Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 1 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Chapter

2

Alternatives

Introduction

Chapter 2 describes the proposed action and alternatives to the proposed action, including a no 

action alternative. The Interdisciplinary Team (ID Team) developed alternatives to the proposed 

action, which respond to the purpose and need and address Key Issues identified by the public. 

Three alternatives for managing land and resources in the analysis area are described, analyzed, 

and compared. Alternative 1 is the “no action” alternative; Alternative 2 is the proposed action,

and Alternative 3 is a modification of the proposed action to address issues identified in scoping. 

The alternatives are compared, describing the differences among the alternatives, and providing 

a clear basis for choice to the Responsible Official. This chapter also describes the measures 

necessary to mitigate environmental effects, displays monitoring, and shows a summary 

comparison of the alternatives relative to the issues and the purpose and need for action.

This chapter is divided into five sections:

Alternative Development

Alternatives Considered in Detail

Mitigation Measures for Alternatives 2 and 3

Monitoring for Alternatives 2 and 3

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study

Comparison of the Alternatives

Alternative Development

The interdisciplinary team used the Purpose and Need as a framework for alternative 

formulation. The way to meet the purpose and need of responding to outfitter-guide permit 

applications while providing the minimum required outfitter-guide services is to issue 10-year

term permits. The Proposed Action (see Chapter 1) became Alternative 2, and was evaluated in 

terms of the issues generated during public involvement. Alternative 3, an alternative to the 

proposed action, was developed to address other issues while still meeting as much of the 

purpose and need as possible. Alternative 3 would meet the purpose and need by issuing 10-

year term permits with a reduced number of annual service days. A “no action” alternative, 

Alternative 1, provides a baseline for the environmental effects analysis and includes the effects 

of not meeting the Purpose and Need.

Several alternatives were suggested during the public involvement and alternative formulation 

process that did not meet the Purpose and Need, or were outside the scope of the analysis. 

These alternatives are described on page 2-14.
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Alternatives Considered in Detail

Alternative 1 is the No Action alternative. The Proposed Action is Alternative 2. Alternative 3 

was developed to respond to the issues and would reduce annual service days to 3,125 and not 

include additional assigned sites.

ALTERNATIVE 1--NO ACTION

Objective

Eliminate pack and saddle stock outfitter-guide recreation use within the analysis area. 

Description

This alternative would not issue special use permits to pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides. 

There would be no commercial pack and saddle stock outfitter-guide operations on the Ranger 

Districts.

Mitigation and Monitoring

No specific mitigation or monitoring would occur that is not already prescribed by the Forest 

Plans.

ALTERNATIVE 2

Objectives

Alternative 2 would:

Continue to provide pack and saddle stock outfitter-guide services in the analysis area, 

which includes the Pasayten and Lake Chelan-Sawtooth wilderness areas, North Cascades, 

Sawtooth Backcountry, Middle Methow, Bear/Ramsey/Volstead, and Alta Lake analysis area 

sub-units on the Methow Valley, Tonasket, and Chelan Ranger Districts. 

Amend the Okanogan and Wenatchee Forest Plans to make outfitter-guide campsite 

condition standards and guidelines consistent with established party size standards, while 

managing the Wilderness Areas to maintain wilderness character.

Provide enough service days in the Pasayten and Lake Chelan-Sawtooth wildernesses to 

meet the minimum extent necessary to provide commercial services for wilderness 

appropriate activities.

Establish a number of service days that will follow handbook direction and sustain the 

highest amount of used service days over the past five years and create a pool of days that 

will give an opportunity for pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides businesses to develop a 

modest amount of growth (25%).
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 3 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Description

This alternative would issue 10-year term special use permits for pack and saddle stock outfitterguides on the Methow, Chelan, and Tonasket Ranger Districts. Assigned sites (camps and base 

camps) would allow closer monitoring and modification of operations to reduce the size of the 

barren core and address other resource concerns. Assigned camp sites would be used for most 

full-service camps. Drop and progressive camp locations are not specified. A total of 4,560 

annual service days would be divided among the outfitters, or replacements who meet term 

permit requirements.

The number of service days would be distributed among the different portions of the analysis 

area, with each business receiving approximately the same proportion of service days it had in 

the past, compared to all pack and saddle stock outfitters. Figure 2-1 shows the distribution in 

the different areas

Figure 2-1. Alternative 2: Number of Service Days by Area and Total

Area Total

Client Days

Pasayten Wilderness 2,000

Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness 720

(240 on Methow Valley)

(480 on Chelan)

North Cascades 200

Sawtooth Backcountry 400

(140 on Methow Valley)

(260 on Chelan)

Bear/Ramsey 100

North Cascades

(Day Rides)

450

Alta Lake

(Day Rides)

750

Middle Methow 0

Total 4,620

The day rides in the North Cascades and Alta Lake areas are horse riding or hiking with pack 

support for a portion of, or an entire day. Rides range from a half-hour to all day, with the 

majority lasting one hour. Day rides generally leave from private land adjacent to NFS land, and 

occur on trails seldom used by non-outfitted hikers or horseback riders.

The rest of the service days are for overnight camping. Camp locations would be assigned to the 

horse and mule packers to allow closer monitoring. In the Pasayten Wilderness assigned sites 

(see Map 1-2 in the Map Section of this document) include camps at Bald Mountain, Sheep 

Mountain, and Beaver Creek, Crow Lake, and Whistler. The assigned camps would be primarily 

used for guided horseback riding trips with cooked meals, and most or all camping gear 

provided. Holders would be allowed to set up camps at these locations, and leave them for the 

entire season. All camp equipment except hitch rails, corrals, and tent poles would be removed 

from the camp at the end of the season, and would not be cached over the winter.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 4 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Camp locations for all other trips would be limited to existing, pre-assigned locations. Camping 

equipment and supplies could not be left in these locations for more than 24 hours when the 

camp is not occupied.

Existing assigned base camps Andrews Creek, Billygoat, Crater Creek, and Slate Creek trailheads 

and at the Fish Creek Camp would be used. Each location would have corrals, livestock watering 

troughs, and other improvements necessary to protect resources. These base camps would

provide places where outfitter-guides can keep pack and saddle stock during times of high use, 

and as starting locations where clients meet outfitters.

Forest Plan Amendment

A non-significant amendment would make standards for outfitter-guide campsites more 

compatible with party size limitations and provide for non-degradation of wilderness conditions

as required in Okanogan Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 1989b) (MA15B-21D, page 4-91). For 

the Wenatchee Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 1990) the amendment would improve the 

compatibility of outfitter-guide campsites with some ‘limits of acceptable change’ indicators 

(Table IV-15, page IV-77). The amendment would only apply to pack and saddle stock outfitterguides in the Pasayten and Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness Areas. The following standard and 

guideline would be added to the Okanogan and Wenatchee Forest Plans.

“Pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides shall not be allowed to increase the existing 

amount of barren core (bare, mineral soil) in established campsites. In campsites where 

the existing amount of barren core exceeds 5,250 square feet, outfitter-guides shall not 

use more than 5,250 square feet of the barren core. All pack and saddle stock outfitterguides shall us the same delineated, 5,250 square-foot area for each camp and shall not 

use any area outside of the delineated 5,250 square-foot area.”

