakPJ Evergreen ShrubPJ WoodlandRiparianTree FeaturesRock FeaturesBuildings & Bridges

Gray vireo X X X

Juniper titmouse X X X X

Pinyon jay X X X

Virginia's warbler X X X X
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 34

For the PJ/ES and JUG, most of the increases in acres reflect a shift in acres from other habitat stages/conditions of 

those PNVTs without medium/large trees to an increase in the desired condition of medium/large trees with an open 

canopy. All of the alternatives would provide for the viability of this species with similar acreage increases.

Table 20. Virginia’s warbler

Virginia’s warbler: While it has been identified as a priority species for the chaparral vegetation type by AZ PIF 

(AGFD 1999), AZ BBA describes its preferred habitat as pinyon juniper and ponderosa pine with strong shrub 

components. In order to support strong shrub components, these areas would tend to have more open canopies. 

These warblers are ground nesters and insectivorous. PJ/woodland PNVT lacks the shrub component preferred by 

this species.

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alt B

@ 20 yrs

Alt C

@ 20 yrs

Alt D

@ 20 yrs

PJ/ES & PPE & PP/QUGA:

Medium/large trees with open 

canopy

66,623 262,192 148,896 146,990 –

151,639

188,687 –

152,765

188,687 – 

151,639

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alt B

@ 40 yrs

Alt C

@ 40 yrs

Alt D

@ 40 yrs

189,483 187,432 –

191,590

192,065 –

192,716

192,065 – 

191,590

All three PNVTs are projected to experience a substantial increase in the desired condition/state with medium/large 

trees with an open canopy. All four alternatives show considerable increase in this habitat in the first 20 years after 

plan implementation with Alternatives C and D showing greater increases in this vegetation condition. After 40 years, 

all four alternatives show comparable results in moving toward the desired conditions. All four alternatives would more 

than provide for the viability of this shrub-loving warbler. 

Grassland vegetation types

Grasslands are characterized by less than 10 percent tree cover.

PNVT: Piñon juniper/grassland (JUG) 137,274 acres

Existing condition: The juniper grassland type, with a grass and forb-dominated understory and scattered 

overstory trees, generally occurs on flats, basins, gentle sloping foothills, and transitional valleys at 

generally lower elevations. The soils associated with juniper grasslands are generally deep and 

productive. Juniper grasslands cover about 137,300 acres of the Prescott NF.

Current conditions within juniper grasslands are moderately departed from reference conditions. Fire has 

been excluded from this type for most of the last century, allowing for increases in the age, density, and 

canopy cover of trees and shrubs, and a reduction in fire-stimulated re-growth and germination of 

perennial grasses and forbs.

Desired Conditions for Juniper Grasslands

Landscape Scale

DC-Veg 6 The juniper grasslands are generally uneven-aged and open in appearance. Trees occur as 

individuals or in smaller groups and range from young to old. Juniper species are always present 
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 35

while piñon species are usually absent. Tree canopy cover may range from a low of 5-10 percent 

to as high as 30 percent. A continuous herbaceous understory, including native grasses and 

forbs, are present, with incidental occurrence of shrubs that support a natural fire regime. 

Snags (dead standing trees) are scattered across the landscape. Coarse woody debris 

occurrence, including logs, generally averages 1 to 2 tons per acre. 

Fires occur every 1 to 35 years with high severity favoring re-growth and germination of native 

grasses and forbs. 

PNVT: Semi-desert grassland (SDG) 125,712 acres

Existing condition: The semi-desert grassland encompasses roughly 126,000 acres at elevations ranging 

from 3,000 to 4,500 feet. The semi-desert grasslands show severe departure from reference conditions in 

both structure and fire regime.

Grasslands of the Prescott NF have undergone dramatic changes over the last 130 years. Changes include 

encroachment by trees and shrubs, loss of perennial grass cover, loss of cool season plant species, 

increase in exposed soil surface, and the spread of non-native annual grasses and forbs.

PNVT: Great Basin/CP grassland (GBDG) 38, 389 acres

Existing condition: The Great Basin grassland encompasses almost 38,500 acres and intermingles with 

piñon-juniper ecosystems adjacent to the Chino Valley. They are higher in elevation (approximately 4,700 

to 7,600 feet) and climatically cooler and moister than semi-desert grasslands. Vegetation consists mostly 

of grasses and forbs with interspersed shrubs. Grass species may include, but are not limited to, Indian 

ricegrass, threeawns, blue grama, needle grass, bottlebrush squirreltail, James’ galleta, dropseed, and 

tobosa grass. Shrub and half-shrub species may include, but are not limited to, saltbush, snakeweed, 

winterfat, buckwheat, and juniper.