The Okanogan Forest Plan currently does not allow vegetation loss to exceed 400 square feet 

(MA15B-22B). The Wenatchee Forest Plan allows vegetation loss of up to 1,000 square feet 

(Table IV-15, page IV-77). It is physically impracticable to fit camps with 12 people and 18 head 

of stock inside areas of 400 to 1,000 square feet. Using computations (see Appendix A), 5,250 

square feet was identified as an area in which 12 people and 18 head of stock could reasonably 

camp. Due to historical use, including large party-sizes and livestock grazing, some existing 

camps exceed 5,250 square feet. Continued use and short growing seasons have perpetuated 

some of these camps even though livestock grazing is no longer occurring and party size is now 

limited. This amendment would require outfitter-guides to identify the portion of the impacted 

area for consistent use. This would be included in the Camp Management Plan for each 

campsite. Areas outside of the designated area would not be used, allowing recovery to 

proceed. This amendment would improve the overall trend of non-degradation of wilderness 

conditions.

Based on direction found in the Forest Service Manual 1926.51 (USDA Forest Service 2006), this 

is a non-significant amendment to both Forest Plans for the following reasons,

The amendment applies only to outfitter-guide use areas in the Pasayten Wilderness and 

the Lake-Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness (Okanogan Forest Plan Management Area 15B and 

Wenatchee Forest Plan primitive and semi-primitive wilderness classes). 
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The amendment applies only to pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides and not to other 

users of wilderness. Outfitter-guide use is 2% of overall use in the Pasayten Wilderness and 

1% of overall use in the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness. 

The amendment is designed to avoid degradation of wilderness conditions and limit 

acceptable change; some existing impacts would diminish over time.

No management area boundaries would change.

Therefore the amendment is not significant because it is a minor change that does not 

significantly alter the multiple use goals and objectives for long-term land and resource 

management.

ALTERNATIVE 3

Objectives

Alternative 3 would:

Continue to provide pack and saddle stock outfitter-guide in the Pasayten and Lake ChelanSawtooth Wilderness Areas and in the backcountry on the Methow Valley, Tonasket, and 

Chelan Ranger Districts.

Amend the Okanogan and Wenatchee Forest Plans to reduce the party size for outfitterguides and make allowed campsite conditions compatible with party size.

Keep number of service days allocated to pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides below the 

minimum extent necessary for commercial services in wilderness

Reduce the number of service days to address concerns about water quality, wilderness, 

riparian habitat, wildlife, wetlands, and native plant species. Establish a number that equals 

the average number of used service days over the past five years, but does not allow for any 

increase or growth of existing outfitters.

Description

This alternative would issue 10-year, term special use permits for outfitter-guides in wilderness 

and the backcountry on portions of three Ranger Districts. A total of 2,660 service days would 

be divided between the outfitters, or replacements for these outfitters who meet requirements 

for term permits.

The number of service days would be distributed among the different portions of the analysis 

area, with each business receiving approximately the same proportion of service days it had in 

the past, compared to all pack and saddle stock outfitters. Figure 2-2 shows the distribution in 

the different areas.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 6 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Figure 2-2. Alternative 3: Number of Service Days by Area and Total

Area Priority Use 

Client Days1

Pasayten Wilderness 1,000

Lake Chelan-Sawtooth 320

(100 on Methow Valley)

(220 on Chelan)

North Cascades 180

Sawtooth Backcountry 160

(70 on Methow Valley)

(90 on Chelan)

Bear/Ramsey 50

North Cascades

(day rides)

360

Alta Lake

(day rides)

590

Middle Methow 0

Total 2,660

The day rides in the North Cascades and Alta Lake areas are horse riding or hiking with pack 

support for a portion of, or an entire day. Rides range from a half-hour to all day, with the 

majority lasting one hour. Day rides generally leave from private land adjacent to NFS land, and 

occur on trails seldom used by non-outfitted hikers or horseback riders.

The rest of the service days would be for overnight camping. Assigned sites for camps in the 

Pasayten Wilderness at Bald Mountain and Sheep Mountain would be used, but no additional 

camps would be designated. Assigned sites are used for guided horseback riding trips with 

cooked meals, and most or all camping gear provided. Holders would be allowed to set up 

camps at these locations, and leave them for the entire season. All camp equipment except 

hitch rails, corrals, and tent poles would be removed from the camp at the end of the season, 

and would not be cached over the winter. Camp locations for all other trips would be limited to 

existing locations. Camping equipment and supplies could not be left in these locations for 

more than 24 hours when the camp is not occupied.

Existing assigned sites for base camps at the Andrews Creek, Billygoat, Crater Creek, and Slate 

Creek trailheads, and at Fish Creek would be used. Each location would have corrals, livestock 

watering troughs, and other improvements necessary to protect resources. These base camps 

would provide places where outfitter-guides can keep pack and saddle stock during times of 

high use, and as starting locations where clients meet the outfitters.

Forest Plan Amendment

A non-significant amendment to the Forest Plans would designate a reasonable amount of 

barren core in pack and saddle stock outfitter-guide camps in order to allow these needed 

commercial services to continue. For this alternative the following standards and guidelines 

would be added to the Okanogan and Wenatchee Forest Plans. These standard and guidelines

 

1 Priority Use refers to the number of client days the holder is guaranteed each year.
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would pertain only to pack and saddle outfitter-guide operations in the Pasayten and Lake 

Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness Areas.

“Pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides shall have a maximum party size of 12 (combination 

of people and stock).”

“Pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides shall not be allowed to increase the existing 

amount of barren core (bare, mineral soil) in established campsites. In campsites where 

the existing amount of barren core exceeds 2,800 square feet, outfitter-guides shall not 

use more than 2,800 square feet of the barren core. All pack and saddle stock outfitterguides shall us the same delineated, 2,800 square-foot area for each camp and shall not 

use any area outside of the delineated 2,800 square-foot area.”

Based on direction found in the Forest Service Manual 1926.51 (USDA Forest Service 2006), this 

is a non-significant amendment to both Forest Plans for the following reasons,

The amendment applies only to outfitter-guide use areas in the Pasayten Wilderness and 

the Lake-Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness (Okanogan Forest Plan Management Area 15B and 

Wenatchee Forest Plan primitive and semi-primitive wilderness classes). 

The amendment applies only to pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides and not to other 

users of wilderness. Outfitter-guide use is 2% of overall use in the Pasayten Wilderness and 

1% of overall use in the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness. 

The amendment is designed to avoid degradation of wilderness conditions and limit 

acceptable change; some existing impacts would diminish over time.

No management area boundaries would change.

Therefore the amendment is not significant because it is a minor change that does not 

significantly alter the multiple use goals and objectives for long-term land and resource 

management.

Mitigation Measures for Alternatives 2 and 3

These measures would be used to reduce negative effects on project area resources. They are 

considered part of the alternatives and would be incorporated as such. All mitigation measures 

listed are common to Alternatives 2 and 3, unless otherwise noted, and will be required if one of 

these alternatives is implemented. Mitigation measures are designed to ensure that human 

activities in wilderness shall follow a non-degradation policy (Okanogan Forest Plan Standard 

and Guideline MA15B-21D) within the limits of acceptable change (Wenatchee Forest Plan Table 

IV-15, page IV-77).

These mitigation measures also serve as the Best Management Practices (BMP) to protect water 

quality, as required by the forest plans.

In addition to the measures listed below, Appendix B lists general prohibitions and prohibitions 

listed in prior Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forest orders for specific wilderness and 

backcountry areas under 36 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) 261. These prohibitions are 

essentially legal mitigation established for resource protection and are incorporated by 

reference. Some of these prohibitions are indicated in parenthesis after project-specific 

mitigation measures that follow.
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This list of mitigation measures will become standard practice for the pack and saddle stock 

outfitter-guides and incorporated into annual operating plans. Placing them in the operating 

plan would be an effective way of insuring they are followed, since the outfitters would risk noncompliance and permit action if they do not comply.

1. Campsites and Trails

The objective of these measures would be to ensure compliance with the non-degradation 

policy in wilderness, minimize the effect of camps and trails on vegetation, wildlife habitat, 

water quality, aquatic habitat, and soil. 

a) All camp locations, including full-service and drop camps, will be approved prior to use. 

If an alternative campsite must be used due to occupation or emergency, the outfitter 

will select an established campsite large enough to accommodate the party size. The 

outfitter will notify the permit administrator within one week from the end of the trip.

b) Outfitter camps will set an example for all to follow concerning leave-no-trace camping 

practices and minimizing the impact on wilderness character. Constructing tent sites 

will be prohibited. All camp facilities will be temporary in nature (unless otherwise 

specifically approved in the operating plan) and shall be taken down and removed 

outside the authorized use period. The outfitter will be encouraged to use earth tone 

colored tents, tarps, and other camping equipment to better blend with natural 

surroundings.

c) Camp Management Plans will be developed for assigned sites. Camp facilities for the 

necessary level of operation will be identified and excess facilities phased out. Excess 

areas of compacted bare mineral soil will be identified for each assigned camp. 

Activities that prevent the revegetation or recovery of these excess areas will not be 

allowed. All equipment and materials that have been or will be transported into the 

wilderness will be taken out at the end of the authorized period of use each season.

d) In established campsites within wilderness where the existing amount of barren core

exceeds 5,250 square feet (Alternative 2) or 2,800 square feet (Alternative 3), outfitterguides will not be allowed to use more than 5,250 square feet of bare mineral soil area

in Alternative 2 or 2,800 square feet in Alternative 3. Camp Management Plans will be 

developed for these sites, with the specific area of allowed use identified in the plan.

The same camp area will be used on successive visits by all outfitters.

e) Non-assigned sites will be available on a “first-come, first-served” basis for either 

commercial or non-commercial camping purposes. All equipment and materials will be 

taken out at the end of each trip.

f) Outfitter-guides shall not increase the amount of bare mineral soil in any established 

wilderness campsite.

g) Outfitter-guides shall not create exposed roots on any new trees at any existing 

wilderness campsite.
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h) Outfitters will be prohibited from creating new campsites without specific authorization 

from the Forest Service. If existing campsites need to be closed to protect resources, 

additional sites may be designated by the Forest Service, and approved in advance of 

use.

i) Campfires will be allowed where permitted in areas with sufficient down wood. 

j) No standing trees, including snags, will be cut or damaged, nor will any material be 

attached to trees with nails or wire. On rare occasions, standing trees or snags may be 

cut if an immediate, unavoidable safety hazard is posed. 

k) At assigned sites, firewood will be stored without a covering and out of sight of any 

Forest Service system trail. Only the amount of firewood to be utilized for the current 

use season will be stored. Skidding of firewood with stock will not be allowed. 

Firewood will not be stored at non-assigned sites.

l) All guides and clients are subject to the same rules and regulations that pertain to the 

non-guided public regarding travel on roads and trails, and camping in backcountry and 

wilderness. Outfitter-guides shall review with clients pertinent regulations and 

appropriate use practices for backcountry and wilderness travel including those posted 

at trailheads and/or referenced in the operating plan. This applies to drop-camp clients 

as well as to guided groups.

m) All applicable regulations will be reviewed with clients including any special orders 

establishing use restrictions at specific areas (see Appendix B).

n) Outfitter-guides will review minimum-impact travel and camping practices with clients, 

including those at drop camps. Specific educational tools to be employed will be 

detailed in operating plans. Instruction on minimum impact will begin prior to the trip 

so clients arrive both mentally and physically prepared. Instruction will continue during 

the trip so clients understand the importance of using these techniques and can 

implement them consistently. The following pamphlets will be used as the standard: 

"Rocky Mountain Leave No Trace Skills and Ethics", "North American Leave No Trace 

Skills and Ethics", and “Horse Use Leave No Trace Skills and Ethics". Outfitter-guides will 

also teach clients about wilderness values as described in the Wilderness Act of 1964.

o) Outfitted pack and saddle stock use in wilderness will be limited to existing trails with 

well established tread. Constructing, placing or maintaining any kind of trail or other 

improvement on National Forest System land without a special use authorization, 

contract, or approved operating plan is prohibited. (36 CFR 261.10a)

p) Trail maintenance work needed for operations will be restricted to the maintained 

Forest Service system trails and access trails to established camps, unless prior approval 

is granted. Maintenance will be consistent with Forest Service trail standards and 

requires prior Forest Service approval.

q) Outfitted pack and saddle stock use at Hidden Lakes will be limited to two parties at a 

time and two or three parties at a time at Spanish Camp/Remmel Lake, Corral Lake, and 
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 10 August 2010

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Crow Lake, except during the September hunting season. This will be accomplished 

during itinerary review and scheduling and through permit administration.

2. Sanitation and Litter

The objective of these measures is to ensure that human waste, manure, garbage, hunting 

refuse, and dead stock animals do not become an attractant for wildlife or degrade water or 

campsite quality.

a) All human excrement and toilet paper will be disposed of properly by burying it in a 

small shallow hole at least 200 feet from any water source, or by packing out. A slit 

trench or latrine may be used where there are more than 12 person days in a camp, or if 

a guide determines that clients lack judgment to properly use shallow holes. Slit 

trenches will be completely covered over and camouflaged when camp is vacated.

b) Heavy concentrations of stock manure near campsites or in other areas where stock 

have been tied or held will be scattered.

c) Parties engaged in hunting will ensure that stripped carcasses, gut-piles, hides, or other 

such refuse is disposed of away from campsites, trails, and sources of water.

d) In the event that pack or saddle stock should die on National Forest System land, the 

District shall be notified promptly, and the outfitter will properly dispose of the dead 

animal.

3. Stock Grazing and Containment

The objective of these measures is to minimize the effects of stock grazing on wetlands, 

sensitive plants, water quality, vegetation, and aquatic habitat.

a) Based on submitted itineraries and known resource conditions, outfitters may be 

required to carry supplemental feed.

b) Overnight picketing of stock in subalpine meadows will not be allowed; loose herd 

grazing will be the preferred grazing method for outfitter stock.

c) In the Pasayten Wilderness, hitching or tying pack or saddle stock directly to any tree for 

an extended period is prohibited. Additionally, hitching or tying any pack or saddle

animal to any object, including a highline, when the point of hitch or tie is within 8 feet 

of any tree, for an overnight period, or so as to cause damage to the roots or bole of any 

tree is prohibited. (36 CFR 261.58aa) order #353 (July 2001).

d) In the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness and Sawtooth Backcountry, hitching or tying 

pack or saddle stock directly to any tree for an overnight period is prohibited. 