Currently, the Great Basin grasslands show minimal departure from reference conditions (pre-EuroAmerican settlement period) in structure and composition; however, without periodic disturbance 

conditions are expected to trend away from reference conditions. 

Desired Conditions for Grasslands

Landscape Scale

DC-Veg-21

Perennial herbaceous species dominate and include native grasses, grass-like plants 

(sedges and rushes), and forbs and, where appropriate, a diversity of shrubs. Woody 

(tree and shrub) canopy cover is less than 10 percent. Grass communities are a diverse 

mix of cool and warm season species.

Composition, structure, and cover provide for the full suite of native animals associated 

with grasslands. 

On average, fine fuels provide for and maintain the desired fire regime. In semi-desert 

grasslands, the desired fire return interval is approximately every 10 to 15 years. In 

Great Basin grasslands the desired fire return interval is approximately every 10 to 30 

years. 

Objectives

These are the list of proposed treatments designed to move the vegetative conditions towards the desired 

conditions.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 36

Table 21. Potential activities in Grasslands PNVTs, by alternative

Activities Alternative A Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D

Planned and unplanned ignitions 

to meet resource objectives in 

Semi-Desert Grasslands 13,300 acres

25,000 to 65,000 

acres

65,000 to 

85,000 acres

25,000 to 

65,000 acres

Planned and unplanned fire 

ignitions to meet resource 

objectives in Great Basin/CP 

Grasslands 400 acres

1,000 to 5,000 

acres

5,000 to 10,000 

acres

1,000 to 5,000 

acres

Mechanical treatments or planned 

and unplanned ignitions to meet 

resource objectives in Juniper 

Grasslands and Piñon-Juniper 

Evergreen Shrub

25,000 ac 

Fire

3,100 ac 

Mech. Trtmt.

20,000 to 90,000 acres

Changes by alternative

Table 22. Piñon juniper/grasslands (JUG) PNVT

Tree size Canopy 

closure

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B, C, & D

@ 20 yrs

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

NA 59,028 6,864 43,928 45,300

Seed/sapling 

Small

Open/closed 

open

21,964 34,319 13,727 12,355

Small closed 4,118 13,727 5,491

Medium/ 

Large

open 28,828 68,637 50,791 52,164 – 50,791

Medium/ 

Large

closed 23,337 13,727 23,337 21,964 – 23,337

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B, C, & D

@ 40 yrs

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

NA 34,319 35,691 – 34,319

Seed/sapling 

Small

Open/closed 

open

9,609 10,982 – 9,609

Small closed 4,118

Medium/ 

Large

open 63,146
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 37

Medium/ 

Large

closed 26,082 23,337 – 26,082

Within 20 years after implementing the forest plan, there are two noticeable changes across the landscape; 

the proposed objectives shift conditions by increasing total acres of medium/large trees with open canopy 

and reducing the total acres with seed/sapling/small trees with an open canopy. After 40 years, only the 

medium/large trees with an open canopy are most consistently approaching desired conditions within the 

PNVT.

Table 23. Semi-desert grassland (SDG) PNVT

Tree size Canopy 

closure

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

regeneration 1,257 12,571 2,514 5,208 – 8,800 8,800 – 11,314

Perennial 

grass

NA 25,142 100,570 32,685 51,542 – 80,456 80,456 – 87,998

Perennial 

grass w/ 

shrubs

open

61,599 6,286 37,714 28,914 – 15,085 15,085 – 11,314

Shrubs and 

trees w/ 

grass

closed

37,714 6,286 52,799 40,228 – 20,114 20,114 – 15,085

Alt A 

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

regeneration 2,514 3,771 – 8,800 8,800 - 10,057

Perennial 

grass

NA 41,485 71,656 –

103,084

103,084 –

108,112

Perennial 

grass w/ 

shrubs

open

22,628 13,828 – 3,771 3,771 – 1,257

Shrubs and 

trees w/ 

grass

closed

59,085 35,199 – 8,800 8,800 – 5,028

Within this PNVT, three of the four conditions/states progress towards desired conditions within the first 

20 years after implementing the forest plan with Alternative A making the least progress, Alternative C 

making the most progress, and Alternatives B and D closer to C than to A in achieving desired conditions. 