Additionally, hitching or tying any pack or saddle animal to any object, including a 

highline, when the point of hitch or tie is within 8 feet of any tree, for an overnight 

period, or so as to cause damage to the roots or bole of any tree is prohibited. (36 CFR 

261.58aa) order 08-04-74 (April 1992).
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e) Outfitter-guides shall prohibit any grazing by pack or saddle animals within 200 feet 

slope distance of the shoreline of any lake. (36 CFR 261.57a and e)

f) Outfitter-guides shall prohibit hitching, tethering, or hobbling any pack or saddle 

animals within 200 feet slope distance of any lake. (36CFR 261.58aa)

g) Outfitter-guide pack and saddle stock grazing could be limited to designated suitable 

grazing areas during times, or in areas of high use.

h) Stock must be ridden, or led, except when grazing, and not permitted to run loose on 

trails or travel routes.

i) Where and whenever it becomes necessary to restrict or limit the use of native forage 

by pack and saddle stock for resource protection, the outfitter may be required to pack 

in and supply all necessary feed when range conditions do not allow grazing of pack 

stock.

4. Party Size

The objectives of these measures are to help reduce impacts from outfitter-guide camps in 

terms of size and grazing impacts.

a) Party size over the established limits must be requested by outfitter-guides at least 

seven days in advance of departure. Oversize parties may be approved based on factors 

listed in Okanogan Forest Plan standard and guideline MA15B-21N, and in the 

Wenatchee Forest Plan on page E-4, item 1.f. (36 CFR 261.58f)

b) Party size outside wilderness will be designated in the outfitter-guide operating plan.

c) Only stock necessary for each trip will be permitted. No cripples, colts, or unbroken 

stock will be permitted, except for the trip duration if an animal becomes crippled 

during use.

5. Vegetation and Soils

The objective of these measures is to minimize effects of pack and saddle stock outfitterguides on vegetation and soil.

a) Other than approved trail maintenance work along Forest Service system trails, green 

trees and other live vegetation shall not be cut or removed, and efforts will be taken to 

minimize trampling or other damage to vegetation beyond those impacts likely to 

recover within one growing season.

b) Soils displaced by activities such as latrine construction or pawing by stock will, to the 

extent practical, be replaced or smoothed out.

c) Travel routes will be identified to minimize impacts to wet soil and meadow areas.

d) Salt use will be approved in advance and applied in such a manner as to minimize 

wildlife attraction, and avoid trampling disturbance.
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e) Location of overnight stock handling facilities (corrals, hitch rails, highlines) will be 

designated and approved. Facilities will be designed to adequately handle concentrated 

stock use to minimize off-site effects.

6. Wildlife

The objective of these measures is to comply with habitat management requirements for 

threatened and endangered species, and to reduce the possibility of negative encounters 

between people and wildlife.

a) Feeding or harassing of wildlife will be prohibited. Activities that may disrupt wildlife, 

such as camping next to active nest sites, water sources, or making excessive noise, shall 

be avoided. When observing animals, outfitters shall keep a distance to avoid 

influencing animal behavior, generally 100 to 300 feet or more.

b) Outfitter-guides with clients engaged in hunting shall discuss the importance of 

distinguishing between grizzly bears and black bears, between lynx and bobcats, and 

between wolves and coyotes. It shall also be emphasized that grizzly bears, lynx, and 

wolves are protected by Federal law.

c) Outfitter-guides and clients shall securely store, using wildlife-resistant containers or 

hanging methods, all food, garbage, toiletries, and other possible wildlife attractants. 

These measures will be discussed with clients. Outfitters shall follow any additional 

guidelines provided by wildlife biologists in regards to acceptable food and trash 

handling/storage methods.

d) Negative encounters with bears (either grizzly bear or black bear) will be reported to the 

Methow Valley or Chelan Ranger Districts. Sightings of grizzly bears will be reported as 

soon as possible to either District.

e) Rodent control (other than rat or mouse traps) will not be allowed unless specifically 

authorized in the annual operating plan.

7. Aquatic Resources

The objective of these measures is to comply with habitat management requirements for 

threatened and endangered species, and to ensure compliance with Aquatic Conservation 

Strategy and Riparian Management objectives.

a) Provide stream and riparian habitat protection based on the Forest Plan as amended by 

PACFISH and the Northwest Forest Plan.

b) Ensure Riparian Management Objectives (PACFISH) and Aquatic Conservation Strategy 

Objectives (Northwest Forest Plan) are met.

c) Protect riparian habitat by maintaining shade and riparian vegetation adjacent to 

stream.
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d) Outfitter-guides who provide angling services or activities shall provide fishing 

regulations and bull trout identification information to personnel and clients.

e) The Fish Camp campsite in the Wolf Creek drainage will be closed to camping from 

September 1 through October 15 to reduce the risk of trampling redds.

f) Along Wolf Creek and the Lost River area of Hidden and Cougar Lakes and Diamond 

Creek, that contain bull trout, outfitter-guides and clients will not wade in streams from 

September 1 to October 15 to minimize the possibility of disturbing bull trout redds.

g) Hazardous material handling or storage (including fuel) will be located at least 200 feet 

from streams.

8. Noxious Weeds

The objective of these measures is to prevent the establishment and spread of noxious 

weeds in the analysis area.

a) Precautions will be taken to prevent the introduction and spread of noxious weeds on 

National Forest System land. Outfitter-guides and clients shall prevent the transport of 

any seeds by removing any plant material attached to vehicles, shoes, clothing, or the 

bodies of pack and saddle stock.

b) Supplemental feed will be commercially processed feed, or weed-free certified 

processed hay cubes. Only certified weed-free hay shall be allowed on all National 

Forest System Land (36 CFR 261.58(t) 

c) Outfitters should consider feeding commercially-processed feed or hay that is certified 

weed-free for several days prior to trip departure to minimize the spread of weed seed 

through manure.

d) Outfitters will follow a weed identification and mapping program under Forest Service 

direction. Forest Service will provide the weed information.

e) Outfitters will be responsible for surveying campsites for weeds, and assisting in control 

measures as directed by the Forest Service.

Monitoring

WILDERNESS

Wilderness monitoring would follow the process detailed in Monitoring Selected Conditions 

Related to Wilderness Character: A National Framework, 2005 (Landres, et al, 2005). Outfitterguide activities would be modified or controlled if impacts to wilderness character become 

unacceptable. Specific areas that will be closely monitored include lakes in the vicinity of Harts 

Pass and the Pacific Crest Trail, Hidden Lakes, Crow and Corral Lakes/Sheep Mountain area, 

Spanish Camp, and Black Lake in the Pasayten Wilderness, and Oval Lakes, North Lake, Twisp 
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 14 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Pass, Louis Lake, Williams Lake, and Libby, Star, Tuckaway, Bernice, and Surprise Lakes in the 

Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness.

Outfitter-guide Operations

A representative sample of outfitter-guide camps and operations would be checked seasonally 

by wilderness rangers and/or permit administrator for compliance with the terms of the permit, 

operating plan, and applicable laws and regulations. Field inspection reports include seven 

items:

1. Service to the public

2. Compliance with permit conditions

3. Compliance with operating plan

4. Equipment and livestock

5. Safety

6. Resource protection

Field inspection reports would be used by the permit administrator when preparing the annual 

outfitter-guide performance evaluations.

Campsite Monitoring

The number of wilderness campsites inventoried and monitored annually will vary with the 

budget and workforce. Biophysical conditions at sites will be measured using indicators such as 

barren core, number of trees with exposed roots, number of mutilated trees and number of 

access trails. Additional physical and social related indicators will be recorded.

Encounter Monitoring

Wilderness rangers will record encounter data on a daily basis while in the field; this includes 

time, location, number of people, number of stock, number of parties, type of use, and 

wilderness permits ( where applicable).

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated

The following alternatives were considered by the interdisciplinary team, but eliminated from 

further consideration for the reasons described.

1. An alternative was considered but eliminated that would increase party size for outfitterguides to 20 people and 35 head of stock, and increase annual service days to 8,125. 

Outfitter-guide camps would be allowed 10,000 square feet of bare mineral soil. This 

alternative was eliminated because it would have resulted in wilderness degradation by 

increasing the amount of disturbed area. Increasing service days to 8,125 would not be 

consistent with Forest Service Handbook 2709.11 pertaining to calculating service days. 

Past actual use numbers must be used, and are much lower than 8,125.

2. An alternative was considered but eliminated that would not amend the Forest Plan to 

reduce party size and increase camp size for all users (outfitted and non-outfitted). The 

portion of the alternative pertaining to non-outfitted users was eliminated from further 

consideration since it was outside the scope of analysis and purpose and need. Decreasing 
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 15 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

party size and adjusting standards and guidelines pertaining to outfitter-guide camps was

developed and analyzed as Alternative 3.

3. An alternative was considered but eliminated that would make no change to Forest Plan 

standards and guidelines. This alternative also increased the number of service days to 

7,275. This alternative was eliminated because it did not follow the direction in Forest 

Service Handbook 2709.11 pertaining to calculating service days. It also would not have 

been consistent with existing Forest Plan standards and guidelines pertaining to barren core. 

The existing party size allowing up to 18 head of stock cannot fit into 400 to 1,000 square 

feet of barren core without creating more barren core, and endangering the stock animals 

and handlers. This alternative was identified as the proposed action in the 2005 scoping 

letter.

4. An alternative was considered but eliminated that would amend the Forest Plan to reduce 

outfitter-guide party size to 5 people and 2 head of stock. This alternative was not fully 

considered because the outfitter-guides would not be able to operate businesses with such 

a small party size and thus minimum required commercial services would not be provided to 

the public.

5. An alternative was considered but eliminated that would not allow campfire or firewood 

gathering in sub-alpine ecosystems. This alternative was eliminated because it is outside 

the scope of the purpose and need. Firewood gathering and campfires by pack and saddle 

stock outfitter-guides were not found to be adversely affecting resources (see Chapter 3.4 

Wildlife).

6. An alternative to require pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides to bring commerciallyprocessed feed into wilderness, and not allow the stock to graze was considered but 

eliminated. This alternative would also require outfitters to bring buckets so water could be 

carried to stock, in order to eliminate stock going to streams, lakes, or wetlands. This 

alternative was eliminated because the analysis did not show that current grazing or 

watering techniques are causing unacceptable impacts to water, soil, riparian areas, or plant 

communities (see Chapter 3.8 Range).

7. An alternative was considered but eliminated that would prohibit cooking on open fires, 

instead requiring cooking on stoves. This alternative was eliminated because any limitation 

on non-outfitted recreationists is outside the scope of the analysis. Applying this limitation 

to pack and saddle stock outfitter-guides was also eliminated because firewood gathering by 

outfitters, and outfitter campfires were not found to adversely affect air quality or the 

ecosystem (see Chapter 3.4 Wildlife).

8. An alternative to prohibit outfitters taking stock trucks on the Harts Pass road was 

considered but eliminated. The Harts Pass road has one short section that is narrow. The 

section has a posted speed limit of 10 miles per hour and pull-outs to allow traffic to pass. 

Public travel is sufficiently safe; eliminating outfitter-guide stock truck use on the road is not 

necessary.

9. An alternative was considered to prohibit outfitter operations in meadows, near lakes or 

riparian areas, or in the area from Lower Cathedral to the US/Canadian border. This 
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 16 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

alternative was eliminated because analysis did not show a need to implement these 

changes. Mitigation measures address outfitter-guide operations in meadows and riparian 

areas.

10. An alternative to not allow people to travel farther than 20 miles from a trailhead was 

considered but eliminated. It was outside the scope of the analysis since it pertained to all 

people, not just outfitter-guides. Limiting outfitter-guides to an area within 20 miles of 

trailheads was not considered further because the analysis found no environmental or social 

advantage to doing so.

Comparison of Alternatives

See Figure 2-3 that begins on page 2-17.

Preferred Alternative

The Preferred Alternative is Alternative 2.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 17 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Figure 2-3: Comparison of Alternatives

Action Unit of 

Measure

Existing Condition Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Total Number of Service 

Days 

Service Days 4,083 0 4,620 2,660

Total Number of Visitor Days 

(outfitted and private)

Visitor Days 221,922 219,441 222,429 220,489

Percent of Visitor Days 

Outfitted by Pack and Saddle 

Stock Outfitter-Guides

Percent 2% 0% 2% 1%

Total Number of Pack and 

Saddle Stock Visitor Days

Visitor Days 45,956 43,465 46,473 44,533

Percent of Pack and Saddle 

Stock Visitor Days Outfitted

Percent 9% 0% 10% 6%

Purpose and Need Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2

(current condition)

Alternative 3

1. Respond to Permit Applications 

for outfitter-guide permits. 

Qualitative 

discussion

Would deny applications, 

and no pack and saddle stock 

outfitter-guide permits 

would be issued.

10-year permits would be 

issued with service day 

calculations consistent with 

FSH 2709.11.

10-year permits would be 

issued, but with 35% fewer 

service days compared to 

the current allowed use. 

2. Protect wilderness character in 

the Pasayten and Lake ChelanSawtooth Wilderness Areas while 

providing necessary pack and 

saddle stock outfitter-guide 

commercial services.

Qualitative 

discussion

The wilderness character 

would be protected, but no 

pack and saddle stock 

commercial services would 

be provided for realizing 

recreational or other 

wilderness proposes. 

Wilderness character 

would be protected since 

impacts to opportunities 

for solitude would be minor 

and localized. The 

minimum amount of pack 

and saddle stock 

commercial services 

necessary for realizing the 

recreational purposes of 

the areas would be 

provided.

Wilderness character would 

be protected since impacts 

to opportunities for solitude 

would be minor and 

localized. Pack and saddle 

stock commercial services 

would be provided, but for 

less than the minimum 

amount necessary for 

realizing the recreational 

purposes of the areas.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 18 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Purpose and Need Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2

(current condition)

Alternative 3

3. Make standards and guidelines 

for campsite barren core (see 

Glossary) in wilderness compatible 

with party size for pack and saddle 

stock outfitter-guides.

Qualitative 

discussion

Forest Plans would not be

amended, but there would 

be no pack and saddle stock 

outfitter-guide activities.