Table 24. Great Basin grassland (GB/GL) PNVT

Tree size Canopy 

closure

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 38

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

regeneration 2,303 1,919 384 384 – 1,152 1,152 – 1,536

Grass NA 21,498 28,042 18,427 19,195 – 21,498 21,498 – 24,185

Shrubs and 

trees w/ 

grass

open

9,213 7,678 14,972 14,588 – 12,284 12,284 – 9,981

Shrubs and 

trees w/ 

grass

closed

5,374 768 4,223 4,223 – 3,455 3,455 – 2,687

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

Grass/forb/ 

shrub

regeneration 384 768 – 1,152 1,152 – 1,536

Grass NA 16,507 17,659 – 22,266 22,266 – 26,488

Shrubs and 

trees w/ 

grass

open

18,043 16,891 – 12,668 12,668 – 9,213

Shrubs and 

trees w/ 

grass

closed

3,455 3,071 – 2,303 2,303 – 1,152

For the GB/GL, in the first 20 years after implementing the forest plan there seems to be little progress 

towards desired conditions for this PNVT. The grass/forb/shrub regeneration state/condition makes the 

most progress toward desired conditions as the shrubs/trees w/ grass and a closed canopy make some 

progress towards desired conditions. The other two conditions/states seem to move away from desired 

conditions in all alternatives. Forty years after implementing the forest plan, there is not much more 

progress towards desired conditions for this PNVT. Of all the alternatives, Alternative C makes the best 

progress towards desired condition for this PNVT. 

Table 25. Species associated with Grassland PNVTs

SPECIES PNVT Habitat Feature Desert Communities PJ Grassland Semi-Desert Grassland Great Basin Grassland Ponderosa Pine Gambel oak Ponderosa Pine Evergreen Oak PJ Evergreen Shrub PJ Woodland Riparian Tree Features Rock Features

Buildings & Bridges

Bendire’s thrasher X X X X

Western burrowing owl X X X X

Western grasshopper sparrow X X X

Gunnison’s prairie dog X X X
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 39

Table 26. Bendire’s thrasher

Open desert scrub habitats and grasslands with scattered PJ overstory. This species was inexplicably absent in 

Yavapai county during BBA with only one breeding bird block with confirmed breeding in the vicinity of the Prescott NF 

despite the extensive potential habitat on the PNF (Corman & Wise-Gervais 2005). They construct stick nests within 

the vegetation and their preferred diet is caterpillars and beetles.

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

JUG: Seed/sapling/small w. open 

canopy & Medium/large trees w/ 

open canopy

SDG: Grass w/ shrubs w/ open 

canopy

GB/GL: Shrubs & trees w/ grass w/ 

open canopy

121,604 116,920 117,204 108,021 – 90,515 91,888 – 84,441

These acres do not include the desert scrub PNVT for which 

there are no proposed objectives and no anticipated changes 

in conditions throughout the analysis period for the forest plan 

revision.

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

113,426 104,847 – 89,194 90,567 – 83,225

For the combination of states/conditions within the three grassland PNVTs, the desired conditions are less acres than 

the existing acres. Alternative A best approximates the target amount of desired conditions. Considering that no 

Bendire’s thrashers were found where these conditions currently occur on the PNF(Corman & Wise-Gervais 2005), it 

would not seem that decreasing some of the acres of these habitat conditions would impact birds that are not using 

the habitat. Therefore, continuing to provide the habitat characteristics across the landscape and moving the 

respective PNVTs toward reference conditions would be expected to continue to make the necessary habitat 

conditions available across the landscape and continue to provide for the viability of the species.

Table ?. Western grasshopper sparrow, Gunnison’s prairie dog, Western burrowing owl:

None of the current records show any of these species as occurring on the PNF (HDMS 2011, Corman & WiseGervais 2005). All three species are closely tied to the grassland habitat. The grasshopper sparrow has never been 

documented as occurring on the PNF. Potentially suitable habitat could occur within the grassland habitats on the 

PNF. While major declines in the Gunnison’s prairie dogs were attributed to the bubonic plague, subsequent poisoning 

and indiscriminate shooting have kept population numbers low. Maps of potential habitat for the Gunnison’s prairie 

dog from both the federal register (FWS 2008) and the AZGFD (AGFD 2007) show portions of the suitable habitat 

occurring within PNF NFS lands. The burrowing owl relies on fossorial animals such as prairie dogs, badgers, and 

ground squirrels to dig burrows that the owl then uses for its own burrow or nest. 

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

JUG: grass/forb/shrubs

GB/GL: Grass

SDG: perennial grass

105,668 135,476 95,040 116,037 –

147,254

147,254 –

157,483

These acres do not include the desert scrub PNVT for the 

burrowing owl for which there are no proposed objectives and 

no anticipated changes in conditions throughout the analysis 

period for the forest plan revision.