Forest Plan amendment 

would allow up outfitterguides to use up to 5,250 

square feet of barren core 

in existing camps that 

exceed that size. In 

established campsites, 

barren core would not be 

allowed to increase.

Forest Plan amendment 

would allow up outfitterguides to use up to 2,800 

square feet of barren core 

in existing camps that 

exceed that size. In 

established campsites, 

barren core would not be 

allowed to increase. Party 

size for pack and saddle 

stock outfitter-guides 

would be 12 heartbeats.

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

1. Current and proposed pack and 

saddle outfitted use does not 

comply with some Forest Plan 

wilderness standards and 

guidelines or with the Wilderness 

Act because the party size and 

amount of use perpetuates large 

camps and degrades the condition 

of the wilderness.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 19 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

a) Compliance with the 

Wilderness Act in terms of the 

qualities that make up wilderness 

character: untrammeled, 

undeveloped, natural, and 

opportunities for solitude or 

primitive and unconfined 

recreation.

Qualitative 

discussion

Pack and saddle stock 

outfitter-guides would not 

operate in wilderness. There 

would be a 5% reduction in 

the number of pack and 

saddle stock users in the 

Pasayten and a 3% reduction 

in the Lake ChelanSawtooth. The 

untrammeled and 

undeveloped qualities of 

wilderness character would 

be unaffected. There would 

be minor, localized beneficial 

impacts to the natural 

quality since fewer pack and 

saddle stock would be 

grazing, and potentially 

damaging stream banks at 

watering sites. 

Opportunities for solitude 

would also be beneficially 

impacted on a local, minor 

level with the reduced 

number of pack and saddle 

stock users.

There would be 

approximately 7% more 

pack and saddle stock users 

in the Pasayten, and 1% 

more in the Lake ChelanSawtooth compared to 

current numbers. The 

untrammeled and 

undeveloped qualities 

would be unaffected. The 

natural quality of the 

Pasayten and Lake ChelanSawtooth wilderness areas 

could receive minor, 

localized impacts due to 

the increase in the number 

of pack and saddle stock 

service days. Opportunities 

for solitude would have 

minor, localized, negative 

impacts due to the increase 

in pack and saddle stock 

users.

There would be a 1% 

increase in the number of 

pack and saddle stock users 

in the Pasayten, and a 1% 

decrease in the Lake 

Chelan-Sawtooth, so this 

alternative would result in 

not noticeable change from 

the existing condition. The 

untrammeled and 

undeveloped qualities 

would be unaffected. The

natural quality would 

continue to have minor, 

localized impacts from 

stock grazing, and damage 

to stream banks at 

watering spots. 

Opportunities for solitude 

would negatively impacted, 

but these impacts would be 

localized and minor. 
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 20 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

b)Compliance with Wilderness 

Management Tool (nondegradation policy)

Qualitative 

discussion

The elimination of pack and 

saddle stock outfitter-guides 

would reduce use at some 

existing sites, and lead to 

some natural restoration of 

barren core areas not used 

by the non-outfitted pack 

and saddle stock parties.

Forest Plan amendments 

would limit the amount of 

barren core outfitters can 

use, allowing natural 

restoration to occur in 

camps with existing barren 

cores exceeding 5,250 

square feet. Mitigation 

measures would insure that 

outfitter-guides do not 

further degrade the 

condition of the wilderness.

Forest Plan amendments 

would limit the amount of 

barren core outfitters can 

use, allowing natural 

restoration to occur in 

camps with existing barren 

cores exceeding 2,800 

square feet. Mitigation 

measures would insure that 

outfitter-guides do not 

further degrade the 

condition of the wilderness.

c) Compliance with standards and 

guidelines, and the effect the 

proposed Forest Plan amendment 

will have on wilderness character

Qualitative 

discussion

No permits would be issued 

for pack and saddle stock 

outfitter-guides, so 

compliance with standards 

and guidelines would be not 

applicable. 

Outfitter-guide activities 

would comply with 

amended standards and 

guidelines. The Forest Plan 

amendment would have 

minor, localized impacts on 

the opportunities for 

solitude by authorizing 

larger areas of barren core 

in outfitter camps. The 

outfitters will be prohibited 

from creating new camps, 

or increasing the size of 

existing barren cores, so 

the result will be a slight 

decrease in the amount of 

barren core at large, 

established camps.

Outfitter-guide activities 

would comply with 

amended standards and 

guidelines. The Forest Plan 

amendment would have 

minor, localized impacts on 

the opportunities for 

solitude by authorizing 

larger areas of barren core 

in outfitter camps. The 

outfitters will be prohibited 

from creating new camps, 

or increasing the size of 

existing barren cores, so 

the result will a larger 

decrease in the amount of 

barren core at large, 

established camps, 

compared to Alternative 2..

d)Total Number of Visitor Days in 

Wilderness(outfitted and 

private) and percent outfitted

Visitor Days

Percent Outfitted

107,582 Visitor Days

0% outfitted

110,302 Visitor Days

2% outfitted

108,902 Visitor Days

1% outfitted
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 21 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

e) Total Number of Pack and 

Saddle Stock Visitor Days in 

Wilderness (outfitted and 

private) and percent outfitted

Visitor Days

Percent Outfitted

34,146 Pack & Saddle Visitor 

Days

0% outfitted

36,866 Pack & Saddle 

Visitor Days

7% outfitted

35,466 Pack & Saddle 

Visitor Days

4% outfitted

2. Current outfitted use could 

degrade wetlands and habitat for 

native plant species.

a) wetland within 500 feet of 

pack and saddle stock camps, 

and percentage of total wetlands 

in analysis area

Estimated 

number of acres 

and percent of 

total

117.2

1.4%

117.2

1.4%

117.2

1.4%

b) effects of activities on 

wetlands

Qualitative 

discussion

6% reduction in pack and 

saddle stock would reduce 

localized impacts of grazing 

and trampling of vegetation in 

and around campsites. The 

damage to vegetation would 

continue to be isolated in 

context of all the wetlands in 

the analysis area.

Localized impacts to the 

117.2 acres of wetlands 

would continue, but 

mitigation measures would 

minimize impacts from 

outfitter-guides. Outfitterguide activities would meet 

the Aquatic Conservation 

Strategy Objectives, and 

the Riparian Management

Objectives, so isolated 

impacts to wetlands would 

be within standards.

Localized impacts to the 

117.2 acres of wetlands 

would continue, but 

mitigation measures would 

minimize impacts from 

outfitter-guides. Outfitterguide activities would meet 

the Aquatic Conservation 

Strategy Objectives, and 

the Riparian Management 

Objectives, so isolated 

impacts to wetlands would 

be within standards.

c) Determination Statements for 

threatened endangered and 

sensitive plant species

Determination 

rating

“No effect” on any listed plant 

species. “No impact” on any 

sensitive plant species.

“No effect” on any listed 

plant species. “May impact 

individuals, but not likely to 

cause a trend toward 

Federal listing or a loss of 

population viability” on 

sensitive species. 

“No effect” on any listed 

plant species. “May impact 

individuals, but not likely to 

cause a trend toward 

Federal listing or a loss of 

population viability” on 

sensitive species.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 22 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

d) Effects of stock grazing on 

plant composition

Qualitative 

discussion

The number of pack and 

saddle stock Visitor Days 

would be reduced by 6%. 

Pack and saddle stock grazing 

in and around campsites 

would not result in further 

modification of plant 

succession due to the limited 

amount of area where the 

animals graze, and the small 

number of animals compared 

to past use.

Outfitter-guide pack and 

saddle stock grazing in and 

around campsites would 

not result in further 

modification of plant 

succession due to the 

limited amount of area 

where the animals graze, 

and the small number of 

animals compared to past 

use.

The number of pack and 

saddle stock Visitor Days

would be reduced by 3%. 

Outfitter-guide pack and 

saddle stock grazing in and 

around campsites would 

not result in further 

modification of plant 

succession due to the 

limited amount of area 

where the animals graze, 

and the small number of 

animals compared to past 

use.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 23 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

3. Current outfitted use could 

degrade some habitat for 

threatened, endangered or 

sensitive wildlife species through 

increased encounters with people 

or through habitat degradation.

a) Determination Statements 

from Biological Assessment for 

threatened, endangered or 

sensitive wildlife species

Determination 

rating

“No Effect” on any listed 

species.

“May affect, not likely to 

adversely effect” gray wolf, 

grizzly bear, lynx, northern 

spotted owl. “No effect” 

on all other listed species. 

“May impact individuals, 

but not likely to cause a 

trend toward Federal listing 

or a loss of population 

viability” great gray owl. 

“No impact” on all other 

listed species.

“May affect, not likely to 

adversely effect” gray wolf, 

grizzly bear, lynx, northern 

spotted owl. “No effect” 

on all other listed species. 

“May impact individuals, 

but not likely to cause a 

trend toward Federal listing 

or a loss of population 

viability” great gray owl. 

“No impact” on all other 

listed species.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 24 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

4. Current pack and saddle stock 

outfitted use could degrade water 

quality and aquatic resources.

a) Determination Statements 

from Biological Assessment for 

threatened and endangered fish 

species.

Determination 

rating

“No effect” on any listed 

species.

“Adverse effect” to bull 

trout. “May affect, not 

likely to adversely effect” 

steelhead, and spring 

Chinook. “No effect” on all 

other listed species.

“Adverse effect” to bull 

trout. “May affect, not 

likely to adversely effect” 

bull trout, steelhead, and 

spring Chinook. “No effect” 

on all other listed species.

b) Compliance with Northwest 

Forest Plan Aquatic Conservation 

Strategy (ACS) and PACFISH 

Riparian Management Objectives 

(RMO)

Qualitative 

discussion

Alternative would comply 

with the ACS and RMOs.

Alternative would comply 

with the ACS and RMOs.

Alternative would comply 

with the ACS and RMOs.

c) Compliance with state water 

quality standards and the Clean 

Water Act

Qualitative 

discussion

Alternative would comply 

with the Clean Water Act.

Alternative would comply 

with the Clean Water Act.

Alternative would comply 

with the Clean Water Act.

d) Effects of open grazing on 

riparian areas, streams and lakes 

Qualitative 

discussion

Open grazing would disperse 

impacts, and minimize effects 

on riparian areas, streams, 

and lakes.

Open grazing would 

disperse impacts, and 

minimize effects on riparian 

areas, streams, and lakes.

Open grazing would 

disperse impacts, and 

minimize effects on riparian 

areas, streams, and lakes.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 25 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

e)Stream sedimentation from 

stock grazing.

Qualitative 

discussion

The increased stream 

sedimentation from stock 

grazing and use would be low. 

It would not be detectable 

compared to ongoing channel 

and hill slope erosion, except 

at the point of disturbance in 

the stream channel. There 

would be no detectable 

difference in stream 

sedimentation between 

alternatives across the 

analysis area. Stream 

turbidity is not expected to 

change under any of the 

alternatives, because the 

suspended sediment would 

not change.

The increased stream 

sedimentation from stock 

grazing and use would be 

low. It would not be 

detectable compared to 

ongoing channel and hill 

slope erosion, except at the 

point of disturbance in the 

stream channel. There 

would be no detectable 

difference in stream 

sedimentation between 

alternatives across the 

analysis area. Stream 

turbidity is not expected to 

change under any of the 

alternatives, because the 

suspended sediment would 

not change.

The increased stream 

sedimentation from stock 

grazing and use would be 

low. It would not be 

detectable compared to 

ongoing channel and hill 

slope erosion, except at the 

point of disturbance in the 

stream channel. There 

would be no detectable 

difference in stream 

sedimentation between 

alternatives across the 

analysis area. Stream 

turbidity is not expected to 

change under any of the 

alternatives, because the 

suspended sediment would 

not change.

f) Stream flow Qualitative 

discussion

No changes would occur in 

stream flow.

No changes would occur in 

stream flow.

No changes would occur in 

stream flow.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 26 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Key Issue Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

g) Localized impacts where trails 

cross streams or where camps 

are located near water

Qualitative 

discussion

6% reduction in the number 

of pack and saddle stock 

visitor days would reduce 

impacts. There would 

localized impacts to stream 

banks and other water 

features, including damage to 

riparian vegetation and 

reduction in water quality. 

The isolated, localized 

impacts would not adversely 

affect riparian habitat 

conditions or water quality 

beyond the immediate areas. 

There would be a 1% 

increase in the number of 

pack and saddle stock 

users, so conditions would 

not change from existing 

condition. There would 

localized impacts to stream 

banks and other water 

features, including damage 

to riparian vegetation and 

reduction in water quality. 

The isolated, localized 

impacts would not 

adversely affect riparian 

habitat conditions or water 

quality beyond the 

immediate areas. 

1% reduction in the 

number of pack and saddle 

stock visitor days would 

reduce impacts. There 

would localized impacts to 

stream banks and other 

water features, including 

damage to riparian

vegetation and reduction in 

water quality. The isolated, 

localized impacts would not 

adversely affect riparian 

habitat conditions or water 

quality beyond the 

immediate areas. 

h. Fecal coliform levels Qualitative 

discussion

No detectable change in fecal 

coliform levels in water 

bodies.

No detectable change in 

fecal coliform levels in 

water bodies.

No detectable change in 

fecal coliform levels in 

water bodies.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 27 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Other Issues Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Pack and saddle stock outfitterguides could introduce noxious 

weeds into currently weed-free 

areas, such as wilderness, in 

stock manure.

Qualitative 

discussion

There would be no 

outfitter-guide pack and 

saddle stock that could 

potentially introduce 

weeds. The requirement 

for certified weed-free hay 

at Wilderness trailheads 

beginning in 2007, and 

everywhere on National 

Forest System Land 

beginning in 2009 would 

substantially reduce the 

possibility of weeds being 

spread by non-outfitted 

pack and saddle stock 

users. 

Outfitters would help 

identify and locate newly 

established weed 

populations, aiding in early 

treatment. The 

requirement for certified 

weed-free hay at 

Wilderness trailheads 

beginning in 2007, and 

everywhere on National 

Forest System Land 

beginning in 2009 would 

substantially reduce the 

possibility of weeds being 

spread by non-outfitted 

pack and saddle stock 

users.