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

92,311 125,006 –

159,669

161,041 –

168,919

Pronghorn antelope X X X

Plains harvest mouse X X X
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 40

Alternative A moves away from desired conditions for these species and actually decreases the existing number of 

acres with habitat characteristics desirable for these species. Alternatives B and D most closely meet the mark of 

moving the landscape towards desired conditions for these species. Alternative C over shoots the target for desired 

habitat for these species. IF these species were known to occur on the PNF and be occupying these habitats, these 

projected changes could influence the viability of the species. However, with no known occurrences of the species on 

the PNF, it is difficult to know what, if any, impact these habitat changes may have on the viability of these species. 

Contemporary threats to the prairie dog (AZGFD 2007) included indiscriminate shooting and habitat loss to 

development, neither of which are current or even recent management actions. Other threats that are current 

management actions include livestock grazing and habitat degradation from shrub invasion due to fire suppression. 

The proposed Alternatives B-D would move the habitat towards desired conditions for these species through 

prescribed burning and interdisciplinary management of livestock grazing. Where Gunnison’s prairie dogs eventually 

occur, sensitive species management direction would be applicable. Alternatives B-d would best provide for the 

viability of these species.

Table ?. Pronghorn: 

Habitat for the pronghorn is primarily open grassland with little shrub component. Land ownership is primarily private 

with some state and federal ownership including both BLM and Forest Service. 

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

SDG: Grass/forb/shrub, Perennial 

grass, Perennial grass w/ shrubs & 

open canopy GB/GL:

Grass/forb/shrub, Grass, Shrubs & 

trees w/ grass & open canopy 

JUG: Grass/forb/shrub, 

Seed/sapling/small trees w/ open 

canopy

202,004 198,249 164,351 177,486 –

196,930

196,930 –

203,983

Alt A

@ 40 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 40 yrs

Alt C 

@ 40 yrs

145,489 171,246 –

195,669

198,414 –

200,591
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 41

Table ?. Pronghorn: 

Habitat for the pronghorn is primarily open grassland with little shrub component. Land ownership is primarily private 

with some state and federal ownership including both BLM and Forest Service. 

PNVT characteristics 

(tree/canopy)

Existing 

acres

Desired 

acres

Alt A

@ 20 yrs

Alts B & D 

@ 20 yrs

Alt C 

@ 20 yrs

The difference between existing and desired habitat of an about 1.8% decrease reflects shifts in relative proportions of 

conditions/states towards more historic or reference conditions. Objectives 25-27 are specifically designed to improve 

pronghorn habitat conditions. Where suitable habitat occurs, Objective 28 would also improve pronghorn habitat 

quality. While the degree of improvement varies among alternatives, all alternatives include projects intended to 

improve the quality of pronghorn habitat on available on NFS lands. Alt A includes a guideline addressing wildlife 

fence standards on Page 27. For Alternatives B-D, by following Guide-WL-2, fence specifications, fawning habitat 

needs, migration corridors, and general habitat improvement would be part of project design and implementation 

where pronghorn occur and habitat needs on PNF lands should be addressed. As the habitat off the PNF becomes 

less available, PNF habitat for pronghorn will become more crucial to providing for the viability of the species. 

Improving the habitat quality and managing for their habitat needs physically, spatially, and temporally, will provide the 

best possible opportunity for contributing to the viability of pronghorn on the PNF.

Table 27. Potential habitat improvement activities, by alternative

Activities Alternative A Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D

Aquatic and Terrestrial Species Habitat

Improvement of pronghorn 

habitat:

Modification or fence removal.

None reported; 

estimated at 2 

miles 3 to 5 miles 10 to 15 miles 3 to 5 miles

Improvement of pronghorn 

habitat:

Habitat quality 4,750 ac

15,000 to 90,000 

acres

50,000 to 

85,000 acres

15,000 to 

90,000 acres

Improvement of pronghorn 

habitat:

Migration corridors.

Little focus on 

corridors 

specifically 2 to 3 corridors 3 to 6 corrodors 2 to 3 corridors

Improve water developments with 

AZGFD 5 3 to 15 5 to 15 3 to 15

Table 28. Plains harvest mouse

This species is not known to occur or documented on the PNF (Linzey 2008, Hoffmesiter 1986), potentially suitable 

habitat on PNF: Desert scrub, chaparral, xeric conditions, mesquite (Hoffmeister 1986) and well developed short-grass 

prairies including cultivated agricultural areas (Linzey 2008). According to Linzey, the species has a wide range, a 

large population, is unlikely to be declining, and has no known major threats.

Considering the diverse range of habitat inhabited by this species, it is highly unlikely that any management actions 

would have any discernible impact to the viability of the species when it is not known to occur on PNF lands.
Prescott National Forest Plan Revision EIS Terrestrial Viability Report 42

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