Outfitters would help 

identify and locate newly 

established weed 

populations, aiding in early 

treatment. The 

requirement for certified 

weed-free hay at 

Wilderness trailheads 

beginning in 2007, and 

everywhere on National 

Forest System Land 

beginning in 2009 would 

substantially reduce the 

possibility of weeds being 

spread by non-outfitted 

pack and saddle stock 

users.

Pack and saddle stock outfitterguides could degrade air quality 

with smoke from campfires.

Qualitative 

discussion

The Pasayten Wilderness is 

the only Class I airshed in 

analysis area. There would 

be no pack and saddle 

stock outfitter-guide 

campfires. 

The Pasayten Wilderness is 

the only Class I Airshed in 

analysis area. It is unlikely 

that smoke from campfires 

would degrade air quality. 

Campfires are built with dry 

fuel, and burn rapidly, 

ventilating upwards. In 

addition, there would not 

be a large enough 

concentration of smoke 

given the dispersed 

location of campsites. 

The Pasayten Wilderness is 

the only Class I Airshed in 

analysis area. It is unlikely 

that smoke from campfires 

would degrade air quality. 

Campfires are built with dry 

fuel, and burn rapidly, 

ventilating upwards. In 

addition, there would not 

be a large enough 

concentration of smoke 

given the dispersed 

location of campsites.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 28 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Other Issues Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Firewood gathering by pack and 

saddle stock outfitter-guides 

could degrade the environment 

by removing down woody debris 

and limiting or eliminating this 

habitat component.

Qualitative 

discussion

Less than one tenth of one 

percent of the analysis area 

would be affected by 

firewood gathering. There 

would be some loss of 

habitat, but abundant 

habitat exists away from 

these isolated spots.

Less than one tenth of one 

percent of the analysis area 

would be affected by 

firewood gathering. There 

would be some loss of 

habitat, but abundant 

habitat exists away from 

these isolated spots.

Less than one tenth of one 

percent of the analysis area 

would be affected by 

firewood gathering. There 

would be some loss of 

habitat, but abundant 

habitat exists away from 

these isolated spots.

Reducing the number of service 

days allowed could lead to some 

existing pack and saddle stock 

outfitters going out of business 

because of reduced revenues.

Qualitative 

discussion

No pack and saddle stock 

outfitter-guide permits 

would be issued, so the 

existing companies would 

no longer be able to offer 

trips into the backcountry 

or wilderness. Most would 

likely go out of business.

The existing businesses, or 

suitable replacements, 

would be about to continue 

to operate.

The reduction in allowable 

service days and party size 

could force some business 

to close because of 

increased operating costs, 

and decreased 

opportunities to generate 

revenue.

Pack and saddle stock outfitterguides could degrade the 

experience of other recreation 

users outside wilderness.

Qualitative 

discussion

There would be an 

approximate 1% reduction 

in the number of 

recreationists with this 

alternative. This reduction 

is small enough to likely go 

unnoticed by non-outfitted 

public.

Approximately 2% of the 

recreation use in the 

analysis area outside 

wilderness would be 

associated with outfitted 

pack and saddle stock use. 

Some conflict exists 

between outfitted and nonoutfitted users, but the 

relatively small amount of 

outfitted use compared to 

non-outfitted use 

minimizes the frequency of 

conflict and contact. 

Approximately 1% of the 

recreation use in the 

analysis area outside 

wilderness would be 

associated with outfitted 

pack and saddle stock use. 

Some conflict exists 

between outfitted and nonoutfitted users, but the 

relatively small amount of 

outfitted use compared to 

non-outfitted use 

minimizes the frequency of 

conflict and contact.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 29 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Other Issues Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2

(current condition)

Alternative 3

Pack and saddle stock outfitterguide activities could lead to soil 

damage and displacement in 

meadows and other areas by 

stock trampling, grazing, and 

crossing wet areas.

Qualitative 

discussion

Most existing detrimental 

soil damage occurred prior 

to implementation of the 

Forest Plans. Soil in and 

around campsites, at stock 

watering areas, and trail 

crossings would continue to 

be damaged by nonoutfitted pack and saddle 

stock. There would be 

approximately 6% fewer 

pack and saddle stock on 

the analysis area with this 

alternative, but the existing 

areas of damage would 

continue to be used by 

non-outfitted pack and 

saddle stock, so the 

amount of area with 

damaged soil would likely 

not change. The vast 

majority of the analysis 

area is completely 

unaffected by recreation 

activities, so the isolated 

areas of soil damage are 

not resulting in 

unacceptable amounts of 

detrimental soil damage.

Most existing detrimental 

soil damage occurred prior 

to implementation of the 

Forest Plans. Soil in and 

around campsites, at stock 

watering areas, and trail 

crossings would continue to 

be damaged by nonoutfitted pack and saddle 

stock. The existing areas of 

damage would continue to 

be used by outfitted and 

non-outfitted pack and 

saddle stock, so the 

amount of area with 

damaged soil would likely 

not change. The vast 

majority of the analysis 

area is completely 

unaffected by recreation 

activities, so the isolated 

areas of soil damage are 

not resulting in 

unacceptable amounts of 

detrimental soil damage.

Most existing detrimental 

soil damage occurred prior 

to implementation of the 

Forest Plans. Soil in and 

around campsites, at stock 

watering areas, and trail 

crossings would continue to 

be damaged by nonoutfitted pack and saddle 

stock. The existing areas of 

damage would continue to 

be used by outfitted and 

non-outfitted pack and 

saddle stock, so the 

amount of area with 

damaged soil would likely 

not change. The vast 

majority of the analysis 

area is completely 

unaffected by recreation 

activities, so the isolated 

areas of soil damage are 

not resulting in 

unacceptable amounts of 

detrimental soil damage.
Pack and Saddle Stock Outfitter Guide Permit DEIS 2- 30 August 2010

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Other Issues Unit of Measure Alternative 1 Alternative 2

(current condition)

Alternative 3

Pack and saddle stock outfitterguide grazing could exceed 

Forest Plan standards and 

guidelines pertaining to forage 

utilization.

Qualitative 

discussion

There would be no 

outfitter-guide stock forage 

use with this alternative. 

Non-outfitted stock would 

continue to graze around 

campsites. Stock forage 

utilization would be well 

within allowable use 

standards and consistent 

with all standards and 

guidelines. There would 

continue to be localized 

areas of concentrated use 

associated with camps. 

With the closing of the

wilderness livestock 

permits, forage use and 

resource impacts are still 

very far below the use and 

impacts under the old 

grazing allotment stocking 

rates.

Outfitter-guide stock forage 

utilization would be well 

within allowable use 

standards and consistent 

with all standards and 

guidelines. There would be 

localized areas of 

concentrated use 

associated with camps. 

With the closing of the 

wilderness livestock

permits, even with 

outfitter-guide grazing, the 

forage use and resource 

impacts are still very far 

below the use and impacts 

under the old grazing 

allotment stocking rates.

Outfitter-guide stock forage 

utilization would be well 

within allowable use 

standards and consistent 

with all standards and 

guidelines. There would be 

localized areas of 

concentrated use 

associated with camps. 

With the closing of the 

wilderness livestock 

permits, even with 

outfitter-guide grazing, the 

forage use and resource 

impacts are still very far 

below the use and impacts 

under the old grazing 

allotment stocking rates.